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Romualdez renews push for Cha-Cha

RAPTORS ROUT INJURY-HIT WARRIORS

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPORTS / A8

VOL. XXXIII • NO. 113 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Senate panels divided; ‘newbies’ in plum posts AND HEALTH PORTS S N O ES ITTE M OM

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

COMMITTEES ON P U AND PEACE AND BLIC OR UNIFICA DER

TION

ROW over the leadership of key Senate committees was defused after Senate President Vicente Sotto III resolved “almost 95 percent” of the issues in a caucus attended by 18 incoming and incumbent senators Tuesday night.

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LEYTE Rep.-elect Martin Romualdez has vowed to support President Rodrigo Duterte’s efforts to amend the Constitution to speed up the Philippines’ economic growth. Romualdez, a lawyer and president of the Philippine Constitution Association and the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, said the push for Charter change should be in the list of priorities of national leaders as this would complement the Duterte administration’s initiatives to accelerate economic growth. “We will keep our dedication, commitment, passion and the flame burning in pursuing federalism until we reap the real benefits of genuine constitutional reforms for our children and the succeeding generations,” said Romualdez, one of the frontrunners in the Speakership race. “I urge my colleagues and the Filipino people to stand behind President Duterte and help push a federal Constitution to create opportunities and for strong economic growth to be felt also by ordinary people. “The federalism advocacy of President Duterte is a golden opportunity to unlock the doors of peace, progress and prosperity of the country and the people.” In December, the House of Representatives voted 224 against 22 with three abstentions approving on third and final reading its version of a federal Constitution under Resolution of Both Houses

N WAYS AND MEANS, TTEES O COMMI TION, ARTS AND CULTUR E EDUCA AND

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DESPITE encountering numerous glitches, the Commission on Elections on Thursday said that the Vote Counting Machines used in the May 13 mid-term polls elections performed accurately. The COMELEC and Legal Network for Truthful Elections , its partner organization for the random manual audit, said the VCMs performed at an overall accuracy rate of 99.993 percent, much higher compared to the previous elections where overall accuracy rate was at 99.8840 percent. Based on 700 of 715 clustered precincts, the COMELEC and Lente, along with the Philippine Statistics Authority, said RMA of the votes cast in the May 13 elections showed nearly 100-percent accuracy compared to the results of the VCMs. According to Commissioner Luie Tito Guia, head of the RMA committee, despite technical glitches, the May 13 polls was considered “successful and fraud free.” Next page

By Vito Barcelo

Three-man probe team looks into P1.8-b drug case By Rey E. Requejo THE Department of Justice has created a three-man panel of prosecutors to conduct a preliminary investigation on the drug complaint ﬁled by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in connection with the smuggling in of P1.8 billion

worth of illegal drugs concealed in a tapioca shipment in March. Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Clarisa Kuong has been assigned as head of the panel, with Assistant State Prosecutors Rodan Parrocha and Noel Antay Jr. as members, said Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Theodore Villanueva.

2 bishops deny role in ‘Bikoy’ videos, destab

ICES ERV IC S UBL NP EO

By Vito Barcelo, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rey E. Requejo

COMMITTEE ON DEFENSE

Poll machines fraud-free, say Comelec, Lente

OVERNMENT OCAL G L N EE O MITT M CO

“Very good. Way beyond cordial. Off to a good start I could say,” Sotto said when asked to describe the caucus held in the house of Senator Manny Pacquiao in Dasmariñas Village, Makati. Declaring the “fellowship dinner a success,” Sotto said they assume “all is well.” “Just one or two committees remain [unresolved],” he added. Also in attendance at the caucus were Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, Senate Minority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and

The panel of prosecutors will issue summons to the respondents in the complaint soon and require them to submit their counter-afﬁdavits to the complaint. Named as respondents in the complaint were Dong-An Dong, Julie Hao Gamboa, Fe Tamayosa, Alvin Bautista, Jane Abello Next page

TWO leaders of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines on Thursday denied allegations that they were part of a scheme to oust President Rodrigo Duterte, after they were implicated by Peter Joemel Advincula alias Bikoy in the supposed plot. In a statement, former CBCP president Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas denied any plan linking him to oust the President, saying his role as a priest is to morally guide the public based on the teachings of the Church and not to overthrow the government. CBCP vice president Bishop Pablo David also denied Advincula’s claim, saying he never met with people allegedly looking to oust the President. Next page

Aussies warned vs. travel to south By Rey E. Requejo

THE Australian government has sustained the warning to its citizens against traveling to Central and Western Mindanao, Zamboanga and Sulu due to the “very high threat” of kidnapping, terrorist attacks and violent conﬂicts in those areas. “We remind Australians of the very high threat of kidnapping in the southern Philippines, especially along the Zamboanga peninsula, in the Sulu Archipelago and in the coastal waters between the Philippines and Sabah, Malaysia,” Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in its June 5 travel advisory. The advisory posted in its website also asks its citizens to reconsider their need to travel in the eastern portion of Mindanao

due to the “high level of risk” in the area. Australians have also been reminded that the Southern Philippines has been placed under martial law, the advisory said, noting that military rule will heighten the authorities’ power to detain suspects and impose curfews and checkpoints. The advisory also urged its citizens residing in other areas of the Philippines to exercise a high level of caution due to the high threat of terrorist attacks in the country, including Manila. “Be alert to possible threats around locations that have a low level of protective security and places that could be terrorist targets. Possible targets include commercial and public places frequented by foreigners,” the advisory says. Australia also said it is illegal for foreigners to join political rallies.

ON THE MOVE. An unidentified worker works snappily on power meters that dot an electric post in Tondo, Manila after Meralco has announced a P0.19 decrease in power bill this June. Meralco, the country’s biggest power distributor, says this is the second straight month of power rate reduction. Norman Cruz

Black hole mystery solved WOMAN POWER. Capt. Monessa Catuncan, 33-year-old daughter of Filipino immigrants from Pasay City and Olongapo City but now live in Mesquite, Texas, shows the power of women in a male-dominated discipline, was recently featured by the Asian Journal for her exceptional accomplishments as a pilot of an F-16 Fighting Falcon jetfighter.

PARIS—Scientists on Thursday unveiled the most detailed simulation of a black hole yet, solving a mystery dating back more than four decades over how the stardevouring monsters consume matter. Next page

YouTube crackdown WASHINGTON—YouTube announced it would ban videos promoting or glorifying racism and discrimination as well as those denying well-documented violent events, like the Holocaust or the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting. Next page

News

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Inflation uptick no cause for alarm—Palace By Nat Mariano MALACAÑANG on Thursday assured the public there is no reason to be alarmed over the minimal increase in the Philippines’ inflation rate. According to the data earlier released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the prices of commodities rose to 3.2 percent in May from 3 percent in April, breaking the six-consecutive month of the slowdown in the inflation rate. Despite the increase, the central bank’s research arm said the recent figure held the 2.8 to 3.6 percent range. Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the slight increases in some agricultural food products like vegetables, fish, and fruits and housing, water and utilities contributed to the uptick in May. Panelo said there were some things the Duterte administration could control, resulting in a spike in the inflation rate. “High spending in food and alcoholic beverages during the preceding campaign period, coupled with the rise of the international prices of fuel and aggravated by the El Niño phenomenon in the peak summer month of May, resulting in food price inflation of fish and vegetable, spiked the inflation rate,” he said. Still, “The rise is within the 2.8 percent to 3.6 percent range estimated by the BSP. Hence, there is no cause for alarm,” Panelo said. He then assured the public that all the factors he mentioned were expected to taper down. “When the full impact of rice liberalization is felt, with rice prices falling down further, there will be a downtrend in the inflation rate. Current rice and corn price index already showed a decline of 0.7 percent and 2.8 percent, respectively,” he said. Panelo also echoed the earlier statement of central bank Governor Benjamin Diokno that the 3.2 percent inflation rate in May “is not indicative of a trend reversal.” For Panelo, one data point does not constitute a trend, claiming that inflation was “moderating and swinging back to normal.” “It is irrational to think that the high policy rate will remain. The correct view is that policy rates cut is inevitable, though the exact timing will be data-dependent and evidenced-based,” he said.

YouTube... From A1

The announcement by the Googleowned video-sharing platform was the latest of a series of tech industry moves to filter out hateful and violent content, which have spurred calls for tougher regulation. “YouTube has always had rules of the road, including a longstanding policy against hate speech,” a company statement said. “Today, we’re taking another step in our hate speech policy by specifically prohibiting videos alleging that a group is superior in order to justify discrimination, segregation or exclusion based on qualities like age, gender, race, caste, religion, sexual orientation or veteran status.” The move comes after a call by world leaders in Paris last month to curb extremism online, following revelations about the livestreaming of a mosque massacre in New Zealand. “We will begin enforcing this updated policy today; however, it will take time for our systems to fully ramp up and we’ll be gradually expanding coverage over the next several months,” YouTube said. YouTube and other platforms have also been seen as havens for conspiracy theorists denying Holocaust or the September 11 attacks, and for Nazi and white supremacist groups. The Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks white supremacists and other extremist groups, said the ban will be positive only if YouTube enforces it. “As with other outlets before it, YouTube’s decision to remove hateful content depends on its ability to enact and enforce policies and procedures that will prevent this content from becoming a global organizing tool for the radical right,” said the group’s intelligence director Heidi Beirich. “Tech companies must proactively tackle the problem of hateful content that is easily found on their platforms before it leads to more hate-inspired violence.” Tougher measures In January, YouTube said it would stop recommending specious videos such as those claiming the earth is flat or promoting bogus theories about the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks or the 2012 killings at the Sandy Hook elementary school in Connecticut. But it stopped short of banning that content. AFP

Black hole... From A1

Coming fresh on the heels of the first ever photo of one of the giant objects, which are scattered across the Universe, astrophysicists are now several steps closer to understanding how they form and develop. A black hole is born when a large star col-

Customs foils dumping of HK trash By Vito Barcelo

EVENTY shipments of trash from Hong Kong were intercepted by the Bureau of Customs before those were illegally dumped into the country, an ofﬁcial said Thursday.

“Crowd Win Industrial Limited Corp. was the same company that imported a shipment of assorted electronic accessories, but the actual content of the container van turned out to be smashed components of electronic devices, Simon said. The 2.561 tons of electronic waste from Hong Kong were eventually sent back to their point of origin by Customs on June 5, 2019, he said. The cargo, consisting mainly of shredded gadget parts and plastic scraps packed in 22 huge sling bags, arrived at the Mindanao Container Terminal sub-port in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental on Feb. 2 and was put on hold by Customs for “misdeclaration.”

That was after customs authorities in Mindanao discovered the shipments of electronic waste before the shipments could enter the Mindanao Container Terminal subport in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. MCT sub-port collector John Simon said

the shipments were not allowed to be unloaded from a container ship after learning those contained waste. The shipments were the same type imported by a Pasay City-based company, Crowd Win Industrial Limited Corp.

Senate panels...

MOA in Pasay City. However, Pacquiao said he would still sit as chairman of the Senate ethics and public works committees. Go, in a separate statement late Wednesday, has expressed interest to hold “leadership” roles—in committees on health, urban planning, sports and education. Villar has been vocal on retaining the chairmanship of the committees on agriculture and food and the environment and natural resources so she can continue her advocacies. Meanwhile, Go on Thursday assured that he and the other incoming senators will respect the tradition of “equity of the incumbents” in the distribution of committee chairmanships for the 18th Congress. Go also thanked the current Senate majority bloc for accommodating the incoming senators as evidenced by the caucus hosted by Pacquiao. In the meeting, Go confirmed that all those present were asked to list down their preferred committees in the coming 18th Congress. So far, Go is likely to get the committee on health as Sotto previously stated. The chairmanship will be vacated by Ejercito, who failed to win reelection. “As of last night he got the committee on health,” said Gatchalian while referring to Go. “This is in line with his advocacy.” Go will likewise get the urban planning, housing and resettlement to be left by Ejercito. So far, the former presidential aide will get the chairmanship of four committees. In a separate interview, Gatchalian said senators will get the committees in line with their advocacies. He said Dela Rosa, a former top cop who led the administration’s

anti-drug and peace and order campaign, will head the committees on public order and dangerous drugs and peace, unification and reconciliation. Lacson voluntarily offered the public order and dangerous drugs to Dela Rosa as he would take over the defense committee to be left by Honasan. The peace, unification and reconciliation committee was also formerly led by Honasan. Gatchalian said Tolentino, who served Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chief, will lead the Senate committee on local government. He also said Poe will remain chairman of the Committee on Public Services while Gordon will still head the powerful investigative panel Blue Ribbon Committee. He said the committee on education, arts and culture would likely be split between him and Villanueva. Earlier, Villanueva said Cayetano, Marcos and Tolentino were being considered to head the Senate’s ways and means committee, which handles tax reform matters, among others. Villanueva used to be head of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. Meanwhile, Gatchalian said Sotto III would most likely retain his position. He added that it was clear that Malacañang was not meddling in the choice of the Senate leadership. In a forum Thursday, outgoing Senator Antonio Trillanes IV said the opposition was in good hands, with Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon and Senators Francis Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, and Leila de Lima. He said they would perform their roles to provide a check and balance, despite their dwindling number in the Senate.

This was also supported by both Lente and the PSA, which said the RMA has shown that the VCMs used during the May polls were accurate. The COMELEC said ballot boxes from randomly selected areas in the country had been checked and showed the accuracy of the votes counted by the VCMs. Poll spokesman James Jimenez said the variances in voters’ shading of ballots include those who did not shade the oval in full, or ballots with shadings below the machines’ threshold. Under the Automated Elections Law, the random manual audit is required in at least one clustered precinct for every congressional district. The law also says a 99.995-percent accuracy of the VCM count should be met. Meanwhile, the COMELEC said that there was no massive disenfranchisement of voters during the conduct of the May 2019 polls even if 961 VCMs and over 1,600 Secure Digital cards malfunctioned during Election Day. Jimenez said that the malfunctioning VCMs and SD cards were all replaced in time and that the 75- percent voter turnout during the May polls which is higher than the average for midterm elections proved that the voters’ choice was reflected on the ballot. “The average percentage of Filipinos who do not cast their vote during midterm polls was 30 percent prior to the 2019 polls. All the [malfunctioning] VCMs and SD cards were immediately replaced,” he said. Jimenez described the elections as successful. At a hearing of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee to discuss the automated elections, Liberal Party president Senator Francis Pangilinan, questioned the COMELEC on the seven-hour delay in the transmission of election results on May 13. “I asked so many experts on IT and they have a thousand different interpretations of what could have happened. Just earlier, they were saying perhaps there was a bug. We don’t know. Is there an effort to find the root cause of this glitch?” he asked. The Liberal Party filed motions dated May 16 and May 21 asking the Comelec to explain the seven-hour glitch, defective VCMs and corrupted SD cards, among others.

“We had two manifestations, on May 16 and May 21, as the canvassing was ongoing. We have not received any response from you. So may we have the courtesy of being responded to?” Pangilinan said. “I know you’re busy, and in fact it’s part of our manifestation, but let’s respond to these manifestations. We do not want to get this feeling that the opposition is being ignored,” he said. Jimenez said the poll body will prepare a response and a report. The opposition senator also raised concerns about the malfunctioning VCMs. “Why was it not tested to the maximum? Up to what level was it tested, because we don’t want something like this to happen again. And therefore obviously, the testing was not effectively or properly undertaken. Because if you tested it properly, then this seven-hour glitch should not have happened,” Pangilinan said. The COMELEC’s Technical Evaluation Committee Chairman Peter Banzon mentioned logistical challenges in testing the VCMs. “We couldn’t find a place where we could install all the VCMs, basically. The only time all of them would be online would be on election day,” he said. “Come 2022, another glitch could happen because you won’t have the opportunity to put all the 90,000 in place? So what’s the point of testing if we’re not sure the test will in fact be an assurance that it would work?” Pangilinan said. During the same hearing, COMELEC revealed that 1,051 voting machines malfunctioned during election day, with 2,246 SD cards that were found defective, particularly in Regions 3 (Central Luzon), 4A (Southern Luzon), 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and the National Capital Region. The COMELEC, however, stressed that some of the corrupted 2,246 SD cards had been replaced. With the exact figures not yet available from the poll body, the senators computed as much as 2.2-million votes might have been affected. “When you have to wait five hours for the replacement, will you still vote? These are the realities on the ground. So if you are talking 2.2 million or 3-million voters who had to wait for five hours for the SD card, will they still vote? We don’t know. Maybe they would have gone home,” Pangilinan said.

“So this has to be avoided. Because this is a disenfranchisement in that sense of a number of voters and that affects the overall results. And therefore it has to be checked. It has to be looked into. And [we have to know] how must this [can] be avoided in the future,” he said. Meanwhile, the camp of former senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged the JCOC to recommend that the Department of Foreign Affairs cancel the passport of former COMELEC chairman Andres Bautista to compel him to return to the Philippines and hold him liable for his role in the alleged perpetration of massive electoral cheating in 2016, in conspiracy with the COMELEC’s technology provider Smartmatic. “Our people are now demanding justice for the electoral sabotage committed by Smartmatic in conspiracy with corrupt COMELEC officials to thwart the sovereign will of the people in 2016 national elections,” Marcos lawyer and spokesman Vic Rodriguez said. Rodriguez cited reports that Comelec chairman Bautista had met with President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacañang where he allegedly confessed to the alleged conspiracy between Smartmatic and corrupt Comelec officials to steal the victory from the President by shaving five million of his votes in favor of another presidential candidate. “It is the solemn duty of our lawmakers investigating the sins of Smartmatic and COMELEC to ensure that all personalities who figured in 2013, 2016 and 2019 elections be made to account and held responsible for all their actions, prevent cheating and fraud from again undermining the coming 2022 presidential elections and guarantee to the Filipino people that it shall be free from foreign intervention and manipulation,” Rodriguez said. Meanwhile, more groups are backing the call of President Duterte for the COMELEC to dump Smartmatic as supplier and technology provider in the 2022 elections due to various violations of Republic Act 9369 or the Automated Election Law by the Venezuelan-owned company. Danilo Arao, convenor of Kontra Daya convenor, described the recently concluded midterm elections as the worst election ever conducted by the COMELEC and its partner Smartmatic, due to technical “glitches” and malfunctioning of its vote counting machines that resulted in a seven-hour delay in the transmission of election results.

lapses in on itself. Far from being a “hole”, they are instead incredibly dense objects with a gravitational pull so strong that nothing, not even light, may escape them. As they suck in matter such as gas, dust and space debris, they form an accretion disk—a churning mass of super-accelerated particles that are among the brightest objects in the Universe—around them. It is the accretion disk that can be seen as

a blurry halo around the image of the black hole released in April from the Event Horizon Telescope. But accretion disks are nearly always tilted at an angle to the orientation of the black hole, known as its equatorial plane. In 1975, Nobel Prize-winning physicist John Bardeen and astrophysicist Jacobus Petterson theorized that a rotating black hole would cause the inner region of a tilt-

ed accretion disk to line up with the black hole’s equatorial plane. But no model could ever work out how, precisely, that would happen. Until now. A team of astrophysicists from Northwestern University, Oxford University, and the University of Amsterdam, used graphical processing units to crunch large sets of data and simulate how black holes interact with their accretion disks. AFP

From A1

Senators Sonny Angara, Sherwin Gatchalian, Gregorio Honasan, Loren Legarda, Joel Villanueva, and Nancy Binay. Incoming Senators Christopher Go, Ronald dela Rosa, Francis Tolentino, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos and Bong Revilla were also present. Senators Richard Gordon and Grace Poe arrived late while Senators Aquilino Pimentel III and Panfilo Lacson had earlier informed their fellow senators they couldn’t make it to the meeting. Pimentel said he has a dinner with his wife while Lacson has his birthday celebration. Returning Senator Pia Cayetano was abroad. Senator Cynthia Villar did not attend the meeting because of a prior engagement. The meeting at Pacquiao’s residence was held two days after Villar confronted Pacquiao and Pimenfel for dragging her name into internal issues besetting the ruling PDP-Laban. During the meeting, Sotto said that all present were asked to list down their preferred committees. Pacquiao, who hosted the fellowship, said the meeting was successful as they were able to iron out issues with regards to the committee chairmanships. He said those who failed to attend the meeting can have the committees they wanted. He also confirmed offering his chairmanship of the Senate committee on sports to Go. “I give it to Senator Bong Go. I offered it to him,” Pacquiao said in an interview while undergoing training at Elorde Gym at

Poll machines... From A1

The imported garbage was shipped back to its point of origin on board the cargo ship SITC Nagoya, Simon said. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency was also invited to inspect the container to determine the possible presence of illegal drugs but it found nothing. The return of the mixed waste was coordinated with the Environmental Protection Department of the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and is expected to arrive in Hong Kong on June 10, 2019. The expense in the reexportation of the shipment was shouldered by the Hong Kong government.

