Manila Standard - 2019 September 7 - Saturday by Manila Standard

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I still believe in, trust Faeldon, Rody proclaims By MJ Blancaflor, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rey E. Requejo

‘BuCor Mafia’ exposed

NO LAUGHING MATTER.

Star witness Yolanda Camelon taps Ramoncito Roque, head of the BuCor’s documents division, to point to him as part of the ‘organized mafia’ at the prison before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on Friday. Lino Santos

Witness bares GCTA sold for P50k, P1.5m

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Friday said he still believes in Nicanor Faeldon, despite firing him as Bureau of Corrections chief three days ago. “Tarong ina na tawo. (He’s a good person.) I still believe in him,” Duterte said in his speech during the groundbreaking ceremony of housing projects for victims of a landslide in Naga City, Cebu. The President, who sacked Faeldon over the early release of heinous crime convicts for supposed good conduct, praised the former Marine captain for exposing cigarette firm Mighty Corp. for faking tax stamps. He also said that if Faeldon had been corrupt, he would be mum on the operations of Mighty Corp. In other developments: • The President revealed Friday that he had ordered the transfer of highprofile inmates who testified against detained Senator Leila de Lima from the New Bilibid Prison to the Marine barracks in Taguig City. Duterte said he had ordered this because De Lima, who has been detained for two years over her alleged involvement in illegal drugs, may have allies inside the national penitentiary who could threaten the 10 inmates. The high-profile inmates moved by BuCor to Marine custody last June 12 included Peter Co, who the President had tagged as one of the top suppliers of the illegal drug shabu in the country. • Senator Francis Pangilinan questioned the transfer of 10 high-profile inmates from the New Bilibid Prison to Marine barracks in Taguig.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

ENATE President Vicente Sotto III on Friday said convicted drug lords have allegedly paid P1.5 million each for their release on good behavior, while Senator Panfilo Lacson revealed the existence of an “organized mafia” within the Bureau of Corrections.

net’s Twitter and Facebook accounts on Sept. 3 during a Senate inquiry on the Good Conduct Time Allowance Law. “Inquirer.net posted Secretary Panelo’s clarification upon receipt of his statement on the matter. The updated reports stated that he merely referred the request of Sanchez’s family to Bayang,” it added.

Sotto and Lacson said the syndicate members demand P50,000 up to P1.5 million from each prisoner for their early release based on good conduct credits. They said the amount being exacted depends on the prisoner’s financial capacity. “It is a big and organized mafia involving officials of the BuCor. The Senate will not stop until we crack these shameless acts wide open and hold to account those responsible no matter who they are,” Lacson said. This developed as Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde said they might tap Interpol in the hunt for 1,914 inmates who were convicted of heinous crimes but who were released on good behavior. President Rodrigo Duterte has given them 15 days to surrender, but so far, only about 33 have done so as of Friday. After the President fired Nicanor Faeldon as BuCor chief, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra designated Assistant Secretary and Deputy Director General Melvin Ramon G. Buenafe as officer-in-charge of the BuCor. He also created a committee headed by DOJ Undersecretary Deo L. Marco, with Assistant Secretaries Neal V. Bainto and George Ortha II to exercise close administrative supervision over the Bureau pending appointment by the President of a new director general. Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee, said the PNP must also be furnished a

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Panelo rejects Inquirer.net apology, slams ‘unacceptable’ wording THE online news site Inquirer.net apologized Friday to Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo for reporting that he had recommended executive clemency for his former client, convicted rapist and murderer Antonio Sanchez. But Panelo rejected the apology. “The apology as worded is unaccep-

table. The apology prefaced it with an alleged clarification from me of what I meant in referring the letter of the daughter of Sanchez,” he told Manila Standard in a Viber message. Panelo previously threatened to file libel suits against Inquirer.net and Rappler if they did not issue public apologies and rectified their reports.

“Inquirer.net apologizes for reporting on its social media platform that Secretary Salvador Panelo wrote a letter to BPP executive director Reynaldo Bayang recommending executive clemency for former Calauan Mayor Antonio Sanchez,” the news site’s statement read. The report was posted on Inquirer.

SIX MINUTES. House Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez (right) congratulates Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea (left) after a Committee on Appropriations budget briefing on the 2020 budget of the Office of the President at the House of Representatives that lasted only for six minutes. Ver Noveno

PCOO lops off budget for fed info campaign MEET-AND-GREET. President Rodrigo Duterte applauds after meeting officers of the Metrobank

Foundation and the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos during the Meet-and-Greet in Malacañang on Thursday while the President (inset) acknowledges the gesture of respect of a daughter of one of the Outstanding Filipino Soldier Awardees. Presidential Photo

ready flooded with imported rice. In an interview with local radio station Bombo Radyo Cauayan on Thursday, Subia also chided the Department of Agriculture for blaming them for the continued high price of rice due to hoarding.

THERE will be no information drive on federalism next year since it is not included in the budget proposal of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, an official said Friday. “The information drive on federalism won’t proceed in 2020. We do not have a budget for it, PCOO Assistant Secretary Marie Banaag said. She was speaking before the House Committee on Appropriations during the budget hearing of the PCOO’s proposed P1.6-billion budget for 2020. In other developments: • House Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez on Friday backed a higher budget for the Office of the President to further boost President Rodrigo

Court orders Rice millers claim imports hurt them, too arrest of Joma, 37 other Reds By Abe Almirol and Rio N. Araja

CAUAYAN CITY—Like farmers who are currently suffering from low farmgate prices of unmilled rice or “palay,” rice millers are also victims of imported

By MJ Blancaflor

MALACAÑANG on Friday urged communist leader Jose Maria Sison to “unchain himself from his exile” and face charges against him over a massacre in Leyte during the 1980s. This came after the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 32 ordered the arrest of Sison and 37 others who were accused in the “Inopacan massacre,” a supposed purge of Communist Party of the Philippines members tagged in various offenses. Dubbed by the CPP-armed wing New People’s Army as “Oplan Venereal Disease,” the massacre reportedly claimed the Next page

rice flooding into the country, the president of a regional association said. Ernesto Subia, who heads the Rice Millers Association of Region 2, said they can’t hoard because they can hardly sell their milled rice, as the market is al-

By MJ Blancaflor

Facebook unveils new dating service

Rabbi’s daughter opens ‘Kosher sex’ shop

WASHINGTON—Is love the answer on Facebook? The huge social network rolled out its online dating service for the United States and 19 other countries—including the Philippines—on Thursday, a move to take on rivals

TEL AVIV, Israel—At first sight, the store in the heart of Tel Aviv can appear to be a highend boutique—until the door opens onto a selection of vibrators and dildos. “Kosher Sex” shop owner Chana Boteach, the daughter of a well-known and controversial

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

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14 Chinese in $100-m scam nabbed By Vito Barcelo

T LEAST 14 Chinese nationals were arrested by immigration agents in separate operations in Metro Manila who were also wanted in their home countries for operating a $100-million online gaming scam.

