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Next cleanup target: El Nido By Rio N. Araja AFTER the rehabilitation of Boracay Island in Aklan, another world-famous tourist spot, El Nido in Palawan, will also go through a major cleanup, an ofﬁcial said

Wednesday. Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said his agency, along with the Tourism and Interior departments, had found countless environmental violations at El Nido. “After Boracay we will focus on El Nido,” Cimatu told reporters. Next page VOL. XXXII • NO. 273 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@manilastandard.net

Oil tax hike put on hold —Palace By Vito Barcelo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

HE government is all set to suspend the impending P2 increase in the excise tax on fuel next year and liberalize the importation of rice—two measures aimed at curbing inflation.

TOURIST DESTINATIONS. Tourism officials have called on local government officials to pass a measure sanctioning litterbugs within the El Nido area in Palawan—a possible place for a major cleanup after Boracay—after government officials discovered Wednesday at least 22 establishments violating environmental laws. Photo from UNTV

PAL named most improved BUSINESS/ B1

NEW YORK—Drug baron Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman is the “scapegoat” of a cartel that bribed Mexican presidents, the defense told his New York trial Tuesday, as the prosecution branded him a ruthless criminal boss who murdered Next page in cold blood.

per liter for gasoline this year, and were scheduled to go up by P2 per liter in 2019 and P1.50 a liter in 2020. Calls for the suspension of excise tax on fuel grew more insistent when inflation hit a nine-year high in September. On Wednesday night, the Senate approved on third and final reading the rice tarrification bill certified as urgent by President Rodrigo Duterte, in vote of 14 to 0. The country’s economic managers believe that the passage of the rice tariffication bill would curb inflation by easing the entry of low-cost grain from abroad. Under the measure, a 35 percent duty will be imposed on imports coming from Association of Southeast Asian Nations Next page

Vice mayor shot Rody to push for sea code amid US-China discord dead in La Union; By Nat Mariano poll feud eyed By Francisco Tuyay

Mexican presidents linked to drug cartel

Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said Wednesday the Palace has approved the recommendation of the country’s economic managers to suspend the scheduled increase in the excise tax on fuel in January. “We already anticipated that price of oil will be much lower next year, so, if you ask me, I’m willing to recommend we stick to the decision not to impose an additional ₱2 in the meantime,” Diokno said. He said he did not know how long the tax increase would be suspended, but said the economic managers would assess the situation every quarter. Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law, excise taxes on fuel rose by P2.50 a liter for diesel and P7

AN incumbent vice mayor seeking reelection in 2019 midterm polls was killed while his daughter, the mayor, and eight others were injured after unidentified assailants opened fire on them in front of their house in La Union Wednesday morning. Sr. Supt Ricardo Layug, La Union provincial director, identified the slain victim as Alfred Concepcion, vice mayor of Balaoan town while his daughter Next page

Cal Fire battles blazes on 2 fronts

THOUSANDS of firefighters battled blazes in northern and southern California on Tuesday as body recovery teams searched the remains of houses and charred cars for victims of the deadliest wildfire in the history of the US state. At least 50 deaths have been reported statewide so far from the late-season wildfires, and with hundreds of people unaccounted for, the toll is likely to rise.

SINGAPORE–President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday urged China to show the way forward, now that it has occupied and built up disputed territories in the South China Sea. “You’re there, you’re in possession, you occupied it. Then tell us what route shall we take and what kind of behavior [is acceptable],” Duterte said during an interview with Manila reporters minutes before the start of the 21st ASEAN-China Summit in Singapore. Duterte said he would push “at all costs” for the early conclusion of negotiations for a code of conduct in the South China Sea. H e also said he was worried about the discord between Beijing and Washington and the risks that a “serious miscalculation” could bring. “Everything has been excellent between China and the rest of ASEAN, except for the fact that there’s friction between the Western nations and China,” said Duterte. Next page

ATTENTIVE EAR. President Rodrigo Duterte (right) listens to Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi as they arrive on stage for a group photo before the start of the ASEAN-Japan summit on the sideline of the 33rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Singapore on Wednesday. AFP

Cop rapes cop: 3rd case in 2 weeks By Francisco Tuyay and Macon Ramos-Araneta

APEC’s cruise ship summit

A POLICEWOMAN was raped by a fellow officer in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, on Monday, a police spokesperson said Wednesday. Supt. Imelda Tolentino, spokesperson of Police Regional Office-B identified the suspect as PO3 Jernie Languian

ABOARD the Pacific Jewel, Papua New Guinea—Quoits deck, plunge pools and sunset yoga: for security and logistical reasons, thousands of delegates and journalists attending this year’s APEC summit have very unusual quarters—on hulking cruise ships moored offNext page shore.

Ramirez, 29, assistant instructor of the Maritime Trooper Course in which the victim, whose identity has been withheld, was a participant. Tolentino said the rape took place inside the maritime law enforcement training center at Sitio Magarwak, Brgy. Sta Lourdes, Puerto Princesa between 2:30 am and 3:00 am Wednesday. Next page

Workers assured of bigger 13th mo. pay By Macon Ramos-Araneta

FIRE IN PARADISE. A helicopter passes by the helpless sun as it makes a water drop in the Feather River Canyon, east of Paradise, California the other day. AFP

WORKERS from the public and private sectors will get a bigger 13th-month pay and Christmas bonus because of the law that raised the tax exemption cap on bonuses and beneﬁts. Beginning this year, the 13th-month pay and other beneﬁts, including productivity incentives and Christmas bonuses,

will not be taxed if they do not exceed P90,000. “Buong-buo nang maiuuwi ng mga empleyado ang kanilang bonus sa kanikanilang pamilya. Tiyak na makadaragdag ito sa kanilang pang-gastos para sa pagdiriwang ng Pasko at bagong taon,” Senator Sonny Angara said. Meanwhile, all government workers Next page

News

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Mexican... From A1 The substantive phase of the case finally began with opening statements at what is expected to be one of the most expensive trials in US history after two jurors were dismissed at the last minute. One woman was struck after complaining that the trial was causing her health problems, along with a man who claimed financial hardship, forcing lawyers and the judge to find two replacements before the full panel was sworn in. Guzman, considered the world’s largest drug trafficker since the death of Colombia’s Pablo Escobar, is on trial in New York under draconian security arrangements after twice escaping from prison in Mexico. He faces 11 trafficking, firearms and money laundering charges that will likely see him incarcerated for the rest of his life in a maximum security US prison if he is convicted at the end of the more than four-month trial. He is accused of leading the Sinaloa cartel, turning it into the world’s largest criminal group and of smuggling enough cocaine “for 328 million lines”—equivalent to more than one per every person in the United States. But in opening statements, the defense alleged that Guzman’s co-defendant who remains at large, Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, was the real culprit. “The truth is he (Guzman) controlled nothing, Mayo Zambada did,” Jeffrey Lichtman told the US federal court in Brooklyn. Zambada, he alleged, bribed everybody, “including the very top, the current president of Mexico and the former,” he added in reference to Mexico’s outgoing President Enrique Peña Nieto and his predecessor, Felipe Calderon. AFP

APEC‘s cruise... From A1 “Like nothing on Earth” screams the slogan in huge dark lettering against their gleaming white hulls, off Papua New Guinea’s crime-ridden capital of Port Moresby. And indeed few attendees can have experienced summit accommodation like it. The 245-metre (800 foot) Pacific Jewel, where mainly journalists are housed, has 14 decks and berths for nearly 1,700 people ranging from small interior cabins to spacious suites with an ocean view. It boasts an array of restaurants and bars—from the Mix Cocktail bar to the darker and jazz-filled Orient. Other entertainment includes the Marquee theatre for shows and on-board “Gatsby” or “Back to School” parties. Those who have not had their fill of high-wire summitry can try “walking the plank”—being suspended by a rope 14 floors over the sea—or “rock climbing” up the ship’s funnel. Others unlucky in summit negotiations can try their luck at the casino, with plush blue-baized blackjack tables and dozens of blinking slot machines. Sporting memorabilia adorns the walls, from “Magic” Johnson’s famous 32 LA Lakers shirt to stamps featuring legendary Australian cricketer Donald Bradman. Summit organizers turned to the cruise ships amid a lack of sufficient facilities in the Papua New Guinean capital, where this year’s summit is taking place. “We simply do not have enough hotel rooms in Port Moresby to accommodate all delegations,” admitted Justin Tkatchenko, minister in charge of APEC in a recent parliamentary speech. AFP

Workers... From A1 will receive their Christmas gift and 14thmonth bonus starting Nov. 15, Malacañang said Wednesday. Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the 14th-month bonus is equivalent to a full month’s salary while the cash gift amounts to P5,000. The Budget department has allocated P29.7 billion for the year-end bonus of civilian personnel and another P6.5 billion for the year-end bonus of military and uniformed personnel. Angara is responsible for the law that raised the tax exemption on the 13th-month pay and other benefits to P82,000 in 2015. Before RA 10653 was signed into law three years ago, only the bonuses not exceeding P30,000 were tax-exempt. According to the Budget department, government workers will receive their 13th month pay starting Nov. 15. Meanwhile, for private sector employees, the 13th-month pay should be given not later than Dec. 24. The 13th-month pay must be equivalent to one-twelfth (1/12) of the basic salary of an employee within a calendar year. The senator reminded employers that they must pay their rank-and-file employees a 13th-month pay regardless of the nature of their employment and whatever the method their wages are paid, provided they worked for at least one month during a calendar year. Angara said it was not just regular employees who should get the 13th-month pay. “Even contractual, casual, fixed term, probationary, seasonal employees should also receive it under the Labor Code,” Angara said. With Vito Barcelo

Next cleanup... From A1 He made his statement even a the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry said Wednesday the government should “carefully study” any plan to close El Nido and Coron in Palawan and hold dialogues with stakeholders. Local governments should also be “more

Police put up P10-m bounty on hired gun By Francisco Tuyay

Chief Supt Glenn Dumlao, director of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group, said the reward money was aimed at pinning down Ricardo Peralta, the leader of the gun-forhire group working for incumbent politicians and candidates for the 2019 elections. Dumlao said Peralta was guilty of criminal activities in Nueva Ecija in 2001, when a hit man was paid asubstantial amount

while a spotter got P3,000 to carry out a mission. The P10 million is a huge amount and a great help for the PNP to track down and eventually arrest Peralta,” Dumlao said. Last week, five members of the Peralta syndicate were arrested in a series of police operations in Isabela and Quezon City, but they failed to corner Peralta who is the sub-

ject of several warrants of arrest for multiple murder, kidnapping, carjacking and highway robbery. Dumlao said the Peralta group was being used by some local chief executives to neutralize their political rivals. The Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption has also collaborated with the PNP in an attempt to stop the criminal acts of the Peralta group. “We are calling on the PNP leadership to please neutralize this gun-for-hire syndicate,” Evangelista said. “This gun-for-hire group is being used to eliminate individuals or groups this coming election.”

Oil tax... From A1

“shore up the government’s fiscal position.” “But rice tariffication is not a revenue measure. By stipulating in the bill that 100 percent of duties will be plowed back to farmers, we are sending a strong message to those who might be tempted to use it to primarily raise taxes that their idea is dead in the water,” Recto said. Recto said there was a proposal from an agency in the government’s economic cluster to limit plowbacks to P10 billion a year “even if duties collected from imported rice are double or triple that amount.” One proposal, which the Senate rejected, is that the annual funding for the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund, which shall be sourced by rice duties, shall be capped at P10 billion, and all excess collections will effectively be booked as national income, Recto said. “That would be unfair,” Recto said in Filipino. “For example, if the collections come to P25 billion, would the government get a bigger share than the farmers who are affected by the imports? Farmers get the pain and the government gets the gain?” He said government think-tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies projected government revenues from rice tariffs would range from P13.9 billion to P27.7 billion next year. In last night’s period of amendments on the rice tariffication bill, the Senate agreed on setting the RCEF at a minimum P10 billion a year for six years, and tariff revenues in excess of P10 billion shall be appropriated by Congress based on a menu of programs in the rice

tariffication law. “The result is a 100-percent plowback rate. Everything will be returned to the farmers. They will get all the dividends to compensate for their losses, which I think will never be enough,” he said. “Duties will be spent to cover their losses, improve their productivity and not to plug the budget deficit,” Recto said. In the House, a party-list lawmaker urged the public to oppose the continuing implementation of the TRAIN law and the succeeding packages that the administration hopes to pass. “Notwithstanding the suspension of the excise tax on oil for the first quarter of 2019, the people should be vigilant about the fact that the government remains grim and determined to implement not only the anti-people provisions of Train Law package 1 but also other packages,” Anakpawis Party-list Rep. Ariel Casilao said. “Ordinary Filipinos, mostly the working class, peasants, urban poor and even the middle section, should step up their protests against the anti-people provisions of the tax reforms of the Duterte administration,” he added. Also on Wednesday, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources called for an investigation into the high prices of fish in major local markets, including those in Tandang Sora, Muñoz, Balintawak and Kamuning, where galunggong was selling for P50 over the suggested retail price of P140 per kilo. With Maricel V. Cruz

HE Philippine National Police has allotted a P10- million bounty for the arrest of the leader of a gun-for-hire syndicate catering to some politicians in Northern and Central Luzon.

member states and 50 percent for nonASEAN member states. Another salient provision of the bill is to establish a “rice enhancement fund” worth P10 billion from proceeds of the proposed rice tariffs. The fund will be used to provide different forms of assistance to local rice farmers such as the development of inbred rice seeds, the development of rice farm equipment, and skills enhancement. Senator Francis Pangilinan said he hoped these interventions should in the end lead to better incomes for local farmers. “Otherwise, what is the point of putting all these interventions when our farmers remain poor,” he said. “And the best determinant of whether or not the interventions are effective is if they are earning more.” Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said that the Senate bill on rice tariffication mandates that all duties collected from imported rice be plowed back to farmers through “a raft of assistance in the form of equipment, insurance, credit, and even direct financial aid.” The Senate position is that government should not profit from rice tariffication, Recto said. He said some quarters in the government were toying with the idea of using rice tariffication to

Rody... From A1 “I am worried. I expressed it last night because we have a mutual defense treaty with the US,” Duterte said. “That is why at all costs we must have the COC.” He ruled out pulling out of the mutual defense treaty, saying the country could not simply “shoo away” the United States. On the second day of the summit, the President skipped an informal breakfast with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, a session on ASEAN-Korea ties, and a nearly two-hour working lunch hosted by Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong for Asean leaders and guests, which was also attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. represented the President in these meetings. This was the second time this year that the President decided to not show up in a summit involving Australia, which has expressed concern over his bloody crackdown on illegal drugs. His decision to skip the Korean meeting, came after reports said South Korea dumped 5,100 tons of garbage at the Mindanao Container Terminal in Misamis Oriental. In Manila, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Palace found it “amusing that some quarters are making a big fuss” over the President’s skipping a few meetings. “In the four meetings the President did not attend, he tasked Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. to represent him and to read his remarks. [The Presidnet] will also not attend the gala dinner scheduled tonight and will instead rest. Last night, the President worked late and had only less than three hours of sleep. It is unfortunate that the ﬁrst event scheduled today was at 8:30 a.m. “In those instances where he did not attend, namely, the ASEAN-Australia Informal Breakfast Summit, the 20th ASEAN – Republic of Korea Summit, the Working Lunch

hosted by Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and the Second Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit, he took power naps to catch on sleep,” Panelo said. To formally open the 21st Asean-China talks, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong expressed confidence that the Philippines would bring ties between the 10-nation regional bloc with China to greater heights. “And I look forward to a substantive discussion with [Chinese] Premier Li Keqiang on how ASEAN and China can take our relations forward,” Lee added. During a working dinner hours after the opening ceremony of the 33rd Asean Summit, Duterte said the Philippines will “do its part” as the dialogue coordinator between the Asean and China. “In our role as country coordinator of ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations until 2021, we are committed to working with all concerned parties in the substantive negotiations and early conclusion of an effective Code of Conduct,” said Duterte in his speech Tuesday evening. To realize a more peaceful, stable and secure region, the President noted that the Asean members, with its partner countries, must “intensify their cooperation and implement previously agreed-upon action plans” if they are going to address the issues in the disputed South China Sea. “We likewise reaffirm our commitment to the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea,” said the President. “This includes the peaceful settlement of disputes, the exercise of self-restraint, and the freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea,” Duterte added. The single draft document for the Code of Conduct that will serve as the basis for the claimant countries’ negotiations in the disputed South China Sea would be completed by 2019, the ASEAN and China said Wednesday.

Vice mayor... From A1 Mayor Aleli Concepcion survived the ambush in Barangay Cabua-an. The vice mayor was taken to the Balaoan District Hospital and later transferred to the Lorma Medical Center in San Fernando City but died two hours later while being treated from several gunshot wounds. The 8 a.m. ambush also claimed the life of a security escort, Michael Ulep. Layug identified five of the eight injured victims as Roderick Urpiano, Ronniel Valdez, Joey Lopez, Dominador Bautista and Roberto Octavo. The killing comes barely a month after the ambush-slaying of Sudipen town Mayor Alexander Buquing and the victim’s security officer, P02 Rolando Juanbe on Oct. 2. The victims were traversing the BalaoanLuna provincial road heading to the municipal hall on board a Toyota Innova and Hyundai Starex, when they fired upon by occupants of a RAV 4. Reports said minutes after the ambush, the perpetrators fled the scene. Police in adjacent towns manning checkpoints were alerted and conducted dragnet operations in the towns of Bangar, Sudipen, Luna and San Juan. Philippine National Police Chief Oscar Albayalde ordered additional security for the injured mayor, who was recuperating at the Lormal Hospital. Investigators are still looking into potential motives into the shooting and did not discount a political motive. Chief Supt Romulo Sapitula, Ilocos region regional director, assured the family of a speedy and thorough investigation. “I am confident that we will eventually get to the bottom of this case and the proverbial long arm of the law will catch up with the perpetrators,” Albayalde said. With Vito Barcelo

Most of the fatalities have been caused by the so-called “Camp Fire” in and around the town of Paradise, population 26,000, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains about 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of the capital Sacramento. “Today an additional six human remains were recovered, which brings the total to 48. All six of those remains were located in Paradise, and they were located within homes,” Sheriff Kory Honea told a news conference.

Another two deaths have been reported from the “Woolsey Fire,” north of Los Angeles. Paradise, which is home to many retirees and has experienced an unusually dry fall, was virtually razed to the ground by the fastmoving “Camp Fire” blaze. Residents have recounted harrowing tales of fleeing the fires on foot with little more than the clothes on their backs. Others escaped by driving through tunnels of smoke and fire as flames licked at their vehicles on gridlocked roads dotted with abandoned cars. Melissa Schuster, a member of the Paradise town council, told ABC News that the entire

town “is a toxic wasteland right now.” “We have teams—you know, coroner teams—that have to go house to house and vehicle to vehicle,” Schuster told ABC. The “Camp Fire,” which erupted on Thursday, has ravaged 130,000 acres (50,600 hectares) of land and is 35 percent contained, according to Cal Fire. Butte County, where the blaze is located, has seen less than an inch of rainfall in more than 30 weeks. The “Camp Fire” has destroyed some 7,600 homes and 260 commercial properties. Battling the blaze are more than 5,600 ﬁre personnel, some from as far away as Washington state and Texas. AFP

proactive” in addressing issues on sewage and waste disposal even before the national leadership intervenes, the group said. Cimatu said El Nido will not be closed. “Only demolition... for the meantime, [we will act on the] violations of individual [operators], [business] establishments ﬁrst...,” Cimatu said. At least 22 establishments had already been ordered closed for illegal operations, he said.

More businesses would be ordered to shut down for violation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and Philippine Clean Water Act, Cimatu said. Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat described El Nido as “overcrowded.” “I visited the island last September. I think it is already overcrowded. There are too many tourists. We need to study its carrying capacity,” Romulo-Puyat said.

“Its lagoon is full of kayaks and boats. Its water is dirty. There is plenty of garbage all around.” Romulo-Puyat called on the local government of Palawan to pass a measure sanctioning litterbugs within El Nido. “We are waiting for a time line. They [local ofﬁcials] have kept on telling [us] they would pass an ordinance but there is no time line [as to when that would be],” she said.

Cal Fire... From A1

Pinay wins 1st ever-award for work on autism By Nat Mariano SINGAPORE—Malacañang has commended a Filipina autism-awareness advocate for bringing “tremendous pride and great honor” to the country as she bagged the first-ever Association of Southeast Asian Nations Prize during the opening ceremony of the 33rd Asean Summit and its related summits here in Singapore. “The Palace wishes to congratulate Ms. Erlinda Uy Koe of the ASEAN Society Philippines and the ASEAN Autism Network [AAN] for winning the ASEAN Prize 2018 and bringing tremendous pride and great honor to the country,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said. “We cannot be prouder of Ms. Koe and may her exemplary works inspire greater righteousness and dignity in all of us,” he added. Aside from bringing home the inaugural Asean Prize for her outstanding contributions in improving the lives of people diagnosed with autism, Koe also received a cash prize amounting to $20,000. Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, along with with ASEAN Secretary-General Lim Jock Hoi, awarded Koe the inaugural trophy. Lim said Koe’s efforts and inspiring achievements, as seen through her life’s work by providing services and training to families living with autism, have fostered the ASEAN identity and promoted the regional bloc’s spirit. “Ms. Koe’s work and dedication to improve the lives of autistic adults and children reflect the spirit that is deeply rooted in an ASEAN Community that engages and benefits the people. We look forward to her continued efforts in contributing towards an inclusive, resilient, people-oriented, people-centered ASEAN,” said Lim. Koe, he said, supported inclusivity and forged closer ties in ASEAN using her advocacy. Koe, Chair Emeritus of Autism Society Philippines, bested 48 other nominees vying for the recognition. “In the spirit of servant-leadership, I share this recognition with the 13,000 fellow parents and family members who comprise the Autism Society Philippines and with countless other advocates from the ASEAN Autism Network. These angels labor to engineer institutional mechanism to improve the lives of persons with autism and their families,” she said.

Cop rapes... From A1 It was the third incident in a span of two weeks involving policemen accused of sexual assault. At least three rookie policemen have been accused of rape in two separate incidents in Quezon City and Manila, in cases where they sought sexual favors from drug and gambling suspects. Metro Manila police director Guillermo Eleazar said charges were filed against PO1 Eduardo Valencia, accused of raping a 15-year-old daughter of a drug suspect; and PO1 Severino Montalban III and PO1 Jayson Portuguez for seeking sexual favors from suspects arrested for illegal gambling. PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde vowed no mercy against errant policemen. “We will never cover it up. We will show no mercy to police officer who do illegal activities,” he said. In the Palawan incident, Tolentino reported that the victim and her companion were on duty as sentinels when Ramirez approached the victim and forced her to accompany him. He then pushed her into a female comfort room and kissed her lips. “He threatened the victim and brought her to a certain room at the 2nd floor of an old building, then took advantage of his superior strength and raped the victim,” Tolentino said in a spot report. After an hour, the victim went to her assistant instructor and narrated her ordeal and eventually informed their course director. The rape suspect was arrested by other assistant instructors and was turned over at police station-2 of the Puerto Princesa City Police office. In the Senate, the committee on justice and human rights chaired by Senator Richard Gordon supported the creation of a special court that will handle cases of abuse involving police officers, in a bid to reform the Philippine Nation Police and better protect the public. “The objective of the bill is to shine the spotlight of responsibility on the law in the matter of police cases involving violation of constitutional rights, as well as crimes perpetrated by police officers upon the public,” Gordon, who is the bill’s author and sponsor, said. Senators Panfilo Lacson and Loren Legarda are co-authors.