2 bishops... From A1

“He [Bikoy] is claiming that he had attended a meeting with me and Senator [Antonio] Trillanes [IV] and a certain Jonel at my residence Caloocan City. I wish to make it clear that I have never had the privilege of meeting with Senator Trillanes in person and I do not know the Jonel he was talking about,” David said. “I believe in the power of electing officials; that is why I have tried my very best, as a priest and as a Filipino, to morally guide the people entrusted to my pastoral care,” said Villegas. Villegas said he was elsewhere when Advincula, who claimed to be “Bikoy,” said they supposedly met. “On the day and time, Dec. 12, 2018 in the evening, that I allegedly met with some plotters to overthrow the government, I was in the parish church of Orani in Bataan to deliver the homily at the first Mass of a friend newly ordained priest,” he said. Advincula claimed that he met Villegas along with several other personalities in Quezon City on that same date. “As a mortal being like the rest of us, I have no capacity to be in two places at the same time,” he added. For his part, David insisted that he did not meet Advincula and criticized the Philippine National Police for failing to focus instead on unresolved killings. Advincula claims to be behind the “Ang Totoong Narco-list” video series that linked the Dutertes to the illegal drug trade. He surfaced three weeks later to confirm his accusations, then recanted his allegations and instead tagged opposition personalities as being behind the video series. All of those named have denied the latest allegations of Advincula, who has pending cases for estafa and illegal recruitment, and who has peddled conspiracy theories before.

Three-man probe... From A1

Castillo, Carlo Dale Zueta, Abraham Torecampo, Arwin Caparros, Leonardo Sucaldito, Mark Leo Magpayo, Brian Pabilona, Meldy Sayson, Rhea Tolosa, Edgardo Dominado, Jerry Siguenza and Debbie Joy Aceron. They are officers or directors of Wealth Lotus Empire Corp. and Fortuneyield Cargo Services Corp., which facilitated the shipment. The respondents are facing charges of violating the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The shabu shipment was intercepted on March 22 by PDEA agents and other law enforcers at the Manila International Container Terminal following a tip from Vietnamese authorities.

Romualdez...

From A1

15, of which Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was one of the principal authors. Romualdez, the leader of the Independent Bloc of the 16th Congress, also renewed Philconsa’s commitment to defend and protect the 1987 Constitution. He said the Constitution serves as a “Bible of good governance” and “beacon of light” in ensuring the country’s political and economic stability. “Let us join hands to maintain the pristine supremacy of the Constitution,” said Romualdez who will serve his fourth term as Leyte congressman in the incoming 18th Congress. Romualdez said Philconsa, the oldest association of legal luminaries in the country, remains very supportive of President Duterte’s federalism initiative. “I am proud to say that the Philconsa has become the premier marketplace for the healthy and vibrant exchange of ideas, perceptions and insights on constitutional issues affecting public interest. We have been doing this consistently with our aim to incite and stimulate awareness, respect and obedience to the Constitution,’’ Romualdez said. “The Philconsa is a classic paragon of democracy. It encourages everyone to say his piece, and out of this composite of ideas, insights and impressions we hope to reach a consensus on what is good and what is best for our country and our people.”

News CAAP turns over land parcels to beneficiaries

By Joel E. Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz

THE government is set to convert parcels of land owned by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines in Zamboanga City as a socialized housing site. The CAAP announced this on Thursday, days after it signed an agreement and turned over to the National Housing Authority the 5.6 hectares of land in Barangay San Jose, Gusu. The site is part of land where the Zamboanga International Airport is situated, the CAAP stated. Based on a proclamation in 2004 during the administration of then President and outgoing House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, certain parcels of publicowned land were declared to become a socialized housing site for bonafide occupants that are placed under the administration of the NHA. CAAP chief information officer and spokesperson Eric Apolonio said Mrs. Arroyo witnessed the signing of the agreement held at at the House of Representatives in Batasan Hills, Quezon City on June 4. Apolonio said the event was also attended by CAAP Deputy Director General for Administration Ricardo Banayat, and representatives from the Regulatory Standards Development Division, Presidential Management Staff and Armor Village Homeowners Association. Presidential Proclamation 531 declared certain parcels of land of the public domain located in San Jose Gusu, Zamboanga City as socialized housing site. Meanwhile, the Presidential Management Staff, National Housing Authority, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, and Armor Village Homeowner’s Association have signed a memorandum of agreement, which provides for the turnover of the Armor Village Housing in Barangay San Jose, Gusu, Zamboanga City to its actual bonafide residents, as provided for by Presidential Proclamation 531.

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Purisima granted travel to Taipei ‘Implement F Juvenile By Maricel V. Cruz

ORMER Philippine National Police chief Alan Purisima has been allowed by the Sandiganbayan to travel to Taipei, Taiwan for four days with his family pending the resolution of the graft and perjury cases filed against him.

The anti-graft court’s Sixth Division dated May 27 granted Purisima’s motion “over the objection of the prosecution.” The court’s Second Division granted the same motion of Purisima but the justices have yet to sign the travel authority submitted by Purisima. Purisima said he intended to travel to Taipei from June 16 to 20 with his family for “personal reasons.” The anti-graft court’s Sixth Division said there was probable cause to try Purisima for graft and justifiable reasons to order his arrest as well as the arrest of his co-accused. Purisima’s case arose after he tapped Werfast Documentary Agency Inc. as the Philippine National Police’s courier service provider for all firearms license

applications despite its failure to comply with government regulations. The Ombudsman cited Werfast’s failure to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission and to obtain authority from the Department of Transportation and Communications to operate a delivery service, and to seek accreditation from the Department of Science and Technology in 2011. Meanwhile, Purisima was charged with perjury at the Sandiganbayan’s Second Division in connection with his alleged non-declaration of some of his properties in his Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth for eight years. Purisima is facing eight counts of perjury at the anti-graft court division. The Ombudsman said Purisima

violated Article 183 of the Revised Penal Code, for not being truthful in his declarations of his Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth for 2006 to 2009 and 2011 to 2014. Prosecutors said Purisima failed to declare the property of his wife, Maria Ramona Lydia Purisima, covered by Certificate of Land Ownership CA25916, in his SALNs for 2006 and 2007. In 2008, the number of undeclared properties of Purisima’s wife was increased to three: properties covered by CLOA VOS-28452 and a deed of donation dated May 12, 2008. In his 2009 SALN, Purisima also did not declare another property covered by CLOA VOS-28012. Similarly, in 2011, Purisima was accused of not declaring two firearms in his SALN: A Bushamaster assault rifle and an STI .40-cal. pistol. Prosecutors said a CZ 9MM SPO1 Shadow pistol and a UDMC .556 rifle were added to the list of assets concealed from the 2012 and 2013 SALNs, respectively. In his 2014 SALN, Purisima and his wife also did not declare their four real estate properties.

Gordon hopeful cases overload will soon be eased By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Richard Gordon is confident the overload of cases in trial courts across the country will soon be eased once Senate Bill No. 2065 or the Judges-at-Large Act of 2018 is enacted into law. SBN 2065, which Gordon authored and sponsored, seeks to create 100 positions for regional trial judges-atlarge and 50 positions for municipal trial judges-at-large nationwide to be assigned by the Supreme Court as acting or assisting judges in regional trial courts or second level courts and in the municipal trial courts or first level courts that are overloaded with cases. “Justice delayed is justice denied. Article III, Section 16 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution specifically states that ‘all persons shall have the

right to a speedy disposition of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative bodies,’” the chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights said. Likewise, Gordon pointed out that with about 160,000 cases pending in the 1,200 first-level courts (city and municipal courts) and 640,000 in the 1,100 second-level courts or the regional trial courts as of 2017, the clogged dockets of the courts cause great delay in the disposition of cases. Data from the Supreme Court’s Court Management Office showed that as of Dec. 31 last year there are also 528 vacancies in first and second level courts. “We are aware that there are courts that have overloaded salas or dockets. The proposal here therefore is to assign judges-at-large to support or to assist practically in passing these cases that are

loading the docket so that justice could be dispensed more swiftly. “They could also be assigned to temporarily fill up the vacancies until a permanent judge has been appointed,” he explained. Gordon added the congestion of courts’ dockets also adversely affect the dispensation of justice in that judges no longer have sufficient time to study, analyze and research to come up with good, reasonable decisions. “This will also relieve the judges and afford them time to study each case carefully and to come up with good decisions,” he said. Gordon expressed hope that with the adoption of the Senate version of the measure by the House of Representatives, the enrolled bill would be transmitted to Malacañang and signed into law at the soonest time possible.

Justice Act’

By Rio N. Araja AMID the failure of the 17th Congress to pass a bill to lower the minimum age for criminal responsibility, child advocates on Thursday expressed fear that the proposal would resume in the 18th Congress. The Child Rights Network called on the 18th Congress to push for the full implementation of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 or Republic Act No. 9344, instead of amending the law, in a bid to lower the minimum age for criminal responsibility from 15 to 12. The Act “already contains all the necessary components to prevent juvenile delinquency, address children who commit light and serious offenses, and provide intervention and rehabilitation for children in conflict with the law,” it said. “The law does not need to be amended. It needs to be fully implemented—with the government providing all the necessary investments to establish muchneeded youth facilities and provide community-based interventions and diversion programs for children,” it added. The Senate and House of Representatives failed to pass the bill lowering the age of criminal responsibility due to the adjournment of the 17th Congress. The group said “the fight is far from over.” With President Rodrigo Duterte batting for the passage of the proposal, it believes the proposals to amend the law and lower the age of criminal liability would resume in the 18th Congress.

Opinion

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

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Underpaid and under surveillance TEACHERS who serve as poll watchers and election supervisors are seeking an audience with the President to ask for ample pay hike. Several months ago, the teachers issued a statement that they are underpaid and under surveillance. The surveillance came on the heels of claims of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police that government enforcement arms were looking into the involvement of some teachers in the rising student protests against the Duterte government.

The teachers, heroes like the country’s overseas foreign workers (OFWs), must be given their due right and recognition in light of the unreliable Smartmatic vote counting machines. Teach The Alliance of Concerned Teachers denied the allegation and pointed out rising militancy among students is a worldwide phenomenon happening not only in the Philippines. The teachers, nonetheless, did not indi-

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

cate declining to serve in future poll duties. The teachers, heroes like the country’s overseas foreign workers (OFWs), must be given their due right and recognition in light of the unreliable Smartmatic vote counting machines. There is still time to set things right for the 2022 presidential polls if the Commission on Elections and Congress act now to amend the law mandating the counting of votes by automatic computerized system. Let us not be saddled by another President in the next six years who might be elected by computer glitches. The Filipino people deserve better. On another related subject, we think there are too many party-list entries in the last elections. Many of them are not marginalized sectors but mere fronts for vested interests, including government fronts to ensure its supermajority control of the House. The House where an impeachment process is intiated will never get an impeachment anywhere with the number of House members stacked up against such a move. The Speaker of the House is another key player. Remember when then House Speaker Manny Villar banged the gavel to open the House session and forthwith stated that the impeachment case against then President Joseph Estrada “is hereby forwarded to the his Senate.” The rest as they say, is history but that’s another story. The Estrada political dynasty has been politically wiped out in the recent May 13 midterm elections.

Bleak growth outlook

HE World Bank has just reduced its global growth forecasts this year amid the trade tussle between the US and China and the rising debt levels of some emerging economies. The bank in a report released Wednesday cited the prospect of the worsening trade conflicts between the world's two biggest economies as the greatest risk to global growth. The world economy is now expected to grow by 2.6 percent this year, or three tenths of a percentage point lower than the January estimate, and well below the three percent expansion in 2018, according to the Global Economic Prospects report. World Bank president David Malpass described global growth as "fragile," and said the slowdown threatened progress in fighting world poverty. The banks also sees world trade volume decreasing sharply, expanding by 2.6

percent this year, the slowest pace since the global financial crisis and a full percentage point lower than January's forecast. The Philippines, meanwhile, may not yet bear the brunt of the ugly trade war between the US and China. The World Bank expects it to remain one of the stronger economies in the East Asia and Pacific region this year, growing 6.4 percent this year, or just 0.1-percentage-point lower compared to its January projection of 6.5 percent. It will outperform Thailand (3.5 percent), Malaysia (4.6 percent), Indonesia (5.2 percent) and China (6.2 percent), with Vietnam (6.6 percent), Myanmar (6.5 percent) and Mongolia (7.2 percent)

likely to expand stronger. The World Bank noted private consumption in the Philippines was rebounding amid slowing inflation and improving employment conditions. Election-related spending in the first half of 2019, says the bank, is giving the economy an additional boost and is partly mitigating the impact of weakening exports. The Philippines may be shielding itself from the impact of the nasty USChina trade war this year, but it cannot remain complacent. It should pursue its massive infrastructure program to generate more jobs and sustain household spending in order to keep the domestic economy strong and resilient. A stronger revenue base and a better investment climate will ensure a more dynamic economy and push the Philippines closer to its goal of reducing poverty incidence.

Turn to A5

When cornered, screw the public IN TACKLING the issue of horrendous traffic congestion in Metro Manila and other key urban centers, government officials almost always tend to blame the public, rather than themselves, for their rank failure to solve it. We're often told by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) that traffic along the major thoroughfare that is EDSA is caused by the sheer volume of private vehicles. The solution they came up with is the number-coding scheme, which in theory sounds good as it would supposedly reduce the volume of vehicles by half on a daily basis. But they did not consider that those who can afford it would simply buy another vehicle so they wouldn't be inconvenienced by the coding scheme. Result: no easing of traffic congestion at all. Another MMDA scheme was to conduct on an experimental basis a ban on driver-only private vehicles. The plan backfired because of too much resistance on the part of private motorists who stood to be highly inconvenienced by another hare-brained, not to mention anti-democratic and antipoor, traffic scheme. I imagine the MMDA must be at their wit's end thinking of more ways to ease vehicular traffic. Invariably, I'm afraid, it's going to be more of the same schemes that will punish the public for government's failings. When pushed to the wall by criticisms that horrible traffic has not abated but even worsened, public officials earning hefty salaries from people's taxes will not hesitate to turn the screws on those whose interests they're supposed to serve, first and foremost. Take the recent proposal to ban provincial buses and terminals from EDSA. The brilliant proposal was roundly thumbed down by commuters who stood to be greatly inconvenienced, and more than this, would have been made to cough up more

money so they could go home to their respective provinces. The same wanton disregard for public welfare is evident in the other proposal to make UV Express vehicles render point-to-point services instead of allowing passengers to alight where they have to, just like regular taxis and jeepneys. And there's more. In the Senate, there's the proposed bill seeking to prohibit purchases of vehicles by those who cannot prove that they have garages where they can properly park their car. This is another patently antipoor proposal that we hope doesn't pass the legislative mill.

The traffic problem is the end-result of government mismanagement, bad planning and perhaps even gross stupidity. My own conclusion is that the traffic problem is the end-result of government mismanagement, bad planning and perhaps even gross stupidity. Mismanagement is plain to see when the right hand does not know what the left is doing. The government, for instance, encourages the car assembly industry to produce as many units as they can so it can raise more taxes, we're told, for vital infrastructure and social development projects. The Buy, Buy, Buy objective is a noble one, from where we sit, but a disastrous one from the perspective of Metro Manila's already bad traffic situation. If car distributors encourage the public to buy more cars with low down payments and affordable monthly terms, then we're likely to see no end to our traffic woes. But that's neither here nor there. An even greater problem is bad planning. A white elephant, definitely, is the

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Pass the SOGIE bill now POP GOES THE WORLD JENNY ORTUOSTE I WAS appalled to learn that the bill preventing discrimination on the basis of SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression) has been languishing in some form or another in Congress for almost 20 years.

ered in the Senate for almost three years after Senator Risa Hontiveros sponsored it. It only reached second Four people against reading there. 198 representatives, As of May last year, the senators the LGBTQI community, who expressed support for the meaand their straight allies. sure were Loren Legarda, Grace Poe, Nancy Binay, Franklin Drilon, Unbelievable. Bam Aquino, Chiz Escudero, Ralph Recto, Sonny Angara, JV Ejercito, The House of Representatives Francis Pangilinan, Juan Miguel ZuZu unanimously passed it two years ago. biri, and Leila de Lima, while those Turn to A5 However, the counterpart bill moldRolando G. Estabillo Publisher

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Opinion Your fish is your future By US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim

LYING within the global center of marine biodiversity, the Philippines is one of the world’s top-fish producing countries, and millions of Filipinos derive their livelihood from fishing. However, these rich and precious resources are declining rapidly, with research showing that 10 of the country’s 13 major fishing grounds are already under threat due to overfishing, destructive fishing practices, habitat degradation, pollution, improper waste disposal, and extreme weather. It is estimated that the Philippines loses nearly P68.5 billion a year to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, a trend that affects the country’s economic development through lost revenue and unrealized opportunities for local fishermen and associated seafood industries. With fish making up the major protein source in the Filipino diet, this decline in fish stocks also has implications for the country’s food security, particularly for the nearly 52 percent of fisherfolk who already live beneath the poverty line. Illegal fishing practices also put law-abiding fishers and seafood producers at a disadvantage in both the domestic and global marketplace. As we observe the International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing on June 5, I’d like to thank our Philippine partners for working with us to address the threats posed by illegal fishing and to protect our

Underpaid... From A4

Good news, bad news The El Niño season brought misery to water consumers when water taps went dry for weeks and hectares of agricultural land went dry, damaging crops. The bright side of El Niño is that a surplus of 2 million kilos of sweet mangoes were harvested by farmers for local consumption and the rest for export to Japan and Taiwan. We hope the Department of Agriculrure can also turn around our rice shortage and the rising prices con-

Pass... From A4

opposed were Senate President Tito Sotto, Joel Villanueva, Manny Pacquiao, and Cynthia Villar. The other senators of the previous Congress had not expressed an opinion either way, as far as I know: Win Gatchalian, Koko Pimentel, Antonio Trillanes IV, Panfilo Lacson, and Richard Gordon The bill passed with 198 votes in the HoR without abstention or dissent, through the efforts of Reps. Geraldine Roman, Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, and Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao. I can’t believe it got stuck in the Senate because it was blocked by four conservatives, the epitome of the patriarchy. Four people against 198 representatives, the LGBTQI community, and their straight allies. Unbelievable. Hontiveros vows to continue the struggle for the bill into the 18th Congress, where it should be a

marine resources for future generations. For over three decades, the US government has worked closely with the Philippine government and local partners to achieve our shared goal of sustainable fisheries and healthy marine ecosystems. For example, the US Agency for International Development’s five-year EcoFish Project worked with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and local governments to increase the number and weight of fish by 24 percent in focus sites. USAID’s new P1.3 billion, five-year Fish Right project, launched in 2018, works with BFAR, DENR, and a consortium of local partners to address biodiversity threats and increase fish biomass in select marine biodiversity areas in the Philippines. Building on the gains of previous USAIDsupported coastal, marine, and biodiversity conservation projects that introduced an ecosystem approach to fisheries management, the Fish Right partnership promotes the sustainable use of critical coastal and marine resources, enhances the resilience of these resources, and improves the ability of Philippine authorities to sustainably manage fisheries—for the benefit of all Filipinos. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has partnered with other US agencies, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to develop and implement capacitybuilding programs for managers of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This effort will continue to train new MPA managers to more effectively address threats to Philippine marine resources. Recognizing the important role law enforcement plays in combatting illegal fishing and protecting marine resources, Philippine law enforcement officers have collaborated with US experts to better utilize sophisticated satellite data to detect boats fishing illegally in Philippine waters and to prevent and deter illegal fishing. We have helped to train nearly 100 officers and inspectors from BFAR and the Philippine Coast Guard on practical law enforcement techniques,

sumers can no longer afford with the increasing prices of other basic commodities and also water and electricitry rates, not to mention gasoline and other fuel products. The government in a mindless statement said it prefers more commuters instead of motorists. Yeah, right. But it should know that more and more Filipinos are buying cars because the government has failed to provide commuters with an efficient public transport system. The Metro Rail Transit and the Light Rail Transit often break down, if not in a constant state of disrepair. The problem cannot be blamed on the Duterte administration alone. It goes all the way back to the Noynoy Aquino administration. Yet, the gov-

priority piece of legislation. Just like Hontiveros’ Safe Spaces Act that recently lapsed into law, the SOGIE measure seeks to protect a portion of the Filipino population who have been abused and harassed because of their SOGIE, against discriminatory treatment. It is a long-overdue measure. According to Ma. Jiandra Bianca F. Deslate, an underbar associate of DivinaLaw who wrote about the matter on the firm’s website, House Bill No. 4982 or An Act Prohibiting Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity or Expression (Sogie) and Providing Penalties Therefore is the first of its kind in the country. “Other anti-discrimination bills have been filed in the past, but these were never SOGIE-specific, lumping the lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual, and queer sector (LGBTQ++ sector) with others such as the differently abled or the indigenous groups.” The SOGIE bill ensures that the equal protection clause of the

such as how to board foreign fishing vessels, conduct comprehensive fisheries inspections, and draft briefings and affidavits for prosecutors. This year, the US Coast Guard led a first-of-its-kind multinational fisheries law enforcement workshop in Manila that built capacity for at-sea enforcement operations in Southeast Asia. The workshop, which included participants from the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia, strengthened domestic fishery enforcement in each country and helped to improve regional cooperation, coordination, and interoperability. American scientists also seek opportunities to collaborate with Philippine counterparts on marine science research projects. These scientific endeavors do not just increase our joint understanding of oceanographic phenomena or marine species distribution, they help inform global and local evidence-based fisheries management policies and ensure that there will still be fish for Filipino generations to come. Ensuring the health of Philippine fisheries—and the country’s economy—will not just require robust law enforcement and improved science, it will also require innovative new ideas championed by young Filipinos. To that end, we have supported marine-focused education and empowerment camps for some of the country’s most inventive and motivated emerging leaders. We are proud to see the dynamic youth pioneer new social entrepreneurship models in their communities, establish green businesses that address marine challenges, and strive to educate those around them about the importance of healthy ocean ecosystems. The US government is honored to work alongside Philippine government agencies, civil society, and inspiring young Filipinos to address these challenges. And we will continue to work together to advance human and ecological well-being in the Philippines and to support initiatives that ensure the continued health of Philippine fisheries. We truly believe that your fish is your future.

ernment is now going to undertake a more complicated public rail transport system underground. We can’t imagine the accompanying problems of leaking roof and flooded rail tracks with our inner city’s faulty water and sewage system. God help this benighted land and its hapless citizens. In a move legislators claim would shore up the country’s defense preparedness, Congress propossed the revival of the Reserved Officers Training Course as requirement for senior high school students to graduate. But the Palace said the ROTC bill can wait for the incoming congress to tackle the ROTC bill as there is no more time for the 17th Congress to handle it.