Xuemei, one of the Chinese nationals arrested during a raid at a suspected prostitution den in San Antonio village. Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said the 14 foreigners were arrested in Makati and Pasay cities. The Chinese were arrested in a condominium at the Circuit Shopping Complex in Carmona, Makati. “They will be deported for being undesirable aliens and for being undocumented. Their passports were all revoked by the Chinese government. Afterward, they will be blacklisted and banned from re-entering the Philippines, Morente said. “We will continue to strengthen our partnership with our counterparts abroad

in going after foreign fugitives who hide in our country to evade prosecution and punishment for their crimes.” Immigration intelligence officer Bobby Raquepo said the aliens conspired to defraud their victims of money, allegedly amounting to more than 7 billion renminbi or nearly US$100 million, by operating a fraudulent mobile application called “Fast 3 Lottery” via the Internet. Raquepo said hundreds of Chinese nationals were victimized by the fraudulent scam as they were enticed to bet their money which the suspects diverted to their own pockets. All the Chinese arrived in the country as tourists, he said. With Joel E. Zurbano

Meanwhile Metro Manila Police Chief Guillermo Eleazar ordered the arrest of three people, including a Chinese national and a lawyer, who offered a P2million bribe in exchange for the release of one of two Chinese suspects arrested in Makati on Wednesday on charges of trafficking Asian women. Charged were lawyer Joselito

Vasquez, 56, of Makati City; Chinese national Huang Xiangfei, 29, temporarily billeted at Gramercy Hotel, also in Makati City, and Meljohn Palma, 43, a messenger of from Imus, Cavite. Eleazar said the three, led by the suspects’ legal counsel, visited their office and offered P2 million to P/Col. Rogarth Campo in exchange for the release of Li

IFromstill believe... A1

Metro water supply now stable; Bay still needs work

He said the explanation of Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra―that the transfer was for security reasons― was a virtual admission of the prison system’s inability to protect inmates, even in the maximum security compound in the New Bilibid Prison. “More than a case of special treatment,” he said, “one can’t help wonder if this is part of the reward the convicts are receiving for weaving stories and testifying against Senator Leila de Lima.” Seven of the 10 inmates had testified against De Lima. • Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said there was nothing irregular about the transfer of convicts who were witnesses in the drug cases against detained Senator Leila de Lima from the New Bilibid Prison to the Marine barracks in Muntinlupa, Taguig. “There is nothing irregular to that for as long as court approval is secured,” Guevarra said in an interview. Guevarra made the statement in reaction to a complaint from De Lima’s lawyer Filibon Tacardon that they were not informed about the transfer. Duterte also credited Faeldon for resisting the temptation of entering into a deal with cigarette maker Mighty where he could have earned money. This was not the first time that Duterte praised the dismissed BuCor chief for tipping the government off about Mighty’s cheating on taxes. Faeldon was initially appoined by the President to the Bureau of Customs, but the ex-Marine stepped down after P6.8 billion worth of shabu slipped through the ports of Manila. Duterte later reappointed Faeldon to the Department of National Defense-Office of Civil Defense as deputy administrator, and then later as BuCor chief.

PCOO... From A1 Duterte’s public service to the nation. “The necessary financial support for the Office of the President is needed to secure the nation and provide better and meaningful service to the people, Romualdez said after the Office of the President’s budget for 2020 was increased by 21 percent more than its 2019 budget of P6.8 billion. Citing traditional courtesy, the House Committee on Appropriations on Friday swiftly approved the P8.2billion proposed 2020 budget of the Office of the President. The whole proceedings took only about six minutes after Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab, the committee chairman, moved for the immediate approval of the budget of President Duterte’s office after the budget presentation. Federalism, one of the key campaign promises of President Rodrigo Duterte during the 2016 elections, has gone sour halfway in his term. Analysts had previously told the Manila Standard that Duterte would unlikely fulfill his promise to change the current unitary form of government into a federal one as lawmakers would be setting their sights on the 2022 elections. The proposed changes in the 1987 Constitution would also be a “hard sell,” they said. With Maricel V. Cruz and PNA

Rice... From A1 “The reported P7-P10 per kilogram buying price of palay is a false news with an intention to discredit the local rice industry,” Subia said. He said they are buying from P17 to P17.50 per kilogram of dry palay while fresh (sariwa) palay is P13 to P14 per kilogram. Senator Francis Pangilinan, meanwhile, urged the public to buy local rice to save farmers reeling from extremely low buying prices of palay, now pegged at only P7 per kilo in Central Luzon, almost

MMDA trucks make up for MRT 3 woes By Joel E. Zurbano THE Metro Manila Development Authority deployed military trucks and buses to pick up passengers stranded by the suspension of the operation of the Metro Railway Transit 3 on Friday morning. The MRT 3’s management decided to suspend the operation of the light rail system due to a cut catenary cable discovered on the northbound lane of the Guadalupe Station around 6:30 a.m., which made the power supply insufficient. As a result, angry MRT commuters were forced to take buses along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue. MMDA chairman Danilo Lim said he ordered the deployment of two MMDA military trucks and emergency buses from the agency’s Metro Parkway Clearing Group to pick up the stranded passengers. “We deployed trucks and buses and gave the affected commuters free rides to their destinations while the MRT operation was suspended, Lim said. MMDA spokesman Pircelyn Pialago said the agency also augmented 50 city buses from the various Bus Management Dispatching Systems in Fairview and Balintawak in Quezon City, Baclaran and Gil Puyat in Pasay City, Navotas City and Malinta in Valenzuela City to pick up the passengers. “To help ferry MRT 3 passengers to their destinations, additional buses were provided through the joint efforts of the DOTr Railways Sector, i-ACT [InterAgency Council for Traffic], MMDA, and LTFRB [Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board], the Transport department said in a statement.

ENVIRONMENT Secretary Roy Cimatu told lawmakers during a hearing on his department’s 2020 budget the water supply in Metro Manila was now “stable.” The DENR’s P25.59 billion proposed 2020 budget is 16 percent higher compared to P21.5 billion in 2019. Tens of thousands in the capital’s east zone endured water rationing last summer as authorities acknowledged the lack of alternative sources while the supply at Angat Dam dwindled. Cimatu said told the legislators the water level at Angat was at 183 meters.

Authorities earlier placed the normal operating level there at 180 meters. Meanwhile, a party-list solon and an environmental advocate urged President Rodrigo Duterte to crack a whip against two water concessionaires in Metro Manila for its failure to install wastewater treatment plants to stop the degradation of Manila Bay. Buhay Party-list Rep. Lito Atienza and Environmental protection advocate, Commodore Robert “Bobby” Lim Joseph of the Manila Yacht Club, said the two water facilities now owe the government

P1.4 billion in penalty for violating the Clean Water Act since 2009 to present. The two water utilities failed to install and maintain wastewater treatment facilities in Metro Manila that should be connected to an available sewage system for proper wastewater treatment and disposal, Atienza said. “The untreated water wastes from thousands of establishments and residential areas are directly being dumped into Manila Bay, making the once famous shoreline a big septic tank,” Joseph told the Manila Standard. Vito Barcelo

‘BuCor... From A1

freed under the GCTA Law earlier this year. Senator Joel Villanueva said the revelation on the illicit “GCTA for Sale” scheme was a manifestation on how corruption could render a law worthless. “It seems a handful of BuCor personnel used their enterprising ways all for the wrong reasons to continue trampling on the dignity of [prisoners],” he said. Guevarra vowed to conduct an investigation against BuCor officials for their involvement in the allegedly selling of GCTA credits. After listening to Camelon’s testimony, Guevarra said he believes that such anomalies are taking place at the BuCor. “I do not have the facts before me but I tend to believe that is a high possibility,” he said. Those implicated in the GCTA-forsale scandal, he said, must be investigated and, if need be, charged. In the wake of the growing scandal, Senator Christopher Go demanded transparency from BuCor when it comes to the release of any prisoner. “Let us force the BuCor to be transparent in the releases of any prisoner,” he said. Gordon’s committee is conducting a hearing on the controversy surrounding the implementation of the GCTA following the aborted release of convicted rapist-murderer Antonio Sanchez. Faeldon on Friday said he wanted to cry in anger over the revelation that some prison officials and personnel were extorting money for the early release of inmates qualified under the GCTA Law. “When I heard the testimony, I wanted to cry because I worked hard everyday to try to fix the bureau,” he said. Faeldon, who has been with the BuCor for almost nine months, said it was the first time he heard of such a kind of corruption involving the GCTA system. He was not aware that such operations exist, he said.