News

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

LTFRB to set hearing on jeep, bus fare rollback THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board will conduct a hearing on the petition for rollback in public utility jeepney and bus fares amid the recent decreases in petroleum prices. The United Filipino Consumers and Commuters on Monday filed a petition seeking a rollback in jeepney fares from P10 to P8, air-conditioned bus fares from P13 to P12, and ordinary bus fares in Metro Manila from P11 to P10. “The LTFRB has received a letter petition asking for a rollback in the fare rate of public utility jeepneys and public utility buses, which will be set for hearing. The merits of the case will be addressed, especially the basis for the petition and consultations,” the LTFRB said in a statement on Tuesday. The board has yet to determine the specific date for the hearing as of this writing. The UFCC said in its petition that fare rollbacks are necessary due to lower fuel prices. “Limang linggo na magkakasunod na bumaba ang halaga ng petrolyo. Ayon mismo sa mga eksperto na ang pagbaba sa pandaigdigan pamilihan ay magpapatuloy hanggang sa susunod na taong 2019 (Petroleum prices have been going down for five consecutive weeks. Experts themselves saidthat the decline in global market prices will continue until 2019),” UFCC President Rodolfo Javellana Jr. said. The price of diesel has gone down by P5.05 and gasoline by P7.50 per liter for the past five weeks. The commuter group also cited the directive given by Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade for the LTFRB to review the fare hikes. PNA

Health braces for rising cases of dialysis as UHC takes off By Macon Ramos-Araneta HEALTH Secretary Francisco Duque III said the Department of Health braces for 140 dialysis treatment sessions under the Universal Health Care program from the current 90 sessions of the procedure for kidney patients. In an interview, Duque told the Manila Standard that the increase in the number of dialysis was based on the need of a patient—3 or 4 times a week on a dialysis program for 56 weeks. But he hastily rejected a clamor by some sectors that the dialysis procedure be covered by PhilHealth during the lifetime of a patient. PhilHealth vice president and chief operating ofﬁcer Ruben John Basa said they are still studying the planned 140 dialysis sessions under UHC which seeks to guarantee all Filipinos equal access to quality and affordable health goods and services. “The government cannot afford that because the UHC program covers other procedures and medical treatment,” he said. He related that PhilHealth used to offer 45 dialysis for indigent members until it was doubled in 2016. The coverage for dialysis, he said, would depend on actuarial expenses. He said the health tech would also ﬁrst determine the cost effectiveness—how much would PhilHealth pay. As of 2015, the number of dialysis patients was recorded at 32,077, 5,139 of which are in Metro Manila.

Pinoys alerted over hostilities between Israel, Palestine

MODERNIZING RED CROSS. Philippine National Red Cross Chairman and Senator Richard Gordon (middle) and the

organization’s partners discuss ways to modernize its operations center and improve its capabilities. This is in accordance with a five-year partnership agreement which will focus on emergency medical services during a press briefing at the PRC office in Mandaluyong. Manny Palmero

Gov’t urged to go after those behind Sokor trash By Joel E. Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz

GROUP of environmentalists on Wednesday urged the government to go after public officials and other people responsible in the smuggled garbage shipment from South Korea which arrived at a Mindanao port five months ago. The shipment arrived at the Mindanao International Container Terminal in Tagaloan, Misamis Oriental in June 2018 and was consigned to Korean firm Verde Soko II Philippine Industrial Corp. “Clearly, this is a violation of Basel Convention. First, the shipment contained mixed wastes; secondly, it was misdeclared, and third, it was mixed with e-waste,” said Ban Toxics campaigns and advocacy specialist Anna Kapunan, whose group condemned the shipment of plastic garbage from Pyongteak, South Korea. The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal, or Basel Convention in short, is an agreement designed to reduce the movements of hazardous waste between nations, and specifically to prevent transfer of hazardous waste from developed to less developed countries. In a statement, Ban Toxics said the importers clearly violated the environmental rights of Filipinos in Tagaloan, Misamis Oriental as they are exposed to potentially hazardous wastes from a foreign country. It added that the incident defies the Basel Convention, an international

treaty discouraging transfer of wastes from developed countries to developing countries. “We are appalled by the misinformation provided by the shipment’s consignee. Their documents declared that the cargoes contain plastic synthetic flakes when in fact it was full of assorted garbage, wood, and other waste materials. To add, the authorities claimed that the transaction lacks the documentary requirements needed to transport the said shipment,” the group stated.. The group urged the government to act against Verde Sokor and government authorities who consented to the consignment. “As with our response to Canada’s waste, we likewise strongly call for the shipment’s return to South Korea. Now is the time for our government to forbid garbage imports from developed countries, and to protect the Filipinos’ rights to attain the highest possible quality of life and optimal health,” it added. In February 2014, the Bureau of Customs filed criminal charges against a firm based in Valenzuela City for importing 50 40-foot container vans loaded with tons of waste materials from Canada.

Charged with smuggling before the Department of Justice were Adelfa Eduardo, owner and proprietor of Chronic Plastics, a ﬁrm based in Canumay, Valenzuela City, and the company’s licensed customs brokers Leonora Flores and Sherjun Saldon. Then Customs Commissioner John Philip Sevilla said the respondents violated Sections 3601 and 3602 of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP); Republic Act (RA) 6969, otherwise known as the Toxic Substance and Hazardous Wastes and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990; and Article 172 in relation to Article 171 of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines. Republic Act 6969 bans the importation of hazardous materials into the Philippines while the TCCP holds an importer criminally liable for unlawful importations. “It is very clear that these waste materials were shipped to the Philippines illegally. There were violations in the process for importation and misdeclarations made on paper. Moreover, we must be mindful of the threat to public health and safety that these wastes could bring to our people,” said Sevilla. The container vans arrived in six batches from June to August 2013 at the Manila International Container Port and were subsequently seized by Customs Police and operatives of the Enforcement Group after a spot inspection revealed that these contained used mixed and unsorted or “heterogeneous” plastic materials, including household garbage and even used adult diapers, and not homogeneous or recyclable plastic scrap materials as declared by the importer.

Balangiga plaza to transform into war memorial FOLLOWING the impending return of the Balangiga bells, the municipality from where the bells were taken plans to transform its plaza into a PhilippineAmerican War Memorial. “Meron nang plano doon sa Balangiga na gawin ‘yung plaza nila as PhilippineAmerican War Memorial Plaza, and this is the ﬁrst in the country,” said Rolando Borrinaga, a local historian, in a television interview. Borrinaga said the return of the bells will “represent the closure” of the Philippine-American War. “The return of the bells to the

Philippines remains the last issue of contentions related to PhilippineAmerican War. It will represent the closure of that eveont,” he said. “I hope it will result new round of understanding. At least naayos na yung medyo controversial ng pagbabalik ng bells.” The two bells were seized by American soldiers from Balangiga church during the war in 1900s and are currently in display in Wyoming, United States. A ceremony will be held on Wednesday in Wyoming, formalizing the re-

turn of the bells to the Philippines. Borrinaga bared that in 1957, a Filipino priest already requested for the bells to be returned to the Philippines. The government made the same request in the 1980s. “Actually yung bells na yun malapit na sanang masauli in 2012, ngunit tumutol yung taga-Wyoming and they filed legislation to extend the prohibition …until 2017,” Borrinaga said. “Now, veterans to veterans effort, konti lang naman ang tumututol sa Wyoming,” he added.

Weather bureau monitoring two LPAs By Rio N. Araja THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration is closely monitoring two low pressure areas, one of which is brewing to develop into a tropical depression next week. In an interview, Lorie dela Cruz, weather forecaster, said the ﬁrst LPA was spotted at 95 kilometers southeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, “or inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.” Because of this weather system, Mindanao would experience

scattered to light or moderate rainshowers in the next 24 hours. “The other one was estimated at 3,000 kms east of Mindanao, or outside the PAR within the Paciﬁc Ocean,” Dela Cruz told the Manila Standard. “This one is likely to become a tropical depression to be named ‘Samuel,’” she said. “We expect the tropical depression to enter the PAR on Sunday evening or Monday morning,” she added. If it does not change its direction, “Samuel” could affect Mindanao and the Visayas, she cited.

REOPENED. Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar and Batangas Rep. Eileen Ermita-Buhain are joined by LGU officials in the reopening of the Diokno Highway Bridge in Batangas on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2018. The bridge collapsed on March 14, 2015, at the height of Typhoon ‘Nona.’ Norman Cruz

THE Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday issued an advisory to more than 29,400 Filipinos in Israel to take the “necessary precautions” following the escalation of hostilities between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants in Gaza. Ambassador to Israel Neal Imperial said the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv has alerted Filipinos to, among others, avoid public places, particularly in Netivot, Sha’ar Hanegev, Ashkelon, Eshkol, Ashdod, Sderot, Beersheba, and other areas near Gaza, the West Bank, and the Golan Heights. The envoy cited reports from Israeli sources that more than 400 projectiles were fired into Israel from Gaza, prompting Israel to retaliate with air strikes on Monday. According to reports, Palestinian militant groups had already accepted an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire to end the exchange of fire with Israel. Imperial urged all Filipinos who may require the Embassy’s assistance to call +972 54 466 1188. According to the United Nations, the situation in Gaza Strip had been volatile since March 2018 demonstrations started to protest Israel’s blockade in the self-governing Palestinian territory and the deteriorating living conditions there. The latest violence reportedly erupted when an Israeli special forces operation was exposed several miles into the Strip. Since March, the inter-governmental body estimated that more than 150 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli security forces and more than 10,000 demonstrators have been injured. PNA

Speakership not reason for Congress run—Binay FORMER Vice President Jejomar Binay on Wednesday said his reason for running for a Congress seat is to again serve the people, and not to seek the top post of Speaker of the House of Representatives. “Kakandidato ako para sa Congress para makapaglingkod muli para sa buong bansa, hindi ang speakership ang dahilan para ako ay magkandidato,” Binay said in a news forum in Manila. Binay said that even if he wins, he expects the next Speaker will be selected from pro-administration lawmakers. “’Yung speaker-speakership, let’s leave it to realities,” Binay said. “’Yung speakership, una ay laging kung sino ang magustuhan ng administrasyon.” The House is expected to elect a new Speaker, to succeed former President and Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, in July 2019. Binay is gunning for a Congress seat for the First District of Makati City. His daughter Abby and Junjun, meanwhile, will contest the mayoralty. Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, who is running as representative of Taguig, had already said that he would vie for the speakership if he gets elected. Cayetano and his wife Lani’s candidacy, however, is being questioned before the Commission on Elections as the former Foreign Affairs secretary allegedly lacked residency.

Automated Elections System secure—Comelec By Vito Barcelo THE Commission on Elections on Wednesday assured the public and political candidates of the integrity and security of the Automated Elections System. Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez made the assurance following the arrest of a woman who allegedly attempted to extort money from a candidate. “We would like to assure all candidates that the AES is fair and secure, and will count the votes correctly,” Jimenez said in a statement. Jimenez also said the AES has been used since 2010 and that “results have stood the test of time.” “So far, it has been very accurate in counting the votes. The Comelec has faced numerous investigations and that there have been no evidence that the results were wrong or tampered,” he said. “The will of the people shall prevail,” he added.

Opinion

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Duterte is part of the problem *** In the wake of the President’s overreliance on uniformed men, perhaps he should be reminded of a survey that lists both the AFP and PNP as the most corrupt institutions in government. Recall that some generals and highTHE cases of two former Customs commissioners, Nicanor Faeldon and ranking officials of the armed forces Isidro Lapeña, are two examples of have been found to embezzle retirement funds, and that they have pasalubong why the war on corruption won’t end. Lapeña, a former military officer, or pabaon to incoming and outgoing was Philippine Drug Enforcement officials, respectively. Santa Banana, Agency chief when the President where do you think the AFP gets the named him Customs commissioner. money? There has never been an honestFaeldon is a former Marine captain and to-goodness inquiry into this. Corruption is also endemic in the coup plotter. As the President said, he likes mili- PNP. So how can the President now say tary and police men because they are that his utility boys are honest men? I have been a journalist for almost 70 action-oriented. They are professional and obedient, doing what they are told years. I have seen it all. *** to do, no questions asked. Mr. Duterte I like the suggestion of former Vice often calls them his utility boys. For this reason, the Duterte adminis- President Jejomar Binay, now running tration has been militarized. Almost all for representative of Makati City, that the constitution sensitive Cabinet posts are headed must be amended by former police or so that the vice military officials. president would But will this He keeps appointing, have a real function other than bemake a dent in the fight against cor- recycling and promoting ing a spare tire. I have been sayruption? tarnished ofﬁcials. ing for far too long I don’t think so. that the vice presiIn fact, I think it dent should not worsened with the President recycling just be somebody and even promoting military and police waiting in line to replace the elected president. officers. With the amendment of the ConstituLapeña, under whose nose some P11 billion worth of shabu was smuggled, tion, the vice president will finally be was even promoted to a Cabinet post useful. I would even go beyond this and as the director general of the Techni- suggest that the president and vice presical Education and Skills Development dent must come from the same party. *** Authority. Speaking of the Binays of Makati, Despite the finding of the National Bureau of Investigation that Lapeña somebody asked me why I think Makaand others committed graft and cor- ti residents should continue with Abby ruption in connection with the release as mayor. I am not against her brother and opof 150 containers of highly-dutiable goods, the President says Lapeña still ponent, Junjun. I think, however, that enjoys his confidence. Justice Secre- Abby is doing an excellent job. So why tary Menardo Guevarra III will have a replace her? Abby has done many things for Makahands-off policy in Lapeña’s case. Faeldon was also at the helm of the ti. Foremost, Makati is now the richest bureau when some P6.4 billion of sha- city in Metro Manila. She has cleaned bu was smuggled into the country. Now up the mess at city hall. Above all, her he will be the next head of the Bureau plan for a 10-kilometer subway around the city is very good. The concession of Corrections. I hate to say this but President Du- given to local and foreign investors in terte has become part of the problem the project will create thousands of jobs. Everything is going smoothly and because he simply recycles his officials. This is why the war on corruption according to plan. Indeed I am a very will not progress. Turn to A5

TO THE POINT EMIL P. JURADO

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

Fame and infamy

T’S usually a big piece of news when individuals are given prestigious awards for championing a good cause. Recognition of people’s contributions in many fields are widely reported by the media to serve as inspiration to others. The coverage includes not only achievements, per se, but the struggles and challenges overcome as well as the impact created by such contributions. This week we find, however, that the taking away of an award could send a louder message. International rights group Amnesty International stripped Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi of the Ambassador of Conscience Award it had given her in 2009. She used to be known as a democracy icon who resisted the military junta and who was place in house arrest for 15 years. Now the award was rescinded because of her perceived

indifference to her government’s crackdown on Rohingya Muslims. This is not the first strong statement against Suu Kyi, to be sure. Last month, the government of Canada revoked her honorary citizenship. In March, the US Holocaust Museum also took back an award named after concentration camp survivor Elie Wiesel. In a stinging letter, the rights group told Suu Kyi: “We are profoundly dismayed that you no longer represent a symbol of hope, courage, and the undying defense of human rights.” But while this is a sentiment shared by many countries and organizations around the world that have observed Suu Kyi’s rise to prominence many years ago, her own government and people stand solid behind her. “We don’t need their prize,” a resident told Agence France Presse. Another said the withdrawal was “pretty childish.” Suu Kyi’s party, the National League for Democracy, claimed Amnesty International’s action is part of a wider conspiracy

to discredit the hugely popular leader and treat her unfairly. The party won in the elections of 2015; the victory ended decades of military rule. The Rohingya have faced persecution from the Myanmar government; hundreds of thousands have fled to neighboring Bangladesh after reporting killings and gang rapes. The government calls them terrorists. Suu Kyi’s situation shows that there are no longer purely domestic issues. Everything governments do—or do not do—is fair play to the broader international community even as outsiders may not be able to fully appreciate the justifications and nuances of domestic decisions. In the grand scheme of things, international awards as well as condemnations come and go. What remains is the fundamental issue of good and evil, perpetrated on individuals and groups. And don’t we know all too well that adage onwhat it takes for evil to prosper. Perfect.

Surviving colon cancer and inherited genetic mutation. Symptoms include changing stool patterns, blood in stool, sudden weight loss, anemia and appetite loss. An alarming trend is that CRC incidence is rising in younger adults (below 55). I was way below that age when I AM a colon cancer survivor. For more than a year I’d been expe- diagnosed. Reasons for the trend? riencing untoward symptoms related to “Excess body weight, high intake of my gastro-intestinal tract but chalked processed meat, low intake of dietary it up to hemorrhoids. I was living in fiber, and low levels of physical activthe United States then and didn’t have ity,” according to a 2018 column by Dr. the means to seek medical care. When Charles C. Chante. CRC starts with a polyp (kuntil) or I returned to Manila earlier this year, the symptoms intensified and I went to precursor lesion. If left unaddressed, gastroenterologist Dr. Ernesto Olympia they can turn malignant. The disease at Makati Medical Center for a colo- can be prevented if polyps are detected early. To aid in prevention, the PCHRD noscopy. He told me I had colon cancer. We recommends that you always examine then discussed next steps, particularly your stool, get screened, and choose a healthier diet and surgery to remove the tumor he had lifestyle. *** seen in my sigmoid. That was on I was fortunate that I had a dream March 22. He reLet’s take better care team of doctors to ferred me to coloof our own health, not care for me—my rectal surgeon Dr. primary physiRamon Estrada, only for ourselves but cian, Dr. Olympia; who, taking pity for our family. Dr. Estrada; onon my distress cologist Dr. Maria and terror, scheduled me for surBelen Tamayo; gery on the 29th. cardiologist Dr. That was Maundy Thursday. Edwin Wenceslao; anesthesiologist Dr. Coincidentally, March is Colon and Karen Alcantara; and vascular surgeon Rectal Cancer Awareness Month in the Dr. Jeffrey Chua. The colon resection surgery perPhilippines. formed by Dr. Estrada was flawless. *** According to the Philippine Council My anesthesiologist and a junior doctor for Health Research and Development, present expressed their admiration for as of 2017 colorectal cancer (CRC) is Dr. Estrada’s skill in excising the tuthe number one gastrointestinal cancer mor, which had contorted itself into an in the country, overtaking liver cancer. odd position that was tricky to remove. The agency said that Philippine Soci- His skill also meant I did not require a ety of Gastroenterology data at the time colostomy bag, though it is usually inshowed there are over 3,000 new cas- dicated in many similar circumstances. After the surgery I recovered es of CRC among Filipinos annually. quickly, and was walking laps around Some 2,000 of them die of it. Risk factors for the disease include the ward the next day, and the day after age, family history, smoking and al- that around the entire floor. I felt great, cohol practices, diet high in processed better than I had the past year. meat and/or high fat but low in fiber, Turn to A5

Double whammy hits Singaporean investor in Medical City row THERE are interesting new developments in the saga unfolding at the Medical City. Recall that there is an ongoing shareholder intramural there. Caught in the crossfire is the Securities and Exchange Commission which was apparently snubbed and belittled by one of the protagonists – a group backed by a moneyed Singaporean investor firm. As mentioned in my previous column

on the issue, the SEC is now probing al- at Medical City may not have followed legations that the supposed acquisition the strict requirements of the country’s by Gonzales group of the majority stake Securities Regulation Code. The SEC has taken the allegations seriously. It has created a panel specifically to look into the allegations. It has urged the parties in the conflict to keep It looks like the SEC the status quo at the management of the hospital. is not about to allow The regulatory body is specifically itself to be a punching looking at a Cooperation and Sharebag of rich and holders Agreement and a loan agreement entered into by the parties identipowerful international fied with Gonzales. investors. The said documents are believed to be crucial in resolving the question of Turn to A5 Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher

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Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

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Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

Opinion Christmas and a paycheck OVERSIGHT DANILO SUAREZ THE recent Social Weather Stations survey on employment indicated that self-rated unemployment had increased to 22 percent, amounting to an estimated 9.8 million people—9.8 million people who do not have gainful employment. This is almost a 3-percentage-point jump from the 19.7 percent in June, or an increase of more than 1 million Filipinos unemployed. This means 1 more million Filipinos who may fall below the poverty line. Even the job availability optimism dropped to 39 percent, from 47 percent last June, while the pessimism increased to 16 percent, from only 1 percent last June. This is a serious problem, especially since the Christmas season is fast approaching. The rising unemployment has often been correlated with government expenditures. As government spends its money through its programs and projects, especially in infrastructure, more jobs become available since more workers are needed to implement such

projects. Moreover, government expenditure also generates and encourages businesses, thereby fueling the country’s economic growth. The slow disbursement of government agencies must be addressed. In August, year-to-date spending was at P2.19 trillion out of the Php 3.767 trillion national budget. This merely

I remember those days when I was struggling as a young man.

amounts to almost 60 percent of the budget with only four months left to the year. I fervently call on the different agencies, especially the Department of Budget and Management, to accelerate expenditure and implementation of government projects. I urge the heads of the agencies to strictly monitor the accomplishment of their programs,

particularly the big-ticket infrastructure projects, and hasten its completion, especially that we shall be adopting a cash-based budgeting scheme this 2019. This should generate more jobs and increase household income. I have proposed one potential solution: the nationalization of the Small Town Lottery through House Bill No. 5026, while House Resolution Nos. 455 and 2241 propose the expansion of the STL to support the creation of employment opportunities for those who have difficulty finding gainful employment due to factors such as age, lack of education, or physical disabilities. I am pleased to hear that the STL Program of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office has produced more or less 270,000 cobradores, 21,200 cabos, and 11,700 organic STL employees this year. We are optimistic that employment in this area will be expanded. I remember those days when I was struggling as a young man. There is no better gift than a paycheck, no happier feeling than finally getting a job to put food on the table. As the holiday season nears, let us all hope for better days to those who are unable to experience the joys of Christmas.