1987 Constitution covers the LGBTQI. It penalizes with fines and/ or imprisonment discriminatory behaviors such as preventing their access to public services and establishments; treating them differently in the workplace; denying them admission to or expelling them from an educational institution; “outing” a person without their consent; and preventing children from expressing their SOGIE, among others. As of last month, the SOGIE bill made history (not in a good way) by being the longest-running bill under the Senate interpellation period. Because it was not passed under the 17th Congress, it will have to go through the entire process of enactment again in the 18th Congress. It is a major setback in terms of time, and all because of those four holdouts in the Senate. Girl, boy, bakla, tomboy, parepareho tayong tao. Pare-pareho tayong Pilipino. //FB and Twitter: @DrJennyO

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

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Journalist of the Year recognized by RCM as a Journalist of the Year. The dream inspired me a lot, especially when my boss, Alfio Locsin, the business editor of the Manila Times, was made Journalist of the Year by Rotary—for writing a THE Rotary Club of Manila gave me business story on peso devaluation yesterday the coveted “Journalist of the and Ferdinand Marcos. Year” award on its 100th year. RCM is I have been a business journalist for Asia’s first and oldest Rotary Club and most of my 50 years in journalism. the oldest fraternity of service in the I did not do PR, I did not join the region. I am a columnist of The Manila government (although there were Standard, editor-publisher of the weekly Cabinet offers), and I have not enBizNewsAsia newsmagazine, editor- gaged in any other business. I have publisher of biznewsasia.com online, known no other profession or enterand host of the weekly business-oriented prise except journalism. I love the BizNewsTv. So I search for truth, freedom, justice am multimedia. and excellence Here are excerpts and I enjoy im from my brief reimIt seems the marks: mensely writing On behalf of the Philippines was better about it. Without centennial jour- off before Magellan truth, there can be nalism awardees, no true freedom. I would like to came. There were 100 Without freethank the Rotary tribes and there were dom, there can Club of Manila 100 rulers. Today, be no true justice. for, and this is a Without truth, cliché, this awe- we have 24 million freedom and jussome award and families, 100 tribes and tice, there can be honor. meaningful 100 years of Rotary, we no On behalf of the and profound exawardees, let me have been ruled by just cellence of mind congratulate the five families. and work. Rotary Club of Remember, this Manila for its 100 country has been ruled by only 100 years of service families in the last to country and 100 years. For more than 50 years be people. beI guess as the centennial Journal- fore Duterte became president, this ist of the Year awardee, I believe this archipelago of 7,300 islands and 100 kind of award will not come again – tribes was ruled by only four famiuntil after another 100 years. lies—Marcos/Ramos for 26 years; It is thus with great pleasure and Macapagal-Arroyo for 13 years and pride, and of course, happiness, that I six months; Cojuangco-Aquino for 12 receive this award. years and four months. I have been a journalist for almost If you add the Duterte family, the 50 years. During that time, I have re- Philippines would have been ruled by ceived quite a few awards: only five families—for 57 years. PerTOYM in International Journalism haps longer, if a Duterte succeeds the in 1985, right after People Power. Duterte. The TOYM 1985-86 was a very good How many families are there in the batch. Two became senators—Miri- Philippines? am Santiago and Greg Honasan; one You know, a family has on averbecame speaker, Prospero Nograles; age 4.5 members. We are 107 milone became governor, Daniel Lacson; lion today. Divide 107 million by 4.5. one became a scientist, William Pado- Almost 24 million families – ruled in lina; one became a broadcaster, Dong the last 55 years by only five famiPuno; and one became a tycoon, Del lies. How come among 24 million Lazaro. I have remained a journalist. families, there are only five families I was also Outstanding Manilan in deemed good enough or blessed by 1989; and cited as one the 100 Best God, to rule us? Alumni of the UST College of Arts It seems the Philippines was better and Letters (and Philets) in the last off before Magellan came. There were 100 Years. Arts and Letters of UST 100 tribes and there were 100 rulers. was where Jose Rizal studied, by the Today, we have 24 million families, way. The University of Santo Tomas 100 tribes and 100 years of Rotary, we itself gave me its Most Outstanding have been ruled by just five families. Thomasian Award, in the field of arts In a sense, the Rotary Club of Maand letters. nila does it better. There are 33 awardThere were also foreign grants but ees—for the best in journalism in the I could not entertain them because past one year. It could only mean I would have had to be away, from that excellence in journalism is more my family and from my job and that egalitarian, inclusive, and has great meant loss of income. In 2002, I took diversity. the grant of the University of StockTruth, freedom, justice, and excelholm for a Global Journalism course, lence are the very essence of journaland that was because I was already ism. Truth, freedom, justice, and exself-employed, as publisher of Bi- cellence are also the very essence of zNewsAsia. democracy, the very essence of goverI managed only three semesters of nance, and the very essence of a stable MBA at Ateneo because my employer society. then, The Times Journal, where I was The Rotary Club of Manila, at 100 the business editor, told me to stop be- years, is the oldest fraternity service cause I couldn’t leave the office until club in Asia. Congratulations. My after 7 p.m. and my MBA class started wish to my fellow outstanding jourat 6 p.m. nalists in print, radio and television, This Rotary of Manila Journalist of let us put ourselves in continuing serthe Year award has a special meaning vice—for truth, justice, freedom, and and import to me. excellence. For the good of our proSince joining the print media in fession, for the good of our country 1970, first in the Manila Chronicle, and people. then Manila Times, then Times Journal, I have always dreamed to being biznewsasia@gmail.com

When... From A4

lam in Quiapo, Sta. Cruz, Binondo and the Divisoria area where tricycles, pedicabs, jeepneys, private vehicles, pedestrians and vendors of all kinds of merchandise compete for limited road space on a daily basis. The long-term solution, it seems to me, is an extensive subway system that would cover the whole of Metro Manila. But in the meantime, the existing light rail networks should be upgraded and extended, and the dilapidated jeepneys emitting toxic fumes still operating in main routes in Metro Manila replaced by modern ones that are eco-friendly yet affordable by students and the masses. This should be part of a comprehensive plan to rationalize a fragmented transport system that has failed to keep in step with rapid population growth. We recognize that upgrading and modernizing Metro Manila's mass transport system will take time and require trillions of pesos in resources. But the first steps should be taken now, before it's too late.

Parañaque Integrated Transport Terminal that was touted to be a "landport" with amenities akin to those found in airports. Last we looked, the few souls inhabiting its cavernous interior looked like a scene from a B horror movie. The LRT 2 that runs from somewhere in Antipolo and traverses Aurora Boulevard to the University Belt along Claro M. Recto—Azcarraga, as I like to call it by its old name—stops abruptly about a hundred or so meters from Divisoria, the poor man's shopping center. My question: Why didn't planners make the rail network extend up to the North Harbor, its natural endpoint that would make it convenient for those taking inter-island ships to points south? The traffic problem in Metro Manila is rooted in government's failure to put in place an adequate, safe and reliable mass transportation system yesterday. In the city of Manila, it's pure bed- Email: ernhil@yahoo.com

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FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

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PhilHealth to hire docs, lawyers to probe ‘ghost’ dialysis scandal By Macon Ramos-Araneta THERE are ghosts roaming around hospitals and medical centers, and they’re undergoing medical procedures at Philippine Health Insurance Corp.’s expense. To counter this, the government health insurance firm said it will hire 130 fraud investigators to put a stop to the “ghost” dialysis scandal that is rocking the beleaguered government health agency. To aid the investigation, PhilHealth is also set to hire 12 more lawyers, and 54 doctors to validate the alleged fraudulent claims, including claim made by a dialysis center in Quezon City. The dialysis center allegedly filed “ghost” claims to PhilHealth. PhilHealth, in turn, made payments for dialysis treatments to health providers without knowing that some of the patients have long been dead. The racket was revealed by Edwin Roberto, a former employee of the dialysis center. According to lawyer Harry Roque, who is representing Roberto, told reporters anomalies hounding PhilHealth are not new. “Here in the Philippines, the dead are not just voters, they can also undergo dialysis,” he said. “Anomalies in PhilHealth are not new. During the 16th Congress, there are poor people with pneumonia, and cataract that are being used to make claims at PhilHealth.” Meanwhile, Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday called for an urgent and comprehensive investigation on the funds being used and released by PhilHealth after following that PhilHealth funds may have been misused to pay for the dialysis treatments of non-existent patients. Hontiveros, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, issued the statement following claims by whistleblower Roberto who said that PhilHealth has been approving questionable claims and releasing payments for ghost dialysis, or dialysis treatments which were never done, to the benefit of fraudulent clinics. She noted that the gravity of the recent allegations should prompt government to check if every peso under the PhilHealth is indeed being used in a manner compliant with laws and the PhilHealth's mandate. “We cannot allow fraud and greed to impede the effective delivery of health services to the people,” she said.

Fullido’s case vs. ABS-CBN execs elevated to QC court THE Quezon City Prosecutor's Office has elevated the sexual harassment complaint filed by television and radio personality Gretchen Fullido against ABS-CBN executives Cheryl Favila and Maricar Asprec to the Quezon City Metropolitan Trial Court. The case was raffled off to Branch 32. The prosecutor's office, in an information, said the duo violated Republic Act 7877 or An Act Declaring Sexual Harassment Unlawful in the Employment, Education or Training Environment, and for Other Purposes. The lower court has yet to determine the recommended bail. Based on court records, Favila, Ecosystem Integrated News and Current Affairs Department head, and Asprec, segment producer, repeatedly asked for sexual favors from Fullido in 2015 until 2017. According to Fullido, Favila was exercising "authority, influence or moral ascendancy" over her. Favila was accused of asking Fullido to be her "Thursday Girl ," and that the TV executive would even text the TV host with messages of sexual undertones. On the other hand, Asprec urged Fullido to be extra nice (lambingin) to them. Fullido rejected the sexual advances on her, saying from then on, she started to experience a “hostile working environment” to her damage and prejudice. “Their client felt vindicated, and they were ready and prepared to prove the sexual harassment charges against Favila and Aspre,” Fullido's lawyer Lorna Kapunan said. “This could be a test case for the Philippine’s version of the #MeToo movement. It can inspire and encourage other victims of sexual wrongdoing in the workplace or in educational institutions to come forward and make aggressors and predators accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” she said. Rio N. Araja

FLAG UP. A vendor sells Philippine flags to motorists passing along Harrison Plaza Mall in Pasay City a few days ahead of the 121st Philippine Independence Day 2019 celebration. Lino Santos

No additional fares once prov’l bus ban starts—MMDA T HE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has appealed to city bus operators not to charge additional fares once the provincial bus ban along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue is fully implemented. “Hindi po madodoble ang pamasahe kasi iiksi yung biyahe ng mga provincial buses. Mababawasan ang mga provincial buses at the same time the city buses are willing to shoulder the difference (There will be no additional fares because the trips of provincial buses will be cut short. Provincial buses will be reduced at the same time the city buses are willing to shoulder the difference),” MMDA Edsa trafﬁc chief Edison “Bong” Nebrija said in a radio interview on Thursday. The MMDA ofﬁcial noted that the fares of city buses are expected to be costlier than provincial buses as their routes will be extended to the interim terminals in Valenzuela City and Sta. Rosa in Laguna once the closure of the provincial bus terminals along EDSA is carried out. “Ibig sabihin, if ’yung pamasahe is P1,000 from Bicol to Cubao tapos mapuputol naging P900 dahil Sta. Rosa ka, sinasabi namin from

Sta. Rosa to Cubao kung pwede P100 na lang ang pamasahe (For instance, if a bus with routes from Bicol to Cubao charges P1,000 they will now have a P900 fare as its trip will end at Sta. Rosa. Thus, we appeal to the city buses to only impose a P100 fare to their passengers),” Nebrija said. The MMDA is still waiting for special permits from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board for the implementation of the fare scheme. The agency is currently conducting dialogues with provincial and city bus operators as well as commuters’ group to gather their views on the provincial bus ban. The MMDA has not set a deﬁnite date for the closure of the provincial bus terminals as it still needs to ﬁnalize the guidelines of its implementation with the Department of Transportation and the LTFRB. “We will be presenting our plan on the

closure of bus terminals to the Metro Manila mayors once we received the guidelines from the DOTr and LTFRB,” Nebrija said. The MMDA earlier said it plans to close all 47 provincial bus terminals along EDSA by June. The agency has suspended the dry run for the policy pending its meeting with the DOTr and LTFRB. Strict enforcement of the no loading and unloading policy of provincial buses along EDSA still remains in effect. The Metro Manila Council, made up of the 17 Metro Manila mayors, approved MMDA Regulation No. 19-002, prohibiting the issuance of business permits to public utility vehicle terminals and operations along EDSA. Once the business permits are revoked, the actual closure of the terminals can be implemented by the concerned local government units, which have jurisdiction over the terminals. Petitions were ﬁled by Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda and Ako Bicol Party-list at the Supreme Court to stop the implementation of the provincial bus ban. Data from the MMDA show there are 12,000 passenger buses in Metro Manila, 8,000 of which are provincial buses while 4,000 are city buses. PNA

DENR wants Baguio to plant Benguet pines By Rio N. Araja ENVIRONMENT Secretary Roy Cimatu has ordered the planting of 3,500 Benguet pine trees within the compound of The Mansion in Baguio City to restore the smell of pine trees. He earlier raised concerns that Baguio was already losing its pine trees, saying visitors and the residents as well could no longer smell the fragrance of the trees that made Baguio famous for as a tourist spot, apart from its cold weather. Ralph Pablo, Department of Environment and Natural Resources' Cordillera Administrative Region executive director, said about 350 Presidential Security Group members recently took part in the tree-planting activity in the two-hectare open ground of The Mansion, the ofﬁcial summer palace of the Philippine president. “Secretary Cimatu’s order was to saturate Baguio with the smell of pine trees again and restore the city’s claim to being the City of Pines,” he said. During last February's Philippine Military Academy alumni homecoming, Cimatu cited the dwindling number of Benguet pine trees in Baguio, the summer capital of the country. He immediately ordered a conduct of an inventory on the number of pine trees, and to come up with solutions to preserve and protect them. According to Pablo, an inventory showed the city’s trees number 2,498,019 within its 5,750-hectare territory. Benguet pine trees, measuring up to 124 centimeters in diameter, numbered 351,493 or 14 percent of the total count. Of the total Benguet pine trees, 79 percent or 277,148 were concentrated in areas classiﬁed as “closed forest” or “closed canopy,” such as in Camp John Hay reservation and forest parks near the Teachers’ Camp and the PMA.

NAUTICAL HIGHWAY. Department of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade

(right) received the Philippine Nautical Highway System Master Plan map from VADM Narciso Vingson Jr. Officer In-Charge Marina during the 45th Founding Anniversary and inauguration of its new office building in Port Area, Manila. Lino Santos

Eco group warns public vs. unsafe nail art sets By Joel E. Zurbano ENVIRONMENTALIST group Ecowaste Coalition on Thursday warned the public against unsafe fancy nail art sets now being sold at cheap price in Manila, particularly in the area of Divisoria. The product, the group stated, has dibutyl phthalate adhesive that contains a substance banned in cosmetic products. Ecowaste made the warning after it tested a test buy last Wednesday from retailers in 11/88 Shopping Mall and Lucky Chinatown Shopping Center in Manila. Through a letter sent to the Food and Drug Administration—Center for Cosmetic Regulation and Research, the group reported the sale of the nail art sets bearing the names “Beauty Nail,” “Don,” “Nail Salons,” “Nail Style,” and “Splendid Nails,” that worth P12.50 to P50 per set. “The adhesive that is used to attach the artificial nail to the real one contains DBP, a chemical that has been linked to endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive disorders, and even cancer,” said Ecowaste chemical safety campaigner Thony Dizon. “We advise consumers, especially girls and women, to shun such products that can expose them to potential harm,” he added. “DBP is not allowed as ingredient in cosmetics under the European Cosmetics Directive, as well as in the ASEAN Cosmetics Directive where it is listed among the substances that “must not form part of the composition of cosmetic products,” Dizon noted. The FDA in 2015 issued an advisory on unnotified DBP-containing adhesive, saying that “DBP has the ability to cause allergic reactions” and warning that “there were previous cases where allergic response to DBP was found to be severe.” “Allergic reactions can induce a state of hypersensitivity in the immune system. It can cause the immune system to respond to chemical exposures with immunological reactions that are harmful, varying from hives to life-threatening responses such as anaphylactic shock, where low blood pressure and breathing difficulties can result in death,” the FDA further warned. DBP is listed by the EU as an endocrine-disrupting compound of high concern. According to studies, DBP has been shown to cause proliferation of breast tumor cells and to make anti-estrogen treatments less effective against tumors.

NCRPO chief orders PCPs to clean stations THE National Capital Region Police Ofﬁce on Thursday ordered all police community precincts in the region to ensure that their surroundings are clean and orderly. This, as NCRPO chief, Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, conducted a surprise inspection of PCPs in the southern part of Metro Manila on Wednesday. Eleazar said he inspected 10 PCPs in Pasay, Makati, Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Taguig and found out that while these police stations are clean on the inside, the out-

side premises were found to be ﬁlthy. “Cleanliness not only inside but [also] outside [is important]. There are a lot of cigarette butts, empty water bottles and candy wrappers during my inspection in these PCPs. I told them even if they have old equipment, as long as these are in order, the people will still ﬁnd it presentable, especially complainants. The comfort rooms should not have any foul smell. It is important to have a good and clean working environment,” Eleazar told the Philippine News

Agency in a phone interview. “I gave them a warning ﬁrst. I told them to clean up and then I will go back. I talked to their chiefs of police and station commanders regarding the inspection. They should be watchful of the PCPs under their jurisdiction,” he said. Eleazar said that he will inspect 187 PCPs metro-wide, stressting that one of his priority programs is the cleanliness of the stations and their surroundings as part of the internal cleansing program of the PNP. PNA

Sports

PH 3x3 team stuns Czechs T

EAM Philippines banked on the heroics of Angelica Surada in overtime to power the Philippines to another close win, this time a 1514 victory over the Czech Republic. The triumph allowed the Filipinas to reach the next stage of the women’s action in the 2019 FIBA 3×3 Under-18 World Cup Wednesday evening in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. As the game reached the sudden-death period, Surada, a product of Chiang Kai Shek College high school, scored on a free throw off a foul from Pavlína Tabačková. Surada, who was held scoreless against the Netherlands, tallied only three points but her final point proved to be the key, handing the Philippines its third win in Pool C. After scoring wins over Mongolia, the Netherlands, and Czech Republic, the Gilas women’s team moved on to the quarterfinals of the tournament on Friday. They will meet China in the knockout quarterfinals at 1:50 p.m. China swept its four-game

assignment in Pool A after fending off Mexico, 17-9, Ukraine, 21-9, and Sri Lanka, 21-5. France also reached the quarterﬁnals with Mexico. Camille Clarin, who was the hero in their match against the Netherlands, ﬁnished with nine points. It was the Filipino-Canadian, who helped the Philippines erect a 13-8 lead with 2:35 left. But Sára Kocourková allowed the Czechs rally back, cutting the lead to just two with 18.1 seconds remaining. After getting a stop, Tabačková hit a buzzer-beating deuce to send the game into extra time, 13-all. Earlier, it was Clarin’s buzzerbeater that allowed the Philippines to upset the Netherlands, 10-9. Clarin followed up her own miss with a putback as time expired for the upset. Clarin had three points. Peter Atencio

Willie Miller hopes to lead Alaska to a second straight win against the San Miguel Beermen in the UNTV Cup PBA Legends Faceoff.