“You do not exact money from the prisoners. That’s your job to protect them. It’s your job to fix the government,” Faeldon said. Faeldon said he has “never been happier” after he was fired from BuCor. “When the weight is lifted from your shoulder, you can soundly sleep,” he said. Faeldon has been accused of favoring the release of convicted rapist-murderer, former Calauan Mayor Antonio Sanchez, and other high-profile convicts facing heinous crimes in the grant of GCTA. Controversy over the GCTA broke following reports about the possible early release of Sanchez. But the former Marine soldier insisted he merely followed the law and its implementing rules in ordering the release of convicts who exhibited good behavior while in jail. Senators, however, said Faeldon violated several rules when he did not seek the Department of Justice’s approval for the release of convicts convicted of heinous crimes. Of the 1,914 such inmates released, 1,000 were released during Faeldon’s term. The President has ordered freed prisoners rearrested. The Office of the Ombudsman, meanwhile, said it would look into the culpability, not only of Faeldon, but his predecessors, including now Senator Ronald dela Rosa. “Was there a corruption in the release of convicts [of heinous crimes]? Was there a pay-off that took place? Why was it true that those involved in drugs have been granted release?” Ombudsman Samuel Martires asked. He ordered the conduct of an “exhaustive” investigation of BuCor officials involved in the release of prisoners under Republic Act 10592 or the Good Conduct Time Allowance Law since 2014. With Rio N. Araja and PNA

their Facebook and Instagram posts to a separate dating profile. It will seek to facilitate romantic connections among the more than two billion users of the social network worldwide. Facebook Dating has already launched in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Laos, Malaysia, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Singapore, Surinam, Thai-

land, Uruguay and Vietnam. It is set to launch in Europe in 2020. “Facebook Dating allows you to match with friends of friends and/or people not in your friend circle,” said a blog post from Nathan Sharp, head of the project. One of the features, “Secret Crush,” allows people who are friends to connect if they both secretly express interest in each other. AFP

But Panelo said: “I was not clarifying, rather, I was telling the Inquirer net that it maliciously gave a wrong meaning and adverse imputation of the performance of an act which I never did, therefore, besmirching my character and reputation in the process.” The presidential spokesman said he will continue with his plans to sue the Inquirer for libel, adding the apology was “not sufficient.” The matter stemmed from the request of Sanchez’s kin to Panelo’s office as chief presidential legal counsel for help with his application for executive clemency. Sanchez has been convicted of seven counts of reclusion perpetua for the 1993 rape-slay case of Eileen Sarmenta and murder of Allan Gomez, students from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Panelo said he merely referred the request to the Board of Pardons and Parole since it is the appropriate agency to act on the matter. “A simple referral is totally different from a recommendation or an endorsement,” he said. Meanwhile, Rappler denied that its report was libelous and called Panelo’s threat a “pure diversionary tactic.” Panelo’s threat to sue Rappler and Inquirer.net showed that criminal libel and cyber libel laws were “used as weapons” to exact revenge and to punish those who go against the powerful, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said. President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday cleared Panelo of any wrongdoing in the Sanchez case. “I can vouch for his character. He did what is right. I have full faith in Panelo,” he said. MJ Blancaflor, Macon Araneta and Rey Requejo

rageous stand to face trial,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said. “He is welcome to come home to avail of his constitutional right to confront his accusers and prepare for his defense,” he added. Sison and his wife Juliet, a former communist peace negotiator, have been in self-exile in The Netherlands for nearly three decades.

Aside from the couple, among those ordered arrested were Luis Jalandoni, National Democratic Front of the Philippines senior adviser; Rodolfo Salas alias Ka Bilog, former CPP chairman; Leo Velasco; and Jose Luneta, cofounder of Kabataang Makabayan and former CPP secretary-general. The murder case against them was filed in 2006 after skeletons of 67 al-

leged victims were discovered in Subang Daku Village in Inopacan town. The court did not recommend bail for the accused. Sison said the list of the accused was “utterly stupid and obviously fabricated,” claiming it included other individuals who were jailed during the supposed massacre and several others “who are already dead for various health reasons.” With PNA

list of all prisoners erroneously released, particularly those who were serving life terms or multiple penalties. “These are the people who are most likely to run and not surrender,” Gordon said. Sotto said he got his information from one of the three witnesses of the alleged corruption at the BuCor. “One witness, without preempting his entire story, he knows that drug lords paid each P1.5 million,” Sotto said. He also said the same witness told him that six to eight inmates allegedly paid P100,000 each for their release. “So the price is dependent on the stature of a [prisoner],” Sotto said. Sotto underscored the need for a cleansing at the bureau, from top to the bottom. He also said there were reports that money changed hands in the assignments of jail officers, noting that those in the maximum security compound refused to be transferred to the medium security compound. Sotto presented Yolanda Camelon, a wife of an inmate in the New Bilibid Prison, during Thursday night’s Senate hearing into the reported sale of Good Conduct Time Allowances for the early release of inmates for good behavior. Camelon testified she paid P50,000 to BuCor officials for the release of her husband. She named Maj. Mabel Bansil and Staff Sgt. Ramoncito Roque as the persons who received her payment on a staggered basis—but her husband was not released. Lacson also said he was informed by a Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency official last year that a group of Chinese inmates allegedly control narcotics operations from the maximum security compound using smuggled cellphones. He said four Chinese drug lords were

Facebook... From A1 such as smartphone app Tinder, while focusing on connecting people in “real” long-term relationships. The free “Facebook Dating” site which was announced last year and already available will allow users to link

Court... From A1 lives of about 300 residents in Leyte province. “Mr. Sison should unchain himself from his exile and face the music. His illusive if not illusory dream of wresting political from the present dispensation should give way to a principled and couhalf the production cost of P12 a kilo. “One way for us to help our farmers is to support them and buy their rice. Buy local, especially during this harvest time,” Pangilinan said. “Ask your preferred store for local rice because we know that the market is flooded with imported rice,” he added. Subia challenged DA officials not to stay in their air-conditioned offices. “They should go out and conduct surveys so they can find out the correct prevailing buying price of palay especially here in Isabela,” Subia said. Subia said rice millers who buy palay at unjust prices would be dealt with by

having their licenses revoked. “We have talked with town mayors to cancel the business licenses of erring rice millers and traders in their locality,” Subia warned. Subia appealed to the general public to report to their respective mayors those traders who buy their palay at extremely low prices. The DA on Friday denied that the Rice Tariffication Law has caused the price of palay to go down. “It is not the fault of the law. The [price decline] has been a long time ago even before the Rice Tariffication Law was signed,” DA spokesperson Noel Reyes said.

Rabbi’s... From A1 American rabbi, presents her collection of sex toys displayed on one of the walls. Everything at the sex shop conforms to the laws of Judaism, from the products on sale and the advice given, to the overall approach to sexuality, Boteach says. On the other side of the room, an associate and close friend sells hipsterstyle clothes that can draw in customers who may be too intimidated to otherwise enter a sex shop. Sex toys are authorised in Judaism,

Panelo... From A1

says Boteach, with long hair and in a white tank top, her cheeks slightly blushing as she grabs her bestseller: “Eva,” a vibrator that can be used without hands. Among the “aphrodisiac” oils, candles and naughty games, the sex toys in pastel colours for married and other committed couples can easily go unnoticed. “I don’t carry anything that I find obscene or too phallic,” she said. On offer are necklaces that turn into small whips and adhesive tape for sadomasochism, but nothing that really hurts because “that is a bit problematic in Judaism, causing actual pain”, says Boteach. AFP

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ANOTHER MRT GLITCH. Workers from MRT 3 rush repair works to restore full service in its entire line. The MRT 3 suspended its operations at 6:42 a.m. Friday due to lack of power supply due to MRT’s Overhead Catenary System being cut off at Guadalupe Station (northbound). (Inset) Hundreds of commuters were forced to walk (left) after the suspension of operation during the morning rush hour on Friday, Sept. 6, 2019. DOTr Photo/Manny Palmero

FLAG lawyers file perjury raps vs. ‘Bikoy,’ PNP-CIDG By Rey E. Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

ORMER Quezon Representative Lorenzo Tañada III and fellow lawyers from the Free Legal Assistance Group on Friday filed before the Department of Justice perjury complaint against Peter Joemel Advincula alias “Bikoy” and Police Lieutenant Colonel Arnold Thomas Ibay for allegedly using false testimonies in the sedition complaint filed against Vice President Leni Robredo and other opposition figures, in connection with the “Ang Totoong Narcolist” viral videos.