Hazing at the PNP Academy

WHEN it comes to hazing, I thought that I had seen it all. But that hazing incident a few weeks ago wherein two freshmen or plebe cadets of the Philippine National Police Academy were ordered by their seniors to perform oral sex must be a new low. What was going on in the mind of those seniors to order the plebes to perform such a despicable act? Department of the Interior and Local Government OIC Eduardo Año was absolutely right in relieving the superintendent outright, to show that such acts will never be tolerated. What kind of sick minds are we training to be police officers? I hope those senior cadets have already been investigated and dismissed from the academy. Hazing in military and police academies is well known throughout the world. But in the developed countries in the Western world, hazing involving activities that endanger the health of freshmen cadets have been abolished long time ago. Yes, freshmen cadets are still required to undergo humiliating activities but never to the point of physical danger to these freshmen cadets. In the Royal Military College of Australia in Duntroon and the United Kingdom Military College at Sandhurst, training only lasts for one year because only college or university graduates are recruited for training. There is therefore no opportunity to develop an upper class system that we see in the military and police academies in our country. The United States service academies still maintain four year courses. Up to now, we are still following this. The kind of hazing—if we can even call it that—freshmen go through would not require any hospitalization even if senior cadets go overboard in their treatment of their plebes. For some time now, we have not heard of any hazing

Surviving... From A4

But since some lymph nodes taken tested positive, chemotherapy was indicated. Dr. Olympia referred me to Dr. Chua for implantation in the chest of a porta-catheter, a device that accommodates IV and obviates the need to punch holes in one’s hands. He performed the surgery well, and nurses at the Cancer Center always commented favorably

Double... From A4

the legality and legitimacy of the supposed acquisition of the majority stake by the Gonzales group. The SEC is said to have put the CSA and the loan agreement under the proverbial microscope. The fate of the takeover bid is believed to depend a lot on them. Well, it looks like the SEC is not about to allow itself to be a punching bag of rich and powerful international investors. This appears to be the message embedded in the recent resolution issued by the regulatory agency against the said Singaporean investment giant and its partners in the acquisition of a major stake in Medical City. Media recently reported that the SEC had charged the investment group with

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

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With OFW support, Jollibee can be world’s No. 1 Italy’s industrial capital, which is yet another European city with a sizeable Filipino population. After Milan, can Paris, Rome, Madrid, Amsterdam and Brussels be far behind? The answer is a clear No. Jollibee IN ONE of the conversations that I had Foods set itself a target a few years with her last year, one of my daughters, ago—to be the world’s fifth largest the one who lives in New York City, QSR (quick-service restaurant) chain had a lament to make to me. A resi- by 2020; in the latest ranking it is No. dent of Manhattan, she had traveled to 8. The company’s management, which the neighboring borough of Queens to is headed by Chairman/Founder Tony satisfy her nostalgic desire for Jollibee Tan Caktiong, recently reiterated its reFoods’ Corporation’s Chickenjoy. She solve to meet the No. 5 target. Mr. Tan had to wait a very long time, because Caktiong said nothing about being the the Sunday morning queue was so long. world’s No. 1; but why not No. 1? She learned that the other Filipinos in Jollibee Foods’ series of foreign acthe queue had traveled all the way to quisitions suggest that it does not conQueens from other places in the Tri- sider being No. 5 the end of the road. In State (New York, New Jersey and Con- recent years the company has acquired necticut) areas. fast-food chains in the US, China and I speak of the other Filipinos in the Vietnam. The acquisitions are nothing queue because some of the queuers if not astute. The number of restaurants were apparently Caucasians. Perhaps that have come with the acquisition they were in-laws or friends of Filipi- have been added through the companynos, or maybe they had stayed in this owned and franchised Jollibee estabcountry and had a taste of Chickenjoy lishments in this country. Two years and of the other Jollibee offerings. ago Jollibee Foods opened its 2000th Now residents of Manhattan and Philippine branch. other Tri-State places need travel to There can be no doubt that the PhilQueens no longer. In its latest for- ippine Diaspora—the exodus of mileign-expansion move, Jollibee Foods lions of Filipinos to all the corners opened, a few weeks ago, a branch in of the globe in search of employment the 8thAvenuehas brought eco39thSt. area of nomic benefits New York City’s to this country main borough. beyond the bilMedia reports of lions of dollars The company that the long awaited sent by OFW opening indicate started out as an ice (overseas Filipino that many of the workers) back to cream store in 1978 would-be customthe Motherland. ers had waited on truly has done this Perhaps the most the sidewalk all country proud. valuable of these night to be among other benefits are the first to enter the ready marthe new branch. kets that OFWs The story approvide Philippears to have been the same with re- pine business enterprises wishing to gard to the earlier opening of Jollibee’s undertake overseas expansion. True, London branch. The media reports Chickenjoy has a taste that can measindicated that would-be customers ure up against any competition in its waited on the sidewalk fronting the field. But the presence, in New York branch, which is located in the near- City, London and elsewhere, of thoucentral London district of Earlo Court sands of nostalgia-filled Filipinos has (close to the Notting Hill district of Ju- undoubtedly been a big help. lia Roberts’ romantic opus). Most of the Given the mass-based, all-cash naestimated 200,000 Filipino residents in ture of its business, Jollibee Foods the United Kingdom live in and around should have no difficulty financing the London. attainment of its QSR target. In its latest With the advent of Jollibee Foods report to the Securities and Exchange Corporation on the London food scene, Commission the company gave a furthe Philippine food industry is now ther indication of its financial muscle. well represented in Britain’s capital For the first nine months of 2018 Jolcity. In 2017 the chain of Romulo’s res- libee Foods posted a net income of just taurants—obviously named after the over P6 billion. That is a lot of cash for late statesman Carlos P. Romulo—in- further acquisitions. And the cash just augurated its first foreign restaurant in keeps flowing in. the nearby Kensington District. An 8thplace world rank in its indusWith the opening of its Manhattan try? That’s a source of honor for the branch, Jollibee Foods is by no Philippines. Jollibee Foods Corporameans done with its overseas tion, the company that started out as an expansion. Plans are well afoot for ice cream store in 1978, truly has done the opening of a branch in Milan, this country proud.

tering tag. They say that imitation is always the best form of flattery. In the case of PNPA, however, it is a poor imitation. Can you imagine graduates being maltreated if seen and caught during graduation ceremonies? This is a disgusting practice to say the least. Nowhere do we see this practice in any school anywhere in the world. But with the PNPA, it has gone way overboard because the students there appear to have developed practices that are not done anywhere else. The PNPA must bear in mind that it is a non-military training academy. If there is such a reform to be undertaken in the PNPA, the first to be eliminated should be their parade uniform to distinguish the students from the PMA. Modern crime laboratories should also be set up in the school to ensure that the students will be competent to conduct

crime investigation upon graduation. Other needed facilities should also be slowly added until such time that all vestiges of military culture are eliminated once and for all. The destructive upperclass system should be reformed to more socially accepted norms of behavior. The current police and civilian leadership of DILG should study or consider a 12- or 18-month long training program instead of the current four-year course. Interestingly, in the first few years of the PNPA’s existence, the school offered a two -year program until it was changed to four years sometime later. The country now has a 12-year elementary and high program which means that those going to university upon graduation would have totaled sixteen years of education which is at par with current world standards. Selected universities could be accredited by the PNPA and from these schools, will come the recruits entering the PNPA to ensure the quality of recruits entering the PNPA is maintained at a high level. With this, the government can save money while at the same time ensuring high quality of training. The current police leadership must also realize that failure to reform will always ensure a low quality of graduates coming from the PNPA which translates to a low level of police service for the country and public. Indeed, it is not only the PNPA that is currently experiencing problems. In fact, there is a question of the entire training system that exists in the PNP. The PNP is perhaps the only service in the world that does not handle the training of its own recruits. In other services around the world, assignment of officers and other ranks to a training school is viewed as an honor because only the best and highly competent are assigned to training schools. In our country it is not a well sought-after tour. Some would even consider it as a punishment. So, if the trainers are not the best, what could one expect from the graduates? Not much. And the longer the PNP leadership waits, the worse the problem gets.

upon knowing Dr. Chua installed the porta-cath. Dr. Tamayo directed my chemotherapy treatment every step of the way. As with my other doctors, she took time to explain everything she was doing and the possible effects of the medication on me. She listened to my problems with side effects and tweaked my medicine dosage to give me comfort while still delivering maximum benefits. A month after my last chemo session, I had CT scans done and Drs. Tamayo

and Estrada told me I was okay. They drew up a regime of follow-up and monitoring tests, and it’s up to me to stick to it and to maintain a healthy lifestyle, because recurrence is always a possibility with any type of cancer. What helped me recover well was thinking positive all the time (advice reiterated many times by Dr. Estrada), excellent medical care, and the support of family and friends. It’s during crises like this that you realize who your true friends are.

It also helped that all my doctors have a great sense of humor! Laughter is the best medicine. I was aided financially by my former employers in the horseracing industry, particularly directors of the Metropolitan Association of Race Horse Owners and Klub Don Juan de Manila. Without their kindness and generosity, I could not have afforded the treatment. Gentlemen, I can’t thank you enough. *** Takeaways from my experience:

Health is wealth. Quit smoking and drinking, and eat more plants. Exercise regularly. In your 20s or 30s and onwards, go for all the screenings - mammogram, pap smear, ultrasound, colonoscopy, prostate check, the works. Life is precious. Let’s take better care of our own health, not only for ourselves but for our family.

violating vital provisions of the country’s Securities Regulation Code. The group includes Viva Holdings, Fountel, FAI, Professional Services, Inc. and others. Based on earlier news items, the said entities are identified with Singapore-based Clermont group and with Medical City treasurer Jose Xavier Gonzales. In its resolution, the SEC gave the group 15 days to explain why it should not “be held liable” for violations of laws prohibiting the use of fraudulent means to acquire shares in a publicly-listed company. According to the SEC, the Singaporean-backed investor and its local partner Gonzales “through concealment, misrepresented their independence from each other to effectively subscribe to substantial shares” in Medical City. The SEC made it clear that such misrepresentation and concealment prejudiced “the unsuspecting stockholders

whose share value and voting power have declined” as a result of a scheme using a shareholder and loan agreement. This is a big blow to the Singaporeanbacked group which was earlier seen as blatantly ignoring an SEC status quo order, directing all parties involved in the Medical City row to stay still and not do any drastic move until it has ruled on the validity of the shares of the controversial group. It appears the group did not follow the SEC order and instead proceeded with a special stockholders’ meeting to consolidate its hold on the hospital based on temporary restraining order it got from a Pasig court. That move caught the attention of the business sector. Concerns and questions were raised regarding the muscle and will of the SEC to exercise its authority and mandate in the corporate sector.

Now, the SEC appears to have made it clear that it has both the muscle and the will to do just that. The medical community will surely await the answer of the group of Gonzales and the Singaporeans to the SEC’s charges regarding the alleged concealment and manipulative means they employed to gain control of the hospital. It would be interesting to find out why the bid to acquire a majority stake had to be hidden from the hospital board and shareholders. The focal point of that explanation will be the $38-million loan extended by the Singaporean group to Gonzales which the latter allegedly used to fund the purchase of shares. Gonzales’ role in the scheme seen by the SEC as violating anti-fraud laws will also be worth watching. Gonzales was the Medical City treasurer when that scheme was apparently

put in place. It has baffled business community observers why a corporate treasurer would be part of what appears to be a grand, concealed plan to take over the very entity that has put its valuable trust on his person and role. We hope Gonzales can come up with a good explanation and lay the questions to rest. By the way, Gonzales’ group was reportedly slapped with a temporary restraining order by the very same Pasig court from where they earlier got one to prevent the SEC from imposing its status quo order. The TRO prevented Gonzales’ group from holding the annual stockholders meeting for a Medical City subsidiary. The setback, observers say, has prevented the group from expanding their control and has insulated the subsidiaries from the conflict, at least for now. Talk about a double whammy. This is definitely one.

scandals from the Philippine Military Academy. Maybe the brutal hazing that went on there in the past has been eliminated and does not happen anymore. We certainly hope so. Still, the upperclass system is very much alive today. Underclass men will always be that to senior graduates regardless of the ranks of graduates when they retire. This means that we will always see and hear graduates of later years calling graduates of earlier year “sir” regardless of the ranks attained when they retire. The fact that there has not been any hazing incidents publicized in the media could mean that the PMA is slowly adjusting to the 21st century which is a positive sign. The PNPA should do the same and start reforming quick and fast. Otherwise, it will always be considered a poor clone of PMA—not a very flat-

What kind of sick minds are we training to be police ofﬁcers?

Duterte... From A4

happy resident of Makati City under Mayor Abby. *** I remember my first trip to Tokyo, together with the late Manila Times business editor Ernie Ilustre and PR man Charlie Weber. I recall our flight via Japan Airlines at the old Haneda Airport. We paid a courtesy call to the late Ambassador

Eduardo Quintero. Then, Tokyo’s nightclubs were dominated by Filipinos, most of them with transactions with the Reparations Commission. Would you believe that a congressman from Bohol had Filipinos lining up to talk to him because he had a direct line with the commission? It was during the incumbency of the late President Carlos Garcia that the reparation with Japan was the top way to be rich. www.emiljurado.weebly.com

Dr. Ortuoste, a writer and researcher, has a PhD in Communication. FB and Twitter: @DrJennyO.

News

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Bill on fiscal regime for mining passed VOTING 158-7 without abstention, the House of Representatives has passed on third and final reading House Bill 8400 that codifies all laws, regulations and agreements governing economic benefits due the government from mining. The bill, principally authored by Committee on Ways and Means Chairperson Rep. Estrellita Suansing (1st District, Nueva Ecija), promotes fairness by providing a fiscal regime that is applicable to all existing and prospective large metallic, non-metallic, and smallscale mines, and shall be applied to all mines regardless of whether the mine is located outside or inside a mineral reservation. The bill, co-authored by Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, provides for the amendment of Section 151 of Chapter VII, Title VI of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended. It mandates mining contractors of large-scale metallic and non-metallic mining operations outside of mineral reservations to pay to the government a margin-based royalty on income from mining operations. Based on the bill, the royalty rates shall be: 1 percent to 10-percent margin, 1-percent royalty; above 10 percent to 20-percent margin, 1.5-percent royalty; above 20 percent to 30-percent margin, 2-percent royalty; above 30 percent to 40-percent margin, 2.5percent royalty; above 40 percent to 50-percent margin, 3-percent royalty; above 50 percent to 60-percent margin, 3.5-percent royalty; above 60 percent to 70-percent margin, 4-percent royalty; and 70-percent margin, 5-percent royalty. Large-scale metallic and nonmetallic mining operations located within mining reservation areas shall be imposed a royalty tax equivalent to 3 percent of the gross output of the minerals or mineral products extracted or produced by the mining operations, exclusive of all other taxes. Mining contractors of small-scale metallic and non-metallic mining within or outside mineral reservations shall pay to the government a royalty equivalent to 1/10 of 1 percent of gross output. Maricel V. Cruz

81-year-old American deported

GMA recalls old protocol plates By Maricel V. Cruz

OUSE Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Wednesday ordered the immediate recall of all protocol plates issued during the 16th Congress and earlier.

House Majority Leader Rolando Andaya Jr. relayed the order of Arroyo during the plenary session where he urged his colleagues to “kindly return these car plates to the Ofﬁce of the SecretaryGeneral for proper acknowledgement” as vehicles with protocol plate 8 were spotted in “indecent places or ﬁgured in crime-related activities.” “We woud like to reiterate the memorandum issued by the secretary-general for all members of the House regarding the recall of protocol plate number 8, and I would like to read on record and reiterate to the members: We have received reports

that certain vehicles with protocol plate number 8 have been spotted in indecent places or ﬁgured in crime-related activities,” Andaya said. “In view of this development, the honorable Speaker has given instructions for the immediate recall of all protocol plates issued during the 16th congress and earlier,” he said. The present 17th Congress did not issue any protocol plate 8. This developed as deputy Minority Leader and AKO-Bicol party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr. said the owner of the protocol plate 8 should come out after po-

Imee Marcos pushes ‘life’ in emergency situations By Rey E. Requejo ILOCOS Norte Gov. Imee Marcos on Wednesday urged the government to give what she described as “LIFE” to farmers in disaster-stricken areas as a form of immediate intervention for a quick turnaround for those who lost their crops while ensuring ample supply of cheap food for all Filipinos. “The Constitutionally-vested right to a living wage should translate into LIFE for our farmers—the right to Living Income for Farmers in Emergency situations,” said Marcos, the only local government ofﬁcial who is running for senator in next year’s midterm polls. “Simply put, in times of calamities or disasters and other emergency situations, farmers are always at a disadvantage. They have no income because their crops were destroyed. Agarang tulong ang kailangan nila [timely aid is what they need],” she stressed. According to her, while farms hit by typhoons and other calamities are being rehabilitated, farmers must be given work to earn income to feed their families, in addition to free seeds, fertilizer, farm implements and credit assistance to help them get back on their feet. “They can earn living wages repairing dikes, water catchments, farm roads and other damaged public infrastructure,” Marcos said, adding “this gives farmers basic resources to survive and restore their farms to productivity.” Marcos also urged the government to lift restrictions on the use of calamity funds of local government units during times of calamities or emergencies to allow LGUs to quickly release funds to affected farmers. “We owe it to our farmers to ensure they have living income. It cannot be that the people who feed this nation are left to fend for themselves in emergency situations. LGUs can accomplish this if their hands are not tied in releasing calamity funds,” she said. Marcos recalled that when Typhoon “Ompong” struck in September, damage to Ilocos Norte’s agricultural sector stood at P1.9 billion. This prompted her to seek the help of the Department of Agriculture through its Quick Reaction Fund to help farmers replant their crops. The Department of Social Welfare and Development also implemented a cashfor-work program in the province, paying interested affected residents P210 per day for 10 days.

DESERVED TRIBUTE. Along with marvel characters he crafted in his shop, lifesize statue maker Jerry Santos gives tribute to comic book creator legend Stan Lee who died Tuesday. He was 95 years old. Lee is the creator of popular comic-book franchises such as ‘Spider-Man,’ ‘The Incredible Hulk,’ and ‘X-Men.’ Norman Cruz

SC denies Ayala’s petition on 2007 explosion THE Ayala Land Inc. has lost its bid to have an insurance company liable for the explosion in Glorietta 2 in 2007. This came after the Supreme Court’s First Division denied the petition filed by Ayala Land for failure to show that the Court of Appeals erred in its decision dated April 13, 2018 and resolution dated Aug. 7, 2018 that upheld the Jan. 26, 2017 decision of the Regional Trial Court of Makati City, Branch 65, dismissing ALI’s complaint for specific performance and damages against Standard Insurance. In a five-page extended minute resolution, the SC ruled that a petition for re-

view on certiorari under Rule 45 of the Rules of Court generally bars any question pertaining to factual issues raised. The high court also held that it is a settled rule that the ﬁndings of fact of the trial court are entitled to great weight and respect specially where both the RTC and the CA are in agreement that Ayala Land cannot recover from its the Commercial “All Risks” Collective Policy (COMMAR Policy) with Standard Insurance since the loss or damage of the property insured was caused by an excluded peril under the policy. Under the COMMAR policy, Standard Insurance undertook to indemnify

By Vito Barcelo AN 81-YEAR-OLD American wanted in the United States for multiple fraud and other crimes was arrested by Immigration authorities in Parañaque City. Apprehended was Harold Leigh Andrews who had been hiding in the Philippines for almost five years before he was arrested in his condominium unit at the East Bay Residences along Sucat Road, Parañaque City. BI Commissioner Jaime Morente ordered the deportation of Andrews for overstaying in the country and being an undesirable alien, as he is a fugitive from justice. “We will deport him for being an undesirable, overstaying and undocumented alien,” Morente said in a statement Wednesday. “He no longer holds a valid passport because it was already revoked by the US government.” BI Intelligence Officer Bobby Raquepo, who heads the Bureau’s Fugitive Search Unit, said that Andrews was the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the grand jury of Baldwin County in Alabama in December 2013. “We are in close coordination with the US Embassy regarding his case,” said Raquepo. “The US authorities gave us information on his misdeeds. Apart from his immigration violation in the Philippines, he is also wanted in his country where he will stand trial for his crimes,” he added. Andrews was reportedly indicted on multiple counts of fraud before the said grand jury for which reason he fled to the Philippines to avoid arrest and prosecution. Morente said Andrews had been placed in the Bureau’s blacklist to prevent him from reentering the Philippines once deported. The American fugitive will be sent back to the US as soon as the required clearances for his deportation are secured, he added.

lice authorities arrested a band member Jojo Valerio in Tarlac City as the man who was allegedly caught in the viral video attacking the driver of a red sedan identiﬁed as Jesusito Palma, a 26-year old nurse. “He or she should just come out in the open. So that, aside from his or her criminal liability, ma-attribute din ’yun fault ng pamimigay ng plaka doon sa miyembro ng Kongreso,” Garbin told a news conference. Reports said Valerio refused to identify the owner of the Toyota FJ Cruiser with the protocol plate issued during the previous 16th Congress. While admitting that the use of the protocol plate has been abused, Garbin said he was opposed to scrapping it. “Maybe the use and issuance of protocol plates should just be regulated,” he said.

Ayala Land in any sudden and accidental physical destruction or damage of its property except if the damage or destruction was caused by an excluded risk. These “excluded risks” include pollution, war, invasion, act of foreign enemy, hostilities or warlike operations, mutiny, and acts of terrorism. The high tribunal noted that the general rule is that the insured has the burden of proof to show that the loss or damage was caused by a covered peril, but that in case of an “all-risk policy insurance,” the insurer has the duty to establish that the loss or damage falls within the excluded risk or perils. Rey E. Requejo

Kris Aquino’s ex-business partner facing 44 counts of theft charges

SINGSON’S APPEAL. Former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Singson appeals to the media regarding the disqualification of the Sears Telecom, explaining his side on the system of his company during the weekly forum Wednesday in San Juan Greenhills. Manny Palmero

A FORMER business partner of celebrity and entrepreneur Kris Aquino is now facing 44 counts of qualified theft charges as well as violation of Republic Act 8484, or The Access Devices Regulation Act (RA 8484) before the Department of Justice for allegedly using her funds for his personal use. In her separate complaints lodged before the DoJ-Office of the City Prosecutor in Mandaluyong, Pasig, Makati, Quezon City and Manila, Kris Aquino identified the respondent as Nicardo M. Falcis II, her projects manager since 2016. Aquino, sister of former President Aquino III, accused Falcis of exploiting his position of trust and confidence when he used for his personal expenditures the credit card with credit limit of P2 million she issued for the purpose of facilitating payment of suppliers and other obligations necessary for the operations of his production outfit Kristina Aquino Productions. The KCAP card, according to Aquino,

was supposed to be used solely for KCAPrelated expenses, such as payments for advertisements of brand partners posted on her social media accounts. “In all, respondent had charged P1,270,980.31 to the KCAP Card for personal expenses without my consent. Prior to my discovery of these expenses and demand for their payment, respondent neither informed me about them nor undertook or made arrangements to settle them,” Aquino said in the complaint. Aquino acknowledged that Falcis tried to return the money which he misappropriated by delivering to her house a check in the amount of P437,595.67, albeit short of P833,384.64. However, Aquino said Falcis’ attempt to return the money would not belie the fact that there was a crime committed through serious breach of her trust, “which monetary recompensate alone could not make right.” Meanwhile, Aquino slammed the alleged delaying tactics being employed by the respondent to evade prosecution.

Competitiveness ranking of Makati, top priority—Binay Jr. FORMER Makati City Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. on Wednesday said that reclaiming the top spot in the Highly Urbanized Cities category of the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index should be one of Makati’s top priorities in light of data that show the country’s richest city was only ranked sixth in the 2018 CMCI. There was no immediate comment from his sister, the incumbent mayor of the city, against whom Binay’s challenge

for the post is up. “Makati has the resources and the manpower to be the country’s most competitive city, which it was in 2014. Maintaining its top ranking is challenging given how the other cities in the Philippines are also working hard to become competitive, but we have proven that it can be done,” said Binay Jr. During Binay Jr.’s tenure, Makati City ﬁnished no lower than second in the CMCI. Makati City placed ﬁrst in 2014

and second in 2015. Its overall score, however, improved between 2014 and 2015––from 53.24 in 2014 to 54.41 in 2015. Makati City, however, has failed to keep up with its counterparts around the country. In 2017, Makati’s ranking fell to ﬁfth, behind Quezon City, Manila, Davao, and Pasay. This year Makati dropped further to sixth, as it was dislodged in the top ﬁve by Cagayan De Oro City.

Makati City Barangay Business Council chief Lysa Antonio said the success of Binay Jr.’s administration could be attributed to his willingness to sit down with the city’s different sectors, including the business community. The longtime Makati resident said no one was surprised when Makati was named the most competitive city in 2014, as Binay Jr. was quick to respond to the needs of his constituents “and very open to their input.”