SMB, Alaska eye early lead SAN Miguel Beer and Alaska shoot for the early lead when they clash on Sunday while Ginebra and Purefoods renew their rivalry in the UNTV Cup PBA Legends Faceoff on Sunday at the Pasig City Sports Center. San Miguel and Alaska clash at 12 noon with both teams looking to follow-up their impressive wins in the opener of the month-long tournament which will have the PBA Legends Foundation as its lone beneﬁciary. UNTV President and CEO Dr. Daniel Razon said a tax-free P2 million will be given to the foundation in its effort to help former PBA players who are sick and in need of ﬁnancial help. With two-time PBA MVP Wil-

Games Sunday (Pasig City Sports Center) 12noon – San Miguel vs Alaska 1:30 p.m. – Ginebra vs Purefoods

lie Miller exploding for 29 points, the Alaska Milkmen downed the Gin Kings, 90-83, while the Beermen leaned on a well-balanced attack to trounce the Purefoods Hotdogs, 88-68. Four-time MVP Alvin Patrimonio needs to ﬂash some of his deadly moves down low if he wants to help the Hotdogs beat the Ginebra Gin Kings in their 1:30 encounter. He was held to just 9 points the last time. Razon said admission is free. Out to lead the Gin Kings are Marlou Aquino and Vince Hizon who ﬁnished with 24 and 23 points, respectively.

Members of the UP Fighting Maroons are joined by top schools officials as the team signed a sponsorship deal with officials of online shopping company Paymaya. In photo are (from left) UP team manager Agaton Uvero, UP president Danilo Concepcion, Paymaya Founder/CEO Orlando Vea and UP College of Human Kinetics Dean Francis Diaz.

Paymaya backs UP Maroons By Peter Atencio STAYING in shape and ﬁt for the coming 82nd University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball season is one of the goals of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons this summer. Gilas Pilipinas player Ricci Rivero may have sprained his ankle while competing for the national squad at the 2019 FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup qualiﬁers being held in Changsha, China last month. But Rivero has managed to recover and joined two practice sessions already. “I’m good. Everything is just in my head right now,” said Rivero yesterday when the UP Fighting Maroons got together with their supporters at the Launch Pad Bldg. in Sheridan St., Mandaluyong, where they had a contract-signing with one of the team’s new supporters this year, Paymaya. The 6’1” Rivero, one of the two newest members of the team--the other being Kobe Paras--is expected to join the Fighting Maroons next week when they attend a two-week training camp in Las Vegas and a pocket tournament in Kaohsiung. “We got some injuries. But they’re healing naman. And we’re in the homestretch of our participation in the summer leagues. Matatapos na rin and now we are ready for Las Vegas,” said UP assistant coach Ricky Dandan, who spoke on behalf of coach Bo Perasol.

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

PBA holds annual blood donation drive on June 16 THE PBA is holding its annual blood donation drive on June 16 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Now on its fourth year running, the project is in line with the league’s Corporate Social Responsibility venture through the Alagang PBA program. Held in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross and Smart Araneta Coliseum, the blood donation drive starts at 12 noon at the green gate of the Big Dome. Qualiﬁed persons should be 18 to 60 years old, with those from 61-65 years old being a regular blood donor, while young donors aged 16-17 years old should have their parent’s consent with them. Donors should also weigh at least 110 lbs. (50 kgs. above) and have no symptoms of cough, runny nose, diarrhea, and sore throat for at least a week. Likewise, there must also be a threemonth interval between two blood donations, while a 12-month deferment

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial will again spearhead the league’s blood donation drive.

is required for those who underwent ear piercing and body tattoo. Other requirements include blood pressure of 90 and 160 (systolic) and between 60 and

100 (diastolic), pulse rate of between 50 and 100 beats per minute, and hemoglobin level of at least 125 g/L or must pass the routine qualitative check for hemoglobin.

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor

sports@manilastandard.net

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

Chan wrests solo control with 68 in SEAG qualifier

Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors attempts a shot against Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors in the second half during Game Three of the 2019 NBA Finals at ORACLE Arena on June 05, 2019 in Oakland, California. AFP

Raptors rout injury-hit Warriors O

AKLAND—Upstart Toronto moved halfway to a ﬁrst-ever title Wednesday with Kawhi Leonard scoring 30 points to lead the Raptors over the injury-hit Golden State Warriors 123-109 in the NBA Finals. Kyle Lowry added 23 points and nine assists while Danny Green and Pascal Siakam each contributed 18 points as the Raptors seized a 2-1 lead in the bestof-seven series, which continues Friday in Oakland. “It feels good,” Leonard said. “Just happy to get a game-three win and move us one step closer to our goal.” Stephen Curry scored a career playoff high 47 points and added eight rebounds and seven assists for a defending cham-

Gin Kings face Elasto Painters, shoot for 3rd straight victory By Jeric Lopez BARANGAY Ginebra shoots for a third straight win as it looks ahead to a clash with ailing Rain or Shine in the resumption of the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup. Slowly but surely gaining steam, the Gin Kings (3-1), armed with a two-game winning streak, aim on continuing their climb even as the Elasto Painters (0-2) will look to break into the win column in their 7 p.m. collision at the Smart Araneta Coliseum tonight. In the appetizer, depleted Phoenix Pulse (1-1) do battle with inconsistent Meralco (2-2) at 4:30 p.m. Ginebra coach Tim Cone admitted that the Gin Kings’ 73-70 triumph over erstwhile unbeaten NorthPort last Saturday wasn’t the nicest of wins. Still, he likes the direction that the defending champions are taking early on in their title defense. “We didn’t have one of our best games last time, but we still got the win. We’re still getting there,” said Cone. “We’re hoping to get better as we go.” The Elasto Painters didn’t exactly have the best start over the weekend, dropping both their first two outings to Meralco and Blackwater, respectively. Rain or Shine import Denzel Bowles will face Cone, his former mentor when he was the resident import of the Magnolia franchise years ago, for the first time. As a result of all the scuffles in its 114-88 defeat at the hands of TNT KaTropa in controversial fashion, the Fuel Masters are left handicapped as they will face the Bolts sans two of their key components. Calvin Abueva is suspended indefinitely after his successive misconducts against TNT’s Terrence Jones and Maika Rivera, a fan and girlfriend of Blackwater guard Bobby Ray Parks, over the weekend while head coach Louie Alas is set to miss two games as well due to his own suspension. In a different commotion, Alas was suspended for getting physical with the KaTropa’s David Semerad in the same aforementioned game.

pion Golden State squad playing without guard Klay Thompson due to a left hamstring strain and forward Kevin Durant with a right calf injury. “Steph was unbelievable,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “He does things I don’t think anybody has done before. He’s amazing.” Green started 6-of-8 from 3-point range, sparking a late third-quarter run that gave Toronto momentum for good. “Danny’s buckets I think boosted our

whole team’s confidence because we’re used to most of the year relying on those,” Raptors coach Nick Nurse said. Golden State fell behind by as many as 14 points in the first half and pulled no closer than seven in the second half despite staying within reach thanks to Curry’s one-man heroics. “We answered a lot of runs, down to seven a bunch, and came back and scored a bucket or hit a three or whatever,” Nurse said. “Each time they chipped we answered back and that’s what you got to do if you’re going to keep your lead.” The Warriors seek a third straight crown and their fourth in five seasons while the Raptors are in the first finals of their 24-season history.

“We’ve got to continue to work and play hard,” Lowry said. “The guys were on me to be aggressive and I did play more aggressive in this atmosphere. It meant a lot.” Golden State decided just before tip-off to bench Thompson, a ﬁve-time NBA AllStar who averages 19.5 points. The team feared he could injure himself worse and miss more games, hoping a game’s rest— even one that snapped his run of 120 career playoff games without a miss—would ensure his health the rest of the way. “The whole point was to not risk a bigger injury,” Kerr said. “We live with that decision. He’s got another couple days to heal. Hopefully he’ll be out there Friday.” AFP

Van der Valk sets new mark of 65, pulls away

PH Volcanoes rise to no. 42 in world rankings

Guido Van der Valk looking good after 36 holes

DANAO City, Cebu—Guido Van der Valk pounded the Club Filipino de Cebu course for the second straight day and came away with a new course record of six-under 65 to turn a shaky one-stroke edge into a whopping six-shot bulge halfway through the ICTSI Club Filipino de Cebu Invitational here yesterday. While the rest of the pack could not seem to master the short but tricky par71 layout softened by overnight rain, the Dutchman kept his romp with another superb all-around game, shooting eight birdies against two bogeys as he bettered his lead-grabbing opening 66 to post a huge lead at 11-under 131. Jhonnel Ababa, who ruled the rainshortened inaugurals of this event last year, did card an under-par round in

AIDRIC Chan dished out the form expected from a player of his caliber, banking on a solid frontside charge to take solo control with a four-under 68 for a three-stroke lead over erstwhile frontrunner Sean Ramos in the third round of Stage 1 of the SEA Games men’s team qualifier at the Luisita Golf and Country Club in Tarlac yesterday. After back-to-back 73s to force a four-way tie at the top, the reigning national junior champion finally got his long game and iron play going, producing three birdies in the first nine holes then bucking two backside bogeys with a three-birdie string from No. 14. With a 214 total, Chan built some cushion heading to the final 18 holes of the two-part qualifiers that will select the three players who will banner the national team in the SEA Games the country is hosting from Nov. 30 to Dec. 10. Ramos, who surged ahead of the field with a 70 Wednesday, recovered from a disastrous opening 40 with a sizzling backside rally, hitting five birdies for a closing 31 that kept the young shotmaker in the hunt for one of the coveted spots in the Phl squad. The 15-year-old Ramos saved a 71 for a 217 while first round co-leader Luis Castro also bounced back from a second round 78 with a 71 to get back into the thick of things in the grueling event organized and conducted by the National Golf Association of the Philippines. He assembled a 218 for third. But a host of others stood within sight of the three berths with Carl Corpus pooling a 219 despite a 73 and Kristoffer Arevalo rebounding from a 79 with a 70 to move to joint fifth at 221 with Gab Manotoc, who co-led in the first round but slipped with a second round 77 and a 75. Ivan Monsalve also rallied with a 70 for a share of seventh at 223 with Edward Dy, who hobbled with a 75, while Alexander Bisera carded a 74 and Lanz Uy and Paolo Wong shot identical 75s for 224s in the event sponsored by the MVP Sports Foundation, the PLDT Group, Cignal and Metro Pacific and hosted by Luisita. The top 12 players plus ties and those within 10 strokes of the leading scorer after Stage I will move to Stage 2 on June 10-13, also at Luisita, which will host the SEAG golf competitions, making this two-stage elims a sort of training for those who will make the team.

overcast skies but his 69 could only net him a 36-hole aggregate of 137 for second but six shots behind heading to the last 36 holes of the P3 million event sponsored by ICTSI. “There was nothing special but I’ve got good swing and the ball carried real well,” said Van der Valk, who birdied Nos. 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 15 inside 10 feet to negate his bogeys on the two par3s (Nos. 8 and 11) on his way to posting a new course mark and moving 36 holes from scoring a follow-up to his breakthrough win at Eagle Ridge last year. Lloyd Go actually looked headed to challenging Van der Valk when he went four-under after 11 holes but the rookie pro drove out-of-bounds twice on the par-4 14th and limped with a quadruple

bogey. He, however, birdied two of the last four to submit a second 69 for joint third with Elmer Salvador, who turned in a 70, and Jay Bayron, who matched par 71, at 138. “It’s okay, still two rounds left. Hopefully, I can still catch up,” said the local ace and former national amateur champion. Michael Bibat, who started the round in joint second with Bayron and Aussie Jack Sullivan, just one stroke off Van der Valk, failed to recover from a bogey-bogey start, ﬁnishing with two more bogeys against three birdies for a one-over 72. He slipped to joint sixth at 139 with Ruﬁno Bayron, who birdied the last two holes at the front for a 68, and Albin Engino, who also rallied with a 69.

THE Philippine Volcanoes moved up in the world rankings after they successfully defended their Asia Rugby Championship Division I title over the weekend in Taiwan. The Volcanoes, who came up with a 29-21 win over Singapore, jumped up 11 places in the World Rugby Rankings to an all-time high of 42nd. This put the Volcanoes some seven places higher than their previous best. The Volcanoes picked up 2.61 rating points over the five days of competition after making it past the semifinals. Singapore remains in 57th place after its 18-13 semifinal win against Chinese Taipei. New Zealand is at no. 1 in the world rankings, followed by Wales, Ireland, England and South Africa. Peter Atencio

Rivera bags Phoenix slalom overall crown

Estefano Rivera of the PMMS/Tough Gear Racing Team scores his second straight win in the Race Motorsports Club Phoenix Pulse Technology National Slalom Series.

ESTEFANO Rivera of PMMS/Tough Gear Racing Team bagged the overall title of the 2019 Race Motorsports Club Phoenix Pulse Technology National Slalom Series’ third leg . Rivera won the overall and Front Wheel best time of the day by clocking 44.24, followed by Richard Gallardo of JAF Racing Team with 44.71. Coming in third is Jevoy Moreno of JAF Racing Team with 44.78, Powee Base with 44.80 and Rod Chang of JAF Racing Team Bulacan with 45.97. Meanwhile, Joseph Ortega of Pongga Racing Team captured the Rear Wheel Production best time of 48.49 Chang brought home the novice best time of 42.06, followed by JP Polintan with 46.97, Leonard Cristobal with 47.51, Amiel Barquez with 48.11 and Karl Sena with 48.93. The 2019 RACE Motorsports Club Phoenix Pulse Technology National Slalom Series with enhanced power and acceleration is also supported by major

sponsors Federal Tyres and 3K Batteries and Robinsons Malls. It is also supported by Starbright Body Kits, Auto Transporter, media partners Stoplight TV, C! Magazine, Auto Car Magazine, Power Wheels Magazine, medical team AEROMED and Walter Lights and Sounds. The event was participated in by Spot Racing Team, Auto force Racing Team, RODLEA Racing Team, PMMS Rennsport Racing Team, Pongga Racing Team, Melworks Bulacan, JAF Racing Team and Tough Gear Racing Team. The fourth leg, where winners of the second leg will get their awards, will be held on June 9 at Robinsons Antipolo while the ﬁfth leg is set on June 23 at Robinsons Sta Rosa. The second Slalom Invitational is slated on Aug. 11 at Robinsons Place Calasiao Pangasinan. For details, contact Bing Bang Dulce at tel. no. 09178119337 or like the event’s Facebook page racemotorsportsclub.

IN BRIEF Cebu Pacific flew 3.1m passengers

CEBU Pacific remained the country’s leading domestic airline in the first quarter while Philippine Airlines sustained its leadership in the international market, data from the Civil Aeronautics Board show. Cebu Pacific carried 3.12 million domestic passengers from January to March. PAL Express, a unit of PAL, flew 1.76 million domestic passengers in the same period. Philippines AirAsia Inc. was third with 1.19 million domestic passengers. Cebgo and Philippine Airlines served 426,433 and 405,396 domestic passengers, respectively. Air Juan Aviation Inc. carried 6,834 passengers; AirSwift Transport Inc.,98,176; and Royal Air Charter Service Inc. with 8,328. The total domestic passenger traffic reached 7.09 million in the first quarter. Meanwhile, PAL flew 1.93 million international passengers in the first quarter. This was followed by Cebu Pacific with 1.41 million and Philippines AirAsia with 610,274 passengers. Darwin G. Amojelar

DMCI Homes buys more land

CONDOMINIUM builder DMCI Homes increased its land bank to 150 hectares as of end-March 2019 as it remains aggressive with residential expansion. DMCI Homes president Alfredo Austria said the 150 hectares of land bank this year were valued at P10 billion, up by 71 percent from 125 hectares worth P6 billion last year. “We have to continue building our land bank as we continue to strengthen our presence in and outside Metro Manila such as Davao and Cebu,” Austria said. “Every year, thousands of new households across different market segments are created all over the country, providing more opportunities for the industry,” he said. DMCI Homes is eyeing to launch 10 projects worth P104 billion this year, including its initial venture in the Cebu property market. It also has new projects in Davao City, Quezon City, Las Piñas City, Pasig City, Mandaluyong City and Manila. Jenniffer B. Austria

Business Economists expect GDP to rebound strongly in Q2 By Julito G. Rada

HE Philippine economy is poised to rebound strongly in the second quarter from a sluggish 5.6-percent expansion in the ﬁrst quarter, private economists said Thursday.

Economists from First Metro Investment Corp. and University of Asia & the Pacific said in a joint report that robust investments, consumer spending after the mid-term elections and benign inflation would support stronger expansion in the second quarter. They said that while the first-quarter gross domestic product growth might be slightly off target, a strong growth was expected by the second quarter before and immediately after the May elec-

tions, putting the economy back on a fast growth path in the second half. The economy grew 6.2 percent in 2018. “Investment spending should continue to lead GDP growth, as durable equipment investments have kept a steady growth pace [even prior to the BSP moves], which we expect to accelerate starting the second quarter not only with election spending but also with a higher bounce in infrastructure and other government spending,” the economists said in the report. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas cut the reserve requirements of universal and commercial banks by a total of 2 percentage points, unleashing about P190 billion in additional peso liquidity into the ﬁnancial system. It complemented the reduction in reserve requirements for universal and commercial banks with a phased 200-basis-point reduction in the reserve requirements for thrift banks and nonbank ﬁnancial institutions with quasi-

banking functions and a 100-basis-point reduction for demand deposits and accounts of rural and cooperative banks effective May 31, 2019. Prior to the RRR cuts, the Monetary Board of the BSP cut the policy rates by 25 basis points to 4.5 percent, the first time in more than six years. The Monetary Board said it considered the declining inflation rate in its decisions. Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that inflation in the first five months settled at 3.5 percent, within the target range of 2 percent to 4 percent for the year. “We think that inflation will go below 3 percent as early as July and to below 2 percent, due to base effects, by September, which boost consumer sentiment and pockets,” the economists said. They said money growth should rally starting May after the BSP cut RRR and policy rates and add to its GIR holdings to insulate the economy better from possible external shocks.

Cemex deploys digital solution

MULTINATIONAL company Cemex S.A.B de C.V. said it successfully completed the deployment of Cemex Go platform, setting the foundation for a higher standard of customer service in the global building materials industry. Cemex Go is a transformative, stateof-the-art digital solution that automates order-to-cash workﬂows, enabling customers to purchase products, track deliveries and manage orders seamlessly in real time. Cemex said it is committed to proactively developing innovative products and cutting-edge solutions to help fulfill its customers’ business needs. The ongoing success of Cemex Go is a testament to the company’s customercentric commitment and relentless focus on continuous innovation and improvement, it said. “We are incredibly proud that our vision of providing a superior customer experience enabled by digital technology has been deployed to our customers around the world. Cemex Go has proven itself as a game changer, an established and essential tool for our customers, accessible anywhere, any time to help them run their businesses with increased efﬁciency,” said Cemex chief executive Fernando Gonzalez. “And we will not stop here. We are still only in the initial stages of an ongoing digital transformation within Cemex to provide customers with an unparalleled omnichannel experience and to reinvent the building materials industry from the ground up. We will continue evolving Cemex Go in order to keep enhancing the service we provide to our customers,” Gonzales said.