In their complaint, the complainants said that there is “sufficient ground” to prosecute Advincula and Ibay for perjury and offering false testimony as evidence in an official proceedings in violation of Articles 183 and 184, respectively, of the Revised Penal Code. “On or about July 2019, knowing that Advincula was a false witness and that the Advincula Salaysay contained untruthful statements knowingly made against us, Ibay nevertheless submitted it as basis of a criminal complaint against us and several others before the Department of Justice [DOJ],” the complainant added. The complaint was filed by Tañada and fellow FLAG lawyers Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno and former Supreme Court spokesman Theodore Te. All three are among the 36 respondents named in the sedition complaint filed by the Philippine National Police -CIDG concerning the “Ang Totoong Narcolist” videos. The PNP-CIDG stated in its complaint that Advincula was allegedly engaged by the respondents for “Project Sodoma” to “spread

lies against the President, his family and close associate, making them to appear as illegal trade protectors and how they earned staggering amounts of money.” “The allegation by Advincula and Ibay that we, Attys. Diokno and Tañada, together with some other Otso Deretso candidates, were in a meeting with Advincula to plan and discuss this so-called ‘Project Sodoma’ is an absolutely willful and deliberate assertion of a falsehood in violation of law,” read the complaint. Diokno and Tañada denied the allegations of Advincula that they met on March 4 at the Leung Hall of the Ateneo de Manila University to plan “Project Sodoma” along with the other respondents including Vice President Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo. The two admitted being at the ADMU that day but only “to attend a Senatorial Candidates Forum organized by Rappler and the Political Science Department of Ateneo de Manila University.” “Right after the Forum, we immediately left the Ateneo campus to attend to other engagements,” Diokno and Tañada said.

‘Maguindanao massacre resolution nears’ By MJ Blancaflor THE court decision on the Maguindanao Massacre was seen to resolve the case before its 10th year commemoration in November, government officials said Friday. Citing a Department of Justice report dated Sept. 3, Presidential Task Force on Media Security executive director Joel Sy Egco said the case is “deemed submitted for decision.” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said the government is hoping that a decision will be handed down by the third week of November. “We expect that justice will ultimately prevail for the victims and their families,” he said. Egco assured that his office will remain vigilant to ensure that no further delays will stall the proceedings. “We will exhaust all means to help guard the sanctity of the judicial process in these crucial times, so that justice may finally be

served,” he said. The massacre on Nov. 23, 2009 was described as the worst violent election-related incident in country’s history. Fifty-eight people were murdered then, 32 of which were members of the media. The incident occurred during the ﬁling of the certiﬁcate of candidacy of then Buluan town vice mayor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu who ran against Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. for governor post in the 2010 elections. The Ampatuan clan was one of the most powerful families in the province. Hundreds of suspects, including several members of their family, were charged with murder. Nine years after the massacre, no one has been convicted. On Thursday, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said that the wife and mother of Datu Saudi Ampatuan Jr. asked for the President’s “intercession” since her husband remains at large.

Cimatu seeks law arming DENR forest rangers By Maricel V. Cruz FOREST rangers are now being trained to use shotguns following the killing of a forest ranger in Palawan allegedly by illegal loggers. This was revealed on Friday by Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu during the hearing on the DENR’s budget in 2020. “I initiated the weapons training of my enforcers there kasi pinapatay po ang mga tao namin eh (because they are getting killed). Enforcers are being trained to handle shotguns,” Cimatu told lawmakers. Cimatu said that soldiers and policemen usually accompany forest rangers on patrols.

However, the DENR enforcers are forced to go out on their own when soldiers or policemen are not available. Owing to the violence inﬂicted by illegal loggers and other environmental law violators on DENR personnel, Cimatu asked the legislators for a law that would create an enforcement bureau to be composed of armed personnel boost the implementation of environmental laws, particularly the AntiIllegal Logging Act. “Hindi naman kami pwede mag-hire ng security guard to help us in the patroling. In the end, sana mayroon na tayong batas na makatulong sa atin,” he said.

Groups want justice for Pinay worker ENVIRONMENTAL health groups from Taiwan and the Philippines have joined the mounting clamor for justice for Filipina worker Deserie Castro Tagubasi who died from an acid spill while working at Tyntek electronics factory in the Chunan Science Park, Miaoli County. In a joint press statement, the Environmental Quality Protection Foundation of Taiwan and the EcoWaste Coalition of the Philippines condoled with the co-workers of Tagubasi and her family in Isabela province as both groups echoed the need for full and impartial investigation of the fatal incident and the strengthening of rules to prevent occupational hazards.

E-cigarettes risky, DOH, WHO claim OFFICIALS from the Department of Health, the World Health Organization, and the Philippine College of Physicians, refuted industry claims that there were not enough evidence to prove that e-cigarettes are safer for human health. “If there was one clear takeaway from the Senate’s latest committee hearing on proposals to raise ‘sin’ taxes, it’s that electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) are “deﬁnitely” not safe and could pose risks to people’s health,” said Cayetano. Cayetano’s committee on Thursday conducted its third public hearing on proposals to increase excise taxes on alcohol and e-cigarette products under Package 2+ of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program or CTRP. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Rights advocates back SOGIE bill HUMAN rights advocates on Friday joined the mounting call for the Senate to pass the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression [SOGIE] Equality Bill. Cristina Palabay, secretary general of Karapatan (Alliance for the Advancement of People’s Rights), afﬁrmed their commitment to “uphold and defend the basic rights and human dignity of marginalized sectors.” “We stand ﬁrm with the LGBTQI+ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual] people for the immediate passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill,” she said. Rio N. Araja

‘Malikhaing Guro’ confab set at UPLB THE 6th Malikhaing Guro International Conference on Culture-based Education will be held at the University of the Philippines Los Baños in Laguna from Sept. 12 to Sept. 14, 2019. The conference will be a gathering of cultural educators, pedagogues, cultural workers, and arts practitioners across nations to surface their various practices, emerging perspective, and challenges to the different modalities and contexts of education anchored on culture. With this year’s theme, “Cultural Education: Bridging School and Community for Empowered Citizenry”, paper presentations are expected to demonstrate reﬂections, conceptualization, or arguments on several topics.

(MS-SEPT. 7, 2019)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Opinion

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

An open letter to parents of activists I WRITE this for all parents who have children that are activists. I also write this to my fellow teachers who have students who are activists.

Together let us be in awe of our young people today—their courage and idealism, their ability to think for themselves, their commitment to a better Philippines and world. I was a student and youth activist in my high school and college days. I am now an international environmental lawyer, a writer and scholar, a social entrepreneur, and a law, philosophy and governance professors in 11 Philippine universities and several other learning institutions like the Philippine Judicial Academy and some Catholic seminaries. In the last 40 years, I have held top leadership positions in government, international organizations, academic, professional, and citizen organizations. I owe my professional success to my being a student and later as a social activist, in particular as an environmental and human rights advocate. Because of my engagement in the biggest issues if our country and world, I acquired

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

knowledge, skills, experience, networks, and wisdom that have brought me to where I am today. That includes being a parent of young persons who are committed to build a better country, a more just and happy society—in a word, activists. Recently, we have seen attempts by certain personalities in government including pro-administration senators, members of the lower house and ranking military and police personnel to criminalize membership in militant organizations and to revive the Anti-Subversion Law which had been repealed during the time of President Ramos. As we are all too aware, these legal measures had long been repudiated as vestiges of the Marcos repressive rule. We all know that much like during the darkest days of the Martial Law era, these measures have no other purpose than to stamp down legitimate voices of protest and opposition to perceived abuse and misuse of power. As parents, we are doubly concerned that in these times when a climate of fear have so permeated our society given the thousands who are now dead as a result of the brutal anti-drug campaign, and thousands more of unresolved extrajudicial killings, we are fearful that our children might be counted as part of this horrible statistic, either because they end up in prison, become victims of maltreatment or worse. Many young people were martyred during the dark days of the dictatorship, all of whom we now hail as heroes. But none of us parents want that for our children. While our concerns as parents may be legitimate and our fears cannot simply be shrugged off, we must also be aware that our children are of majority age and are perfectly capable of critical and independent thinking

A loathsome practice

IVEN the public outrage over the near-release of rapist and murderer former Calauan, Laguna Mayor Antonio Sanchez, and the subsequent revelation that the Good Conduct Time Allowance Law has been used numerous times to free prisoners convicted of heinous crimes, President Rodrigo Duterte has sacked Bureau of Corrections Director Nicanor Faeldon.