Sports

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

10 young PH booters recall MILO-FCB Barca stint

Foton seeks to extend PSL win streak

By Angelica Villanueva

Games Today:

1:30 p.m. Smart vs Cocolife 4:15 p.m. Generika-Ayala vs Sta. Lucia 7:00 p.m. Foton vs F2 Logistics

FOTON seeks to extend its winning run when it faces struggling F2 Logistics in the Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Conference today at Filoil Flying V Centre. Game time is at 7 p.m. with the Tornadoes shooting for solo lead in this prestigious women’s club tournament bankrolled by Isuzu, Sogo, Asics, Mikasa, Mueller, UCPB Gen and Bizooku with Genius Sports as technical provider. Meanwhile, Generika-Ayala tries to sustain its momentum as it battles winless Sta. Lucia at 4:15 p.m. while Smart and Cocolife tip things off in the 1:30 p.m. appetizer of this tourney that has ESPN5, Hyper HD and Aksyon TV as broadcast partners. Despite losing twin towers Jaja Santiago and Dindin Manabat to the prestigious V.Premier League in Japan, the Tornadoes are still off to a sizzling start as they tallied four consecutive victories to join idle Petron on top of the standings. Their last win was truly impressive as they dominated a seasoned squad in Smart, 26-24, 25-15, 25-19, much to the delight of rookie mentor Aaron Velez, who took over from Rommel Abella in the off-season. But Velez ref u se s t o be compla ce nt. “Honestly, I don’t want to think about our opponent,” he said, anticipating a dogfight against a bleeding F2 Logistics squad, which is coming from a sorry four-set loss to the Lifesavers last Tuesday. “We will still prepare, but we will focus more on ourselves, on the things we can improve on rather than the things we don’t have control of.” The Cargo Movers, who have been dominating this conference for the past couple of years, are tipped to come out firing following a dismal performance by the veteran crew of Cha Cruz-Behag, Ara Galang, Aby Marano and Kim Fajardo in their previous game.

Kevin Durant (35) of the Golden State Warriors shoots the ball against the Atlanta Hawks at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. AFP

Warriors bounce back; Rockets find swagger O

AKLAND—Kevin Durant scored 29 points as the Golden State Warriors set aside their off-court discord to post a 110-103 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday. The NBA champions went into the game at the Oracle Arena against a backdrop of controversy, with power forward Draymond Green suspended following his bust-up with Durant 24 hours earlier. Durant and Green had a heated offcourt exchange during Monday’s 121116 overtime defeat to the Clippers in Los Angeles. That spat prompted Warriors management to take the unusual step of imposing a one-game suspension on Green for “conduct detrimental to the team.” The Warriors looked to be suffering a hangover from the row in the early stages against Atlanta, trailing 52-49 at halftime against the Hawks, who are 3-10. The Warriors raised their game in the second half however, taking charge after outscoring the Hawks by 33-24 in

the third quarter before closing out the win. Durant was given offensive support from Klay Thompson, who had 24 points while Quinn Cook had 18 and Jonas Jerebko 14. The Warriors remain on top of the Western Conference standings with 11 wins and only three defeats. Six Atlanta players reached double figures, with Taurean Prince leading with 22 points and Kent Bazemore 18. Rockets finding ‘swagger’ In Denver, James Harden had 22 points and 11 assists as the misfiring Houston Rockets knocked off the Nuggets in a 109-99 victory. Houston, who have been slow to start this season with only six wins against seven defeats, relied on a strong all-round offensive display to polish off Denver, third

in the Western Conference on 9-5. Six Houston players cracked double figures with Clint Capela leading the scoring with 24 points and nine rebounds. Chris Paul had 21 points while James Ennis III finished with 16. Denver’s scoring was led by Monte Morris, who had 19 off the bench while Nikola Jokic had 14. Harden said the Rockets were slowly rediscovering their “swagger” after a sluggish start to the campaign. “It’s going to take time but we’re getting there,” Harden told reporters. “If we keep defending at a high level like we’ve been doing, then the offense is going to come around. “The games that we lost, we guarded really well, we just didn’t make shots. Once we put both of those things together we’re going to be pretty scary. Tonight was a complete game.” In Cleveland, meanwhile, the struggling Cavaliers bagged only their second win of the season with a 113-89 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. AFP

Roger fumes over scheduling row

GOLF WINNERS. Bernice Olivarez-Ilas and Aidric Chan (third and fourth from left, respectively, hold their trophies as they pose with (from left) NGAP secretary general Bones Floro, NGAP director Caloy Coscolluela, NGAP vice president Pepot Iñigo, Riviera Golf and Country Club director Robin McDowell and Riviera GCC president Florian Concepcion after ruling the Riviera MVPSF Amateur Championship at Langer course recently.

LONDON—Roger Federer has hit back at claims he gets preferential treatment from tennis tournaments due to his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Federer was responding to controversial com ments f rom French veteran Julien Benneteau, who said the 20-Grand Slam champion was able to use his reputation to secure favourable scheduling. Benneteau offered Federer’s matches at the last two Australian Opens as evidence, suggesting the Swiss star was granted his preference to play in the evening session to avoid the blistering Melbourne heat. “Over the last two Australian Opens, he played 14 matches, because he was champion and finalist. And he played 12 or 13 of them in the night session,” Benneteau told France’s RMC Sport recently. “On the same day Federer played JanLennard Struff, Novak Djokovic played Gael Monfils. “Any tournament director would put Djokovic-Monfils on the night session

at 7:30 pm, right? But no. They played at 2:30 pm, in 104 degrees. And FedererStruff played at night. “It’s normal that he gets preferential treatment, with everything he’s done. But, in some tournaments, there are big differences in the conditions. He has no idea what that’s like.” But Federer was supported by world number one Novak Djokovic on Monday, with his rival suggesting the sixtime Australian Open winner had actually earned the right to “special treatment” for all the good he has done for the sport. Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley also released a statement saying the scheduling of Federer’s matches for the evening was a response to fan demand to watch a “once-in-ageneration athlete”, rather than any desire to cater to tennis’s biggest star. Tiley is an investor in the Laver Cup, a Ryder Cup-style annual tournament promoted by Federer and his management group Team8, but denies a conflict of interest. AFP

DISCIPLINE. Confidence. Friendship. The theme of this year’s National MILO Marathon seemed to apply not just with the runners, but also to the young booters, who took part at the MILO-FCB Barcelona Camp at the FCB Youth Academy from Nov. 4 to 12. The 10 football aspirants were welcomed home today by their parents, media, and MILO Philippines in a press conference held at the Amici, Ayala Triangle Garden, Makati City. During their football journey, the Philippine team accomplished a program where they got the chance to train with the best in the world to have better confidence and learn the discipline of playing football while building friendships with other aspiring young booters. Dreams fulfilled “We are delighted to fulfill the dreams of these 10 talented football players who have not only shown us the right skills, but also embody the values that MILO and FCB espouse, namely humility, effort, ambition, respect, and teamwork,” said Robbie De Vera, Consumer Marketing Manager of MILO Philippines. As part also of the program, the young football team and delegates from other countries such as Chile, Colombia, Jamaica, Malaysia, Maldives, South Africa, Trinidad, Tobago, and Venezuela went under a series of training sessions based on the Barça methodology. These include creative passing and attacking brand of football, while underscoring the importance of positive values. “With the new football knowledge and the values I’ve learned, I will be able to train myself better in the future,” said 12-year-old Koronadal native Daniel Cagaanan. The kids were able to exclusively train with FC Barcelona Youth Academy’s respected football coaches and former Brazil and Barça legendary player Juliano Belleti. “Lionel Messi!” the kids immediately shouted when asked what they were able to watch live play during their stay in Barcelona, Spain. Learning from their idols Some of of the ultimate experiences that the players were able to check on their football bucketlists were watching their FC Barcelona idols and learning football based on how they play. “This was beyond my wildest dreams. I’ve always wished to be in the same football arena where my idol, Lionell Messi played. I have learned a lot of things and I can’t wait to share it to my teammates,” said 11-year-old “junior coach” Lien Dale Manuel The 10 booters who came from different parts of the country include Lien Dale D. Manuel, Alexander David C. Villarosa, Breindel O. Medina, Heaven Andrei N. Teodosio, Tristan Ybanez, Juan Pablo S. Unlay, Dylan Theodore O. Wong, Carlo Antonio D. Bongocan, Daniel Isaac N. Cagaanan, and Jelena Loren I. Soon. Jelena, the sole member of the USPC Panthers FC and Cebu Elite Girls’ Team, was one of two girls who participated the global camp. What MILO and FC Barcelona hope, and maybe everybody, is that these booters will continue to work hard and aspire to be the best version of themselves. To see the athletic journey of the 10 young booters, visit www.milo.com.ph or follow them on Facebook page at MILO Philippines.

Palace congratulates Paragames, YOG medalists REPRESENTING President Rodrigo Duterte during yesterday’s awarding of incentives for the medalists of the 2018 Asian Paragames and 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Malcanang, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea congratulated all the winners saying, “that the President and I are truly proud of your success.” In his speech, the Executive Secretary expressed the Palace’s joy over the achievements of our national athletes in the said international events which “showed their competitors and the rest of the world the true fighting spirit and drive for excellence that the international community have

come to know and expect from Filipinos.” A total of P36,150,000.00 was released yesterday for the RA 10699-mandated incentives for both athletes and coaches. Para-athlete Ernie Gawilan who won 3 golds and 2 silvers in swimming got five checks totaling P4 Million, the highest incentive in the batch. Chess’ Sander Severino who won 4 gold medals took home P2.6 million. Our lone medalist in the YOG, Christian Tio received P2.5 million for his silver finish in Kiteboarding. Medialdea cited the incentives as “a token of our people’s appreciation and a re-

ward for their commitment and hardwork.” Both Gawilan and Severino expressed elation over the released monetary reward, as did the other winners present. PSC Chairman William Ramirez, who awarded the checks with Medialdea and PSC Commissioners Mon Fernandez, Arnold Agustin, Charles Maxey and Celia Kiram, disclosed that “this is the first batch of para athletes winning in the Asian level who benefitted from RA 10699. We are happy that we are answering the call of the president to make sports inclusive and accessible to the people.”

Exec. Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Philippine Paralympic Committee President Mike Barredo, PSC Chairman Butch Ramirez, PSC Commissioners Mon Fernandez, Arnold Agustin, Charles Maxey and Celia Kiram takes a pose with the medalists during yesterday’s incentives awarding in Malacañang.

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor sports@thestandard.com.ph sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

James Younghusband (center) vies for the ball with Singaporean players during their Zuzuki Cup football match in Bacolod City, on November 13, 2018. The Philippine Azkals beat Singapore 1-0 in a Suzuki Cup group match at home. AFP

Thais outraged by death in ring BANGKOK, Thailand—Thais have reacted with shock and anger after a 13-year-old boxer died during a charity bout, reviving calls for a ban on fights between children in the brutal Muay Thai martial art. Thai boxing is hugely popular in the country and many fighters enter the sport at a young age in search of fame and fortune. But the involvement of kids who sometimes start under 10 years of age in bouts that use kicks and elbows to the head – often without headguards – has stirred frequent criticism. More so as the young fighters are often family breadwinners from poor families and bouts are subject to frenzied ringside gambling. Anucha Tasako collapsed after his opponent delivered several blows to his head at a bout in Samut Prakan province, near Bangkok, on Nov. 10. Smartphone footage shown by local media captured the grim moment he hit the canvas as assistants quickly rushed into the ring to help the motionless Anucha, who fought under the alias Phetmongkol Sor Wilaithong. He later died from a brain haemorrhage, according to police. Domestic media said he had been fighting since he was eight and had competed in more than 150 bouts. His opponent, Nitikron Sonde, is around the same age, police said. He took to Facebook to express his sorrow at the death. “I regret it,” he posted on Tuesday, “but I have to do my duty to win so I can make enough money to sponsor myself through education.” Neither fighter was wearing protective headgear. A bill to prevent minors aged under 12 from taking part is under consideration. The draft bill is likely to gain support after Anucha’s death. Outrage and anger poured in as news of his death spread, with some blaming the referee for not stepping in sooner to end the fight. “He could barely stand. Why didn’t the referee stop the fight but let him continue to be hit until he was knocked down,” one Thai Facebook user said. AFP

UP Fighting Maroons advance to Final Four By Peter Atencio

HE University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons posted a big lead and maintained their composure in the last period to put away the La Salle Green Archers, 97-81, yesterday in the 81st University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The de Liano brothers, Blue Eagles to 12 wins and Juan and Javi, showed the two losses at the end of the Games Sunday (at the MOA Arena) way with 27 and 19 points second round. 2 p.m. NU v UE as the Fighting Maroons “We tried to play as a team. 4 p.m. FEU vs La Salle made it to the Final Four for Because that’s what coach the first time since 1997. Tab wanted us to do. And The Green Archers slipped to fourth and this is to finish strong,” said Kouame, who may have to go into a playoff for the last banged in 22 points and 10 rebounds. seat in the Final Four if the Far Eastern UniUST, which ended their campaign under versity Tamaraws beat the Adamson Fal- new coach Aldin Ayo with a 5-9 win-loss cons in their remaining game this Sunday. slate near the bottom of the standings, drew Three triples from Javi with 5:59 left a game-high 18 points from Henri Subido,. gave the Fighting Maroons an 84-61 cushThey also suffered the season’s biggest ion, and this allowed them to end the sec- defeat when the Green Archers walloped ond round with three consecutive wins. the Growling Tigers, 110-69, in a second Meanwhile, Coach Tab Baldwin did round tiff last Nov. 3. not have to be around for the defending Their output of 102 tied for most points champion Ateneo Blue Eagles to post the scored by Ateneo in the Tab Baldwin era, seasons’s second biggest win. and that was on Nov. 4, 2017 when the Baldwin was notably missing when Blue Eagles also smashed UST, 102-83. the the Blue Eagles posted the second “”We wanted leaders. So the man up biggest blowout of the tournament with must fill in big shoes. We’re happy our their 102-62 crushing of the University of players responded. It’s a no-bearing game. Santo Tomas Growling Tigers. But we didn’t see it that way. Our players While Baldwin underwent a series of were serious,” said assistant coach Sandy checkups at a hospital for an undisclosed Arespacochaga after Ateneo’s winning ailment, Angelo Kouame and William Na- margin was also recorded as the biggest varro made their presence felt in leading the the squad has produced since 2003.

Mourners look at a portrait of 13-year-old Muay Thai boxer Anucha Tasako next to his coffin during a funeral at a Buddhist temple in Samut Prakan province on Nov. 14, 2018. AFP

Alaska, Meralco break PBA deadlock By Jeric Lopez WITH their best-of-five semifinals clash tied, Alaska and Meralco are bound to scratch and claw when they meet again as they both want an advantageous position in the 2018 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup. Tied at 1-1, the Aces and Bolts know the importance of taking a pivotal advantage as they both shoot for an upper hand tonight in Game 3 at 7 p.m. Alaska was able to avoid a huge 0-2 hole by stepping up to take Game 2, 100-95, last Tuesday night to even the series and make it a virtual best-of-three. Mike Harris, Simon Enciso and Chris Banchero led the way as the Aces equalized their series. Aces coach Alex Compton is happy that the series is back to a square one and this time

Mapua, La Salle chase crown Games Today

(Game 3 at the MOA Arena 2 p.m. LSGH vs Malayan (junior finals)

LAST year’s finals will be relived when defending champion La Salle Greenhills and the Mapua Red Robins fight it out for the crown in Game 3 of the 94th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament today at the Mall of Asia Arena. It was a close game last season and what took place at that time could happen again when the Greenies seek their second straight title in their 2 p.m. clash. “It’s a do-or-die. It’s going to be close and I’m sure they really want to get back at us over what they experienced last year,” said Greenies coach Marvin Bienvenida. The Greenies took Game 1 of their best-of-three finals with a 74-69 win over the Red Robins. The Red Robins then took Game 2 over the Greenies, 85-76. “Back to zero kami. Baka mawala ang momentum pag nakumpiyansa. Nalagay na kami sa situation na iyan. Nangyari na ito last year. Pero, natuto na ang team duon,” said Red Robins coach Randy Alcantara, who is tipped to replace Atoy Co as head coach of the Mapua Cardinals. With the Red Robins main Clint Escamis nursing a knee injury, Alcantara is banking on the leadership of Dan Arches to bring the Red Robins to their 22nd high school crown. Bienvenida is banking on the efforts of season MVP Joel Cagulangan, Inand Fornilos and Joshua David to help the Greenhills keep the crown. Last year, David made up for two missed free throws in the last 14 seconds with a steal off a fallen Warren Bonifacio, forcing a turnover with four ticks to go. They then relied on a defensive play by Inand Fornilos in keeping the Red Robins from converting as time expired. Peter Atencio

around, he would like his team to grab the upper hand. “We got out of a hole and now we got a bestof-three,” said Alaska coach Alex Compton. “We regained out energy and I hope we can keep it up to give us a good shot of leading the series.” Alaska not only tied the series but it also snapped Meralco’s seven-game winning streak in the process. The Bolts, on the other hand, will now look to regain their touch to help them move a step closer to a possible third straight trip to the finals of this season-ending tournament. Over at the other side of the fence, Magnolia is looking to be the first team in the finals as it looks to sweep and dethrone two-time defending champion Barangay Ginebra in their own Alaska Aces import Mike Harris (52) drives past Meralco Bolts defenders semis affair. Allen Durham (center) and Reynel Hugnatan.

Younghusband replacing Ott key to PH Azkals victory BRINGING in James Younghusband in the second half worked wonders for the Philippine Azkals who went on the offensive with his entry to get past Singapore, 1-0, in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup group stage on Tuesday night at the Panaad Park and Football Stadium in Bacolod City. The presence of Younghusband in place of Mike Ott in the start of the second half strengthened the Azkals’ midfield, and set them up for their first win in Group B. “We wanted another striker to be inside and that is why we changed. Because this was a very physically strong game and we needed a physically stronger player than Ott,” said new coach SvenGoran Eriksson. This is why Patrick Reichelt had little trouble going past three defenders and scoring in the 78th minute. The goal came after he received a pass from James’ brother Phil Younghusband. From there, Reichelt got into a one-on-one with goalie Sunny Hassan and unleashed a right-footed shot from the center of the box towards the back of the net, at the bottome left corner. Eriksson considers this an important win, since the Azkals now share second with Thailand. “It’s a very big win, a very important win. These three points are very, very important for us. I think we deserve it,” added Eriksson. Over in Jakarta, host Indonesia won over Timor-Leste, 7-0, to share the same 1-0-1 win-draw loss record with Singapore. The Azkals will next face Timor Leste in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday. They are seeking to improve on their 2016 performance, where the Azkals did not make it to the semifinals. Changes in the lineup losing the Alvaro Silva and Carli De Murga center-back pairing. But Eriksson made a switch after Silva was not available for the match, because of passport issues. And so Mulders was also inserted into the midfield with de Murga and Younghusband. Peter Atencio

Racasa defeats Swiss THE Philippines’ youngest Woman Fide Master (WFM) Antonella Berthe “Tonelle” Murillo Racasa (1342) bounced back from a back-to-back losses by downing Manoush Toth (1576) of Switzerland in the World Cadets Chess Championships on Wednesday (Manila time) in Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain. The win enabled the 11-year-old Racasa to raise her score to four points in nine outings and keep her hopes for the top 20 finish in the Under-12 girls’ division. “Yes! Antonella demolished her highly rated Swiss opponent in round 9. The difference in their Fide rating is a whopping 234 points. Praise God for this victory. The Philippines (1342) vs Switzerland (1576),” said father/coach Roberto Racasa. Her European trip is sponsored by Philippine Sports Commission, National Chess Federation of the Philippines, Mandaluyong City Mayor Menchie Abalos, councilor Charisse Marie Abalos-Vargas, Herminio “Hermie” Esguerra of Herma Group of Companies and sportsman Reli de Leon. She was also supported by Rotary Club of Pasig thru Engineer Rogelio Lim, Dr. Jess Acantillado and Philippine Executive Chess Association President lawyer Cliburn Anthony A. Orbe as she takes on Elizaveta Andrukhovich (1508) of Belarus in the tenth and penultimate round. Meanwhile, Savitha Shri B (1745) of India defeated Julia Volovich (1735) of Switzerland to remain on top with 8.5 points on account of eight wins and a draw after nine games of play, half point ahead with Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Umida Omonova (1854) of Uzbekistan, who brought down Woman Fide Master Margarita Zvereva (1787) of Russia.

IN BRIEF

PAL most improved airline in the world

AIRLINERATINGS.COM recognized 4-star carrier Philippine Airlines as the “Most Improved Airline Award 2019,” citing its “move to expand its global footprint using new generation fuelefficient aircraft equipped with the latest cabins.” “Philippine Airlines has expanded its global footprint by more than 60 percent in recent years with innovative services such as a singleaisle A321neo flight between Manila and Brisbane and an A350-900 trans-polar route to New York,” the rating body said. “The four times weekly A321neo service featured the first flat-bed business product on a narrowbody aircraft operated to Australia and replaced three flights a week run by a fuel-hungry A340,” it said. AirlineRatings.com said PAL’s fleet modernization initiatives are “seeing the new breed of more extended range, single-aisle planes replace bigger aircraft on routes of up to eight hours and part of an ongoing expansion by the Filipino carrier.” Joel E. Zurbano

Outsourcing sector sees slower growth

THE IT Business Process Association of the Philippines plans to recalibrate the industry roadmap after growth slowed in the past 18 months. “Now that the data is there, we personally reached out to a group of third party to look at the possibility of triggering a recalibration study. Recalibration is important because data from industry is heavily used by other sectors in terms of reference, in terms of how much their own growth will be projected or reprojected,” ITBPAP president Rey Untal said in a news brieﬁng during the culmination of the International Innovation Summit Tuesday. ITBPAP chairman Lito Tayag said the industry grew by only 4 percent in 18 months since 2016, which was short of the target of 8 percent. The sector grew 4 percent in terms of headcount to 1.19 million from 1.14 million 18 months after 2016. Revenue rose 4 percent to $23.8 billion from $22.9 billion in 2016. “We believed we were impacted by the wait and see [behavior] of investors and potential locators due to number of geopolitical issues and uncertainty over incentives rationalization but this should not discourage us. Our industry is among largest creators of jobs, driving growth and economic progress in the countryside. We will continue to help expand the middle class and champion startups and SMEs,” Tayag said. Othel V. Campos

PT&T hikes capital for transformation

Business 3 large conglomerates report robust net profits By Jenniffer B. Austria

HREE of the country’s largest conglomerates reported strong profits in the first nine months as they took advantage of market opportunities brought about by the expanding economy. Alliance Global Group Inc., the holding company of billionaire Andrew Tan, said in a disclosure to the stock exchange net income attributable to owners grew 18 percent in the first nine months to P12.1 billion from P10.2 billion a year ago. The company registered the profit on the back of a healthy 12-percent hike in consolidated revenues to P112.1 billion

from P100.3 billion. AGI has investments in real estate, gaming, quick service restaurants and infrastructure. “We recognize the many exciting opportunities in the market, both domestic and international, as we continue to pursue our aggressive expansion program with an investment commitment of P240-billion up to 2020. At the same time, we intend to manage our costs and keep our gearing levels low as we remain vigilant of the global economic headwinds,” Alliance Global chief executive Kevin Tan said. Ayala Corp. said nine-month net income rose 3 percent to P23.9 billion as equity in net earnings jumped 9 percent to P29.3 billion, led by strong contribution from units Ayala Land Inc, Globe Telecom and AC Energy. It said net income in the third quarter declined 5 percent to P7.8 billion as the weak performance of automotive and energy units offset the higher earnings

of other subsidiaries. “These results reflect the value of having a well-diversified portfolio. While some businesses have more exposure to the impact of certain local and global macroeconomic and industry challenges, other businesses have been fairly insulated and are providing a positive balance to our portfolio,” Ayala president and chief operating officer Fernando Zobel de Ayala in a statement said. Meanwhile, Filinvest Development Inc. of the Gotianun family said it posted a net income of P10.5 billion in the January to September, up 46 percent from a year ago. This was driven by a 12-percent growth in consolidated revenues to P4.2 billion. The group’s property business accounted for 43 percent of total revenues followed by banking which contributed 40 percent. The balance was contributed by power and sugar operations.