World Bank lauds PH for ‘proactive’ tax reform program A TOP World Bank executive lauded the Duterte administration for implementing a “proactive and forward-looking” comprehensive tax reform program that aims to raise funding for public infrastructure and social services that lay the foundation for long-term high growth. World Bank director of macroeconomics, trade and investment Lalita Moorty said during a recent forum on the Philippine economy in Washington D.C. that it was “quite a change” to see a country implementing tax reform proactively with an eye on sustained growth, unlike the common practice for countries to implement such reforms only when they were in the middle of a ﬁscal crisis. She said this was impressive because the government had enabled the economy to “grow so much” even as it managed to bring down its debtto-GDP (gross domestic product) ratio. Moorty said the Philippines’ recent accomplishments on the economic front, especially in implementing a tax reform program to enable the government to aggressively increase its investments on infrastructure and social services, was “quite impressive.” She also cited the Philippine government’s sound ﬁscal policies as shown by its declining debt-to-GDP ratio while maintaining rapid growth and increased public spending. Moorty described the implementation of the Duterte administration’s tax reform program absent a crisis as a “pro-active and forward-looking” approach to carrying out such reforms. Julito G. Rada

OUTSTANDING ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD. Epson Precision (Philippines) Inc. receives its third Philippine Economic Zone Authority’s Outstanding Environmental Performance award for its sustained environmental compliance and innovative systems from 2016 to 2018. Attending the awarding ceremony during the 24th Investors’ Night at World Trade Center in Pasay City are (from left) EPPI accounting department manager Yoshiharu Koike, senior general manager Kiyofumi Nakajima, environment supervisor Rayza Laureta, president Akifumi Takei and environment manager Joyce Tan-Royales.

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

SMC finalizes plan to develop 1,200-MW solar, renewable plants By Alena Mae S. Flores CONGLOMERATE San Miguel Corp. firmed up its plan to develop 1,200-megawatt renewable energy projects by 2024, its top executive said. San Miguel president Ramon Ang said the target was to complete 1,200 MW of renewable energy projects by 2024. “It’s comprised of solar, wind and pumped-storage hydro,” he said. Ang did not provide additional details because of the intense competition in the energy sector. “We have started around at least 70 percent of this RE. We have already bought some of the equipment… Some still need ECC [environmental compliance certificate] but they are already being processed,” Ang said. He said the company was looking at wind projects in potential sites such as Mariveles, Bataan and Badoc, Ilocos Norte. Ang last year bared plans to put up 1,000 MW of renewable energy projects in the next 10 years which include hydro, wind, battery storage and tidal power projects. “SMC is going to invest heavily on renewable energy,” Ang said earlier. “We have a responsibility as a major power producer to do our share in pushing for a sustainable clean energy economy, but it has to be done in the most efficient way possible for the consumers,” he said. “With critical mass and better technology, I believe we should be able to strike the perfect balance between renewable and non-renewable sources in terms of the country’s energy mix,” he said. He said San Miguel has a team that studies and develops solutions across the clean energy sector. “We are challenging ourselves to be able to operate in the most environmentally-responsible manner while taking into consideration energy security and affordability to the consumers. Initiatives to achieve this objective are underway and I’m proud to say, we are making good headway,” he said. San Miguel owns 60 percent of the 218-MW Angat hydropower plant. It is also the independent power producer administrator of the Ilijan natural gas plant in Batangas and the San Roque hydro station in Pangasinan province.

Meralco announces second straight month of power rate reduction CONSUMERS will enjoy lower rates this month amounting to P0.1948 per kilowatt-hour equivalent to P39 in their monthly bill despite the series of red and yellow alerts in the Luzon grid, power retailer Manila Electric Co. said Thursday. Meralco said in a statement this marked the second consecutive month of power rate reduction. The overall electricity rates for a typical household consuming 200 kilowatt-hours decreased to P10.0918 per kWh in June from P10.2866 per kWh in May. “This second straight month of electricity rate decrease represents a total downward adjustment of around P0.47 per kWh since May,” the country’s biggest power distributor said. Meralco said generation charges for June went down to P5.4158 per kWh,

a decrease of P0.1350 per kWh amid lower charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, the country’s trading ﬂoor of electricity. “The generation charge decrease is primarily due to lower charges from the WESM, despite increases in the charges of independent power producers and power supply agreements,” Meralco said. The company’s electricity purchases from WESM decreased by P0.31 per kWh despite the tightness of supply in the Luzon grid. WESM provided nine percent of Meralco’s supply needs. Grid operator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines placed the Luzon grid on red alert twice in May, compared to seven times in April. The number of yellow alerts, however, increased to 13 instances last month from seven in

April. NGCP also placed the Luzon grid on red alert status from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday but no manual load dropping was implemented, thus sparing consumers from a blackout. NGCP also placed the Luzon grid on yellow alert from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday as power plants with a combined capacity of 900 MW went on forced outage while some power plants also operated below capacity. Meralco said the cost of power from Meralco’s IPPs and PSAs increased by P0.0556 per kWh and P0.0717 per kWh, respectively because of the weakening of the peso against US dollar. Dollar-denominated costs of IPPs and PSAs accounted for 97 percent and 68 percent of their charges, respectively.

Meralco sourced 41 percent and 50 percent of its power requirement from its IPPs and PSAs, respectively. Transmission charges for residential customers decreased by P0.0427 per kWh on lower ancillary service charges while taxes and other charges decreased by P0.0171 per kWh. Meralco’s distribution, supply and metering charges were unchanged. Meralco said it was not earning from the pass-through charges such as the generation and transmission charges. Meralco also announced that the 455-megawatt San Buenaventura power plant, a new power supplier of the company with power facilities located in Mauban, Quezon, started commissioning tests this month and provided two percent of total energy requirements. Alena Mae S. Flores

Ayala launches China-made Maxus vans By Othel V. Campos AC INDUSTRIAL Technology Holdings Inc., a unit of Ayala Corp., launched Wednesday night the Maxus brand of vehicles in the Philippines. Maxus became the sixth automotive brand under the technology holdings arm of Ayala Corp. The brand was acquired via Volkswagen to herald the entry of the Ayala Group into the highly competitive multi-purpose vehicle segment. “This is a brand with a very long European heritage and with Volkswagen acquiring it, it goes local. This I think will complement all the product line-up we have under AC Automotives,” said Maxus brand general manager Reginald See. Maxus gives owners the opportunity to use it as a shuttle or passenger service van, a cargo van, a tourist service van or simply a family vehicle at a cost of P1.2 million to P1.5 million. The brand aims to sell up to 600 units

for the ﬁrst two models―the nine-seater G10 and the 18-seater V80 transporter and cargo van which are now available at the Maxus showroom in Greenﬁelds District, Mandaluyong City. “We aim to double or even triple sales in 2020 after we already have a feel of the local market. This will be a growth that will surpass industry performance that grew at an average of 8 to 10 percent over the last 10 years,” said See. China-made Maxus comes in as completely-built up unit. See said they were studying plans to assemble the vehicles in the Philippines under the authority of AC Industrials. See said the company was optimistic about Maxus brand’s entry into the local automotive market. “I don’t think there’s good timing or bad timing. As long as you have the right product and with the right support for that product, anytime would be good,” he said.

LOGISTICS EXPO. JAC Automobile International Philippines Inc. is joining the Transport and Logistics Philippines—the largest international transport system, delivery vehicles, logistics and supply chain equipment and service provider exhibition and conference on Aug. 15 to 17 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. JAC will exhibit its main line of brands—Hangchawarehouse equipment, JAC Motors Philippines and other vehicles. Shown are (from left) JAC sales executive Marie Joan Mallari, sales executive Reychelle Angelu Fababier, sales manager Zhino Koe, Global Link MP project manager Paula Dela Paz-Pisase, vice president for finance Jamie Sy, marketing manager Rey Zaldy Dela Cruz and sales executive Joffer Santos.

Business

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market advances; First Gen up

TOCKS rose Thursday after the World Bank said the Philippines would likely grow 6.4 percent this year despite its prediction of sluggish global economic expansion.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index, the 30-company benchmark, rose 14 points, or 0.2 percent, to close at 7,959.86, as four of the six major subsectors advanced. The bellwether was also up 6.6 percent since the start of the year. The broader all-share index gained 1 point to settle at 4,884.87, on a value turnover of P7.3 billion. Gainers matched losers at 98 apiece, while 49 issues were unchanged. Eleven of the 20 most active stocks ended in the green, led by Phinma Energy Corp. which climbed 2.8 percent to P2.54 and First Gen Corp. which

advanced 2.1 percent to P24. Meanwhile, Asian stocks reversed early gains Thursday as trade tensions continued to weigh on investors’ minds, with some cautiously hoping that the United States and Mexico will strike a compromise on tariffs. US President Donald Trump said some progress—but not enough—had been made in Wednesday’s talks with Mexico on averting the tariffs he intends to impose next week unless the ﬂow of undocumented migrants into the US is stopped. Trump tweeted that discussions would resume Thursday. Coming on the heels of the US-China trade war, Trump’s threats against Mexico have intensiﬁed fears for the global economy, hurting oil prices and lowering overall growth forecasts. A World Bank report released Tuesday showed reduced global growth forecasts for the year, with the economy expected

to expand by 2.6 percent, well below the three percent increase seen in 2018. Crude prices made a tepid recovery Thursday, following the previous day’s decline after data from the US Department of Energy showed domestic production rising, and Morgan Stanley on Wednesday slashed its oil price forecast, citing a “sharper-than-expected slowdown in demand”. “Oil prices remain under pressure, dragged down by an unexpected gain in US inventories and comments from the head of Russian state oil producer Rosneft questioning the point of a deal with Opec to withhold supplies,” said Dean Popplewell, vice president of market analysis at Oanda. But Oanda senior market analyst Edward Moya said oil markets “could see strong bullish momentum return if we see a softer US dollar, trade progress from the G20 Summit, prompting the alleviation of demand fears, geopolitical

risks will keep supplies tight and rising summer demand”. Hong Kong and Tokyo were flat while Shanghai dropped 1.2 percent. But Seoul eked out modest gains of 0.1 percent. There are hopes that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet at the G20 summit in Japan this month to jump-start stalled tariff negotiations. Investors are also looking ahead to Thursday’s gathering of the European Central Bank, hoping for fresh measures to tackle rising worries about growth and inflation in the eurozone. European markets edged up in early trade, with London climbing 0.4 percent and Paris gaining 0.1 percent. Frankfurt was flat. Comments by Fed Chairman Jerome Powell on Tuesday acknowledging trade tensions and signaling that the central bank was willing to act if necessary helped investors overlook a weak report on US private-sector hiring. With AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2019

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS ASIA UNITED BANK PH ISLANDS BDO LEASING BDO UNIBANK BRIGHT KINDLE CHINABANK COL FINANCIAL EAST WEST BANK FERRONOUX HLDG FILIPINO FUND FIRST ABACUS IREMIT MANULIFE MEDCO HLDG METROBANK NTL REINSURANCE PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PHIL STOCK EXCH PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK VANTAGE

59 81.25 2.23 137.5 1.18 26.8 18.74 11.62 4.42 7.87 0.52 1.37 780 0.49 71 0.99 13.98 57.95 184.9 57.75 26.75 172 60.8 1.12

59 82.5 2.23 139.2 1.18 26.85 18.74 11.64 4.49 7.87 0.52 1.37 780 0.495 71.3 0.99 14 57.95 184.9 57.75 28 173.8 60.8 1.12

59 81 2.23 135.5 1.18 26.65 18.74 11.5 4.4 7.87 0.52 1.37 780 0.47 70.3 0.97 13.22 57.35 184.5 57.75 26.5 167.9 59.85 1.12

59 81 2.23 138 1.18 26.85 18.74 11.5 4.49 7.87 0.52 1.37 780 0.495 70.45 0.99 13.22 57.8 184.5 57.75 27.5 172.1 60 1.12

1,050 2,846,360 4,000 2,252,790 45,000 127,000 5,900 191,400 37,000 600 25,000 80,000 180 340,000 4,116,590 123,000 2,900 68,670 110 660 100,100 2,183,820 4,590 1,000

61,950 232,165,129 8,920 310,434,793 53,100 3,405,125 110,566 2,211,894 163,210 4,722 13,000 109,600 140,400 166,950 291,002,953 119,920 40,352 3,958,072 20,315 38,115 2,731,860 369,068,990 276,442 1,120

56,050 -7,809,507 47,458,018.00 -187,645 -769,000 -4,410 -140,400 -162,055,198 -18,430 1,397,458.50 -30,030 27,750 -31,177,121 -125,842.50 -

INDUSTRIAL ABOITIZ POWER AGRINURTURE ALLIANCE SELECT ALSONS CONS BASIC ENERGY CEMEX HLDG CENTURY FOOD CHEMPHIL CIRTEK HLDG CNTRL AZUCARERA CROWN ASIA 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 PHINMA PHINMA ENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL PRYCE CORP RFM CORP ROXAS AND CO ROXAS HLDG SFA SEMICON SHAKEYS PIZZA SMC FOODANDBEV SPC POWER SWIFT FOODS TKC METALS UNIV ROBINA VICTORIAS VITARICH VULCAN INDL

35.8 14.5 0.76 1.39 0.295 2.49 14.5 111 25.5 16.4 2.03 5.6 10.14 15.92 10.3 7.63 23.5 77 42.5 2.56 13.6 10.58 1.7 279 4.22 3.5 9.9 23.4 12.54 20.4 390 0.19 5.43 1.24 4.62 6.11 9.2 2.47 12.28 41.95 4.9 5 1.55 1.91 1.22 13.9 108.9 6.55 0.127 1.46 167.9 2.5 1.29 1.3

36 14.5 0.76 1.4 0.295 2.51 14.62 111 25.5 16.4 2.03 5.77 10.2 16.16 10.36 7.64 24.35 77.35 42.9 2.58 13.62 10.6 1.7 281 4.22 3.5 9.9 24.3 12.54 20.4 390.2 0.19 5.43 1.24 4.62 6.11 9.2 2.57 12.28 42.3 4.9 5.08 1.57 1.92 1.22 14.12 108.9 6.6 0.127 1.51 168.7 2.54 1.29 1.37

35.5 14.3 0.72 1.38 0.28 2.32 14.5 110 24.9 16.4 1.99 5.6 10.02 15.92 10.16 7.5 23.3 76.5 42.5 2.48 13.5 10.38 1.67 275 4.22 3.5 9.4 23.25 12.24 20 386.4 0.19 5.4 1.21 4.58 6.05 9.06 2.46 12 41.2 4.9 5 1.52 1.91 1.18 13.9 106.2 6.5 0.127 1.39 165.2 2.5 1.24 1.28

35.5 14.48 0.73 1.4 0.285 2.45 14.54 110 24.9 16.4 2 5.75 10.12 16 10.36 7.6 24 76.6 42.5 2.58 13.54 10.5 1.68 275 4.22 3.5 9.5 24.3 12.34 20 389 0.19 5.43 1.23 4.59 6.05 9.06 2.54 12.28 41.2 4.9 5 1.52 1.92 1.18 14.12 106.2 6.53 0.127 1.39 168 2.5 1.25 1.33

1,388,600 1,943,200 1,668,000 218,000 5,340,000 17,619,000 640,600 170 91,400 1,800 137,000 8,700 5,874,800 244,800 302,800 306,700 6,233,200 52,870 312,800 7,745,000 388,200 122,400 246,000 1,161,490 500,000 1,000 11,800 1,594,500 670,100 3,502,100 110,010 20,000 10,500 1,645,000 58,000 912,400 12,000 30,269,000 54,200 168,500 29,000 90,800 1,060,000 59,000 153,000 892,800 312,150 107,100 230,000 7,451,000 893,400 1,087,000 5,021,000 7,145,000

49,337,535 28,125,888 1,218,200 302,760 1,529,750 42,556,670 9,311,100 18,730 2,285,050 29,520 274,520 49,748 59,302,840 3,918,932 3,105,692 2,323,590 148,892,090 4,072,959.50 13,295,715 19,693,210 5,257,510 1,284,942 412,610 323,871,910 2,110,000 3,500 111,500 37,359,315 8,309,904 70,225,280 42,674,332 3,800 56,778 2,013,640 266,600 5,536,273 109,260 76,609,160 656,706 7,021,730 142,100 454,024 1,629,000 112,750 181,030 12,548,084 33,215,599 700,846 29,210 10,743,840 149,712,188 2,722,360 6,313,960 9,519,220

-6,513,985.00 15,807,226 73,000 -42,800 -5,484,400 1,559,554 17,500 -19,487,590 1,430,768 491,844 -789,392 13,306,890 -2,080,014.50 6,846,750 -569,240.00 1,120,446 -475,706 8,400 -102,568,412 4,248,825 -1,820,820 -56,128,400 -2,045,112 60,900 -919,643 -2,280,400.00 -3,888,580 459,000 328,762 -750,145 -120,000 -74,492,319 2,170,000 109,270 26,000

HOLDING FIRMS ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANGLO PHIL HLDG ANSCOR ASIABEST GROUP ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP AYALA LAND LOG COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA PRIME MEDIA SAN MIGUEL CORP SM INVESTMENTS SOC RESOURCES SOLID GROUP TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

0.6 54.4 15.8 0.78 6.71 14 1.29 1.27 931 3.65 6.83 10.48 14 870 6.21 62.5 0.5 4.69 15.1 0.53 4.49 0.039 1.08 185.5 952 0.95 1.37 265.2 0.233 0.3

0.62 54.75 15.84 0.79 6.87 14.4 1.3 1.27 931.5 3.73 6.93 10.48 14 870 6.3 63.45 0.5 4.69 15.24 0.57 4.55 0.039 1.08 187 965 0.98 1.37 269 0.236 0.31

0.58 54.15 15.46 0.76 6.7 13.84 1.25 1.26 921 3.65 6.83 10.26 13.8 850 6.2 61.5 0.475 4.61 15.08 0.53 4.36 0.038 1.08 183.1 940.5 0.94 1.37 265 0.232 0.295

0.61 54.55 15.6 0.76 6.87 13.84 1.27 1.27 927.5 3.71 6.89 10.38 14 861 6.2 62.65 0.495 4.61 15.1 0.57 4.43 0.039 1.08 185 965 0.96 1.37 269 0.232 0.3

26,751,000 554,140 5,048,200 851,000 24,900 136,600 1,239,000 277,000 655,020 6,505,000 164,800 2,907,400 12,300 77,310 71,300 1,705,640 55,000 4,096,000 4,720,300 305,000 33,470,000 10,100,000 12,000 546,930 263,610 1,259,000 8,000 6,950 410,000 15,740,000

16,201,170 30,185,115.50 78,567,902 652,060 166,879 1,896,822 1,562,720 349,610 607,528,695 24,104,140 1,131,016 30,117,658 171,482 66,454,700 443,627 106,693,512.50 26,195 19,007,030 71,283,808 168,000 148,328,580 388,500 12,960 101,218,008 251,270,140 1,201,690 10,960 1,855,978 95,270 4,775,950

-197,120 -9,320,906.50 -12,620,226 39,000 163,480 97,520 23,233,815 -5,276,550 -37,073 -2,248,034 -18,162 -22,642,925 -24,623,529 -919,650 -16,259,114 3,640,120 6,828,459 51,862,790 34,200 690,328 -420,950

PROPERTY 8990 HLDG A BROWN ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CEBU HLDG CENTURY PROP CITY AND LAND CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES CYBER BAY DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES PHIL INFRADEV PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG

16.28 0.79 2.1 0.78 51 2.34 4.82 6.12 0.63 0.81 0.96 0.225 0.375 9.84 26 0.47 0.125 1.76 1.43 6.15 0.31 0.47 1.91 0.405 2.63 26.55 2.12 2.99 39.35

16.3 0.81 2.11 0.79 51.25 2.35 4.92 6.4 0.63 0.84 0.98 0.227 0.38 10.08 26.35 0.475 0.125 1.8 1.44 6.16 0.32 0.49 2.05 0.41 2.63 26.55 2.12 2.99 39.35

16.1 0.78 2.09 0.78 50 2.32 4.82 6.12 0.58 0.79 0.95 0.225 0.37 9.8 25.5 0.47 0.125 1.74 1.41 6.1 0.305 0.47 1.91 0.405 2.14 25.9 2.07 2.99 39

16.24 0.81 2.1 0.79 50 2.33 4.85 6.4 0.58 0.84 0.95 0.227 0.38 10.08 26 0.47 0.125 1.78 1.43 6.15 0.315 0.49 2 0.41 2.18 26.05 2.08 2.99 39.15

285,500 307,000 387,000 345,000 22,628,230 439,000 612,000 9,600 60,640,000 157,000 98,000 160,000 150,000 43,600 683,800 870,000 500,000 51,095,000 1,797,000 12,017,400 6,230,000 60,000 20,688,000 180,000 7,431,000 2,574,600 29,000 3,000 8,494,100