and this is our second point—is the propensity of this administration to recycle officials. The disgraced ones, exposed as inept at best and corrupt at worst, go from one post to the next, secure and happy with the knowledge that they still enjoy the trust and confidence of the appointing power. Will this happen yet again with Faeldon? Recall that he was previously yanked out as chief of the Bureau of Customs after some P6.4 billion worth of shabu fantastically breezed through the ports and onto the streets. After the outrage died down, we were aghast to hear he had been appointed to run the New Bilibid Prison. There was Isidro Lapeña, another Customs head, who supposedly quit after the discovery of drugs stashed inside magnetic lifters. Graft cases were filed against him, but he was

Hold off the celebration for at least two reasons. First, the mess at the bureau appears to be bigger and fartherreaching than any single director. The public is bound to be transfixed in the next few weeks by investigations that not only seek to aid legislation but shed light on the apparently shady dealings between financially able prisoners and malleable prison officials. The plot thickens—and if this administration were truly sincere about stomping off government corruption, it has to act decisively to make past and present officials of the national penitentiary accountable for the scandalous horse trading that tramples on law and order and mocks the spirit of restorative justice. We trust something concrete will come out of succeeding hearings. What we do not trust, however—

soon back in service as head of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. Another Customs official, Vener Baquiran, sacked earlier as the district collector of the Manila International Container Port, found his new calling as deputy commissioner of the same agency. And then, Northern Police District chief Roberto Fajardo, suspended after the killing of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos, has been named chief of the Philippine National Police’s Highway Patrol Group. Mr. Duterte once declared that he will never hesitate to fire officials for the slightest “whiff of corruption.”He has kept his part of the bargain and fired some of them. Alas, in the fine print there was no promise he would not recycle them. God forbid we hear Faeldon being assigned to another government office. Then again, the argument is no longer that a particular removed official should or should not be appointed to any other government post. It is that recycling officials removed for wrongdoing, or the mere suggestion of wrongdoing, should altogether stop.

Turn to A5

Giving our girls a chance ANGEL (not her real name), just turned 17 but she already has a oneyear, four-month- old baby girl. She got pregnant by her first boyfriend when she was 15 years old. Angel started school late at nine years old, and stopped after sometime so she was not able to finish her elementary education. Angel comes from a poor family. She is fifth of seven siblings. Her mother passed on when she was just a girl and the father was violent to his children which caused Angel and a brother to leave home. That was the time that she met her boyfriend through friends. They first had sex 12 weeks into the relationship in the house of her boyfriend’s family. Angel does not have a job. Her boyfriend is 23 years old and works as an on-and-off garbage collector earning, on the average, P5,000 a month. They use this for everything they need including the P1,000 monthly rental for a small room they call home. Angel said life is hard so she only wants to have two children. She uses contraceptive pills from the Barangay Health Center to avoid getting pregnant. She still sees her friends who are now in their last years of high school and wistfully says that she wants to go back to school. Angel is one of the teenage mothers we interviewed about teen pregnancy. Her story is not much different from the others. These girls come from poor families and became sexually active at a young age. They did not undergo sexuality and reproductive health education and had no information on contraception. All the girls had to stop going to school to face the responsibilities of motherhood. In the Philippines, around 24 babies are born to teen mothers every hour, or 566 babies per day. We have one of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the world. According to the 2017 NDHS, 9 percent of Filipino girls aged 15 to 19 have already begun childbearing. The highest rates are in Mindanao where rates in three

regions range from 15 percent to 18 percent. Data from the same survey also say that more girls in rural areas (10.1 percent) get pregnant than those in urban communities (6.8 percent); much fewer rich girls get pregnant (3 percent) compared with their poorest counterparts (15 percent); and more girls with only elementary education begin childbearing (32 percent) than those with college education (4 percent). The conclusion is that poor, uneducated girls especially in rural communities are the ones getting pregnant. Sadly, however, the highest unmet need for family planning is among the 15 to 19 year olds at 37.5 percent. Thus, it is common to see repeat teen pregnancy in poor communities. In providing modern family planning education and services to poor communities, we see a lot of teen mothers with more than one child.

It is more difficult for poor families to break the cycle of poverty when girls get pregnant and stop schooling. The Commission on Population and Development also said that an estimated 2,000 girls aged 10 to 14 have gotten pregnant in 2017. This age group is not included in the NDHS because the survey focuses on women of reproductive age pegged at 15 to 49 years old. However, PopCom’s statement is consistent with information given to my own organization from different provinces about pregnancy among girls in this age group. Can you imagine girls this young getting pregnant and giving birth? According to Secretary Ernesto Pernia, teen pregnancy is now a national social emergency and it urgently needs addressing as this affects not only the girls and their families but the society as a whole. It breeds intergenerational poverty because it is more difficult for poor families to Turn to A5

The height of incompetence DISGRACED Bureau of Corrections Director Nicanor Faeldon should have never been appointed to head that agency. Remember the P6.4-billion shabu brouhaha which happened under his watch at the Bureau of Customs? That’s not the only reason. By his own admission, he is incompetent to head any government office. At the hearing of Senate Blue Ribbon Committee early this week regarding the release of convicts under the Good Conduct Time Allowance Law, Senator Francis Tolentino asked Faeldon if he was aware that Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code prohibits the release of prisoners during the election period. March 14 to June 12 was official election period this year. During this

time, any official is barred from releasing any prisoner. Surprisingly, Faeldon answered in the negative. Does that mean he is not aware that the country is governed by law and that all government agencies are subject to these laws? What is his business heading a government office?

The mess at BuCor does not end with Faeldon’s exit. Had he just strictly adhered to the law, he would not have approved the release from the New Bilibid Prison of Taiwanese Chen Tiz Zang and four other Chinese convicts. In fact, he would not even have signed (only to withdraw later as he claims) the release of former Calauan Mayor An-

tonio Sanchez on the basis of GCTA. And he could not deny that, as immigration officials testified during the Senate hearing, these foreigners were released within the prohibited period, and were turned over to the BI for the start of deportation proceedings. While the government had spent a fortune just trying to capture and convict those prisoners, all it took was a mere signature from Faeldon, disregarding the law in the process, le just to let them go. Fortunately, as legal procedures move so slowly in the Philippines, the convicts are still here, under the custody of the government. Nonetheless, Tolentino said that the release was granted it was in clear exist violation, willful violation of existing laws, especially the election code. “Therefore, it is void.” According to records provided for by the Bureau of Immigration, the Taiwanese was released on April 1 and the four Chinese—Chan Chit Turn to A5

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Opinion

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No stone left unturned

Cut off their source of funding

indanao, which cast blood on the hands of former President Noynoy Aquino. Now we know that BuCor has freed thousands of notorious convicts, including heinous criminals, far more than the number of those suspected illegal drug dealers killed in alleged encounters with Philippine National Police operatives in Oplan Tokhang since 2016. Obviously, the Tokhang fatalities missed the “second chance” at a reformed life of “matuwid na daan” which is the supposed rationale of RA 10592, allowing “Good Conduct Time Allowance” to Bilibid Prison inmates. It surfaced that due to the corruption in BuCor, an attached agency of the Department of Justice those ineligible for release under RA 10592 have bought their way out of incarceration. The releases were reportedly without

the approval of the Justice Secretary. Hardened criminals including convicts for murder, armed robbery, kidnappers, rapists, child molesters, drug lords and illegal drug traffickers, gunrunners, and arsonists. Indeed, this mockery of law and justice to the detriment of victims of monstrous crimes and terrorism has blatantly undermined President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-crime and antiillegal drugs campaign. This irregularity has been going on since 2013 and all those officials and staff of BuCor and other government officials who had a hand in allowing unreformed and hardened criminals must be exposed. They must be criminally and administratively charged. Whichever institution or agency is conducting an inquiry on the issue, no stone should be left unturned.

or minors, it is natural for parents to command and order them what to do and they have to obey if only to instill discipline and inculcate in them good values. But as our children grow into adulthood, they begin to form and cultivate their own perception of things, influenced, as it is by their familial, relational, physical and social environments. The worst thing we do is when we disempower them, accuse them of being brainwashed, or being kidnapped by militant organizations that have in fact provided them with the tools and avenues to make a difference. Many children, because of these varying internal and external influences, may be more assertive of their rights, more sensitive of injustice and perceptive of the social inequality that surrounds them than others, and are not contented to sit idly and wait for change to come but are always willing to take action in order to make right what they believe is wrong; hence, these are our children who opt to become activists for change. These are the young people, our sons and daughters, who participate in rallies, mass protests and demonstrations in schools, streets, in front of government offices, foreign embassies or what not. These are our children who voice out their opposition against tuition hikes, rising prices of oil and commodities, against a hostile foreign government, official abuse and corruption and other relevant social and political issues of the day. I support these young people when they speak truth to power. The truth is, given where I am now and the relationships I have, I cannot be as honest as them. Look at the young people of Hong Kong! We would be a better Philippines if our ranks of activists would swell in the same way.