PHILIPPINE Telegraph and Telephone Corp. said it is expanding its capital as it pursues transformation into a digital services provider offering a wide range of telecommunications and IT services. PT&T, which has been a leader and innovator in the Philippine telecommunications industry since 1962, is embarking in a massive expansion and upgrading of its network to provide a reliable and extensive fixed and wireless services to Filipino consumers. “We stay true to our commitment to serve in the fixed and wireless broadband space as we have served the Filipinos for the pst half century,” PT&T executive vice president Renato Garcia said. PT&T said it planned to add to its half centurylong legacy by continuing to innovate and offer telecommunication services to the Filipino. The company said it would continue its growth strategy by expanding its fiber footprint across the country. PT&T spent an initial P100 million for the completion of the initial phase of expansion of its network. Darwin G. Amojelar

Smart deploys 5G cell sites in Makati

PLDT Inc. and wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. deployed 5G cell sites in the Makati central business district. PLDT and Smart activated the first 5G cell site at the PLDT headquarters in Makati City with technology partner Huawei. The 5G cell sites are 3GPP standard compliant and are the first to be activated in the Philippines. The telecom companies also fired up 5G cell sites at Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga with technology partner Ericsson. “I am happy to announce that PLDT and Smart just fired up the first 5G cell sites in the country, putting the company alongside the first tier operators in the world to have deployed live 5G base stations. This is part of our commitment to bring the most advanced technologies to the country,” PLDT and Smart chair and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Harm reduction seen to stem Asia’s smoking epidemic LEADING think tanks asked policy makers in Asia to consider adopting tobacco harm reduction approach and provide access and accurate information on alternative nicotine products such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products and snus. This was the key message of the 2nd Asia Harm Reduction Forum held today at the Dusit Thani Manila Hotel in Makati City, which gathered leading thinkers from the ﬁelds of science, technology, health, policy and consumer advocacy from across Asia and the Paciﬁc. Co-organized by the Harm Reduction Alliance of the Philippines and Yayasan Pemerhati Kesehatan Publik Indonesia (YPKP- Indonesian Public Health Observer Foundation), the regional forum builds on the success of the 1st Asia Harm Reduction Forum held in Jakarta, Indonesia last year. Participants said that despite strict government regulation, high taxes and extensive public awareness campaigns, smoking remains a major public health issue in Asia, with over half of the world’s smokers living in the region. The forum aims to educate society on harm reduction through better alternative products and to promote and advocate for practical solutions that can contribute to the improvement of overall public health. Its ultimate goal is the integration of harm reduction as a strategy by legislators and the public alike, with the endgoal of ensuring improved health and a healthy environment. Rep. Anthony Bravo of Coop-NATTCO Party-list, a leading advocate of tobacco harm reduction in the Philippines, delivered the keynote speech during the forum.

SMART-ROBINSONS TIE-UP. PLDT Inc. wireless subsidiary Smart Communications teams up with Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. to give customers a chance to win prizes this Christmas. Under the Spin and Win promo, Smart subscribers can reload their prepaid phones in all branches of Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Supermarket, Ministop, Southstar Drug and selected Handyman stores nationwide and get a chance to win instant prizes. Shown are (from left) Smart assistant vice president and head of national key account development–strategic partners Louie de Guzman, vice president and head of national key accounts development Precy Katigbak, Robinsons vice president for business center Gina Salgado and Robinsons Galleria storage manager Janice Basas.

Smooth transition of Panay Electric operation assured By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Energy Department and the Energy Regulatory Commission assured a smooth transition to prevent a citywide blackout when Panay Electric Co.’s franchise expires on Jan. 19, 2019. “Service must continue regardless,” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said, adding that Iloilo City consumers should not be affected by the transition. ERC spokesman Floresinda Digal said the agency was coordinating with all other government agencies involved “in exerting best efforts to make sure that there will be no interruption of supply in Iloilo.” The Senate public services committee chaired by Senator Grace Poe voted unanimously last month in favor of House Bill No. 8132 granting More Elec-

tric and Power Co. owned by businessman Enrique Razon Jr. who provided a P2-billion capitalization. Peco legal counsel Inocencio Ferrer earlier warned in local interviews that the company would abruptly shut down operations on Jan. 19, 2019 and plunge Iloilo City into a power blackout if its franchise was not extended. Ferrer said Ilonggos should blame the House and the Senate if a citywide blackout occurred next year, which is contrary to previous pronouncements that Peco is willing to cooperate to ensure a smooth transition. Peco’s franchise bill still remains in Congress but Iloilo residents and the city council objected to its franchise renewable. A petition signed by 25,000 Iloilo city residents and an Iloilo City Council reso-

lution opposed the grant of a new franchise to Peco in light of allegations and complaints ranging from overpricing to lousy service to obsolete facilities. Senators, in a hearing on Oct. 22 conducted by the Senate committee on public services chaired by Poe, discovered that Peco had been allegedly operating in the past 24 years without a legislative franchise in violation of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001. “In fact, they [Peco] don’t even have a congressional permit and they are operating… In the Constitution, you [Peco] are supposed to have a legislative franchise. So in that alone, I don’t think we need to argue about this….You need to have a franchise from Congress. And that is going to be the problem now because you do not have one,” Poe said.

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

Metrobank, BPI register strong growth in net income By Julito G. Rada

METROPOLITAN Bank & Trust Co. and Bank of the Philippines Islands, two of the country’s largest banks, reported double-digit growth in net income in the third quarter on strong lending and deposit taking businesses. Metrobank, the second-biggest lender in terms of assets, said net income in the third quarter surged 55 percent to P5.7 billion from P3.7 billion a year ago on the sustained strength of its core businesses. Metrobank said the third-quarter performance brought the net profit in the first nine months to P16.8 billion, or 27 percent higher than a year ago. The growth was driven by the solid performance of the core business, as double-digit growth in loans and sustained Casa (current account, savings account) ratio lifted margins, while the increase in operating expenses was kept at a manageable level. “The strong performance during the nine-month period is very encouraging especially amidst inflation concerns and rising interest rates. Credit demand remains healthy, and the bank continues to grow cautiously its consumer, business and infrastructure-related loan portfolio without incurring unnecessary risks to asset quality and profitability,” Metrobank chairman Arthur Ty said in a statement. “We will continue to be a key player in the country’s economic development, anchored on our long-term strategy of growth, good governance and sustainability,” Ty said. Total loan portfolio expanded 15 percent year-on-year to P1.3 trillion, within the company guidance. Total deposits inched up by 5 percent to P1.5 trillion as of end-September. Asset quality metrics remained healthy and better than industry average. Non-performing loans ratio stayed at 1.2 percent, while NPL cover was maintained at 110 percent. Metrobank’s consolidated assets hit P2.1 trillion and equity reached P277.5 billion as of end-September. Meanwhile, BPI, the third-largest lender, said net income in the third quarter rose 12 percent to P5.98 billion from P5.36 billion a year ago, on the back of a 21-percent expansion in net interest income. Net income in the first nine months was flat at P17.01 billion on lower trading gains. Comprehensive income was P15.30 billion. Total revenues increased 7.3 percent to P56.89 billion, on the back of a 15.1-percent growth in net interest income to P40.88 billion. “The increase in net interest income was a result of a 9.4-percent increase in average asset base, and a 17-basis point expansion in net interest margin. Interest income from loans grew by 24.2 percent year-on-year as the yield on interest-earning assets improved by 37 basis points,” BPI said in a statement Wednesday. This was partially offset by a 24-basis point increase in cost of funds due to higher time deposit rates and higher documentary stamp taxeson deposits.

MPIC finalizes P12.35-b Iloilo water venture

METRO Pacific Investments Corp. said its water unit finalized the P12.35-billion joint venture water project with Metro Iloilo Water District. Metro Pacific said in a disclosure to the stock exchange wholly-owned subsidiary MetroPac Water Investments Corp. signed a joint venture agreement with MWID for the rehabilitation, operation, maintenance and expansion of MIWD’s existing water distribution system and construction of wastewater facilities. A joint venture corporation will be organized pursuant to the provisions in the joint venture agreement. The joint venture corporation will then implement the project including the right to bill and collect tariff for the water supply and wastewater services provided to the customers in the service area of MIWD. The project cost for the duration of the 25-year concession is estimated at P12.35 billion, with an initial equity investment of P600 million in 2019. MIWD’s service area includes Iloilo City and seven municipalities including

Pavia, Oton, Maasin, Cabatuan, Sta. Barbara, Leganes and San Miguel. The population in the service area of MIWD was estimated at 844,618 as of end-2017. The company said that by the end of the 25-year joint venture, the population was expected to grow to 1.4 million. The Iloilo water distribution project is the second water project of Metropac Water in Iloilo. The water utility was also awarded the development of MWID’s P2.8 billion bulk water project in 2015. Metropac Water currently bills 250 million liters per day. It plans to expand its investment portfolio with up to 393 MLD of installed capacity in the Philippines and 660 MLD in Vietnam, once these projects are completed. Another 430 MLD of projects around the Philippines are under negotiation and awaiting ﬁnal award. Metro Paciﬁc also has investments in Maynilad Water Services Inc., the water concessionaire for the west zone of Metro Manila. Jenniffer B. Austria

ABOITIZ ISO-CERTIFICATION. The Aboitiz Group, represented by Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. chief technology officer and Aboitiz Integrated Management System Steering Committee chairman Hoton Elicano (left) receives the ISO 9001:2015 certification from Femelyn Lati, TUV Sud PSB Philippines Inc. general manager on Nov. 9, 2018 at the Aboitiz Corporate Centers in Bonifacio Global City. The certificate reflects the Aboitiz Group’s outstanding quality management system that highlights improved customer focus and operational excellence.

Business

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stocks rally; Metrobank, BPI up T HE stock market rose Wednesday on proﬁt taking, ending a three-day slide that saw the benchmark index dropping to near two-year low.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index advanced 79.25 points, or 1.2 percent, to 6,923.08 on a value turnover of over P7 billion. Gainers beat losers, 105 to 75, with 56 issues unchanged. Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp., the second biggest oil reﬁner, climbed 3.9 percent to P50.40, while Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., the second-largest lender in terms of assets, gained 3.4 percent to P67. Wilcon Depot Inc., a major supplier of home and construction materials, rallied 6.3 percent to P12.48, while Bank of the Philippine Islands, the third-big-

gest lender, rose 3.5 percent to P82.60. Asian energy ﬁrms, meanwhile, took another battering on Wednesday after oil prices suffered their worst day in three years, while most of the region’s major equity markets fell into negative territory. The pound enjoyed some support after Britain and the European Union said they had reached a draft Brexit deal, though observers were cautious as it faces a number of hurdles before being given the green light. Broader markets were lower, with Hong Kong slipping 0.6 percent and Shanghai down 0.9 percent. Sydney lost 1.7 percent, while there were also losses in Singapore, Seoul, Wellington and Bangkok. But Tokyo edged up 0.2 percent despite data showing the Japanese economy shrunk in July-September owing to weakness in China and a series of natural disasters hitting domestic spending. Mumbai Taipei and Jakarta also en-

joyed gains. Both main crude contracts plunged Tuesday—Brent lost 6.6 percent and WTI 7.1 percent—on oversupply fears just as demand falters in the face of the China-US trade war and easing economic growth. With prices now down more than a fifth from their four-year highs seen in early October, oil kingpin Saudi Arabia this week said it will cut output. The announcement fueled an initial surge in the crude market before a Donald Trump tweet calling for it to keep prices low sent the commodity plunging. The selling continued on Tuesday and then Wednesday in Asia after Opec trimmed its outlook for demand this year. And energy firms were caught in the crossfire. Hong Kong-listed CNOOC dived five percent while Sinopec and PetroChina each lost around 2.5 percent. In Tokyo,

Inpex was 1.9 percent down and Australia’s Woodside Petroleum sank 2.5 percent. “Oil prices remain the hottest topic in capital markets if not in the world after extending their slide to 12 days and suffering one of the more precipitous falls in years,” said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trade at OANDA. “It’s all about the toxic combination of weakening global demand and oversupply that has sent prices tumbling.” And Rakuten Securities commodity analyst Satoru Yoshida tipped Trump’s pressure to keep Opec from making deep cuts. Earlier, figures showed Chinese consumer spending slowed last month, with officials pointing to shoppers saving for the annual Singles Day mega-sale that took place on November 11. However, there was some upbeat news in an improvement in investment and industrial production. With AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2018

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

ASIA UNITED BANK PH ISLANDS BDO LEASING BDO UNIBANK BRIGHT KINDLE CHINABANK COL FINANCIAL EAST WEST BANK FERRONOUX HLDG IREMIT MANULIFE MEDCO HLDG METROBANK NTL REINSURANCE PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PHIL STOCK EXCH PHILTRUST RCBC SECURITY BANK SUN LIFE UNION BANK

59.35 80 2.45 114 1.6 27.85 15.24 10.3 3.96 1.48 835 0.44 67.4 0.75 11.08 39.2 188.4 105 28.4 138 1,810 65.95

59.5 82.6 2.45 115.4 1.6 27.85 15.24 10.46 3.96 1.48 835 0.475 68.35 0.77 11.1 39.2 188.4 105 28.5 139 1,811 65.95

58.75 79.8 2.35 113.7 1.53 27.7 15.24 10.3 3.88 1.38 835 0.44 67 0.75 11.08 39.1 176.1 104.6 28 136 1,810 65.85

FINANCIALS 59.5 23,300 82.6 1,569,450 2.35 297,000 114.6 1,127,010 1.58 152,000 27.8 68,500 15.24 100 10.4 178,900 3.96 33,000 1.47 77,000 835 60 0.465 2,480,000 67 11,366,890 0.77 505,000 11.1 6,100 39.1 26,500 176.1 60 104.6 90 28 65,300 136 435,140 1,811 125 65.85 1,500

1,382,139.50 128,634,763.50 705,890 129,180,224 239,780 1,903,715 1,524 1,862,226 129,720 109,690 50,100 1,103,850 767,700,983 384,830 67,690 1,038,040 10,689 9,430 1,843,560 59,455,918 226,260 98,877

1,142,488 24,400,771.50 -82,829,344 122,320 -741,730 23,450 22,539,010 -75,340 -497,660 701,900 -47,257,164 -23,049.50

ABOITIZ POWER AGRINURTURE ALLIANCE SELECT ALSONS CONS BASIC ENERGY CEMEX HLDG CENTURY FOOD CIRTEK HLDG CNTRL AZUCARERA CONCEPCION CONCRETE A CROWN ASIA DAVINCI CAPITAL DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP EMPERADOR FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG GINEBRA GREENERGY HOLCIM INTEGRATED MICR IONICS JOLLIBEE LMG CHEMICALS MABUHAY VINYL MACAY HLDG MANILA WATER MAXS GROUP MEGAWIDE MERALCO MG HLDG PANASONIC PEPSI COLA PETROENERGY PETRON PHIL H2O PHINMA PHINMA ENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL PRYCE CORP RFM CORP ROXAS AND CO SFA SEMICON SHAKEYS PIZZA SMC FOODANDBEV SPC POWER UNIV ROBINA VICTORIAS VITARICH VULCAN INDL

31.3 17.7 1.06 1.24 0.208 1.99 13 36.85 14.3 37.4 60.75 1.49 5.38 7.09 10.58 15 8.68 6.92 16.4 64.3 23.95 1.6 6.24 8.8 1.51 274 4.7 3.3 9.5 25.2 10.58 17.4 378 0.163 5.7 1.63 3.6 8.16 4.33 8.1 0.99 10.8 49.4 5.33 4.7 1.95 1.4 10.12 84.95 5.24 121.7 2.33 1.36 1.52

32 17.7 1.13 1.27 0.21 2.01 13.2 37.45 16 37.4 60.75 1.49 5.4 7.09 10.86 15.34 8.98 6.93 16.56 64.3 24.4 1.72 6.24 8.9 1.54 279 4.7 3.35 10.8 25.45 10.7 18.3 382 0.173 5.7 1.63 3.89 8.28 4.5 8.79 1.01 10.8 51.5 5.33 4.7 2.02 1.4 10.12 85 5.32 126 2.33 1.45 1.58

31.3 17.22 1.03 1.24 0.205 1.95 13 36.5 14.3 33.75 60.75 1.41 5.2 7.05 10.58 14.78 8.61 6.87 16.28 63.7 23.95 1.58 6 8.08 1.5 268 4.7 3.3 8.2 25 10.5 17.4 374.6 0.163 5.7 1.56 3.6 8.01 4.3 8.1 0.99 10.58 49.4 5.1 4.6 1.95 1.33 9.9 84.85 5.2 121.5 2.32 1.34 1.51

INDUSTRIAL 31.4 2,232,000 17.5 318,300 1.05 43,583,000 1.27 311,000 0.21 940,000 2 5,438,000 13.18 467,200 36.5 72,300 16 5,500 36 1,713,700 60.75 1,490 1.43 221,000 5.2 65,000 7.05 2,100 10.74 362,400 15.34 263,300 8.9 41,600 6.92 538,500 16.56 1,451,500 63.8 44,190 24.4 1,400 1.59 30,588,000 6 788,900 8.19 6,345,000 1.54 235,000 279 677,510 4.7 51,000 3.35 18,000 9.53 6,900 25 459,600 10.52 50,400 17.6 7,586,600 382 351,820 0.165 910,000 5.7 6,100 1.56 21,000 3.89 118,000 8.28 1,169,900 4.4 234,000 8.79 6,600 0.99 132,000 10.76 34,100 50.4 2,175,200 5.1 155,300 4.68 27,000 2.02 49,000 1.37 189,000 10.02 59,600 84.95 1,732,580 5.2 476,000 123 515,280 2.33 160,000 1.4 7,225,000 1.52 9,607,000

70,105,020 5,570,656 47,239,570 385,670 195,180 10,820,920 6,123,442 2,666,465 82,350 59,973,605 90,517.50 317,350 346,980 14,809 3,925,380 4,005,778 368,154 3,718,540 23,972,406 2,824,927.50 33,935 50,160,100 4,737,124 52,582,969 355,120 186,255,532 239,700 59,700 64,653 11,494,150 532,750 135,122,504 133,531,790 150,030 34,770 33,750 448,040 9,481,224 1,037,090 54,219 131,410 365,046 110,141,560 803,646 124,500 98,340 254,690 597,122 147,145,524 2,492,810 63,927,754 372,790 10,133,870 14,748,070

10,993,120 -163,994 -201,620 155,780 1,507,360 1,620,744 -220 208,374 3,794,924 -3,442,556 6,378,714.00 324,837 1,994,650 -1,049,410 -20,278,288 -1,139,110 -720 10,632,025 -131,286 -40,125,460 20,365,460 33,200 -7,940 -3,600 -2,136,525 -6,391,515 -770,776 70 -100,400.00 -25,130,766.50 -67,600 -15,294,357 274,940 268,930 -463,340

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ASIABEST GROUP ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT JOLLIVILLE HLDG KEPPEL HLDG B LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA PRIME MEDIA PRIME ORION SAN MIGUEL CORP SM INVESTMENTS SOLID GROUP SYNERGY GRID TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

0.42 44.1 10.52 6.22 22.65 1.38 1.42 910 6.99 12.24 7.36 706 5.95 42.9 4.33 4.51 0.5 3.84 15.3 0.5 4.4 0.033 1.19 2.52 172.5 882 1.31 349.2 263.6 0.209 0.194

0.435 46.5 10.76 6.22 23.75 1.43 1.44 910.5 7.09 12.74 7.37 720 5.95 43.8 4.33 4.51 0.53 3.84 15.9 0.52 4.44 0.034 1.22 2.53 173.9 898.5 1.33 349.2 278 0.23 0.194

0.42 44.1 10.52 6.2 21.05 1.35 1.41 890 6.98 12.24 7.35 706 5.9 42.1 4.32 4.51 0.5 3.78 15.3 0.5 4.35 0.031 1.12 2.43 169 873.5 1.29 348.8 263.6 0.209 0.194

HOLDING FIRMS 0.425 3,040,000 45.4 954,800 10.54 10,828,900 6.2 133,100 22.25 75,700 1.42 8,143,000 1.43 782,000 900 314,210 7 1,943,000 12.58 2,166,900 7.37 3,500 715 75,170 5.95 5,300 43.5 1,689,900 4.32 5,000 4.51 2,000 0.5 137,000 3.79 1,089,000 15.72 4,150,300 0.51 830,000 4.36 20,088,000 0.033 17,400,000 1.2 423,000 2.46 1,074,000 169.2 170,540 898.5 226,430 1.33 357,000 348.8 120 278 1,050 0.221 13,900,000 0.194 40,000

1,301,200 42,982,725 114,970,442 825,226 1,654,550 11,471,730 1,112,570 282,540,410 13,660,226 27,290,952 25,767 53,757,470 31,487 73,420,275 21,620 9,020 69,120 4,144,520 64,954,570 423,560 87,924,940 557,300 504,600 2,673,110 28,944,363 202,031,870 463,610 41,860 291,610 3,096,240 7,760

-14,006,715 -70,353,392 823,360 -46,175 -141,000 -89,120,340 7,421,494 -2,317,592 -40,418,850 29,702 -48,721,010 -1,816,510 37,964,352 102,000 -58,254,250 46,600 19,840 -385,387 -61,449,385 194,500 -111,200 -2,100 -

8990 HLDG A BROWN ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CEBU HLDG CENTURY PROP CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE IRC PROP MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL

7.25 0.68 1.82 0.53 38.55 2.21 4.27 5.72 0.4 0.87 0.206 7.7 17.5 0.51 0.104 1.42 0.99 2.37 4.52 0.33 0.435 0.355 3.6 19.5 1.93

7.25 0.7 1.86 0.54 39.3 2.23 4.28 5.74 0.415 0.88 0.214 7.75 17.5 0.52 0.104 1.43 1.02 2.44 4.56 0.34 0.455 0.375 3.6 20.2 1.93

7.12 0.65 1.82 0.5 38.55 2.18 4.02 5.72 0.4 0.86 0.206 7.55 17.14 0.5 0.104 1.41 0.99 2.29 4.5 0.325 0.435 0.34 3.58 19.5 1.91

340,364 605,930 75,430 1,029,110 233,393,230 3,351,300 6,533,030 108,700 3,757,000 44,330 500,910 5,818,230 8,772,316 23,020 20,800 2,461,070 1,278,280 39,707,130 38,485,000 9,927,700 2,243,750 259,300 2,226,310 151,008,787 123,260

36,400 342,295.00 -1,639,100 -256,650.00 47,580 114,579 887,154 855,320 -990 -1,648,960 7,609,820 -418,000 -363,060 -127,902,948 42,490