4,622,586 244,000 812,780 270,880 1,143,095,672.50 1,024,830 2,985,930 61,012 36,361,520 125,180 93,990 36,110 56,300 437,408 17,752,985 409,000 62,500 90,682,820 2,543,400 73,656,008 1,957,650 29,200 41,403,760 73,550 17,377,260 67,227,840 60,630 8,970 333,379,835

-253,258 11,850 21,000 31,200 30,523,893.50 -53,520 -299,510 -448,960 6,780 6,538,205 -21,118,480 42,193,349 28,350 -534,000 -93,670 119,380 4,240 -47,857,810

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS VISTA LAND

1.9 6.38 7.15

1.93 6.38 7.15

1.88 6.34 7.07

1.93 6.34 7.12

80,000 54,600 3,974,700

151,590 347,089 28,279,795

19,110 -7,555,553

SERVICES 2GO GROUP ABS CBN ACESITE HOTEL APC GROUP APOLLO GLOBAL ASIAN TERMINALS BERJAYA BLOOMBERRY BOULEVARD HLDG CEBU AIR CENTRO ESCOLAR CHELSEA DFNN INC EASYCALL GLOBE TELECOM GMA NETWORK GOLDEN BRIA GRAND PLAZA HARBOR STAR IMPERIAL INTL CONTAINER IPEOPLE IPM HLDG ISLAND INFO ISM COMM LBC EXPRESS LEISURE AND RES LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA MANILA BULLETIN MANILA JOCKEY METRO RETAIL METROALLIANCE A MLA BRDCASTING NOW CORP PACIFIC ONLINE PAL HLDG PAXYS PH RESORTS GRP 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

11.6 18.36 1.31 0.43 0.044 20.25 2.8 11.98 0.06 91.3 7.05 6.59 5.88 10.34 2,294 5.41 414.6 10.08 2.28 1.76 136 10.5 5.7 0.122 6.09 14 4.28 0.88 21.2 0.56 3.68 2.7 1.58 14.3 2.8 3.18 9.4 3.05 4.9 9 123.9 3.3 1,246 0.78 0.83 45.5 73 9.32 3.2 0.73 0.36 5.25 0.7 17.1

11.6 18.5 1.38 0.445 0.044 21.45 2.83 11.98 0.06 91.95 7.05 6.59 5.88 10.6 2,308 5.41 414.6 10.08 2.28 1.86 137 10.5 5.7 0.125 6.1 14 4.28 0.94 21.2 0.56 3.72 2.7 1.58 14.3 2.83 3.2 9.75 3.05 4.9 9 124 3.44 1,268 0.79 0.85 45.8 73.5 9.5 3.41 0.74 0.38 5.25 0.73 17.2

11.4 18.36 1.31 0.43 0.044 20.25 2.72 11.82 0.056 91.2 7.05 6.4 5.88 10.34 2,250 5.38 413 10.02 2.18 1.76 134.9 10.26 5.7 0.121 5.9 13.9 4.06 0.88 20.4 0.55 3.68 2.66 1.55 14.3 2.5 3.16 9.4 3.05 4.66 8.9 118.1 3.26 1,230 0.77 0.82 44.95 72.2 9.22 3.2 0.72 0.355 5.18 0.68 17

11.4 18.46 1.38 0.445 0.044 21.45 2.82 11.94 0.057 91.5 7.05 6.4 5.88 10.48 2,274 5.4 413 10.02 2.22 1.86 136 10.5 5.7 0.122 6 14 4.11 0.88 20.75 0.56 3.68 2.66 1.55 14.3 2.5 3.2 9.75 3.05 4.87 9 124 3.36 1,230 0.78 0.84 45.8 72.95 9.49 3.38 0.72 0.375 5.25 0.71 17.04

64,400 74,800 16,000 2,060,000 4,100,000 900 567,000 1,512,900 59,740,000 251,480 500 1,700,900 10,000 17,000 50,600 68,700 800 800 1,193,000 5,000 1,483,460 1,200 10,000 870,000 4,916,900 3,100 4,076,000 2,551,000 312,100 873,000 15,000 1,900,000 40,000 500 9,608,000 31,000 20,300 24,000 17,000 2,400 46,740 1,331,000 269,330 3,737,000 12,867,000 1,310,100 215,360 65,600 18,166,000 4,689,000 13,230,000 1,670,900 5,000,000 1,865,600

745,600 1,377,288 21,650 899,450 180,400 18,870 1,573,670 18,029,314 3,427,280 23,012,855.50 3,525 10,974,734 58,800 177,000 115,050,490 370,652 330,452 8,022 2,645,170 9,200 201,825,712 12,360 57,000 105,570 29,467,785 43,370 16,809,020 2,318,220 6,473,695 480,810 55,600 5,073,560 62,900 7,150 25,186,190 98,780 193,412 73,200 81,330 21,569 5,793,646 4,441,500 334,776,855 2,901,950 10,812,480 59,774,985 15,710,397 612,201 59,881,600 3,383,570 4,898,650 8,705,927 3,593,540 31,892,354

47,140 1,748,744 -29,640 -3,265,015 782,414.00 -58,800 39,263,440 154,000 29,256,118 1,328,852.00 -14,000 -516,730 -119,130 -847,025 2,660 -360,810 3,190 47,500 -73,200.00 61,091 -653,000 -108,686,080 254,280 -470,400 30,386,170 -11,535,197 -266,070 30,519,480 284,550 44,400 -4,774,884 1,394,950

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

0.0019 1.18 12.38 2.8 0.28 7.71 1.48 0.244 0.109 0.115 0.0075 0.0076 1.03 2.31 1 0.55 0.88 0.011 0.011 0.011 3.65 3.24 8.29 21.6

0.0019 1.18 12.38 2.8 0.28 7.76 1.48 0.244 0.113 0.13 0.0075 0.0077 1.03 2.33 1.01 0.55 0.89 0.012 0.011 0.011 3.85 3.36 8.29 21.9

0.0019 1.12 12.38 2.79 0.28 7.7 1.47 0.226 0.108 0.115 0.0075 0.0076 1.03 2.26 1 0.55 0.87 0.011 0.011 0.01 3.65 3.24 7.8 21.55

0.0019 1.15 12.38 2.79 0.28 7.7 1.48 0.24 0.112 0.13 0.0075 0.0077 1.03 2.3 1.01 0.55 0.89 0.011 0.011 0.01 3.84 3.34 7.88 21.8

2,000,000 1,577,000 1,800 49,000 240,000 13,700 4,289,000 250,000 4,800,000 1,800,000 1,000,000 2,000,000 5,000 759,000 16,000 258,000 108,000 4,800,000 1,900,000 4,400,000 309,000 2,765,000 5,144,300 1,954,400

3,800 1,813,740 22,284 136,960 67,200 105,630 6,342,220 58,230 527,260 218,030 7,500 15,300 5,150 1,747,300 16,030 141,900 94,690 54,300 20,900 46,400 1,154,460 9,194,800 40,805,782 42,445,795

-128,900.00 622,020 -244,570.00 -39,910 -3,522,276 -8,473,295

PREFERRED AC PREF B2 DD PREF FGEN PREF G FPH PREF C GLO PREF P GMA HLDG PDR LR PREF MWIDE PREF PCOR PREF 2A PCOR PREF 2B PNX PREF 3A PNX PREF 3B SMC FB PREF 2 SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2D SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2F SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2I

487 97.55 104.8 456 487 5.2 1 102.5 995 990 99.8 105.5 975 75.4 77 72.1 72.7 74 74.35 73 73.7

498 98.5 104.8 456 487 5.2 1 102.5 995 990 99.8 105.5 975 75.5 77 72.1 73.95 74.75 74.35 73 73.7

487 97.55 104.8 456 487 5.2 1 102.4 985 990 99 102 974.5 75.4 77 72.1 72 73.9 74.35 73 73.7

497 98.5 104.8 456 487 5.2 1 102.4 985 990 99 102 974.5 75.4 77 72.1 72.1 74.75 74.35 73 73.7

3,020 66,810 4,000 20 230 8,900 542,000 120 20 10 5,940 510 20 13,490 1,830 2,700 45,700 15,060 5,000 13,400 2,800

1,500,850 6,579,808 419,200 9,120 112,010 46,280 542,000 12,290 19,800 9,900 588,930 53,070 19,495 1,017,153 140,910 194,670 3,338,305 1,120,835 371,750 978,200 206,360

-46,280 -2,050 9,910 -

WARRANTS LR WARRANT

2.06

1.96

464,000

927,520

SME ITALPINAS XURPAS

4.8 1.03

4.67 1

4.7 1.02

133,000 2,282,000

626,150 2,310,320

94,200 6,060

NAME

MS EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS FIRST METRO ETF

117.1

119.3

117.1

119

5,290

629,581

119,000

DDS USD DMPL A1 USD TECH B2

10.16 1

4,500 20,000

45,720 20,000

-45,720 -

TRADING SUMMARY

FINANCIAL

12,729,910

INDUSTRIAL

116,420,825

HOLDING FIRMS

129,265,736

PROPERTY

205,444,817

SERVICES

165,682,480

MINING & OIL

42,808,456

GRAND TOTAL

674,774,735

VALUE 1,722.74 (up) 9.39 1,245,024,906.67 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 11,567.99 (down) 22.12 1,248,698,002.20 HOLDING FIRMS 7,625.78 (up) 34.68 1,702,362,701.70 PROPERTY 4,336.00 (down) 12.70 1,664.47 (up) 1.55 1,968,062,333.45 SERVICES MINING & OIL 7,336.93 (up) 56.92 1,064,021,963.19 PSEI 7,959.86 (up) 14.49 105,096,099.158 All Shares Index 4,884.87 (up) 1.65 7,336,840,635.07 Gainers: 98; Losers: 98; Unchanged: 49; Total: 245

Cemex fails to secure vote for increased capital stock By Jenniffer B. Austria CEMEX Holdings Philippines Inc. said it failed to secure the required twothirds of votes from shareholders to increase its authorized capital stock to P18.31 billion from P5.2 billion which would have enabled the company to raise fresh funds. CHP said in a disclosure to the stock exchange while the proposed increase in the capital stock was voted affirmatively by shareholders representing 64.69 percent of total issued shares, it was short of the two-thirds of the required affirmative votes for the proposal. “Following this, CHP announced that it will continue to evaluate different options to strengthen CHP’s capital structure,” the company said. It said with the results of the voting, the planned $250 million (P13.1 billion) equity offering would not push through in the short term. CHP’s board of directors approved in April the increase in the company’s capital stock to enable it to raise funds to finance the expansion of Solid Cement plant in Rizal, improve its capital structure and provide balance sheet flexibility. CHP is currently constructing another cement line in Antipolo Rizal that is capable of producing 1.5 million metric tons annually. The $235-million expansion plan is expected to increase CHP’s cement capacity by 26 percent. The new line is expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2020. CHP budgeted P7.75 billion in 2019 capital expenditures primarily to fund Solid Cement plant’s expansion. Solid Cement is producing 1.9 million metric tons of cement for Southern Luzon and the National Capital Region. CHP reported a net income of P172 million in the first quarter, up 137 percent from P73 million a year ago on better operating income and lower foreign exchange losses. Net sales climbed six percent in January to March this year to P6.23 billion from P5.89 billion in the same period last year on higher prices.

D.M. Wenceslao secures P4.3b in reservation sales PROPERTY and construction company D.M. Wenceslao & Associates Inc. said Thursday its newly-launched four-tower residential condominium project MidPark Towers generated P4.3 billion in reservation sales. DMWAI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it sold 278 units from the first two buildings of MidPark Towers, representing a 90-percent percent take-up out of 309 units launched in November 2018. The units were sold at an average selling price of P250,000 per square meter. “The overwhelming response from homebuyers of MidPark Towers exceeded our expectations,” DMWAI chief executives Delfin Angelo Wenceslao said. “This reflects strong demand for quality homes and real estate investment opportunities among Filipinos and foreigners,” he said. MidPark Towers is a four 15-story residential development in Aseana City in Parañaque. The company said that following the success of the first two towers, the third tower would be released and available for purchase beginning June 2019. It will house 204 residential units with base prices starting at P10.8 million or P275,000 per sqm for the smallest 40-sqm studio units. It was 25 percent higher than the launch price of P220,000 per sqm for the first two towers. All four towers are slated for completion by 2023. Centrally located in Aseana City, MidPark Towers is bordered by two main avenues―Aseana Avenue and Macapagal Boulevard. The property is within walking distance from Ayala Malls Bay Area and the planned Light Rail Transit Aseana station. Jenniffer B. Austria

World

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Russia’s role in world war gone in most French minds

IN BRIEF Extradition plans ‘a terrible blow’

HONG KONG―Hong Kong’s last colonial governor on Thursday described controversial plans to allow extraditions to China as “a terrible blow” to the ﬁnancial hub’s reputation as lawyers prepared to hold a rare silent march to protest the proposals. The city’s pro-Beijing government is pushing a bill through the legislature that would allow extraditions to any jurisdiction with which it doesn’t already have a treaty―including mainland China for the ﬁrst time.

The plans have sparked some of the biggest protests the city has seen in recent years as well as a crescendo of criticism from inﬂuential legal groups, business associations and western diplomats. Critics fear the law, if passed, will tangle people up in China’s opaque and politicized court system. “It’s a proposal, or a set of proposals, which strike a terrible blow... against the rule of law, against Hong Kong’s stability and security, against Hong Kong’s position as a great international trading hub,” Chris Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong, said in a video statement issued on Thursday. The government has argued the proposal is needed to plug existing loopholes and that the law needs to be passed quickly in order to extradite a Hong Kong man who is wanted in Taiwan for murdering his girlfriend. But critics fear the Taiwanese case is being used to ram the law through the city’s parliament at the behest of Beijing. Patten called the government’s arguments “absolute nonsense”, saying the Taiwan case could be dealt with under Hong Kong’s common law. He described the move as an attempt “to remove the ﬁrewall between Hong Kong’s rule of law” and China “where there aren’t any independent courts, where the courts and the security services and the party’s rules... are rolled all together”. Patten’s comments came as city lawyers are preparing to take to the streets in a silent march on Thursday evening, a rare protest from within the city’s judicial community.

This week the city’s inﬂuential Law Society published a detailed critique of the proposals, adding to opposition already voiced by the Bar Association and multiple chambers of commerce. AFP

Tourist boat death toll up to 15

BUDAPEST―The bodies of two more South Korean tourists have been found after a sightseeing vessel sank in Budapest last week, bringing the death toll to 15, with 13 still missing, police said. The Mermaid, with mainly South Koreans aboard, overturned and sank on May 29, seconds after colliding with a bigger cruise ship on a busy stretch of the Danube river in the heart of Budapest. Police said late Wednesday that a body found 50 kilometers south of the Hungarian capital, near the town of Ercsi, was that of a female South Korean passenger from the stricken boat. A body recovered from the Danube near the accident scene in Budapest was also a female South Korean victim, according to a statement. Divers have been unable to enter the sunken boat due to the strong current in a river swollen after weeks of rain. A barge carrying a crane powerful enough to lift the Mermaid arrived in Budapest Wednesday but was to remain docked in the north of the city until the river level subsides enough to allow it to pass under several bridges to reach the accident scene. Experts said the crane was unlikely to begin the salvage operation before the weekend. The captain of the river cruise ship, the Viking Sigyn, was charged Saturday over the accident. He was detained by police on Thursday for questioning for “endangering waterborne trafﬁc resulting in multiple deaths”. His lawyers have said the 64-year-old veteran is “devastated” by the accident and has insisted he did not make any error. According to South Korean media reports, Seoul has asked the Hungarian authorities to return the Viking Sigyn to Budapest and keep it there for the duration of the criminal investigation. The ship on Friday continued its journey with a new captain. AFP

D-DAY COMMEMORATIONS. Soldiers of the Danish National Guard (L) stand alongside US and French soldiers during

a Danish ceremony on Utah Beach in Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, Normandy, in northwestern France on June 6, 2019, as part of D-Day commemorations marking the 75th anniversary of the World War II Allied landings in Normandy. AFP

Artist criticizes Twitter over Tiananmen emoji H ONG KONG―Chinese artist Badiucao, whose anonymous political satire infuriated Beijing and earned him comparisons to Banksy, on Thursday announced a protest campaign against Twitter over what he says is its pandering to China. This is the second time the social media giant has come under ﬁre in the last week over its handling of Chinarelated content, after it apologized for mistakenly suspending accounts critical of Beijing―just days ahead of the 30th anniversary of the brutal Tiananmen Square crackdown. The 33-year-old Badiucao said he reached out to Twitter ahead of the anniversary and offered to create a special tank man emoji that would appear next to the hashtag #Tiananmen30. Such emojis have been deployed on Twitter to mark a variety of special occasions and events, from the premieres of Hollywood blockbusters to national elections. But the platform―which is blocked in China―told Badiucao it would not be able to collaborate with him on this anniversary because “emojis are limited resources at Twitter,” according to an email exchange the artist shared with AFP.

“I was a bit confused,” Badiucao told AFP. “How come they are a limited resource? I asked them if they had not enough graphic designers... or if it was a financial issue. I wasn’t satisfied with their explanation that the decision was just routine.” While Twitter said in that email that it was glad to be a platform for conversations about Tiananmen, Badiucao said the firm did not create a special emoji for the anniversary to avoid the wrath of Chinese authorities. China’s ruling Communist Party is highly sensitive to criticism, and discussion of the 1989 pro-democracy protests and their brutal suppression at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square on June 4 are strictly taboo. Ahead of the anniversary every year, authorities clamp down on activists and further tighten internet censorship to prevent any mention of the event. Badiucao, who lives in exile in Australia, said that while Twitter does not

work in China, companies from the country advertise on the platform. “I think working with me is very problematic [for Twitter],” he said. “They are thinking about the Chinese market, they want these advertisements from businesses for the company. So somehow they compromise their principles of free speech.” AFP asked Twitter about Chinese entities advertising on the platform, but the ﬁrm did not provide any details. A source familiar with the matter at Twitter told AFP that the company did not have time to put out a special emoji for the Tiananmen anniversary, and that these are prepared months ahead of time. The source also pointed to widespread discussions about Tiananmen on Twitter, and special collections of tweets curated by the ﬁrm on the occasion. Badiucao said his protest campaign will begin Friday. He hopes Twitter users will post selfies next to his―or their own –Tiananmen emoji designs with the hashtag #Tiananmen31 for next year’s anniversary. “Now I gave Twitter a whole year to do it,” he said. “Let’s see what excuse they come up with.” AFP

ANNIVERSARY.

Indian Sikh radical activists hold swords and leaflets as they shout pro-Khalistan (Sikh separatist movement) and anti-government slogans after prayers at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on June 6, 2019. Sikhs commemorated the 35th anniversary of the Indian military assault on June 6, 1984, on the Golden Temple in Amritsar, called Operation Blue Star, and aiming at flushing out the militants holed up inside demanding an independent Sikh homeland. Sikhs accused the troops of desecrating the shrine and today it still remains a divisive issue. AFP

Scientist works to resurrect Hong Kong’s ‘Pearl of the Orient’ past HONG KONG―On a raft floating off Hong Kong’s rural eastern coastline, former investment banker turned scientist Yan Wa-tat patiently scrapes barnacles off some 2,000 oysters―a tiresome but crucial part of his mission to bring back pearl farming. “The species was once abundant in Hong Kong,” the 58-year-old lamented. “We have a history of pearl fishing of over one thousand years... but because of overfishing in Hong Kong, we only have very few of them left,” he explained. Yan is farming Akoya pearl oysters, a specimen prized for jewelry, hoping his research will show other fisherman that the industry could be viable. It’s a calling that requires patience. Cultured pearls take around a year to form and every few weeks Yan has to scrape away any barnacles that might compete for food with his precious oysters.