To ventilate grievances and to express one’s opinions and views on certain things, even if these may be unsavory to the power-that-be and the entrenched elite, is a guaranteed right and protected by our laws, not to mention the constitution, the fundamental law of the land. It is a vital component of every working democracy that our youth be allowed to air their opinions and grievances. To curtail these basic freedoms is anti-democratic and antithetical to the principles for which every civilized society is founded. Noble peace prize recipient Kailash Satyarthi, endorsing the power of the youth, once said: “The power of youth is the common wealth for the entire world. The faces of young people are the faces of our past, our present and our future. No segment in the society can match with the power, idealism, enthusiasm and courage of the young people.” In the same vein, the youth has always been a catalyst of change in every epoch of our country’s history. As our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal long ago realized and was quoted saying even during a time when Filipino nationalism was still at a nascent stage: “Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan (The youth is the hope of our nation).” Dear parents and teachers of our student and youth activists let us not be afraid! Together let us be in awe of our young people today—their courage and idealism, their ability to think for themselves, their commitment to a better Philippines and world. As parents and teachers, let us not pull them back or restrain them, but be with them, always support them, in fact march and hold the line with them if necessary.

childbirth, the possibility of pregnancy and childbirth-related complications is very real. When these happen especially to poor girls, the State should be ready to address their needs to save their health and lives using public funds. Indeed, teen pregnancy is a national social emergency. All efforts must be exerted to prevent more girls from getting pregnant, and for those who have already given birth, prevent repeat teen pregnancy. For now, two crucial things must be done: provide sexuality and RH education to our young people in and out of school, and give them access to contraception and family planning services. The DepEd is mandated by law to provide RH education in the formal and non-formal educational systems but it has been too slow in fulfilling its responsibilities. The law was passed in 2012 yet DepEd has yet to fully implement the provisions on RH education. The Department of Health must strengthen its Adolescent Reproductive Health program and reach young people as well as their parents, in the provision of modern family planning program

for the youth. The other important thing to do is to immediately pass the Teen Pregnancy Prevention bill now in both Houses of Congress so a comprehensive program to arrest the problem is implemented. Here, President Duterte (who, according to some Cabinet Secretaries is keenly aware of the problem) can play a major part by certifying the bill as a priority measure. This will assure passage of this important bill. Angel, the girl in my story, still dreams of a good life for her family. She does not want to get pregnant again soon. She wants to go back to school because according to her, she does not want her baby to experience the hardships she now experiences. There are hundreds of thousands, perhaps even millions of Angels in our midst. Nearly 600 of them are added each day. Teen pregnancy is a national social emergency that must be urgently address if we want our girls to have healthy and productive lives. Their quality of life will have an impact on their families, now and in the future.

selves spiritually closer to the people. In fact, even the communist themselves are guilty of systematically killing their own kind on mere suspicion of being “deep penetration agent” (DPA). The Church, the oligarchy and their foreign brokers took turns in condemning President Duterte even seeking his Part II prosecution before the ICC, but remain THE advent of neoliberalism almost uncannily silent of the bloody pogrom coincided with the collapse of the ideo- carried out by the CPP. The same can be said of our press logical competition between the socialist bloc of Eastern Europe and the capi- freedom. The opposition never bothtalist West. Easily this means that the ered to analyze that press freedom is ideological competition has ended. To not without limitations like prohibition others, this means a transformation of from foreign ownership. To date, both ideological perspectives in identifying Rapper and Vera Files refuse to admit our enemies. We assume we can now that they are funded and operated by have the support of any group without foreign corporations having close ties antagonizing them, as was the case with the CIA. The concurrence of the Left with the opposition makes one to during the Cold War. The socialist camp, hampered by conclude that these front organizations the surge of metaphysical freedom, are not entirely separate but united in their cause to adcould not cope vance their interwith the nuances est. of liberal democIt is on this baracy. Their vulThis explains the sis why the olinerability stems garchy, the yellow from the fact that proliferation of elitist opposition and they remain eco- foundations. the Church coanomically backlesce. Their view ward in contrast of freedom is cirto the economy of the West that concentrated in pro- cumscribed to overthrowing the govducing consumer goods. The envy of ernment although each has its own uneven economic development only agenda on how to do it. The neoliberal heightened political instability to ideology has opened the door to anyspeed up the privatization process in body who will contribute to weaken the the name of freedom and democracy. government, using it to their advantage This marked the period in what we whatever civil and political right that is might say “ideological reformation” provided in the Constitution. No country today can assure the govto voluntarily modify their political ernment it will not be subverted on the system. The West led by the US took this ep- misguided belief it is an ally. The “me ochal transition to propagate the virtue first” slogan adopted by US President of this new breed of capitalism called Trump placed in complete disarray exneoliberalism. It wanted to complete the isting alliances. Today, it is the intervanquishment of a defeated enemy. The est of the most powerful states like the reaction from the East was to slow down US that predominated in international the pace of the transition called in the arena justified by its policy of unilaterWest as liberalization or, to put it bluntly, alism. This explains why many of the slow down the pace of freedom that tran- organizations identified as fronts of the scended to a call for privatization. Lead- CPP, NDF and NPA are not only being ers know that should they not put a break supported but even financed by the USto the transition as such could lead to a based NGO’s like the National Endowserious political convulsion as seen in the ment for Democracy (NED). This “metamorphic” transformarise of colored revolutions. As the conflict between the erstwhile tion of organizations allowed them to ideological protagonists intensified, the carry out specific task. They have their tendency to curtail freedom turned to media outfit to fabricate their version one of nasty reaction often resulting of propaganda like Rapper, and Vera in the accusation of human rights vio- Files; an organization to assist us in our lations, an issue that perfectly suited electoral exercise like Namfrel and PPthose communists seeking to cling on CRV, an organization to condition the to their ideological dogmatism. The is- minds of the people of who are likely sue of human rights was even applied to to win like the SWS and Pulse Asia, countries that have perfectly embraced created NGOs parallel to the functions free enterprise but refused to tow the of the Commission on Human Rights, and an array of NGOs to help them in line of complete free trade. As these leaders react to these pres- every issue they might raise against the sures and began to concoct charges of government. Given this scenario, one could draw human rights violation and instigate unfounded charges of extrajudicial kill- the suspicion that either the governings of suspects involved in the sale of ment is being misled or is being presillegal and prohibited drugs. Countries sured to sensationalize issue to allow suffered the pinch from these unfound- prospective candidates of the opposied criticisms not exactly for rejecting tion to gather sympathy and win in the the issue of human rights, but for us- next election. In other words, there is ing it as tool to demand more economic more of politics than of real issues to help bring the government closer to our concessions. It was the various NGOs that were people. Even identifying each organiconstitutionally guaranteed their legal zation and their members have become existence that made their initial attack hazy because ideology has become against the government that hankers amorphous. This is exactly the same problem much to bring itself closer to the people. What made the issue complicated encountered by the government in its is that both the yellow opposition and fight against terrorism and the sepathe front organizations of the Left is ratist movement. At the height of the both castigate the administration in terrorist bombing in May 2002, the a bid to capture power or win in the government accidentally found an American by the name of Micheal scheduled election. This explains why there has been a Terrence Meiring seriously wounded proliferation of elitist foundations and inside a Davao Hotel after the bomb almost all of them support the policies he was tinkering with exploded. of the Church vis-à-vis its stand against Before the government authorities the government, particularly during the could question him, he was whisked administration of President Duterte. by embassy personnel to Manila and The Cory Aquino government granted eventually allowed to leave the counNGOs full tax exemption to founda- try, thus avoiding questions about his tions under Section 30 of the NIRC. possible involvement in the spate of Moreover, the recipient like the Catho- bombing in Mindanao. It is on this lic Church cannot be questioned about basis why we have difficulty in identheir source just as the donor cannot be tifying and classifying which group forced to reveal the amount it donated. is with us or belongs to the so-called In fact, the donor can use it to reduce its hard core, or those considered conciliatory, a euphemism for those wanttax liabilities. The Left, as usual, raise the cry of ing to negotiate on the terms suggestfascism while the oligarchy and its um- ed by their foreign brokers. bilical partner, the Catholic Church, extended their support to make them- rpkapunan@gmail.com