NAME

HIGH

LOW

VOLUME

VALUE

SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

3.17 31.65 1.14 4 0.7 5.14

3.17 31.85 1.14 4.17 0.71 5.2

3.12 31.5 1.14 4 0.7 5.14

3.17 31.75 1.14 4.13 0.71 5.2

7,000 8,464,300 30,000 153,000 12,000 2,999,100

22,040 268,361,190 34,200 630,290 8,510 15,583,591

-96,680,135 -12,785,271

2GO GROUP ABS CBN ACESITE HOTEL APC GROUP APOLLO GLOBAL BERJAYA BLOOMBERRY CEBU AIR CHELSEA DFNN INC DISCOVERY WORLD EASYCALL FAR EASTERN U GLOBE TELECOM GMA NETWORK GOLDEN BRIA HARBOR STAR IMPERIAL INTL CONTAINER IPEOPLE ISLAND INFO ISM COMM LBC EXPRESS LEISURE AND RES LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA MANILA BULLETIN MANILA JOCKEY MELCO RESORTS METRO RETAIL METROALLIANCE A MLA BRDCASTING NOW CORP PAL HLDG PAXYS PHIL RACING PHIL SEVEN CORP PHILWEB PLDT PREMIUM LEISURE PRMIERE HORIZON PUREGOLD ROBINSONS RTL SBS PHIL CORP SSI GROUP STI HLDG TRANSPACIFIC BR TRAVELLERS WATERFRONT WILCON DEPOT

9.57 20.3 1.26 0.345 0.038 1.6 7.65 61.7 7.81 7.98 2.41 6 902 1,840 5.29 311.2 3.38 1.97 92.9 11.02 0.092 8.2 14.1 2.49 0.71 14.6 0.38 5.35 7.12 1.98 1 16 2.9 7.63 3.37 7.99 103 3.17 1,183 0.64 0.32 42 76.5 6.94 2.67 0.58 0.34 5.12 0.47 11.9

9.8 20.3 1.26 0.35 0.038 1.61 7.8 64 8.13 7.98 2.43 6.2 930 1,865 5.29 318 3.52 1.97 92.9 11.02 0.092 8.62 14.4 2.81 0.71 15 0.38 5.5 7.14 1.98 1.1 16 3.08 7.63 3.5 8 107.5 3.28 1,209 0.65 0.335 42 76.95 6.94 2.83 0.6 0.35 5.15 0.49 12.5

9.57 19.5 1.26 0.345 0.037 1.55 7.65 61.55 7.4 7.98 2.41 5.61 902 1,818 5.21 311 3.34 1.97 91.6 10.5 0.091 7.66 14 2.48 0.7 14.5 0.36 5.35 7.12 1.91 0.98 14.1 2.76 7.63 3.34 7.99 103 3.05 1,150 0.62 0.32 41.9 75 6.75 2.66 0.56 0.335 5.12 0.455 11.9

SERVICES 9.7 19.6 1.26 0.35 0.037 1.59 7.8 62.3 8 7.98 2.43 5.86 930 1,865 5.22 318 3.49 1.97 92.4 10.5 0.091 8.3 14.4 2.74 0.7 14.76 0.38 5.5 7.13 1.93 1.08 14.1 2.88 7.63 3.34 8 107.5 3.06 1,177 0.63 0.33 42 76.5 6.8 2.73 0.59 0.34 5.14 0.46 12.48

23,600 70,300 3,000 2,050,000 900,000 1,806,000 3,669,400 561,450 9,675,800 200 4,000 173,200 1,470 53,130 205,200 6,290 1,696,000 1,000 890,250 22,400 2,480,000 101,113,500 4,400 969,000 239,000 246,400 220,000 41,900 5,592,800 1,735,000 58,000 2,200 6,793,000 3,400 34,000 30,400 1,550 551,000 72,970 2,851,000 790,000 1,626,200 275,050 80,500 6,896,000 3,033,000 51,450,000 2,680,200 3,490,000 12,314,300

227,654 1,388,144 3,780 717,150 33,400 2,853,610 28,351,962 35,167,637 74,820,805 1,596 9,680 1,004,969 1,356,860 98,391,170 1,073,502 1,993,808 5,884,170 1,970 82,121,552 236,456 226,950 824,400,990 62,210 2,564,910 167,400 3,640,050 81,350 225,687 39,868,417 3,367,010 58,270 31,210 19,716,430 25,942 113,750 243,126 165,240 1,729,520 86,512,340 1,798,910 259,250 68,297,535 21,031,036.50 546,986 18,949,550 1,754,950 17,697,650 13,779,697 1,633,900 150,912,706

-4,850.00 -289,290 -17,571,673 8,165,036.50 -284,547 -1,004,400 21,214,380 -31,800 -45,360 -621,020 -98,280 428,789 46,800 -59,520 -54,960 -33,645,500 314,310 586,750 82,775 -6,608,125 -99,600 -8,357,860 -19,336,595 233,095 2,436,050 -266,010 531,550 -10,649,684 96,172,136

ABRA MINING APEX MINING ATLAS MINING ATOK BENGUET A CENTURY PEAK COAL ASIA HLDG DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL GEOGRACE LEPANTO A LEPANTO B MANILA MINING A MARCVENTURES NICKEL ASIA NIHAO OMICO CORP ORNTL PENINSULA ORNTL PETROL A PHILODRILL PHINMA PETRO PX MINING PXP ENERGY SEMIRARA MINING

0.0021 1.72 2.32 12.54 1.25 1.93 0.285 6.9 1.7 0.198 0.097 0.108 0.0067 1.1 2.38 1 0.52 0.84 0.012 0.012 3.85 3.02 18.4 26.05

0.0022 1.77 2.4 13.64 1.25 1.98 0.295 7.1 1.74 0.201 0.1 0.11 0.0067 1.1 2.38 1.02 0.52 0.91 0.013 0.012 3.85 3.04 18.4 26.65

0.0021 1.71 2.32 12.54 1.25 1.91 0.285 6.9 1.7 0.198 0.095 0.108 0.0067 1.1 2.35 0.99 0.52 0.82 0.012 0.011 3.75 2.8 17.82 25.5

MINING & OIL 0.0021 79,000,000 1.77 2,116,000 2.38 254,000 13.64 4,900 1.25 5,000 1.92 1,247,000 0.295 50,000 7.05 6,700 1.74 353,000 0.201 110,000 0.1 3,940,000 0.109 320,000 0.0067 10,000,000 1.1 13,000 2.37 2,297,000 1.01 21,000 0.52 49,000 0.89 886,000 0.012 800,000 0.012 14,900,000 3.8 48,000 2.94 4,498,000 17.86 3,061,500 26.1 846,700

166,100 3,669,040 604,910 64,044 6,250 2,398,410 14,550 46,370 611,090 22,080 383,740 35,070 67,000 14,300 5,440,010 20,970 25,480 782,430 10,100 176,400 182,700 13,346,600 55,112,504 22,135,560

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B2 ALCO PREF B DD PREF FGEN PREF G FPH PREF C GLO PREF P GMA HLDG PDR GTCAP PREF A GTCAP PREF B LR PREF MWIDE PREF PNX PREF 3B SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2F SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2I

19 488 95.6 96 102.5 480 450 5.2 913.5 920 1.02 101 103 75.2 76.3 75.05 74.5 73.5

19.36 490 95.6 97.7 102.5 480 450 5.2 925 920 1.02 101 103.1 75.2 76.3 75.1 74.5 73.5

18.82 488 95.5 96 102.5 480 441 5.2 913.5 920 1.02 99.3 103 75.2 76.3 75 74.5 73.1

PREFERRED 19.1 70,100 490 2,010 95.5 9,500 97.7 19,000 102.5 600 480 310 441 2,000 5.2 2,000 925 1,330 920 30 1.02 3,000 99.3 10,140 103.1 3,790 75.2 940 76.3 1,200 75 534,800 74.5 69,000 73.5 60,190

1,334,586 980,984 907,371 1,849,500 61,500 148,800 887,100 10,400 1,216,700 27,600 3,060 1,010,426 390,729 70,688 91,560 40,160,262.50 5,140,500 4,420,278

LR WARRANT

1.54

1.72

1.5

WARRANTS 1.7 1,093,000

1,803,260

3,130,100 208,760 5,690,860

29,120 -2,420,500

1,133,889

8,288

29,911.20

PROPERTY 7.19 0.69 1.86 0.52 38.8 2.19 4.16 5.72 0.41 0.88 0.212 7.6 17.3 0.5 0.104 1.42 1 2.3 4.5 0.335 0.44 0.365 3.6 19.9 1.93

47,400 898,000 41,000 1,979,000 6,012,600 1,526,000 1,572,000 19,000 9,210,000 51,000 2,380,000 763,400 507,500 45,000 200,000 1,734,000 1,278,000 16,739,000 8,515,000 29,710,000 5,020,000 720,000 619,000 7,599,200 64,000

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

OPEN

ITALPINAS MAKATI FINANCE XURPAS

3.66 2.7 1.21

3.85 2.7 1.25

3.52 2.67 1.13

FIRST METRO ETF

103.2

104.6

103.2

USD TECH B2

1.03

TRADING SUMMARY

FINANCIAL

10,348,109

INDUSTRIAL

130,245,126

HOLDING FIRMS

128,432,045

PROPERTY

157,874,085

SERVICES

418,273,612

MINING & OIL

2,101,268,571

GRAND TOTAL

2,952,630,791

3.82 2.67 1.17

SME

832,000 78,000 4,772,000

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 104 10,880 1.03

DDS

29,040

-50,010 -32,477 -25,820 1,208,420 -6,146,550 -13,802,146.00 -12,000,980 -991,952 51,550 -

VALUE 1,544.88 (down) 18.63 586,059,520.34 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 10,397.67 (down) 66.25 2,225,001,566.319 HOLDING FIRMS 6,737.03 (down) 111.34 1,597,162,773.934 PROPERTY 3,356.96 (down) 41.62 1,371.55 (down) 5.38 1,030,734,527.48 SERVICES MINING & OIL 9,073.08 (down) 89.89 2,475,163,432.44 PSEI 6,843.83 (down) 82.37 244,454,157.173 All Shares Index 4,211.13 (down) 41.84 8,171,757,307.26 Gainers: 55; Losers: 155; Unchanged: 36; Total: 246

Puregold’s income rose 18% to P4.6b in 9 months By Jenniffer B. Austria PUREGOLD Price Club Inc., the second largest supermarket chain owned by businessman Lucio Co., said net income in the first nine months of the year climbed 18 percent to P4.62 billion from P3.9 billion year-on-year on aggressive store expansions and stronger-than-expected same-store-sales growth. Puregold said in a disclosure to the stock exchange consolidated net sales increased 14 percent to P99.8 billion in the nine-month period, with 78 percent of the revenues coming from the Puregold store network and 22 percent from S&R Membership warehouse clubs and S&R New York Style Pizza outlets. Revenues from Puregold’s same stores rose 5.8 percent while S&R registered a same store sales growth of of 8.8 percent in the same period. “We are optimistic that we will be able to sustain our SSSG in the last quarter of 2018 to be driven by higher consumer spending fueled by higher levels of take-home pay as a result of the tax reform law,” Puregold said. Puregold raised its consolidated net sales guidance to 12 percent to 14 percent for the full year of 2018 from the initial 7 percent to 9 percent. Same store sales growth guidance for Puregold and S&R for 2018 has also been increased to 4 percent to 6 percent from the initial 2 percent to 4 percent early this year. The Puregold group had a total of 397 stores nationwide as of end September 2018. These include 345 Puregold outlets, 16 S&R membership shopping warehouse, and 36 S&R New York Style stores. The supermarket chain said it was on track to add 25 new Puregold stores and two new S&R warehouse outlets in 2018. Meanwhile, Puregold’s parent Cosco Capital Inc. reported a consolidated net income growth of 16.8 percent to P 6.27 billion in the first nine months of 2018, driven by the continued economic growth and higher consumer spending as a result of the tax reform law. Puregold’s grocery retailing businesses contributed 59 percent to the total profit, followed by the commercial real estate segment with 22 percent and the liquor distribution with 13 percent.

GMA’s profit falls by 15% to P1.97b on weak ad sales By Darwin G. Amojelar GMA Network Inc. said net income fell 15 percent in the ﬁrst nine months of the year due to weak advertising sales. The broadcasting company said net income amounted to P1.97 billion in the January-to-September period this year from P2.32 billion a year ago. GMA’s net income dropped in the third quarter to P745.17 million from P771.85 million on year. Airtime sales comprising 88 percent of total revenues amounted to P9.84 billion, down 6 percent from last year’s P10.52 billion. “The contraction in airtime advertising was felt across the broadcasting industry thus providing the main drag for the revenue shortfall,” GMA said. Other revenue sources which mainly included the company’s international operations, subsidiaries and other businesses amounted to P1.29 billion, up 2 percent from last year’s P1.26 billion. The segment made up 12 percent of the company’s total revenue pie. Total consolidated operating expenses fell 2 percent to P8.44 billion from P8.58 billion in 2017. Consolidated direct costs dropped 3 percent, while general and administrative expenses ended at about the same level as last year. Meanwhile, GMA said it reamined the frontrunner in the nationwide urban TV ratings in the third quarter of 2018, posting an average people audience share of 41.9 percent, while ABS-CBN only managed to get 36.6 percent based on the ofﬁcial data from the industry’s widely-trusted ratings service provider Nielsen TV Audience Measurement. GMA also garnered a solid 48.5 percent people audience share average in Mega Manila, which was way ahead of competition’s 28.2 percent. GMA tallied a bigger margin over ABS- CBN in the viewer-rich Urban Luzon.

Manila

Standard

TODAY

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CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

World/Business

New telecom player must prove its worth

LIFE GOES ON. Pupils walk to school in al-Qaim in the Iraqi Anbar province, opposite Albu Kamal in Syria’s Deir Ezzor region, on November 13, 2018. Iraqi troops have reinforced their positions along the porous frontier with neighboring war-torn Syria, fearing a spillover from the clashes there between the Islamic State group and US-backed forces. (Photo by AHMAD AL-RUBAYE / AFP)

Academics slam rebuke of publisher in Vietnam

ANOI―More than 80 international scholars have upbraided Vietnam’s Communist Party for condemning a prominent book publisher whose titles criticized socialism, a no-go zone in the Marxist country. Vietnam is one of the world’s few surviving one-party communist states, and though it has embraced market reforms its politics on paper remain strictly socialist. The group of scholars issued a letter on Wednesday lending their support to 78-year-old publisher Chu Hao, who was denounced last month by the government for printing books on economics and political science deemed out of line. The government has called for Hao to be ofﬁcially disciplined and conﬁscated or destroyed several of the volumes he

IN BRIEF CNN sues over barring of reporterWASHINGTON―A federal judge will hold a hearing Wednesday on CNN’s lawsuit against Donald Trump’s administration alleging the White House violated correspondent Jim Acosta’s constitutional rights by revoking his press credentials following a heated exchange with the US president. The White House dismissed CNN’s complaint as “grandstanding” and vowed to “vigorously defend” against the lawsuit. The row on live national television and Acosta’s resulting banishment triggered a wave of accusations that Trump is stifling the free press, and marked a sharp escalation in the tensions between the president and CNN, a frequent target of his ire. “The wrongful revocation of these credentials violates CNN and Acosta’s First Amendment rights of freedom of the press, and their Fifth Amendment rights to due process,” the news network said in a statement announcing the lawsuit filed Tuesday in federal court in Washington. CNN asked for a temporary restraining order, warning that Acosta’s credential suspension could set a precedent for future attacks on other outlets. “If left unchallenged, the actions of the White House would create a dangerous chilling effect for any journalist who covers our elected officials,” it said. US District Judge Timothy Kelly ordered the Trump administration to respond by 11:00 am (1600 GMT) on Wednesday and set a hearing for 3:30 pm. AFP

Facebook shuts more accounts SAN FRANCISCO―Facebook on Tuesday said it shut down more accounts aimed at inﬂuencing the US midterm election and that it is exploring a possible link to Russia. “As we’ve continued to investigate, we detected and removed some additional Facebook and Instagram accounts,” head of cybersecurity policy Nathaniel Gleicher said in an update posted at the social network. While stressing the challenge of identifying the culprits, he noted that a website claiming to be associated with the Internet Research Agency (IRA), a Russia-based troll farm, published a list of Instagram accounts they said that they had created.

printed. The rebuke prompted Hao to rescind his communist party membership of 45 years and sparked concern from the academic community abroad, who sent a letter of protest signed by 81 scholars, academics and researchers in 10 countries to Vietnam’s top leaders. “We reject any assertion that these works present a threat to the stable or peaceful development of Vietnam,” said the letter. “We find the accusations... to be unfounded and disturbing,” it said. Hao was accused by the communist party’s central inspection commission of publishing material that “runs counter to the viewpoints, policies and guidelines of the party [and] state”. The state inspection commission singled out Friedrich Hayek’s “The Road to Serfdom” for its apparent focus on the weaknesses of socialism and references to the former Soviet Union as a “fascist” state. It also condemned the publication of “Marx: A Very Short Introduction” by Peter Singer which the commission said Facebook had already shut down most of those account, and blocked the rest after an internal investigation, according to Gleicher. “Ultimately, this effort may have been connected to the IRA, but we aren’t best placed to say definitively whether that is the case,” Gleicher said. “Trolls have an incentive to claim that their activities are more widespread and influential than may be the case.” On the eve of the midterm election, Facebook announced it blocked some 30 accounts on its platform and 85 more on Instagram after police warned they may be linked to “foreign entities” trying to interfere. On Tuesday, the numbers of accounts removed for “coordinated inauthentic behavior” was raised to 36 at Facebook and 99 at the social network’s Instagram service. Most of the accounts were created after the middle of last year. Overall, the Instagram accounts had amassed about 1.25 million followers, with 600,000 of those people located in the United States, according to Facebook. AFP

Coup-plagued Fiji goes to the polls SUVA―Fiji’s second election since a 2006 military takeover―pitting one coup leader against another―passed off peacefully Wednesday, although heavy rain dampened voter turnout in the Paciﬁc island nation. The ballot sees Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, the former military chief who led a bloodless takeover of the government 12 years ago, face off against another coup leader, Sitiveni Rabuka of the SODELPA Party. Bainimarama’s FijiFirst Party, which secured a landslide 59 percent in the last election four years ago, is favorite to retain ofﬁce against a fractured opposition. Bainimarama, 64, has promised stability and an end to the “coup culture” that saw four governments toppled between 1987 and 2006. Rabuka, who staged two coups in 1987 and led the country from 1992-99, was only cleared to run in the election on Monday after defeating corruption charges that government critics said were politically motivated. Torrential rain forced the closure of 23 polling stations and affected turnout among the 550,000 registered voters in the nation of 920,000. “With numbers still coming in, it looks like we may be facing low voter turnout,” Elections Supervisor Mohammed Saneem said as he declared polling had ended. “The weather was persistent in terms of rain all day and we had to close a few of the polling venues due to accessibility issues.” AFP

disputes key Marxist ideologies. Hao has long-been a thorn in the side of the communist party, which he accuses of stifling academic freedoms. The scholar, who runs the Hanoibased Knowledge Publishing House, said the party has engaged in “unjustifiable, dishonest and degrading activities” in an open letter responding to the inspection commission last month. Hao declined to be interviewed by AFP when contacted this week. The ideological tussle prompted at least 10 other scholars and former officials to revoke their party membership in support of Hao, who served as vice science minister from 1996 to 2005. Vietnam’s conservative communist party chief Nguyen Phu Trong has vowed to clean up the communist party, which he said has lost its way after years of mismanagement and high-level corruption. Dozens of bankers, businessmen and former officials have been thrown in jail under his tenure, though Hao is the most prominent academic to fall afoul of the party under Trong. AFP

THE search for the country’s third major telecommunications player is virtually over, except for the claims and counterclaims of two disqualified bidders. The bidding, by far the biggest conducted under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, was completed in less than a year since he ordered the National Telecommunications Commission and the Department of Information and Communications Technology on Dec. 19, 2017 to search for a third major telecom player. The selection committee of the NTC declared last week Mislatel Consortium, a joint venture of Dennis Uy’s Udenna Corp., its subsidiary Chelsea Logistics Holdings Corp. and Chinese state-owned China Telecommunications Corp., as the new major player. Mislatel committed to invest P257 billion over a five-year period, including P150 billion in its first year of operations. In terms of internet speed, the group committed to provide 27 megabits per second in its first year, and 55 mbps in five years. The company plans to cover 84 percent of the population in five years and 34 percent in its first year of operation. It’s a gargantuan task for Mislatel, which is being given chance to break the duopoly of Smart Communications Inc. and Globe Telecom Inc. and provide competition to the two in the hope of improving and speeding up telecom services in the Philippines. Big banks are expected to offer and arrange financing schemes for Mislatel to fund the new telco’s capital investments. For Dennis Uy, the telco award will redefine his budding conglomerate that started out as a petroleum dealer. It will test his financial clout and the telco venture will determine if he is ready to join the big boys of Philippine business. NTC stays firm The NTC, meanwhile, denied the separate appeals of Sear Telecommunications Inc. and Philippine Telegraph and Telephone Corp. after they submitted “incomplete” and “non-compliant” bids. PT&T failed to submit a certification of technical capability from the NTC, while Sear Telecom of former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson was disqualified for not submitting the “participation security” of P700 million. The NTC committee said PT&T and Sear could still file an appeal to NTC en banc until Thursday for a fee P10 million. PT&T said its management and legal team were reviewing the denial of the company’s appeal to determine the next course of action it would take. The bidding process at best was open and consultative. As early as January 14, 2018, the DICT and the NTC held several consultations and public hearings with industry stakeholders as well as local and foreign telco experts to gather information and comments to help the government craft the terms of reference, or TOR. President Duterte in April issued Administrative Order No. 11 creating the Oversight Committee composed of the DICT secretary as chairman, the Finance secretary as vice chairman and the Executive Secretary and the National Security Adviser as members. All potential bidders were made aware of the TOR during the consultations and public hearings. They were part of the exchange of views and their comments were solicited before the final shape, size and color of the TOR was released publicly by the NTC. Potential bidders were also given the chance to submit clarificatory questions. The NTC and DICT on October 7, 2018 announced an invitation to bid and offered the selection documents for sale the next day. The potential bidders, thus, knew what they were getting into. Hours prior to the opening of the selection documents, only three submitted their bids out of the 10 that purchased the documents. Only one emerged as a qualified bidder who was later on declared the third provisional telco player. The process was open to the public, streamed live and attended by observers from the Commission on Audit, Department of Justice and the Philippine Competition Commission. The NTC and the DICT have already put the third telco player to task. It should be made to account for each and every promise it made. The government also has the right to cancel the award if the new major player fails to deliver its commitment under the TOR. Day in court Disqualified bidders PT&T and Sears Consortium, meanwhile, can file a case with the court. Their complaints can only be addressed by a regular court, and the not the DICT nor the NTC. Chavit’s group failed to turn in participation security amounting to P700 million, a requirement clearly stipulated in the TOR, which should come from a bank. Sources said Chavit’s group submitted the security on Friday, two days after the deadline. E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or business@manilastandard.net or extrastory2000@gmail.com

Marie Antoinette’s jewels up for auction

GENEVA-Marie Antoinette’s diamonds and pearls, not seen in public for two centuries, go under the hammer in Geneva Wednesday in what has been billed as one of the most important royal jewelry auctions in history. Ten dazzling treasures that belonged to the ill-fated queen are part of a 100-piece collection, held by the Italian royal House of Bourbon-Parma, being sold by Sotheby’s auction house. They include a diamond-set monogrammed ring containing a lock of her hair, valued at $8,000-10,000. Marie Antoinette, the last queen of France before the revolution, was guillotined in Paris in October 1793 at the age of 37. “How do you top Marie Antoinette?” Andres White Correal, Sotheby’s senior director of jewellery, told AFP last month. He described Wednesday’s auction at the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel on the Shores of Lake Geneva as “the sale of the 21st Century”. Jaw-dropping prices have been paid for precious gems at recent Geneva jewel auctions, with some rare, ﬂawless colored diamonds fetching tens of millions of dollars each. Marie Antoinette’s pieces are not expected to approach those heights, but buyers may still part with hundreds of thousands of dollars to own a piece of history. The highlight is Marie Antoinette’s Pearl, a natural pearl and diamond pendant valued at $1-2 million (870,000-1.7 million euros). A natural pearl and diamond necklace composed of three rows of more than 100 slightly graduated pearls is expected to fetch $200,000-300,000, as are a pair of pearl and diamond pendant earrings. A ﬁne natural pearl and diamond necklace is meanwhile priced at $40,000-70,000, while a double ribbon bow diamond brooch is estimated at $50,000-80,000. “It is one of the most important royal jewelry collections ever to appear on the market and each and every jewel is absolutely imbued with history,” said Daniela Mascetti, deputy chair of Sotheby’s jewelry in Europe. The jewels have followed a winding path highlighting European power dynamics in the 18th and 19th centuries. AFP

Republic of the Philippines NATIONAL LIBRARY OF THE PHILIPPINES Bids and Awards Committee

INVITATION TO BID Reference No. : 5780909 Sol. No. : nlp18-54 Name of Project Location Approved Budget Contract Source of Fund Delivery Period

: SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF ONLINE RESOURCES/ DATABASES FOR iPeL 2018 : Conference Room, Ground Floor, NLP Bldg. : Thirty Seven Million Pesos (Php37,000,000.00) : General Fund : 15 days upon receipt of Purchase Order Schedule of Activities:

Procurement Stage

Start Date

Issuance and Availability of Bidding Documents

November 8, 2018 –December 3, 2018

Pre Bid Conference

November 21, 2018 ; 2:00PM

Submission of Bids

December 3, 2018 ; 2:00PM

Opening and Evaluation of Bids

December 3, 2018 ; 2:01PM

Bidders should have completed, within two (2) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a non discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act. Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorship, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183 and subject to Commonwealth Act 138. A complete set of Bidding Documents may be acquired by interested Bidders from the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee for the Bidding Documents, pursuant to the latest Guidelines issued by the GPPB, in the amount of Lot No.