This kind of knowledge was once ubiquitous to the region. After all, the famous waterway that sustains this part of southern China—along one of the world’s most densely populated regions —is called the Pearl River. The world’s biggest pearl, once owned by Catherine the Great and known as “The Sleeping Lion” because of its bizarre shape, is thought to have been plucked from southern China’s waters sometime in the 1700s before Dutch traders spirited it away. And Hong Kong―dubbed the Pearl of the Orient by its former colonial overlords―remains the world’s largest importer and exporter of pearls, with exports topping $1.8 billion in 2016, according to UN trade data. But none of them are produced locally. Overﬁshing and market forces have long devastated the wild pearl farming

trade in the city. Cultured pearl farming is a relatively modern industry, and a few Hong Kong ventures rose to the challenge in the 1950s. But they struggled against Japanese competitors who came to dominate the trade. The city’s last pearl farm was shuttered in 1981. Now Yan and a handful of ﬁshermen are trying to change that -- with a small cottage industry combining traditional knowledge and cutting-edge technology. Yan worked in Hong Kong’s lucrative banking sector until his mid-ﬁfties when he decided he wanted to do something “more interesting and also more productive for our society”. He embarked on a PhD at Hong Kong University’s School of Biological Sciences looking at how to resurrect the city’s pearl farming trade, something he didn’t even know existed until he stum-

bled across it in early research. In his lab at Hong Kong University, Yan researches the best ways to insert a radiofrequency identiﬁcation (RFID) chip into an oyster’s nucleus, around which a pearl will then grow―although the exact mechanism is a closely guarded secret. The chips are the part of the same family of technology that allows users of mobile phones, transport cards and identity badges to scan into a building or to make a purchase with a simple swipe. Yan holds a scanning device against one of his oysters and after a small bleep sound a set of numbers appears on an app on his smartphone. That tech has multiple beneﬁts. Some 10-20 percent of nuclei are expelled by the oyster—meaning a cultured pearl is unable to form—but this is usually only discovered upon prizing them open at harvest time. AFP

PARIS―When world leaders gather for D-Day commemorations on Thursday, Vladimir Putin’s absence will be a sign of how Russia’s huge sacrifices in World War II have gone missing in most French minds. It’s a striking reversal from 75 years ago, when the Soviet contribution at a cost of 27 million dead soldiers and civilians was hailed by the French as the biggest factor in Nazi Germany’s defeat. Just after the European fighting ended in May 1945, a poll by the French survey group Ifop found that 57 percent of the French thought Moscow had contributed the most to the war effort, compared with just 20 percent who named the United States. But by the 60th anniversary of the Normandy landings by Allied forces in 2004―when Russia was represented for the first time, by Putin―the figures were reversed, with just 20 percent putting the Soviet Union first. Instead, 58 percent lauded the US, even though its total losses of 400,000 in both the European and Pacific theaters were just a small fraction of the dead compared with the Soviet Union. “From a purely historical point of view, overlooking the absolutely critical role of the Soviet Union is absurd,” said Denis Peschanski, a senior research fellow at France’s CNRS institute, who has long studied the evolution of France’s collective memory of the war. Russia’s foreign ministry said Wednesday that the role of the Allied invasion needed to be put in perspective. “It should not be exaggerated nor should we downplay the titanic achievements of the Soviet Union, without which this victory would simply not exist,” spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters. While the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact initially established neutrality between Moscow and Berlin, Hitler’s 1941 invasion of the Soviet Union led to brutal fighting and sieges of Russian cities until Stalin was able to mount a counterattack. The fierce Russian offensives battered Germany’s military might while immobilising millions of Nazi soldiers who might have reinforced the Atlantic coast. AFP

German killer nurse gets life for 85 murders OLDENBURG, Germany―A German nurse believed to be the most prolific serial killer in the country’s postwar history was handed a life sentence Thursday for murdering 85 patients in his care. Judge Sebastian Buehrmann called Niels Hoegel’s killing spree “incomprehensible”. The 42-year-old murdered patients selected at random with lethal injections between 2000 and 2005, when he was caught in the act. Hoegel has already spent a decade in prison following a previous life sentence he received for six other murders. The exhumation and autopsy of more than 130 bodies were necessary to build the case for the prosecution. Police suspect that Hoegel’s final death toll may be more than 200. But the court was unable to say for sure because of gaps in Hoegel’s memory and because many likely victims were cremated before autopsies could be performed. Buehrmann of the regional court in the northern city of Oldenburg said the number of deaths at Hoegel’s hands “surpasses human imagination”. He expressed regret that the court had not been “fully able to lift the fog” for loved ones about other likely victims. On the final day of hearings on Wednesday, Hoegel asked his victims’ families for forgiveness for his “horrible acts”. “I would like to sincerely apologize for everything I did to you over the course of years,” he said. Caught in 2005 while injecting an unprescribed medication into a patient in Delmenhorst, Hoegel was sentenced in 2008 to seven years in prison for attempted murder. AFP

LGUs

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

PRRC corrects misleading article on waterway work

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

SANTA ROSA BRIGADA. SM Santa Rosa employees, headed by their mall manager Marius Cortez (center), recently visited Santa Rosa Science and Technology High School for their Brigada Eskwela volunteerism program this year. Armed with brooms and paint brushes, employees painted classrooms and several lockers of SciTech. SM Santa Rosa likewise donated dustpans and brooms to be used by said school for the incoming school year. Roy Tomandao

Solano builds agri-tourism P4.5-m center By Ben Moses Ebreo SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya—The

local government here has started to offer agri-tourism attractions to local and foreign tourists. Ramon Ramento, municipal agriculturist, said the LGU has already started to build initial structures and amenities for the Solano Integrated Agri-Tourism Center in barangay Uddiawan. The five-hectare SIATC was bought by the LGU with P4.5 million and is now being developed with the support from the LGU, Department of Agriculture and Agricultural Training Institute, among others. “We will be sourcing out funds from other agencies. We believe that we can get support because this is a noble project for our municipality,” Ramento said. Once fully built, the SIATC will also generate employment opportunities for Solano villagers, he added. Based on the project’s threeyear development plan, SIATC will be built with 3,000 square meter fishpond, a floating restaurant, fishing area, commercial and organic vegetable, orchard/ fruit tree and two-hectare hybrid and certified rice production centers and areas. “It is good that DA Sec. Manuel Piñol gave us certified and hybrid rice which we also give to our farmers,” Ramento said. A six-hectare corn, native pig and chicken production area will also be allocated including the construction of a Training Center for technology demonstration and transfer sessions among farmers and a dormitory for 30 persons, among others. “When we will fully develop this project, it is hoped that our agri-tourism potentials will be further promoted and this will help our economy as the premier commercial town of Nueva Vizcaya,” Ramento said.

Isko to probe ‘secret dumpsite’ in Manila

HEN he assumes office, Manila City Mayorelect Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso will launch an investigation into the alleged “secret dumpsite” and unlicensed piggery that were reportedly discovered at the Baseco Compound. This was after the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission announced earlier in the week it will file charges against outgoing Mayor Joseph Estrada over the dumpsite that continues to pollute the 25-kilometer long river. The existence of this dumpsite, Domagoso stressed in a statement, “clearly obstructs the national government’s efforts to rehabilitate the polluted waterway.” “Once Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna and I formally assume office in July, we will immediately conduct a probe into this

garbage-filled land and hold erring officials accountable,” Domagoso said. “When the investigation concludes, we will file necessary charges. This will serve as a stern warning to erring barangay and city officials,” the mayor-elect said. Domagoso also assured Manileños that his administration will actively cooperate with the PRRC and other concerned government agencies in rehabilitating the polluted Pasig River. “We are ready to assist the national government in cleaning up the river

not only to restore its water quality but also to improve urban life,” he stressed. Meanwhile, the Manila mayor-elect called on Manileños to participate in the new administration’s primary policy to clean-up the city’s alleys, streets and waterways. “We as Manileños should participate in the local government’s efforts in our own little way. Our plans and dreams to create a cleaner and healthier Manila can be made possible if we unite and work hand in hand,” Domagoso said. During the recent local elections, Domagoso ran a platform-based campaign that recognized the city’s worsening garbage situation. Cleaning up Manila, he said, will be his number one priority in leading the nation’s capital.

Nickel Asia leads in ‘plogging’ for Environment Day NICKEL Asia Corp., together with its subsidiaries—Cagdianao Mining, Dinapigue Mining, Hinatuan Mining, Hinatuan-Manicani Project, Rio Tuba Nickel, and Taganito Mining—once again lead in “Plogging” for World Environment Day 2019. It is the second year that NAC conducted this sports activity simultaneously with its subsidiaries all over the country, with the theme “Healthy Ka Na, Nakalinis Ka Pa.” Plogging is jogging while picking up trash. The United Nations declares June 5 of every year as WED, declaring today as “a special day to draw awareness and encourage actions to pressing environment concerns” such as pollution. This is the second year that NAC as a corporate citizen is participating in this world event that is celebrated by some 100 countries across the globe. The NAC-wide Plogging was simultaneously conducted today by NAC employees and their partners in their respective communities from the company’s mining operations in Surigao Del Norte, in Bataraza in Palawan; in Cagdianao in Dinagat Island; in Dinapigue in Isabela; and in Guiuan in

Eastern Samar. In Surigao City alone, some 2,000 kilos of trash, as estimated by DENRPENRO, were collected by some 150 joggers who joined this year’s NACwide Plogging. NAC hopes that this amount of trash plucked from the streets by the joggers will gradually decrease as the company intensifies its campaign on responsible waste management. Ploggers from Surigao City were joined by members of the Surigao Runners Club; REACT Miners; Tri-Sur; Bugsay Marajaw Surigao; Emergency Service Corp. Alumni Association, BJMP, BFP, DENR-PENRO, DepEd, Joy FM, and other running enthusiasts. Engineer Robert Francisco, NACTaganito Mining’s Environment Manager, said: “We are doing this activity every year to get the attention and the support of the communities to get involve in the discourse on environment protection and sustainability.” “We at NAC take these matters very seriously and our everyday work involves discussions on issues pertaining to serious environment concerns such as plastic and air pollution and we want everyone on the communities to get in on the game.”

Ploggers from Surigao City were joined by members of the Surigao Runners Club; REACT Miners; Tri-Sur; Bugsay Marajaw Surigao; Emergency Service Corp. Alumni Association, BJMP, BFP, DENR-PENRO, DepEd, Joy FM, and other running enthusiasts.

SNAP, Lamut ink pact for Ifugao hydro

SN Aboitiz Power, led by president and CEO Joseph S. Yu (right), and Lamut Municipality, represented by Mayor Mariano B. Buyagawan Jr. (third from left) and Vice Mayor Adryan B. Chaguile (left), sign the framework agreement for the Alimit Hydropower Complex.

RENEWABLE energy provider SN Aboitiz Power and the Municipal Government of Lamut in Ifugao province have recently signed a framework agreement for the proposed Alimit Hydropower Complex. The same framework agreement was concurred by the Lamut municipal council, through the issuance of Resolution No. 2019-18-041 endorsing the Alimit project. With this, all four of the Local Government Units hosting the Alimit Hydro—the Municipalities of Aguinaldo, Lagawe, Lamut, and Mayoyao— have signified their approval for what is set to be Ifugao’s first large-scale hydropower facility. The agreement outlines the cooperation, collaboration, and obligations between and among SNAP as project pro-

ponent and the municipalities as hosts during the development and operation phase of the project. “We believe that meaningful collaboration with our stakeholders and communities can help propel our country toward a more energy-secure future,” said SN Aboitiz Power president and CEO Joseph S. Yu. “We are thankful for the support and trust that the concerned local government units of Ifugao have extended to SNAP and the Alimit Project.” The first phase of the project entails the construction of the 120-megawatt Alimit Plant and the 20-MW Olilicon Plant. The capital outlay for this phase is expected to be between US$450 to US$550 million. The second phase of the complex includes the 250-MW Alimit pumped storage facility.

THE Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission has corrected what it said was a “misleading” article posted June 2 by online news site Rappler on the utilization of the funds for the rehabilitation of waterways in Metro Manila. In the recent “Tapatan sa Aristrocat” press conference in Manila, PRRC executive director Jose Antonio E. Goitia said that the article was “erroneous, deceptive and offensive” as it may lead the reading public to think that around P107.57 million was spent in 2018 for the rehabilitation and development of six waterways located in the cities of Manila and San Juan and now left uncompleted by the Commission. “The truth of the matter was that as of December 2018, only P29.63 million was spent for the rehabilitation of the San Juan River and five other esteros in Manila as these are still ongoing,” emphasized Goitia. Goitia added that the Commission has been strict in monitoring the progress of its rehabilitation projects, and that the delay was caused by factors beyond the control of PRRC. “As early as 2016, PRRC already resettled informal settler families and dismantled illegal structures occupying the legal easements of Estero de Magdalena to pave way for the construction of a linear park development project. As soon as we finished the relocation and easement recovery, the linear park project was put up for bidding and awarded according to procurement laws. However, during the last quarter of 2017, the barangay officials in the area allowed families who were left homeless by a fire incident in Manila to occupy the already recovered easements of Estero de Magdalena,” explained Goitia. The families have been demanding for relocation houses from PRRC for them to leave Estero de Magdalena, and PRRC is already in coordination with other agencies such as the National Housing Authority to address the problem. Goitia added that the Commission also encountered problems with erring barangay officials threatening its field engineers as well as the project contractors to stop its project at Estero dela Reina and Estero de Pandacan. Last year, the PRRC was recognized by the International RiverPrize Foundation as the Inaugural Asia RiverPrize for high level of response to the massive scale of problems faced by the Pasig River despite its limited resources and mandate, making it possible for the return of life- fishes, birds, trees and other aquatic plants-to the once biologicallydead river.

DILG warns LGUs about fake Asst. Sec. Escarian THE Department of the Interior and Local Government has warned local government officials and the public of a certain individual who represents himself as an assistant secretary to secure favors or perks from local government units in the Zamboanga Peninsula region. DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año identified the poseur as Salvador Hussey Escarian II, who was reported to have introduced himself as an assistant secretary in the DILG or, in other instances, in Malacañang during government conferences and activities. According to a report received by the Office of the DILG secretary, Escarian has reportedly even managed to hold a conference in Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Norte, having successfully gathered DILG officials of the region. “Make no mistake, this Escarian is not in any way affiliated with the DILG or any of our attached agencies. Do not be victimized by his posturings,” Año said. The DILG chief said the fake assistant secretary supposedly uses fake documents to gain the trust and support of local government officials and national government agencies. Based on a report submitted by the DILG regional and provincial offices, Escarian attended the launch of Mamamayan Ayaw sa Anomalya, Mamamayan Ayaw sa Iligal na Droga in Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay, and a meeting with Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Palma where he was introduced as Assistant Secretary from the Office of the President. The Provincial Government of Zamboanga Sibugay also confirmed to the DILG that they provided vehicular support to Escarian for about one month upon his request when he was in the province. Escarian allegedly also posed as an Assistant Secretary for Malacañang and managed to solicit an estimated P200,000 from the LGU of Payao for his expenditures.

Life

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @MStandardLIFE

CULTURE AND MEDIA

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

IN LOVE WITH INAUL. Maguindanao’s traditional woven fabric inaul was transformed into neo-ethnic couture pieces, showcasing its elegant beauty at Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao’s second staging of ‘Insulares de Mayo.’

‘Insulares de Mayo’ highlights inaul tapestry A piece from the collection, dubbed The Inaul Tapestry, by Renee Salud.

HE second staging of Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao’s “Insulares de Mayo” featured a fashion trilogy that highlighted Mindanao fashion, most notably Maguindanao’s inaul tapestry. The story started with the pomp and pageantry of “Flores de Mayo,” highlighting the colorful creations of Davao City’s fast-rising couturiers. Garbed in imaginative renditions of the Philippine terno as Reyna Sagalas were some of the region’s empowered women and civic leaders, including Compostela Valley’s Provincial Women Development Council chairperson Sholai Lim as Reyna de las Estrellas, former Japanese Consul Tomoko “Sophia” Dodo as Reyna Paz, Rekado Davao chef-restaurateur Pauline Benedicto-Mallillin as Reyna de las Propetas, Honorary Consul to Mexico Dr. Maria Lourdes Monteverde as Reyna Emperatriz, 3rd District Councilor-elect Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz as Reyna del Cielo, Picobello Ristorante Italiano and The Swiss Deli and Restaurant owner Rochelle Venuti as Reyna de las Flores, Mutya ng Davao 2000 Leah May Luna-Panisales as Reyna de las Virgines, and the newly appointed regional director of the Department of Tourism Region XI Tanya Rabat-Tan as Reyna Elena. With Waterfront being a premier wedding destination, the second act featured beautiful beginnings of love.

A bridal feature by Love & Styles, dubbed “Weddings at the Waterfront” showed the season’s latest trends in bridal gowns and destination wear. The tale reached its climax with a special presentation of the Province of Maguindanao’s very own inaul fabric turned into a neo-ethnic couture collection dubbed “The Inaul Tapestry” by no less than the advocate of Philippine fashion, Renee Salud. Adorned with timeless pieces from the Mindanao Pearl International were Salud’s muses: Binibining Pilipinas Supranational 2014 Yvette Santigo, Mutya ng Pilipinas Top Model of the World 2017 Hannah Iglesia, Miss Philippines-Earth 2012 and Miss Earth Air International 2012 Stephany Stefanowitz, Binibining Pilipinas Supranational 2012 and Miss Supranational 3rd Runner Up Elaine Moll, Mutya ng Pilipinas 2018 and Miss Asia Paciﬁc International 2018 Sharifa Areef Mohammad Omar Akeel, Mrs. Asia International 1st Runner Up 2014 and chief executive of Bless Amare Group Jessie Victor Maloles, Mrs. International Global Ambassador 2017 and Mrs. Tourism International 2017 Dr. Riza Caldoza; and former Tourism secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo. Waterfront Davao’s “Insulares de Mayo” was co-presented by the Province of Maguindanao, Golden Touch by Noel Tanza, and Love & Styles.

WORKSHOP

Learn calligraphy in 3 days BETH Robles of Play Crafts PH is conducting a three-day calligraphy workshop on Saturdays of June at senior recreation center Sunshine Place in Makati. Syllabus for June 8 will tackle tools and basic strokes. Participants will learn how to use pointed nibs and ink to create beautiful strokes. The June 15 schedule will be focused on learning the principal strokes in writing capital letters and ways to connect them. This will enable participants to write simple greetings such as “Happy Birthday,” “Congratulations,” and “Thank You.” The last day of the series, called Offhand Flourishing, will teach participants the basics of flourishing, creating quills, cartouche, borders, and scrolls to embellish their work. Each class starts at 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Calligraphy adds flair to handwritten envelope invitations, stationery, and sweet notes. Robles has conducted calligraphy and floral painting workshops using different media such as watercolor, gouache, soft pastels, and acrylic. Contact Beth Robles at 0917-893-3506 or email playcrafts.ph@gmail.com for more information.

Sunshine Place is hosting a calligraphy workshop series this month.

In karaoke bars, in bed: Literary contest winners reveal creative process

Premyo Valledor Para Sa Nobelang Bikol 2019 winners Niles Jordan Breis and Jerome Hipolito

EVERY writer goes through a process before they come up with a creative work: others go for a long walk, others grab a cup or two of coffee, while others like Niles Jordan Breis, one of the two grand prize winners in this year’s Premyo Valledor Para Sa Nobelang Bikol, drinks beer in a karaoke bar. Set in post-Martial Law 1985, Breis’ winning entry Kalatraban sa Alkawaran tells the tale of the uncorrupted body of a desaparecido that surfaces after 32 years―and the best friend who comes home to authenticate it. It took him about four months to complete the novel and in a place that seems to have come straight out of the pages of a novel. “Every night, while drinking beer in a dark and noisy videoke bar,” says Breis who writes in longhand. “I like that kind of disruption because I’m forced to focus. Pero titigil ako kung gusto ko yung kanta (But I will stop writing if I like the song)!” For this Tabaco City, Albay native, writing in the Bicol language is deceptively simple, though he says the language’s sensibilities “affect the way I write in English and Pilipino. The diction, the nuances, the rhythm of my poetry is peculiar to those who write and speak in pure Pilipino.” Meanwhile, the other grand winner, Jerome Hipolito, turned to creative non-ﬁction to come up with his novel Dyurnal Intris. It is about the journal entries of a young student who always wanted to write a novel.

“Parts of the journal entries were already written way before the contest,” he shares. “Writing a novel had always been in the back of my mind, so when the call for entries came, I continued it.” While fellow poet Breis can bang out pages even in the most non-conducive work environments, Hipolito prefers to write in bed and during what he calls “moments of brilliance.” Fortunately, they come often: besides his award-winning novel, the creative writing teacher at the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture has penned poetry, essays, and short stories. Hipolito enjoys the experience of creating his ﬁrst novel because “I made sure my character is a poet, so it’s autobiographical. I like the form but it really takes time to write.” Still, he’s already got an idea―a moment of brilliance, if you will―of his follow-up to Dyurnal Intris. “Another novel,” he reveals, “this time from the point of view of the teacher.” Premyo Valledor is an annual search for the best original novel written in the Bicol language. Open to Bicolano writers of all ages, the competition places no limitations on a novel’s theme, style, or length. Breis and Hipolito each received a trophy handmade by Daet artist Paolo Gerero and a cash award of P50,000. Both novels will also be published by the Ateneo de Naga University Press and circulated in book tours to encourage locals to read and appreciate modern literature in their native tongue.