THE investigation into the corruption at the Bureau of Corrections must go deeper than the involvement of recidivist Nicanor Faeldon. The Office of the Ombudsman, the Senate, as well as the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission should unmask and hold liable all of those responsible for the unlawful release of prisoners from the National Penitentiary since the 2013 enactment of Republic Act 10592. The scandal, which has implicated some key officials in the Duterte administration, may be the worst since the tragic 2015 Special Action Force 44 massacre in Mamasapano, Magu-

An open... From A4

and better judgment. Some of us may not be in agreement at times with their politics, or perceptions of certain things that are happening around them. But we must trust their judgment. That includes trusting also in their ability to make mistakes. And when they make mistakes, we should be there to help them—not scold them, not get angry with them, but love them even more. For the record, I believe strongly that the way forward for any society to resolve its conflicts is through dialogue and consensus. I have long ago abandoned rigid ideological frameworks or labeling any person of group of persons as enemies of the state or people. I teach and mentor activists of all ideological persuasions; I also teach and mentor military and police officials (some already with high rank), a generation of social entrepreneurs, many officials from all branches of government, and quite a number of priests and religious people. I condemn all forms of violence and violations of human rights—whether by the state or by other groups in society. For me, nothing can justify the torture or killing of a drug addict, a peasant leader, a union organizer, a human rights defender, a lawyer, a judge, a journalist, a government official, a policeman, or a soldier. For sure, I sometimes disagree with the tactics and positions of the activists I engage with, including those personally close to me. But the more prudent way of approaching these disagreements, if any, is to guide them, and give them advice on what we believe in our hearts is the right path for them to take. When children are still in their teens,

Giving... From A4

break the cycle of poverty when girls get pregnant and stop schooling. To illustrate this, DepEd Secretary Liling Briones in an HOR Budget hearing said that from the 2017 PSA Annual Poverty Indicator Survey, school dropouts reached more than 2.97 million and 61.9 percent of those who dropped out were girls aged between 16 to 24. Of this figure, 57 percent were forced to stop schooling due to “family matters” and the biggest components of this were teenage pregnancy and early marriage. “Family matters” was the top reason for dropping out followed by financial concerns cited by 14.3 percent of female dropouts. Employment and livelihood opportunities become very limited for those who get little formal education. It is estimated that between P24 billion to P42 billion women’s lifetime earnings are lost to teen pregnancy. Moreover, since teen pregnancy is high-risk owing to the fact that the girls’ bodies are not yet mature enough to handle pregnancy and

The height... From A4

Yue, Kin San Ho, Ching Che and Wu Hing Sum—were released on June 4. Ho Wai Pang was freed on June 6. All these releases were well within the election period. At the Nangka media forum yesterday, PBA Rep. Jericho “Koko’ Nograles readily agreed there were irregularities in the release of some

prisoners under the GCTA program. Aside from the fact they were released during the election period, the computation for the time to be deducted from the time they are supposed to serve appears questionable. Nograles, citing the opinion of former Solicitor General Estelito Mendoza, said that in Sanchez’s case, the 26 years supposedly equivalent to his good conduct should not be deducted from 40

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@bethangsioco on Twitter Elizabeth Angsioco on Facebook

years, the maximum length of time he is supposed to serve, but rather on the aggregate total of the seven life terms he was sentenced to. The irregularity in the computation for GCTA, Nograles says, could be rooted in corruption. According to the party-list solon, a witness has already emerged, claiming money changes hands within the prison facility in exchange for the release of some prisoners under the

much-abused GCTA program. The GCTA, after all, was not subject to outside scrutiny. It was an all-BuCor affair. This is not to say Faeldon was involved in GCTA scam. He may not be even aware of that. He just simply signed the release papers submitted to his office. In other words, he was that incompetent. He did not check and counter-check. He did not validate the papers he was signing. He

was not even aware he was violating the law when he was signing those papers. The mess at the BuCor does not end with his Faeldon’s exit. He should be made accountable for everything he had done, along with other BuCor officials who transformed the GCTA into a money-making racket. Faeldon’s incompetence and ignorance of the law do not excuse him, and will not spare him.

News

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4 police drinking liquor on duty sacked SOUTHERN Police District director Brig. Gen. Nolasco Bathan ordered the relief of four Las Piñas City police officers caught drinking liquor while on duty early Friday morning. The four police officers—Patrolmen Samruss Inoc, Robemarla Abales and Alquinn Orgen, and Corporal Randy Danao—were caught by district deputy director for operations Col. Juan Añonuevo during a surprise inspection at their Police Assistance Desk near Petron Gasoline Station along Alabang Zapote Road in Barangay Talon. Upon learning the incident, Bathan ordered the four immediate relieved and transferred them in a floating status to SPD District Personnel Holding and Accounting Section. The four were also ordered to undergo Community Services and placed them under the close watch of Añonuevo’s office. Bathan expressed dismay on the matter, saying “It is unfortunate, but actuations such as this should not be tolerated.” He said “The mere fact that they were drinking liquor while on duty and in uniform, they are already violating a provision of Napolcom [National Police Commission] Memo Circular 2007-001.” The circular, the SPD chief added, “prohibits any police personnel to engage in regulated gambling or game of chance while on duty and be drunk or disorderly while on off duty or drunk while on duty and in uniform or in recognize police uniform.” Bathan has asked the Police Internal Affairs Service to act and initiate necessary administrative procedures against the four policemen. He said IAS is an independent body of the Philippine National Police and has the mandate to do these things. “May this serve as a warning to those who defy the call or who violate their oath to serve the public, your PNP will not tolerate it, instead will also constraint them to file actions against you,” said Bathan. Metro Manila police director Guillermo Eleazar also expressed disappointment on the controversies involving his men and reiterated he would not tolerate any abuse or wrongdoing of erring policemen. The chief of the National Capital Region Police Office had directed all district directors and police station commanders in Metro Manila to discipline and relieve their subordinates if found to be corrupt, abusive and remiss in their work. Eleazar also reminded his men to always ensure that their personnel were performing accordingly based on its mandated duties and responsibilities. Joel E. Zurbano

DPWH asked to speed up drainage works By Joel E. Zurbano

HE Makati City government has asked the Department of Public Works and Highways to hasten its rehabilitation works of the drainage system in the city’s two districts in light of the massive flooding and traffic gridlock during heavy rains in project sites late last month. Upon the directive of Mayor Abigail Binay, the city’s Department of Engineering and Public Works has asked DPWH Metro Manila 2nd District Engineer Arleen Beltran to speed up the completion of the flood control and drainage repair projects. “We would like to request your good office to fast-track the completion of ongoing

and pending DPWH flood control projects in Makati City to prevent the recurrence of massive flooding in certain parts of the city during a downpour, especially this rainy season,” said DEPW head engineer Lauro Reyes in his letter sent to Beltran. Reyes said city district engineers had identified the ongoing DPWH Flood Control Project and the Rehabilitation of Drainage on

Makati Avenue (District 1) and Daffodil St., Begonia St., Aster St., Lilac St., Mullein St., and Azalea St. in Brgy. Pembo (District 2) as the cause of massive flooding and the ensuing traffic jam that occurred last Aug. 24. “Based on the reports of our district engineers, one of the aggravating factors to the flash floods and monstrous traffic are the ongoing and pending DPWH Flood Control projects in the City,” Reyes stated. The city engineer also asked Beltran for a definite target date of completion for the said projects, pointing out that his office and the city government as a whole have been unduly blamed by affected publics, which include residents, commuters, and motorists. “We would like to know when the rehabilitation would be finished since our department and the city government have been unjustly criticized for the massive floods in the said areas,” Reyes wrote, adding that he

Nograles wants to modernize PAO, facilities

SAVING THE BAY.