Item Description

LOT 1 Management eJournals

Approved Budget Contract (ABC) Php6,000,000.00

Bidding Documents Amount PhP5,000.00

LOT 2 Ejournal Database Related to Science

Php1,450,000.00

PhP5,000.00

LOT 3 General Interest Related Database

Php4,877,000.00

PhP5,000.00

LOT 4 Ejournal Database Related to Engineering

Php1,750,000.00

PhP5,000.00

Database which contains research LOT 5 Ejournal P3,000,000.00 PhP5,000.00 works done by Filipino scholars Ejournal Database, Related to Science LOT 6 Technology, Medicine, Business and Transport Php6,500,000.00 PhP5,000.00 Database Related to Environment LOT 7 Ejournal Php923,000.00 PhP1,000.00 Energy and Natural Resouces Multidisciplinary, full-text database with LOT 8 dissertations and theses Php12,500,000.00 PhP10,000.00 TOTAL ABC

PhP37,000.000.00

The NLP reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected Bidder or Bidders. For further information, please refer to: CHERRYLYN ESTOLANO RICA JANE SANTOS RHODORA JULIAN BAC Secretariat National Library of the Philippines Tel. No.: 310-5035 loc. 106/215/408 Email: bac @nlp.gov.ph Sgd. EDGARDO B. QUIROS BAC, Chairperson (MS-NOV. 15, 2018)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

LGUs

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

Sibugay capitol turns into ‘little Disneyland’ IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay—The provincial capitol grounds of Zamboanga Sibugay, nestled 300 feet above sea level, will be transformed into a “little Disneyland” as this year’s Festival of Lights opens on Nov. 16. This year’s festival, according to acting Provincial Tourism Ofﬁcer Helen V. Dongog, has “become bigger and brighter after a successful on the launching last year of Festival of Lights that brings the magic of the Christmas holiday season.” She said this year’s festival “is even more illuminating” as the province celebrates Christmas symbols for the second year in a row. Dongog said the Festival of Lights is a highly-anticipated event, captivating the hearts of Sibugaynons. “You don’t need to go to Hong Kong, Australia, and London just to visit Disneyland,” she said. For this year’s festival, the provincial government is erecting replicas of the most visited theme parks around the world. They include the Disney Castle of Disneyland, Astro Blasters of Disneyland and Ocean Park in Hong Kong, Legoland of Malaysia,, Luna Park of Australia, Minnie Mouse’s House in Orlando, Florida, the Harry Potter Castle and Hello Kitty in Japan, the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland Paris, and Hollywood Pictures in Los Angeles. The theme park, constructed by the 10 participating local government units, government agencies including cooperatives, is being built in front of the provincial capitol.

Workers apply the finishing touches on a replica of Hong Kong Disneyland’s Disney Castle on the provincial capitol grounds of Ipil in Zamboanga Sibugay ahead of its Festival of Lights starting Nov. 16.

Lanao town wins peace by protecting fish areas By John Tria

ULTAN NAGA DIMAPORO, Lanao Del Norte ― In this quaint, sun-kissed town on the shores of Illana Bay in Lanao del Norte, several communities show how working together can lead to cohesion and harmony among Muslim and Christian neighbors. By working together to establish marine sanctuaries, the neighbors not only secured their fishing livelihoods, but also helped win the peace by achieving a high level of cohesion and harmony. Around the year 2000, the idea of a marine sanctuary to protect their livelihoods from illegal fishing activities was proposed by a non-government organization called the Lanao Aquatic and Marine Fisheries Center for Community Development Inc. Local fisherman Johnny Balindong recalled that when LAFCCOD first came in, they were not easily impressed and inspired because they were primarily Christians. “When LAFCCOD started organizing us and giving us training on the Culture of Peace and Community Based Coastal Resource Management, our perspective changed,” Balindong related in the local language. This, Balindong said, became stronger with the implementation of the marine sanctuaries, as they saw the value of working together to achieve the common goal of protecting and enhancing their common fishing grounds. Local fisherfolk leader Zainoden Abdela of the Samahan ng mga Mangingisda at Magsasaka sa Sigayan confirmed this, saying there was a time when prejudice was strong between Muslim and Christian neighbors in the coastal villages. Another fisherman, Abbas Maruhom,

said the training eventually encouraged them to form the Muslim Christian Organization of Farmers and Fisherfolk, where fisher of both religions joined its ranks. “The leadership was mixed, The Chairman would be Muslim while the Vice Chairman would be Christian,” Maruhom explained in Cebuano. As time went by, the fishermen said the prejudice disappeared slowly as they started working together. According to Fermin Flores, Executive Director of LAFCCOD, the initiative was a means to build peace by achieving better social cohesion between Muslim and Christians in neighborhoods. “When we entered in 2000, potential for conflict was high and the possibility of unrest and violence was always present,” he said. “Our entry point to get them together was the common aspiration to build sustainable livelihoods, from the fishing activities they both do,” Flores added. Establishing the sanctuaries, he said, was a multi-pronged approach that achieved community harmony and peace while helping them improve livelihoods in common municipal fishing grounds and prevent illegal fishing activities that depleted their common supply of fish. The three sanctuaries located in Barangays Sigayan, Tantawon and Banga are now co-managed between the local government and the peoples’ organizations, Flores said.

On a deeper, cultural level, the sanctuaries gave them something upon which to foster cooperation and eventually, mutual acceptance and respect between fisherfolk of different cultural backgrounds. “The trainings and shared effort in establishing the sanctuary over the years helped them warm up to the idea of working together despite their being from different religions and past experiences,” Flores said. To this day, Balindong fondly remembers a volunteer named Dave from a London-based organization called Voluntary Service Overseas Philippines, who helped them understand the benefit of having a sanctuary. VSO provided technical volunteers to help define the bounds of the sanctuaries in 2000 and other technical needs of the communities. Celebrating 60 years this year, VSO has been providing such assistance around the world since 1958. As a result of this cooperation between LAFCCOD, VSO and the various peoples organizations, the sanctuaries are covered by a municipal ordinance and have applied for protected area status. This allowed better enforcement of regulations governing the use of the common fishing grounds. The secure livelihoods and common efforts built partnerships between government and civil society. This, in turn, made the area more productive, as the local government reported a slight increase in agricultural production of important crops like rice and corn. According to Flores, the cohesion and peace achieved between Muslim and Christian fisherfolk and farmers is an important outcome and legacy of the sanctuaries. (Resurgent News and Features)

C. Luzon gears up for Muslim tourists, SEAG By Romeo Dizon

‘MY TURN.’ Former Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez (right) surprises his wife, incumbent Mayor Cristina GonzalesRomualdez, with a cake to congratulate her for a job well done as the city’s chief executive for the past three years. Alfred will run to reclaim his old post in the May elections next year, as Cristina, who also served as councilor for nine years, takes a break from politics to care for their daughters. Robbie Pangilinan

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga―The Departments of Tourism and Trade and Industry in Central Luzon are preparing the region to be a “Muslim-friendly destination” to meet the need of the rising number of Muslim tourists to the country, including the 15,000 delegates coming for the 30th Southeast Asian Games the Philippines will host next year. The DoT is preparing the tourist spots and sites in the region while the DTI is ensuring the halal-certiﬁed foods and other needs of Muslim visitors and the incoming athletes, coaches and their supporters, the agencies said in a joint statement. Most of the approved 56 events in the SEA Games will be held at the multipurpose Clark Global City and the

Subic Bay Freeport Zone managed by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. The Philippines will host the biennial multi-sports event from Nov. 30 to Dec. 12, 2019, with 11 countries participating ― five of them Muslim countries, including the Philippines. Around 8,750 athletes, 2,000 coaches and 15,000 people are expected to attend the games. Clark will serve as the main hub of the SEAG and will host aquatics, athletics, martial arts, baseball, softball and archery, while Subic events include triathlon, duathlon, and windsurfing, among others. Carolina Uy, DoT regional director, said Central Luzon is now getting a fair share of Muslim tourists due to the direct flights of Qatar Airways and Emirates to and from Clark International Airport.

Joy gifts single parents with ‘Tindahan’ start-up By Rio N. Araja QUEZON City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte has spearheaded the awarding of variety store start-up packages to a new batch of 200 single parents under the “Tindahan ni Ate Joy” program. “I am proud to say that this is one of the high-impact projects from our ofﬁce. We have now reached the 6th batch, and every batch consists of 200 solo parents who receive the store package to become an entrepreneur,” she said. Since the program was launched in 2012, 1,200 qualiﬁed solo parents have been granted P10,000 worth of grocery merchandise as start-up

business support, Belmonte said. Women who are widowed, got separated from their husbands, or whose husbands left them for another woman are the program’s priority, the vice mayor said. “Many of them are left alone to care for their kids and don’t receive money from their spouses who left them. That’s why we want to transform solo parents, especially women, into micro-entrepreneurs running their own variety stores,” she added. Women must be empowered economically, Belmonte said, and according to the vice mayor, the program has an 85-percent high success.

Church group keeps faith in SEC ruling A MINDANAO church group recently expressed its conﬁdence that the Securities and Exchange Commission will “appreciate the truth” and resolve the issues facing the group “with fairness and impartiality.” The Sarangani-based KAPA Community Ministry International ssued the statement following its petition to the SEC to remove an advisory issued by the regulatory body. KAPA Founder Joel Apolinario said the group has conveyed to the SEC “the necessary facts to prove that allegations against the KCMI are false and have been motivated by ill will on the part of its accusers.” “We are saddened by the move on the part of our detractors to use a respected institution like the SEC in their bid to damage our Christian community life and evangelistic mission,” Apolinario said.

SEC previously issued an advisory against Kapa for allegedly offering insurance to the public to invest in their company with a promise that the people can get a 30 percent interest income at the end of the month. He said the church group has already explained to the SEC the allegations that it has been soliciting investments with promises of high yield from the public “are misleading and have no basis in fact.” “We clariﬁed before the SEC that our church does not solicit money with a promise of a return nor do we entice the public to invest in our organization,” Apolinario said. “We explained to the SEC that there is no such thing as investments to KAPA but we cannot prevent our members and supporters who voluntarily donate to the church,” he pointed out.

ALLIANCE SUPPORT.

Davao City Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio, as chairman of the regional Hugpong Ng Pagbabago party, raises the hand of Laguna 1st District Rep. Arlene Arcillas (right), who is running for city mayor of Santa Rosa, Laguna in the 2019 elections. Roy Tomandao

Life

bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @mstandardLIFe

household

thursday, november 15, 2018

Home styling ideas for the holidays

TIME-HONORED TRADITION. The classic red and green combination exudes nostalgic vibe.

ome is where one can express their holiday style, thus our Home put together five holiday looks, ranging from festive to pristine and from avant-garde to classic, featuring pieces from its Merry Styles of Christmas collection. Christmas Le Grand

our Home’s take on the yuletide season takes a major turn as the circus comes to Christmas town. Jewel tones and bright and vibrant hues take center stage against dramatic black furniture and gold furnishings; while harlequin masques in black and white revolve around golden circles. it is festive, outlandish, and spectacular.

Christmas in Calm Splendor

Frosted, pristine, pure. Snowf lakes and icicles suspended in mirrored decorations, garlands adorned with frosted teardrops in icy blue

and trees embellished with pearls and silver trinkets, all give off a serene and silent vibe—another way of celebrating the other side of Christmas. our Home gives off a different way of celebrating the most wonderful time of the year: modern, contemporary, and sleek.

Boho Christmas

pastel colors, soft tones, and a hushed and gentle atmosphere complete an unconventional Christmas theme. Trees and garlands adorned with strings of pearls in light and pale hues, large roses and poinsettias that

Pieces from Our Home’s Merry Styles of Christmas collection.

Christmas in Calm Splendor (left) features white, blue, and silver elements, while Christmas Le Grand (right) is festive with its jewel tones and vibrant hues.

fade into a blissful background while giving off an ethereal and whimsical The Wizard of Posh butterflies with their glittered wings character. This carefree style exudes our Home pays homage to the emerald a-flutter embellish wreaths and twigs, laid-back and muted vibe. city as elegance and opulence become a unique statement of Christmas. LuxuriChristmas Tradition ous, exclusive and classy—Christmas A traditional celebration takes never looked this posh as black and gold place as our Home pays tribute to provide a backdrop for the rich and lavish an immortal and enduring combi- emerald tones to shine through. nation of red and green. A forest of This collection is available at all our garlands and wreaths drop from the Home branches. our Home also offers ceiling as inverted Christmas trees its “Best Deal Ever, which entitles shopform a chandelier. Arches are nu- pers 24 months installment at 0 percent merously decked with lights, Santa interest when they get a minimum singleClaus, Frosty and Rudolph reu- receipt purchase of p50,000 using BDo, nite while toys and candies dangle Bpi, RCBC, Citibank, Metrobank, Secuabove—this is how Christmas is cel- rity Bank, or Unionbank credit cards until ebrated the traditional way. Dec. 31.

A celebration of Filipino Christmas tradition A SHopping mall chain pays homage to the Filipino Christmas spirit with its holiday activities ad festivities. Highlighting everything that is great about the Filipino Christmas, Ayala Malls invites everyone to awaken amazing experiences this season and partake in the spirit of giving and fun. “As a nation, we have always looked for-

ward to Christmas. At the heart of the Filipino Christmas is love for family, embracing traditions, and celebrating togetherness— all these you will feel and experience in different shapes and forms from each and all of our Ayala Malls. We are excited to refresh it up for thousands of families who spend the season with us, and invite everyone to Awaken Amazing Christmas Wonder at

Gary Valenciano co-created ‘Awit at Laro,’ a project that celebrates music and culture by reintroducing traditional Filipino games to the youth.

Ayala Malls,” says Jennylle Tupaz, head of Ayala Malls group.

Awaken festive harmony

in the spirit of reigniting the tradition of song and playfulness, Ayala Malls hosts “Awit at Laro,” a project that celebrates music and culture by reintroducing traditional Filipino games to a new generation of youth through music and the arts. The project, the brainchild of gary Valenciano and Bambi Mañosa, aims to raise funds for UniCEF, the Tukod Foundation, and the Shining Light Foundation. The “Awit at Laro” album features 10 reimagined traditional songs and 10 brand new songs about Filipino games that we’ve loved and perhaps lost in childhood—this Christmas will be the time to experience them again and share them with the younger ones through the uplifting tunes in collaboration with top Filipino composers and singers. There will also be an “Awit at Laro” concert, which will tour 21 malls throughout the country during Christmas season, spreading the joy

Steps Dance Studio Kids performing a dance number to the tune of ‘Jak en Poy,’ an original from the Awit at Laro album.

of music across the philippines. ong, and Janella Salvador. The shows Directed by paolo Valenciano, it will begin on nov. 3 and run until Dec. 22 at feature gary Valenciano, Steps Dance Ayala Malls across the country. Studio and artists from the album, including Kiana Valenciano, Jona, gab V, Awaken amazing acts Katrina Velarde, Darren Espanto, Lara of generosity Maigue, Yeng Constantino, Joey Ayala, More than about receiving presents, RJ Dela Fuente, AC Bonifacio, Daryll Turn to C2

Life

thursday, november 15, 2018 manilastandardlife@gmail.com

Christmas

Moira Dela Torre will serenade guests at the Shangri-La Plaza on Nov. 25.

in November S

HANGRI-LA Plaza kicks off the holidays with festivities that match the merry season. The mall treats its guests to Shang-exclusive events, performances, and bazaars. Unique fairs and bazaars are happening at the East Atrium and Food Forum at the Main Wing during weekends of the month. Shoppers can discover one-of-a-kind finds and great gifts at The Grand Christmas Fair by The Weekend Showroom on Nov. 1518, Holiday Fair by Urbanpod on Nov. 23-25, and Articraft De Charite by ImeVouge on Nov. 29 to Dec 2. Gourmands are bound to find something to satisfy their discerning tastes for family holiday meals or to give as presents to fellow foodies at A Taste of Christmas by Silk Events ongoing until Nov. 18, Delicious Discoveries by Urbanpod on Nov. 23-24, and Flair and Flavors by MBCI on Nov. 29 to Dec. 2. Havaianas is inviting flip flop fans to customize their pairs at the Make Your Own Havaianas event at Grand Atrium on Nov. 17-20. The coveted Havaianas Origine will also be exclusively sold at Rustan’s at the Shang. Those with an eye for all things beauty will love that Adore Cosmetics is finally opening its store at the Shang on Nov. 24 at the Main Wing. Beauty aficionados can now get their hands on the brand’s organic skin-care products and treatments. The most wonderful time of the year calls for equally wonderful music. Moira Dela Torre will perform live at the Shang on Nov. 25, 7:00 p.m., serenading mall guests with a repertoire of her heartfelt hits at the Grand Atrium. Tiffany & Co. is dressing to the nines for Christmas. The iconic luxury jewelry and specialty retailer is unveiling its revamped Shang store and dazzling Christmas tree on Nov. 26, 6:00 p.m. at the Grand Atrium with a special performance by the Manila Phil- Make Your Own harmonic Orchestra. Havaiannas event is happening on Nov. 17-20.

A closer look at children’s milk ASIDE from a well-balanced, nutritious diet, giving children a glass of milk has been shown to help support their well-being. It is however important for parents to take a closer look— beyond the promises—at the nutritional values, ingredients, calorie counts, and even the sugar content of their child’s milk to better understand how it factors into their nutrition. One way of doing so is by getting accustomed to reading the labels. According to Food Scientist Dr. Lotis Francisco, milk labels provide the necessary information that would allow parents to check and balance the ingredients and other nutritional facts of the milk. “By taking time to read and understand the label, it helps you make smart choices in identifying the best milk for your child,” said Dr. Francisco.

A celebration...

Ayala Malls, a 3D projection mapping in partnership with Panasonic every weekend from Nov. 16 to Dec. 23 in Glorietta, From C1 Greenbelt, Alabang Town Center, UP Christmas is about giving. Making Town Center, Ayala Malls Fairview, and more kids happy this holiday season, Ayala Malls Solenad. Ayala Malls launches Laruang AguiAwaken togetherness naldo. From Nov. 3 to Dec. 16, particiThe mall chain invites shoppers to pating department stores and toy stores will be selling toys that customers can gather their loved ones and enjoy a day purchase and donate to UNICEF and of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Ayala Malls, and enjoy amazing holiKids 4 Kids. day thrills and deals with Christmas sale activities at Alabang Town Center, Awaken time-honored TriNoma, UP Town Center, Solenad, traditions On Nov. 3, Ayala Malls officially Ayala Malls Fairview, Ayala Malls Leglaunched the holiday season with a aspi, Pavilion Mall, Ayala Center Cebu, Christmas tree lighting, as well as Abreeza, and Centrio. Filipino-inspired décors using vibrant Awaken support for colors and designs reminiscent of indighomegrown enous textiles that are also the inspiraAyala Malls won the prestigious Gold tion for the work of Ayala Corporation chairman emeritus Don Jaime Zobel, Award for Cause-Related Marketing which is featured at the Greenbelt tun- for TienDA sa Ayala Malls at the 2018 ICSC Asia Pacific Shopping Center nel every year. Ayala Malls will also be offering com- Awards, held on Oct. 23 in Kuala munity shows, cantatas, and concerts Lumpur, Malaysia; the only mall in the throughout the holiday season, and, on Philippines to win an award. Local famers will offer their good top of Ayala’s traditional fireworks and light shows, awaken amazing lights of at TienDA sa Ayala Malls at Ayala wonder through “A Night of Lights” at the Malls The 30th on Dec. 1-2.

How do you know the sugar content

When it comes to formula milk’s sugar levels, most parents may find it confusing, especially that the Nutritional Facts label only indicates an aggregated sugar content. That is why high sugar levels do not necessarily imply poor quality. Among the types of sugar added in formula milk include sucrose, also referred to as table sugar and starches. These are added to replace some or all of the lactose naturally found in milk. Given the case, Dr. Francisco noted that it is still better to check the type of sugar used in the milk. For children’s proper growth and mental developWhat’s on milk labels ment, Promil Four is predominantly Dr. Francisco said the Food and lactose with its non-fat milk as the Drug Administration requires labels main ingredient. on all pre-packaged food, like milk. These labels must provide a complete What other nutrients should list of ingredients, as well as its nutriyou look out for tion information in readable type. To ensure that the child gets the essenWhen reading the Ingredients label, tial and important nutrients for proper moms and dads must take note that the growth and mental development, it pays items listed are in descending order of off to check if milk’s macronutrients— proportion: from most to least. This protein, means that the first

It is the parents’ job to ensure the milk they give their children actually improves their development and overall well-being.

ingredient in the list is also the main component of the milk. For instance, some formula milk, like Promil Four, have non-fat milk as its first listed ingredient, and thus is its first component. Dr. Francisco noted that this component is preferred for children over 3 years old since it eliminates unnecessary fatty acids and kept the other milk components like lactose. Other milk brands, meanwhile, use other key ingredients like hydrolyzed cornstarch that serves as an agent to retain milk’s sensory properties, and functions as a source of carbohydrates with also its sucrose content. With these ingredients, children’s milk would look and feel like that of a regular one when consumed, and is much sweeter than the recommended.