Entertainment

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

nickie.standard@gmail.com

WRITER who is facing a major roadblock in her career and life looks to her past —including her ﬁrst love and heartbreak—to move forward in her present in the new iWant original seriesPast, Present, Perfect?, which is now streaming for free on iWant.

The digital series, which stars Loisa Andalio and Shaina Magdayao as the young and old Shantal, takes viewers back to their high school days, post-college ambitions, and puppy love conquests. A student with a gift for words, Shantal uses her talent to woo her crush, her high school professor Daniel (Vin Abrenica), by secretly writing him poems and declarations of love. As they become close because of their love for literature, Daniel, recognizing her potential, urges her to pursue her dream of becoming an award-winning writer. Shantal’s world is turned upside down when she confesses her feelings for Daniel and gets rejected at their graduation ball. In the present, Shantal navigates adulthood and struggles to pay for her bills by translating textbooks and subtitling porn—a far cry from her dream to write poetry and novels. Things go awry for Shantal when she experiences writer’s block, unable to come up with a solid follow-up to her first successful romance pocketbook. Will Shantal be able to find renewed faith in herself and write the stories she wants to tell? What lessons from her past will help her shape the future chapters of her life? Co-produced by Epic Media, Past, Present, Perfect? is directed by Dwein Baltazar, who wrote the blockbuster movie Exes Baggage and recently won Best Director and Best Screenplay for her movie Gusto Kita With All My Hypothalamus—also named Best Picture —at the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Awards 2019. The romance-drama series also stars Awra Briguela, Amy Nobleza, Angelie Sanoy, Elijah Canlas, VJ Mendoza, Alorah Sasam, Eda Nolan, Anthony Falcon, Iana Bernardez, Peewee O’hara, Romnick Sarmenta, and Allan Paule. The first four episodes of Past, Present, Perfect? are already streaming for free on iWant, while the next episodes dropped on Wednesday (June 5).

The cast of ‘Past, Present, Perfect?’ with the series director Dwein Baltazar (center) pose for the cameras during a recent media conference held at ABS-CBN’s 9501 Restaurant.

It’s all about heartache and broken dreams in

‘Past, Present, Perfect?’

Shaina Magdayao in a scene from the latest iWant original series.

Vin Abrenica and Loisa Andalio in ‘Past, Present, Perfect?’

HOLLYWOOD

Rihanna is world’s richest female musician

Newly-crowned Mrs. Asia Pacific Global Avon Morales

PINAY WINS

Mrs. Asia Pacific Global 2019 By Eton Concepcion MARRIED Filipina women would not be left out in the pageant scene after Mrs. Philippines Avon Morales snagged the Mrs. Asia Pacific Global 2019 crown held recently in Johor, Malaysia. Morales, a mother of two from Parañaque City, also bagged several special awards, including Mrs. Photogenic, Mrs. Social Media Queen, Mrs. Elegance and Mrs. Special Queen Ambassador. Her court of honor included Mrs. Singapore, Mrs. Asia Pacific All Nation 2019; Mrs. Malaysia, Mrs. Asia Pacific Tourism 2019; Mrs. Myanmar, Mrs. Asia Pacific Intercontinental 2019; and Mrs. Russia, Mrs. Asia Pacific Cosmopolitan 2019. Morales, 43, was a magna cum laude graduate of De La Salle

University and currently a human resource vice-president of a bank. She is part of a five-marriedwomen delegate sent to the second edition Mrs. Asia-Pacific Global pageant. They were Police Officer Mary Chris AbacahinCamacho,, Top 10 finalist, Mrs. Body Beautiful, and Mrs. Empowering Woman; Marjorie Clau Orito,, Top 10 finalist, Mrs. Charming; Mrs. Limpayen Sibug Las, Best in Talent, Mrs. Glamour and Mrs. Lumiere; and Glynes Evangelista Olbes,, Top 10 finalist, Mrs. Millennium, Best in Talent 1st Runner-up. After winning, Morales posted in Instagram, “Dear Lord, these were more than what I prayed for. The thing that I could commit- to try and make You proud of me by being the queen that You created me to be, my Father, my King.”

SINGER, makeup entrepreneur, lingerie designer and now the first black woman to head a top luxury fashion house— Rihanna has racked up a $600 million fortune to become the world’s richest female musician, Forbes said Tuesday. The 31-year-old—born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in Barbados— has amassed wealth exceeding that of Madonna ($570 million), Celine Dion ($450 million), and Beyonce ($400 million), whose husband Jay-Z was just named the world’s first billionaire rap star. Rihanna’s ranking puts into fresh perspective one of her signature lyrics—“work, work, work, work, work,” which opened her 2016 dancehall smash “Work.” Since bursting onto the scene in 2003, she has spun her triumphs in music into entrepreneurial gold, launching her makeup brand Fenty Beauty—co-owned by French luxury giant LVMH —in September 2017 online and with Sephora. The line found success not least thanks to Rihanna’s fame both on and offline, with some $570 million in revenue last year after just 15 months of business. She makes the majority of her money from touring and musical releases, according to Forbes, but also co-owns her Savage X Fenty lingerie line. In May, Rihanna launched a groundbreaking partnership with LVMH to launch a luxury fashion brand based in Paris that will make ready-to-wear clothes, shoes, and accessories. A new large-scale luxury label—especially one led by a black woman—is a huge development in the fashion world, with Rihanna’s line Fenty sitting along-

side legacy brands like Dior, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, and Givenchy at the conglomerate headed by Bernard Arnault. The singer’s explosive rise to music mega-star and global fashion icon did not come without tribulations, including her father’s bids to proﬁt off her name and a highly publicized domestic violence case that saw her then-boyfriend Chris Brown charged in 2009 with assaulting her. In addition to her venture into luxury fashion, Rihanna has hinted at dropping a new reggae album this year. “I never thought I’d make this much money, so a number is not going to stop me from working,” she told The New York Times’ T Magazine in May. “Money is happening along the way, but I’m working out of what I love to do, what I’m passionate about.” AFP

‘Work, work, work, work, work’ finally pays off after Forbes Magazine named the Barbados born singer the richest female musician.

SANYA LOPEZ bags

‘New Movie Actress of the Year’ plum ACTRESS and Dahil Sa Pag-ibig star Sanya Lopez is one of the Kapuso personalities who were recognized in the recently-concluded PMPC Star Awards for Movies. In the awards night held on June 2 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila, Sanya walked home bagged the “New Movie Actress of the Year” award for her outstanding performance in Wild and Free. Acclaimed director and actress Laurice Guillen was awarded the “Ulirang Alagad ng Pelikula sa Likod ng Kamera Lifetime Achievement Award” for being an instrument in the advancement of the local film industry. Seasoned actress Cherie Gil took home the “Movie Supporting Actress of the Year” award for her fierce and pivotal cameo in Citizen Jake. Meanwhile, Citizen Jakes’s lead star was one of the recipients of the “Indie Movie Screenwriter of the Year” award for his contribution in the film. Senior actress and Daig Kayo Ng Lola Ko mainstay Gloria Romero, veteran actor Eddie Garcia, and superstar Nora Aunor were among the 12 legendary honorees of the “Mga Natatanging Bituin Ng Siglo” for their remarkable contributions to Philippine Cinema.

Motoring

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

Stakeholders flash the thumbs-up sign during a recent gathering.

EV group gears up for summit I T IS all systems go for the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines, the main voice of the electric vehicle industry in the country, as it prepares for this year’s Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit on July 17-18, 2019 at the SMX Convention Center at SM MOA, Pasay City. EVAP President Edmund Araga observes that the electric vehicle industry scene in the Philippines has never been more exciting as EVs are now becoming mainstream. ‘‘Infrastructure and government support to sustain the growth of the EV industry are now being set up. The 3,000 Bemac eTrikes of the Department of Energy now being deployed nationwide are becoming more visible in various LGUs’’ he says. Araga also reveals that ore eJeepney deployments are being done in Metro Manila as well as in Visayas and Mindanao as part of

the government’s PUV Modernization Program. This PUVMP aims to upgrade some 200,000 public utility jeepneys over the next six years with Modern PUV powered by either a Euro 4 diesel engine or an electric motor. The PUVMP has made retail ﬁnancing now available through Landbank and Development Bank of the Philippines. Nissan, Mitsubishi and Hyundai will exhibit their exciting electric vehicles at the upcoming summit. A few electric cars converted from their regular conventional engine conﬁguration will also be on display.

Even battery maker Motolite will unveil a new EV that it has been keeping under wraps for so long. ‘‘All in all, we expect about 15 vehicles to be exhibited and over a thousand visitors to visit the EV Summit daily. We will have on display the latest electric tricycles, cars, SUVs and jeepneys participating in the PUVMP. You will even have the opportunity to test drive some of these EVs at the grounds near SMX. The best news is that if you visit the EV Summit, you might bring home an eTrike that will be the major prize in a rafﬂe we will be conducting’’ he says. EVAP has also partnered with the Philippine Nickel Industries Association to explore the possibility of locally manufacturing nickel metal hydride and lithium ion batteries for automotive application. The Bureau of Philippine Standards is now busy crafting a complete set of standards for EVs that will cover parts, components, testing parameters and procedures and safety features. Araga explains that with all these

positive EV developments unfolding this year, the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit 2019 with its themeModernizing the Transport Landscape: Driving Sustainable Growth is no longer focused on just introducing EVs to the Philippines and the Filipinos, but towards actual end-user adoption already and how they can be fully utilized for a truly sustainable and electriﬁed Philippine transport. In scheduled technical sessions, public transport ofﬁcials, local government representatives, members of the academe and EV and automotive industry players are expected to discuss the issues that will help make EVs more mainstream in the Philippine setting. “We invite EV enthusiasts and the general public to come and see what the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit 2019 has to offer—the future of automotive technology. We are sure that our EV displays and talks from various EV experts will be both educational and enlightening for all involved”, says Araga.

Caltex opens MCX outlet CALTEX, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc has opened its latest service station along Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway in Muntinlupa City. Motorists traversing the road from Muntinlupa to Cavite can now avail of premium quality Euro-4 fuel products and fast service within the station which can cater up to 12 cars fuelling up at the same time. MCX, a 4KM, 4-lane toll road, provides an alternate route for motorists coming from Metro Manila to Cavite and vice versa. The road also provides access to the National Bilibid Prison property which will be redeveloped into a residential, commercial and institutional estate. “Caltex is always aiming to bring better travel experience to motorists and this can be expected at the newly opened Caltex station along Manila-Cavite Expressway. High quality Euro 4 fuel products, less waiting time for gassing up and more exciting promos and rewards—that’s what customers can get from the new service site,” said Louie Zhang, CPI country manager. More good news awaits motorists this June! Cardholders of Happyplus, Robinsons Rewards and MVP Rewards can get double rewards points when they fuel up at Caltex MCX. They simply need to present their choice rewards card to avail the promo. Points earned from the rewards can be used to redeem food products, to shop and do groceries and even to pay for their next fuel purchase at Caltex.

Vios Racing Festival returns to Clark with a new format

TOYOTA Motor Philippines continues the waku-doki of the Vios Racing Festival by taking the race back to its roots at the Clark International Speedway. Catch the action this weekend as celebrities, car clubs, Toyota owners, and motoring media take it pedal-to-the-metal in two exciting formats: Autocross Challenge and Circuit Championship. Admission is free, and gates open at 9AM on June 8. ‘‘It’s the first time that the All-New Vios model will be tested at the racetracks since its debut as a pace car in 2018’’ Filinvest leg. We made sure that aside from speed, the Vios is also built for precision and safety, said TMP Vice President Elijah Marcial. The One Make Race (OMR) Vios racecar has been modified for optimum handling and performance given the two different racing formats. The Autocross Challenge is a timed competition wherein drivers navigate through an obstacle course one at a time; while the Circuit Championship is the classic format wherein all drivers are simultaneously competing against each other during laps. This year, there will be three (3) categories for the Vios Circuit Championship: Sporting Class, Promotional Class, and Celebrity Class. Once again, TMP is inviting all Toyota owners ‘‘regardless of car model and year, given they can drive manual transmission’’ share their thoughts online for a chance to race at the Vios Autocross Challenge. No prior motorsports experience is required. The Facebook promo can be accessed through this link: The five (5) lucky winners with the best captions will be contacted by official representatives from Toyota Motor Philippines, and will be provided with race-ready Vios units during the event. The Toyota Vios Racing Festival is held in cooperation with Bridgestone; supported by Petron, Motul, and Rota; and other sponsors Brembo, Denso, AVT, 3M, OMP, and Tuason Racing.

Double treat from SEAOIL

Caltex latest service station caters to all motorists particularly those traversing the Mintinlupa-Cavite Expressway.

SEAOIL Philippines, Inc. is treating its customers with a oneday special ﬂash sale on Tuesday, June 11. The sale is a one-time deal that can only be availed for that entire day. Customers can get a P5 discount for every liter of diesel or gasoline, up to a maximum purchase of P10,000. The promo is available at the following SEAOIL branches: Del Monte and G. Araneta Avenue in Quezon City, Cuasay in Taguig, Las Piñas, Lawang Bato in Valenzuela, Alijis, Roxas Lacson and Tangub in Bacolod; Iba Basak, Maximo Patalinghug and Plaridel in Cebu; Calinan, Insular Lanang, Maa and Lemente Central in Davao. The company also joins ride hailing app, Grab, as it celebrates its 7th anniversary by giving away free radiator coolants to its drivers. The free radiator coolants can be claimed from June 6 until June 24. ‘‘SEAOIL congratulates Grab on its 7th year of operation. Not only do we want to celebrate this momentous occasion with them, we’d also like to thank their drivers who are also SEAOIL users for their continued support’’ SEAOIL CEO Glenn Yu said. Grab drivers will receive a free radiator coolant for a minimum P500 single receipt or accumulated fuel purchase. To claim it, drivers just need to present their Grab driver app, their SEAOIL-GRAB VIP card and the receipts. Non-VIP cardholders can also avail of this giveaway by registering for a SEAOILGRAB VIP card. SEAOIL stations participating in the promo are Anabu 1-E in Imus, Cavite; E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave. and P. Tuazon in Quezon City, Karuhatan in Valenzuela, Legarda and Sta. Cruz in Manila, Maybunga in Pasig, Nangka in Marikina, Potrero in Malabon, and Ususan in Taguig. The SEAOIL-GRAB VIP card features a special set of rewards and incentives for all Grab drivers. Drivers may register at any participating SEAOIL branch.

Motoring

RAMON L. TOMELDAN Editor

C4 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2019

High horse: SF90 Stradale

• Ferrari takes plug-in hybrids to a new level

By Lester Dizon

ERIVED from lessons learned in Formula One (F1)while keeping an eye towards protecting the environment, Ferrari recently introduced the SF90 Stradale, the first series production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) from Maranello. While an extreme super car on every level, the SF90 Stradale represents a true paradigm shift as it delivers unprecedented performance numbers for a production car. The SF90 Stradale marks the 90th anniversary of Scuderia Ferrari and emphasizes the strong link between the company’s race cars and road cars. Its F154 turbocharged 90° 3990cc V8 engine delivers 780 cheval vapeur (769 horsepower) and 800 Newton-meters of torque, which is augmented with another 220cv (217hp) delivered by three electric motors with two on the front axle and one at the rear, known as the MGUK (Motor Generator Unit, Kinetic) due to its derivation from the F1 application, located between the engine and the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission on the rear axle. A high performance Lithium-Ion battery provides power to all three motors. Intoxicating Power Distribution To fully utilize its total power output of 1,000cv (986hp), Ferrari engineers equipped the SF90 Stradale with allwheel-drive (AWD) and a full-electric front axle with electronic cornering setup regulator (RAC-e), which extends the concept of torque vectoring by providing electric drive to the front wheels and independently control the torque delivered to the two wheels. RAC-e is fully integrated into the Ferrari’s vehicle dynamics controls and governs the distribution of torque to make driving on the limit much simpler and easier. A completely redesigned lightweight

8-speed dual-clutch transmission transfers the power from the V8 to the driveshaft. New gear ratios and improved transmission efﬁciency help reduce fuel consumption without compromising performance. New-generation actuation hydraulics shave clutch ﬁlls to allow quicker gearshifts within 200 milliseconds. In all-electric eDrive mode, the SF90 Stradale has a 25-kilometer driving range and 135 km/h top speed using just the front axle. Reverse can only be engaged in eDrive mode without using the V8. The front electric motors are integrated into the launch control system for maximum acceleration. Exotic Chassis and Vehicle Dynamics The chassis of the SF Stradale was en-

gineered with a multi-material and multitechnology approach to absorb the extra stresses from the phenomenal power and the AWD system while keeping the weight down. Hollow castings, an all-carbon fiber bulkhead between the cabin and the engine, and two new aluminium alloys including a high-strength 7000 series alloy for the sheet metal are just some of the technologies employed by Ferrari engineers. The SF90 Stradale chassis offers 20% higher bending stiffness and 40% higher torsional rigidity than previous platforms without any increase in weight. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics have also been improved by using a new “quiet aluminium’’? alloy for the floor pan. The aerodynamics department worked closely with Ferrari Design to meticulously sculpt the sports car’s form. One innovation is the patented Shut-off Gurney, a mobile wedge-shaped suspended wing that manages downforce through a sophisticated control system that checks speed, acceleration and driver inputs, hundreds of times a second to establish the most efficient configuration. Overall, the SF90 Stradale generates 390 kilograms of downforce at 250 km/h, and establishes the new benchmark for down-

Ferrari designers applied the track dervied ‘eyes on the road, hands on the wheel’ philosphy.

force and efficiency in high-performance road cars. Simplified Complexity With AWD, 1,000cv on tap, a weightto-power ratio of 1.57kg/cv, 390kg of downforce at 250km/h, a Zero-to-100 km/h time of just 2.5 seconds, and 0-to200km/h time of just 6.7 seconds, one would think that the SF90 Stradale will be quite complex to drive. However, Ferrari simplified the system to make driving more enjoyable. The driver simply has to select one of the four power unit modes and then just concentrate on driving. The sophisticated control logic takes care of the rest, managing the flow of power between the V8, the electric motors and the batteries, and the wheels. An additional steering wheel-mounted selector, the eManettino, allows the driver to choose from four different power unit management modes. In eDrive mode, the V8 engine is off and drive is provided entirely by the electric front axle up to 25 kilometers, which is ideal for city driving. The Hybrid mode is the default setting when the car is turned on, in which the power flows between the V8 engine and electric motors are autonomously managed by the control logic to optimise the overall efficiency of the system. In Performance mode, the V8 is kept running to guarantee that power is instantly and fully available when required. The control logic prioritizes performance over battery charging in Qualify mode, where the SF90 Stradale achieves maximum power output by allowing the electric motors to work at their utmost potential. A Ferrari First and Foremost Inside the stylish and ergonomic cockpit, which has a smaller frontal section and is placed closer to the front of the car to reduce drag, Ferrari designers applied the track-derived “eyes on the road, hands on the wheel’’? philosophy with a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and interior layout concept. The steering wheel features a touchpad and a series of haptic buttons to control virtually every aspect of the car using just the driver’s thumbs.

The fully-digital central instrument cluster features the first automotive application of a 16-inch curved high-definition screen that can be fully configured and controlled using the steering wheel controls. The automatic gearbox controls are selected by a grille-style feature that mimics Ferrari’s legendary manual gearshift gate while the ignition key with full keyless technology is personalized with the model’s name and becomes an integral part of the car’s interior styling when inserted into its slot. The SF90 Stradale’s exterior styling was inspired to create a forward-looking, innovative design that transmits the car’s mission as an extreme sports car and Ferrari’s first production hybrid supercar. Ferrari Design has completely revisited the proportions of the front, central and rear panels in a radical evolution of their mid-engine berlinettas worthy of the Prancing Horse badge, fitting nicely in between the F8 Tributo and the LaFerrari. Upgrading the Upgrade For the first time on a Ferrari, clients can choose between the standard SF90 Stradale or the more sports-oriented Assetto Fiorano, which features significant upgrades, including special GT racingderived Multimatic shock absorbers, lightweight carbon fiber door panels and under body, titanium springs and exhaust system, a high downforce carbon fiber rear spoiler, and softer compound Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires. All this upgrades guarantees an unbeatable hybrid super car on the racing circuits. Because of its super car credentials, the SF90 Stradale comes with Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on client service with the extended seven-year maintenance program. Available across the entire Ferrari range, the extended warranty program covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life to ensure that the car is kept at peak performance and safety over the years. The SF90 Stradale truly merges the company’s storied past and present to firmly point Ferrari towards the future.