How do you read the Nutritional Facts

Shangri-La Plaza treats its guests to fun and meaningful events and activities.

co. “So, if the Protein Content in the milk indicates 30 percent, then, your child needs 70 percent more from other food sources to meet his or her daily RENI.

The Nutritional Facts label, on the other hand, appears in a tabulated form that declares the protein, carbohydrates (including dietary fibers and sugars), fats (including saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol), sodium, as well as the caloric content of the milk. Added vitamin A, iron, and iodine, as well as other vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids are also included in the tabulation. “All of these nutrients are expressed through the Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intake of children, based on the guidelines of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute,” explained Dr. Francis-

fat, and carbohydrates—are at the right level for children over 3 years old. Based on FNRI’s Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes, a children’s milk per serving should have protein within 6-15 percent of total energy, fat within 15-30 percent of total energy, and carbohydrates within 55-79 percent of total energy to be within the acceptable macronutrient distribution range. Below recommended range may stunt child’s growth and drain energy, while above may cause the risk of obesity. To support proper growth and mental development, it is preferred for these nutrients to be within range. Promil Four gives 15 percent total energy from its protein content, 30 percent total energy from fats, and 55 percent total energy from carbohydrates. Promil Four is also the only formula milk with Nutrissentials. It contains DHA, AA, lutein, iodine, and iron to help support brain and visual development. It also has vitamin A, which supports healthy eye development; zinc for normal growth and maintaining a healthy immune system; niacin, which aids in metabolism; biotin, which enhances energy for physical development; and potassium, which promotes healthy muscles. “In some cases, it’s easy to identify the right formula milk for your child if you take time to read and understand the labels. It might seem complicated at first but, it can help you make good choices for your child’s growth and development,” said Dr. Francisco.

How to elevate ‘baon’ experience The key is to think out-of-the-box. WITH a little time and effort, parents can introduce healthy food like Gold Plant broccoli “trees” topped with Seas Tuna Chunks by making kyaraben bento meals with their child. Once done, these packed lunches can then be sent off to school with them, as well as to work with mommy or daddy. Kyaraben bento-making encourages kids to explore different tastes and textures which will eventually lead to better eating habits. Kyaraben is basically baon in a lunch box. It makes creative use of healthy ingredients like veggies, fish, meat, rice, and noodles to create fun and whimsical images that children just can’t resist. They usually feature popular cartoon characters or things that children easily identify with like animals, plants, scenery and portraits, or faces. While it’s easy to get intimidated by the contest-quality bento boxes out there, parents need to remember they Tuna-themed bento box by Kelly Misa don’t have to come up with ultra-cute characters for their kids to appreciate it. As long as they have a hand in making cheese and garlic in a bed of tangy Lemon and Pepper Gold Seas Canned it, they’ll love it.

Tuna, nestle egg “chicks” in a carrot and cucumber hash nest, or march little hotdog octopi across fresh salad waves. Here’s a bonus: it’s easier to get kids to wake up on time if they’re looking forward to playing with their food. And with more hands at work on the task, you can complete the bento in no time. Set the younger ones to work on washing the rice and veggies while parents cut and cook. The important thing is they have a hand in assembling the final product. Keep it varied to keep it exciting. Use different vegetables and switch up meat—pork fillets, fried chicken, and tuna patties made from Gold Seas Tuna Chunks make great lunch proteins. Gold Seas Tuna Chunks is an ideal ingredient for bento lunches because it’s rich in Omega 3 and DHA, is packed with more lean tuna meat and has lesser oil content compared to other brands which means more wholesome, chunky goodness for your kids and the entire family.

Entertainment

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

nickie.standard@gmail.com

Quezon City crowns its queen THE Quezon City Pride Council on Saturday had a very successful Coronation Night of the Queen of Quezon City held at the UP Theater featuring 23 lovely candidates. “The grand coronation night was designed to promote respect, equality, pride and empowerment to the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community) whom we believe are equal partners in community building,” said Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista in his message to the candidates to the unique contest. “Through this search, the second Queen of Quezon City should be able to exemplify our appreciation of the innate beauty, talent, intelligence and courage of the LGBT community to come out in the open and work as our advocates for its equal treatment,” he added. Crowned as Queen of Quezon City is Casey Banes Paculan from Pinyahan, QC who received P300,000 cash prize, trophy and sash. She also won six special awards namely Most Photogenic,

Simply G Award, Darling of the Press, Best in Swimsuit, Best in Evening Gown, and WEMSAMP Choice. First runner-up at Lady Pride was Rami Hannash of Barangay Sta. Lucia, second runner-up and Lady Respect was Pamz Diaz of Barangay Gulod, and third runner-up and Lady Equality was Ghen Antolin of Barangay Santa Monica. Bb. Pilipinas Grand International Nicole Cordoves, Miss Earth 2017 Karen Ibasco, fashion designer Albert Andrada, Japanese-Brazilian model Hideo Muraoka and Asia’s Next Top Model 3rd season contestant Monika Sta. Maria were among the judges. All of them won crowns, sash and trophy plus P100,000 cash prize each. Special guest performers were Marco Gumabao and Miss Tres, the singing trio from Asia’s Got Talent (2015) and Britain’s Got Talent (2018).

A still from Himig Handog 2018 Best Song 'Sa Mga Bituin Na Lang' music video featuring JM de Guzman and Barbie Imperial.

HE heart-wrenching yet hopeful ballad “Sa Mga Bituin Na Lang Ibubulong,” composed by Kyle Raphael Borbon of Davao, bagged the Himig Handog 2018 Best Song in the freshly concluded ABS-CBN songwriting competition.

The Queen of Quezon City winners during a coronation night held at the UP Theater

Knowledge Channel screens ‘Fantastic Beasts’ to raise funds for children AS PART of its 19th year celebration, Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. (KCFI) will hold the “Admit One, Educate All: A Gift of Knowledge Fundraising Event” movie block screening at 4:20 p.m., Nov. 18 at Power Plant Mall Cinema 7 in Rockwell, Makati. The movie block screening will feature the sequel to JK Rowling’s Harry Potter book spin-off entitled, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Doors open at 4:00 p.m. with a program and rafﬂe that will begin at 4:20 p.m.. The movie will start at 4:30 p.m. and movie tickets are available for P750. Proceeds will go to the Gift of Knowledge packages to public schools. Each package includes a 40-inch television, external speakers, and one of the following: a portable media library (external hard drive with more than 1,000 Knowledge Channel videos and other learning resources) or SkyCable’s SkyDirect satellite kit or an ABS-CBN TV Plus digital box.

Since 1999, over 5,000,000 Filipino children in more than 7,000 public schools have been reached by KCFI’s multimedia learning resource. More public schools will be reached through the fundraising event. Movie tickets and sponsorship packages are available. Interested individuals or parties may reach KCFI Resource Mobilization Officer, Liberty Reyes at 0919-991-8287, 0917-897-8443, 4152272 loc. 5197 or email liberty.reyes@ knowledgechannel.org. They may claim as well as buy tickets at the Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. office at the 3rd floor ABS-CBN Main Building, Sgt. Esguerra Ave., Quezon City. For more information on KCFI, visit www.knowledgechannel.org or follow @kchonline on Twitter and @knowledgechannel on Facebook. You may also subscribe to www.youtube.com/knowledgechannelorg for curriculum-based videos.

English actor Eddie Redmayne in a scene from 'Fantastic Beasts' sequel.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE Thursday, November 15, 2018

ACROSS 1 Messy person 5 Fill a pipe 9 Traffic no-no (hyph.) 14 El —, Texas 15 Sandwich cookie 16 “Walk Away —” 17 1977 whale movie 18 — von Bismarck 19 Outdoes 20 Eggs, to Ovid 21 Ceremonies 23 Remote 25 “Watermark” chanteuse 26 Passe 27 Leg joint 29 Quaker pronoun 32 Kuwaiti leaders 35 Soup du — 36 Mexican mint 37 Mini-pie 38 Bird features 39 Skipper’s place 40 Pods for stews 41 Ocean bird 42 Extinct birds 43 Born 44 Writing fluids 45 Take for a ride 46 Encircle 48 Early settler 52 Sustenance 56 “Shogun” ap-

parel 57 Cays 58 Long ago 59 Road map nos. 60 Carpenter’s tool 61 Adverse fate 62 Winter wear 63 Blisters 64 Millay or Ferber 65 Horde DOWN 1 Takeoff 2 Insect stage 3 Sesame Street grouch 4 Mae West accessory 5 “Bummer!” (2 wds.) 6 — -craftsy 7 Distribute 8 Less than fair 9 Sophisticated 10 Really small 11 All in one piece 12 Nerve network 13 Monster’s loch 21 Mouse catchers 22 Goes off course 24 Ventricle neighbor 27 Zen riddles 28 Microwave, slangily 30 Aloha State port 31 Edible roots

32 British school 33 Whip up 34 Uneven 35 Quick pull 36 Cheech’s partner 38 Relaxes, as rules 42 Nincompoop 44 Van Gogh painting 45 Movies 47 Dunne or Castle 48 Madonna role 49 Generator part 50 Skyscraper part

(hyph.) 51 Hazy 52 Pinches off 53 European capital 54 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. — 55 Overall feeling 59 Color RV pioneer

The love song, interpreted by JM de Guzman and performed onstage by Jason Dy at the grand finals held on ASAP last Sunday, emerged as the winning entry out of over 5,000 submitted songs, and won the highly coveted P1 million cash prize. Kyle said that it was his first time to join any kind of competition. “I started posting YouTube covers two years ago and last year, I started writing songs and I posted some and it got views. It gave me confidence to join this kind of competition,” shared the songwriter who wrote “Sa Mga Bituin Na Lang Ibubulong” based on personal experience. “Wakasan,” interpreted by Agsunta band and composed by Philip Arvin Jarilla, earned the 2nd Best Song title

and won P500,000 cash prize. John Michael Edixon’s “Kababata,” meanwhile, nabbed the 3rd Best Song award. It was performed by the composer himself—rapper Kritiko—together with his dream collaboration partner, R & B royalty Kyla. “Mas Mabuti Pa,” written by Mhonver Lopez and Joanna Concepcion and interpreted by “Tawag Ng Tanghalan” grand champion Janine Berdin, is this year’s Himig Handog 4th Best Song. Sarah Jane Gandia, a US-based nurse, was elated that her entry “Tinatapos Ko Na” was hailed as the 5th Best Song. She said she felt she won already when her dream interpreter, Jona, sang her song. Three Himig Handog special awards went to Jan Sabili’s “Sugarol” performed

by Maris Racal, which was hailed as MOR Choice, TFC’s Global Choice for Favorite Song, and MYX Choice for Best Music Video. John Leo Garcia directed the winning music video of “Sugarol.” Star Music Listeners Choice went to “Mas Mabuti Pa,” while the Best Produced Track award went to “Tinatapos Ko Na” produced by Jimmy Antiporda. Sam Mangubat, who interpreted the song “Wala Kang Alam,” was hailed as One Music PH Choice for Favorite Interpreter. The entry was composed by Martin John Arellano and Mel Magno. The winning song “Sa Mga Bituin Na Lang Ibubulong” and the rest of the song ﬁnalists are available for download in online music stores. Watch the Himig Handog 2018 music videos on ABSCBN Star Music’s YouTube channel. For more details, visit Himig Handog on Facebook @HimigHandog2018. Don’t forget to follow Star Music’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @starmusicph.

Welcome to the age of whisky FROM barrel to bottle, whisky is shrouded in mystery, myth, and misconception. The amber-hued drink has recently captured the interest of the Philippine market, and as with most infatuations in their infancy, the Pinoy adoration for whisky is often tinged with confusion. We aren’t alone in that. Whisky is a naturally confusing spirit, so much so that there is even contention in how the term is spelled. Fred Minnick, author of Bourbon: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of an American Whisky, has this to say about the topic: “I’ve found consumers struggle [with] understanding ‘whiskey’ is merely a categorical term that essentially means distilled grain aged in wood with subgenres of bourbon, Irish, Scotch, and Canadian whiskies, among others.” Demystifying whisky Technically all whisky is a spirit distilled from malted grain, especially barley or rye. However, whisky’s strictest definition is that it is anything produced from a fermented mash of grain, which is as broad of a category as you can get. Under this umbrella, you will find bourbon and scotch, blended and single malt whiskies, and whiskies differentiated depending on their point of origin: Japanese, Irish, Canadian, and Scottish. So that means that all Scotch is whisky, but not all whisky is a Scotch. Not all whisky is amber colored, either. All whisky starts out clear. Sometimes the caramel color is an additive, but the addition does not make the whisky any less genuine. There’s also the matter of how whisky should be taken. Neat at room temperature is a popular choice, and so is iced. Some would say that flavored whiskies are nothing but sugared swill, and some swear that to make cocktails with the liquor is an insult to the whisky.

That’s a lot to take in, and a lot to learn for any whisky enthusiast. But come November 9, some of the biggest names in distilling will gather under one roof to help bring enlightenment to the emerging Philippine whisky culture. Whisky Live Manila 2018 The Pinoy love affair with whisky was embodied last November 9 and 10 at Whisky Live Manila, the biggest international whisky event in the world, back for its 3rd run in the Philippines. Representatives from distilleries from all over the world converged at Shangri-La at The Fort to exhibit their whisky, to the delight of whisky enthusiasts from all over the Philippines and Southeast Asia. A premier tasting event, Whisky Live Manila gave guests the chance to sample over 131 varieties of top notch whisky, scotch, bourbons, and blends under the careful watch and guidance of experts in the whisky industry, including one “Keeper of the Quaich” and several international Whisky Masters. Not only were the experts there to answer the questions that inevitably came up, but they also taught and oversaw masterclasses to teach those who wanted to properly learn to taste and identify different whiskies. Aside from the Masterclasses, a variety of whisky-related activities were conducted throughout the expo’s two days. These included cocktail tastings, a bartender competition, presentation of whisky awards to select brands and distilleries, and book signings by famous tipplers and authors who share a fondness for the spirit. Whisky Live Manila also offered enthusiasts the chance to ﬁnd kindred spirits among fellow attendees and build friendships among like-minded individuals.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Issue Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2018

YUGEL LOSORATA

That thing bohemian RELEASED 22 years apart, the films Bohemian Rhapsody and That Thing You Do!, both about the rise and demise of a band (which may mean the death of a charismatic frontman), are similarly entertaining and inspiring. Bohemian Rhapsody, with Rami Malek superbly portraying the flamboyant Freddie Mercury, traces the birth and breakout of real-life stadium act Queen with Freddie (born Farrokh Bulsara) on board singing, writing songs including “Love Of My Life” (which he dedicates to soulmate Mary Austin played by the pretty Lucy Boynton) and the rock opera title track hated for its length and lyrics by an executive played by Mike Myers. It’s primarily his story, from being a baggage handler to a ‘hysterical queen’ in a band of misfits and then a legend. Critics pointed out historical inaccuracies. But with the movie grossing, as of this writing, nearly $300 million against a $55 million budget, truth screamed “Ay-Oh” for people went in to celebrate the band’s music and place in history, period. Director Bryan Singer chooses to be artsy when he had Freddie inform the band of his ailment during rehearsal for Live Aid or meet Mary on the same night he auditions for pre-Queen group Smile. None of such details should really matter when emotions engulf you hearing Freddie play the eventual famed piano riff to “Bohemian Rhapsody” in his peculiar playing. Or when he gestures before exiting from what is now counted as the greatest live gig. After watching the film and you’re aching to trace back the band’s heralded catalogue or do something experimentally defying conventions, then the movie has succeeded in its chosen style of presenting a biopic. The 1996 Tom Hanks-directed-andstarred film had likewise triumphed on inspiring rock wannabes and amusing spectators eyeing for cute success stories. I was in my late teens when I saw that thing on the big screen and it made me really want to pursue a life being in a combo. For the record, call it pastime or sidegig, I have been in a band playing bass and writing songs ever since. The movie tells the tale of a fictionalized quartet called The Wonders (with various references to the early success of The Beatles). They’re an overnight sensation that implodes because of character flaws. It stars Tom Everett Scott as the smart, cool drummer Guy Patterson and Johnathon Schaech as “the one with all the attitude” lead vocalist Jimmy Mattingly. Hanks is Mr. White, obviously a wink to how Beatles manager Brian Epstein appeared in public. Both the Academy and Golden Globe deservingly gave the movie a nomination nod for Best Original Song. It’s as if someone unearthed a lost ‘60s recording gem and released it in the ‘90s. That Thing You Do! celebrates the beauty of 15-minute fame in as much as the world embraced the charm of irreplaceable “Queen Freddie” performing live for a mere decade and a half. Some good things never last and that is, in a way, cinematic.

Actor Rami Malek (right) in his convincing portrayal of Queen's flamboyant frontman Freddie Mercury (left).

‘Mega surprise’ at a 1950s themed party A CHILDHOOD favorite turns 60. Chupa Chups, an iconic confectionery brand enjoyed in over 150 countries, celebrates its birthday the #ForeverFun way. As a homage to the roots of the brand, a 1950s themed party was organized in Bonifacio High Street on Nov. 9. The event, which featured booths and games and a few surprises, was attended by celebrities, social media influencers, VIPs and some members of the press. For Chupa Chups, fun is for life, not just for kids. While adults may feel the pressure to grow up, Chupa Chups encourages everyone to hold on to all the good stuff and keep the inner kid alive. The entire party exudes fun, from its neon decorations to entertaining games to good food. Further excitement was made when a big surprise was announced during the event. To add even more fun to the brand’s classic lollipops, unique gums, and colorful jellies, the newest Chupa Chups Super Mega Lolly was made available for the first time in Southeast Asia. The Super Mega Lolly is Chupa Chups’ biggest product offering to date. It resembles a giant lollipop, inside are 40 assorted-flavored lollipops that just keep the fun going. “In line

GMA Artists Andre Lagdameo, Lindsay Johnston, Ayeesha Cervantes, and Addy Raj grace the Chupa Chups 'Super Mega Surprise' party.

with the brand’s 60 th birthday, we wanted to do something really big. So, to kick off the new global positioning of Forever Fun in the Philippines, the Chupa Chups Super Mega Lolly is deﬁnitely perfect for the job,” said Denise Opulencia, Chupa Chups Brand Manager. Eugen Soriano, PVM Trade Marketing Manager and Digital Lead, adds, “For the launch of Super Mega Lolly, we decided to

VERY WANG NICKIE WANG

UR sit-down interview with actor and comedian Paolo Contis that lasted for an hour was a trip down memory lane with numerous banters and loud laughs in between. Even with just a few serious questions, Paolo had witty, no holds barred answers—very candid, if you will.

“Hey, I’m now a leading so I need to act differently,” he said with an animated face. During the interview, Paolo recalled his early beginnings as a child star—his early projects in movies and television—until one scribe made a few revelations regarding his romantic affairs. But Paolo was all game. He made a few remarks and just joked about the “girls he loved before.” “Let’s stop talking about that. You see, someone’s recording this. People might take me seriously,” he said in jest. On a serious note, the 34-year-old actorcomedian feels glad that he’s busy and by the way he puts it, “November is a big month for me.” With two upcoming movies under his belt, the Kapuso actor and comedian is ready to tackle more remarkable roles on the big screen. “I am very excited to be back and at the same time, I’m a little anxious. I’m hoping that the viewers would also look forward to watching me on the big screen despite seeing me on TV all the time. Sobrang thankful ako na nabigyan ako ng opportunity to do these films,” he shared. In the romantic film Through Night and Day, Paolo plays Ben, the fiancé of Alessandra de Rossi’s character. The film highlights the dynamics of a couple’s relationship as they venture into a trip of a lifetime to witness the infamous northern lights in Iceland. “It’s about a couple of 13 years. For the first time they’re traveling abroad. Alex is a struggling lawyer and I, I’m a musician who owns a bar in Baguio. After my character proposed to Alex’s character, we decided to have our pre-nup shoot in Iceland. We wanted a simple wedding but quite an expensive pre-nup. So, we saved up for that trip,” he said. “It was our first time, Through night and day that we’re together. So more or less dun namin nakilala ang isa’t isa,” he added. Before the month ends, he is also set to star in a comedy film entitled Ang Pangarap Kong Holdap, alongside fellow Kapuso comedian Jerald Napoles, Jelson Bay, and Pepe Herrera. Currently, Paolo is one of the mainstays of the country longest-running gag show, Paolo Contis is on a roll playing the male lead in a Viva Entertainment film and starring in another movie that showcases what he does best—comedy.

partner with Shopee because we share the same vision of constantly innovating and being where our consumers are. In today’s modern world, there’s no other way but to go digital.” With the addition of the Super Mega Lolly in its portfolio, Chupa Chups proves once again that it is more than a brand; it is a modern icon. Chupa Chups Super Mega Lolly is exclusively available on Shopee at an introductory price of P550.

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who’s playing the lead now Bubble Gang. He is also the voice behind Koboy in the ﬁrst Filipino-made anime series, Barangay 143, on GMA. ‘‘I could assume that this could open doors but I’m not expecting. This is a good blessing to experience being a leading man. Hopefully maging maganda ang reception and people to appreciate what I did in the ﬁlm,’’ he concludes.

A hearttugging tribute to OFWs

THE Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2017 survey on overseas Filipinos revealed that about 2.3 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are spread out across the world from the period of April to September 2017. The number is estimated to be around 11 million, if we combine the numbers of both immigrants and OFWs. They could be our parents, brothers, sisters, in-laws, aunts, uncles or cousins. They can be our friends or someone we know. They can be the ones who never thought of leaving their families behind, of spending holidays away from them. The resolve to provide for a better future for their loved ones prompted many of our kababayans to leave, bringing with them the hope that they can give their families a comfortable life. Indeed, the OFWs are today’s heroes. OFWs contribute significantly to the country’s economy. Recent reports state that OFWs remit as much as P205.2 billion to the Philippines. Yet, as they are away from their families working in foreign lands they are often taken for granted. While they send gifts back home to their loved ones, sometimes the appreciation they receive simply fall short. It is with this sentiment in mind that the leading real estate developer Century Properties created the 180-second short film dubbed Kami Naman, a tribute to OFWs and a perfect reminder for everyone this Christmas season. The story honors the selflessness and sacrifices of OFWs and more importantly, it bears a loving message—that their family can also return their kindness with love and gratitude. One of the Philippines leading real estate companies, Century Properties Group (www.centuryproperties.com) is known for its innovative real estate projects and property management services. For more than 30 years it has delivered life-enhancing concepts through its various product lines: from in-city upscale vertical developments and affordable housing to its leisure, tourism and commercial properties. The company is passionate about elevating the Philippines as a global destination and with it, improving the quality of life of Filipinos. Century’s Kami Naman shares the heart-tugging story of a father who had to make the difficult choice of leaving his wife and son behind to work abroad. The film perfectly captured the emotions of a parent who is leaving his family with a heavy heart, but is optimistic that the sacrifice will bear fruits in the future. It ends with the son, already a grown up and having benefitted from a good education and career, asking his dad to come home. Upon the father’s return, the son expresses his gratitude to his father by taking on the responsibility of completing the amortization of their new family home. More importantly, he commits to taking care of his father this time around. The love and pride for his son was apparent from the father’s tearful eyes. Youcanwatchthevideoonthis link: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=WuEqMdw4rJ8&t=8s The video is now at 1.2 million views. Such stories remind us that no matter who the breadwinner is in the family, we should not forget to shower them with the more important gifts of love, care and gratitude.

Century’s 'Kami Naman,' a short film that trains the spotlight on OFWs.