Congressman Lito Atienza (left) and Commodore Robert Lim Joseph discuss strategies and issues on Save Manila Bay and Maynilad during a lunchconference Friday at the Manila Yacht Club. Norman Cruz

By Maricel V. Cruz

Solons bat for Mindanao traditional arts institute TWO legislators from Mindanao have pushed for the protection, preservation and promotion of traditional arts in Southern Philippines through the creation of the Institute of Sulu and Mindanao Traditional Arts, or INSUMINTRA. Deputy Speaker Mujiv Hataman of of Basilan and Anak Mindanao Rep. Amihilda Sangcopan sought the creation of the arts institute through House Bill1580, the island’s cultural diversity. Hataman, a former governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said: “Mindanao’s arts such as hand weaving, metallurgy, architecture, music and epic

looked forward to receiving feedback from the DPWH official. Also attached to his letter to the DPWH district engineer were relevant reports, photos, findings and recommendations of the DEPW. The city engineering department has been regularly declogging and desilting the drainage in various parts of the city as part of Makati’s flood mitigation efforts. From January to June this year, the DEPW hauled a total of 768 metric tons of solid waste and silt from the drainage of 26 barangays in two districts. Of this, 496 metric tons were collected from District 2 and 272 metric tons from District 1. Meanwhile, DEPW also repaired and restored 446 manholes and their covers, restored 277.22 square meters of sidewalk, 600.85 square meters of curb and gutter, and 309.76 square meters of concrete pavement and top slab.

chanting have gained prominence and recognition from government agencies as well as in the private sector. “And this holds true especially in the academe. But the chance of these arts surviving popular recognition under an environment of fast-changing technological advances is in question,” Hataman added. For these reasons, Sangcopan stressed the need for a distinct government agency that would conserve, appreciate and protect Mindanao’s arts and treasures, and that it is an urgent measure that Filipinos should support. “Traditional arts in Mindanao and

Sulu must be kept alive not only because they provide income for the artisans and their communities, but more importantly because they are the remaining proof of the pre-colonial identity of the people of Mindanao and Sulu, and of all Filipinos,” Hataman and Sangcopan said in the bill’s explanatory note. The bill provides that INSUMINTRA would be an independent government agency but it will be actively coordinating with other agencies engaged in similar functions and activities such as the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Maricel V. Cruz

A CONGRESSMAN from Rizal on Friday batted for the widening of the coverage of the Public Attorney’s Office as well as modernizing its facilities. Rep. Fidel Nograles of Rizal filed the Public Attorney’s Office Modernization Act of 2019 that aims to strengthen and modernize the PAO and widen its coverage to cater to more sectors who cannot afford legal services or who deserve free legal assistance. “We need to broaden access to justice by both the complainant and petitioner as clients, and further include legal assistance to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, other government officials and employees, as well as sectoral and advocacy groups,” Nograles, vice chairman of the House Committee on Justice, said. The proposed PAO Modernization Act of 2019, according to Nograles, shall ensure that a legal defense and representation fund is available in all government offices, in order to help government personnel who may be attacked by virtue of the conduct of their official duty. It also highlights empowering sectoral groups and grassroots-level organizations as it proposes that the PAO shall render, free of charge, legal representation, assistance, and counseling for sectoral representation, including but not limited to cases involving the environment, labor, Indigenous Peoples, and persons with disabilities, he added. It also proposes the conduct of a legal needs study by the Philippine Statistics Authority for Congress to understand the basic access to justice needs of the people so proper legislation may be developed and implemented.

Sports

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

PH captures 5 bronzes in Asian U Soft Tennis meet THE Philippines bagged five bronze medals in the just-concluded 1st Asian University Soft Tennis Championships and 1st Asian University Juniors Soft Tennis Championships at the Colegio San Agustin indoor tennis court in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. National team mainstay Princess Catindig delivered three when she reached the semifinal of the women’s 21-under category in the Asian Juniors. She was a semifinalist in the women’s singles and led her team to the Final Four in the Asian University. Philippine Army’s Mark Alcoseba added two bronzes coming from the men’s singles and team event of the tournament organized by the Asian Soft Tennis Federation and Philippine Soft Tennis Association. ASTP vice president and PSTA president Col. Jeff Tamayo, ASTF secretary general Tasuo Kasai of Japan and CSA rector Rev. Fr. James Uy, OSA awarded the medals to the all the winners. The Asian University Soft Tennis Championships served as a test event for the 30th SEA Games which will be held in the country from November 30 to December 11. A total of 450 players from 13 countries joined the two competitions supported by Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, Kenko balls and the University of Perpetual Help. The Philippines is hoping to surpass its one silver and five bronze medals performance in Palembang, Indonesia during the 2011 SEA Games, which was the last time soft tennis was included in the biennial tournament.

5 Filipino teams take on elite talent in 3x3 Chooks tourney NO less than five Filipino squads aim to make some noise, as they battle elite 3x3 talent at the Chooks-to-Go Manila Challenger on September 7 and 8, at SM Fairview. In what promises to be a thrilling atmosphere, 12 teams will compete across the two-day event in the Filipino capital city and there will be plenty at stake. The winner and runner-up of the competition will punch their ticket to the Jeddah Masters in Saudi Arabia on October 18 and 19. As the case that Alvin Pasaol and Balanga Chooks reach the final of the competition, qualification to Jeddah will fall to the team that finishes third. This is after Balanga managed to earn their ticket to the tour in July during the Patriot’s Cup. Completing Balanga are Karl Dehesa, Travis Franklin, and Lamar Roberson. One team surely hoping to prove a point will be Balanga’s compatriots Pasig Chooks. Led by top Filipino player Joshua Munzon, Pasig has proven their ability to compete against some of the greatest touring teams on earth and that is exactly who they will face. Munzon will be joined by Troy Rike, Dylan Ababou, and Nikola Pavlovic. Along with the aforementioned Pasig and Balanga, the tournament will also host Isabela City Chooks, Zamboanga, and Narvacan City. Former Gilas Pilipinas big man Marcus Douthit leads Narvacan and will have Gian Abrigo, Jojo Cunanan, and Dan Reducto as runningmates. Isabela City will field a stacked team with Gab Banal, Marcus Hammonds, Franky Johnson, and former Wake Forest standout Aaron Rountree while Zamboanga will be composed of Davon Potts, Rod Ebondo, Das Esa, and Jonathan Parreno. Pasig, Isabela City, Zamboanga, and Narvacan City though will have to go through the gauntlet as all four squads need to survive the qualifying draws. Narvacan will have to outlast Melbourne iAthletic and Jakarta South in QD A to move to Pool C while Pasig, Isabela City, and Zamboanga will slug it out for a spot in Pool D. Seen as the clear-cut favorites though are Riga Ghetto of Latvia. The no. 2 ranked team in the world actually faced Pasig earlier this year, defeating them 21-15 in a well-fought game.

Bowling World Cup finals start

SOFT TENNIS CHAMP. Yu Sung Chang of Chinese Taipei celebrates after defeating Sora Hirooka of Japan (3-3, 7-5) in the finals of the men’s Under-21 singles, winning the title in the 1st Asian Juniors Soft Tennis Championship at the Colegio de San Agustin Covered Tennis Court in San Jose, Del Monte, Bulacan, Friday. Dennis Abrina Superb wedge shots put Ira Alido closer to a dream championship

Alido moves up by 2 shots despite last-hole mishap

RA ALIDO took charge with a 73 despite a ﬁnal-hole bogey, earning a two-stroke lead over erstwhile joint leader Tarik Can of the US and Thai Nirun Sae Ueng and moving 18 holes away from scoring a breakthrough victory in the Aboitiz Invitational yesterday. The former amateur hotshot actually looked headed to posting a third straight even par card at the tough Wack Wack East on a big recovery from a bogey-bogey stumble from No. 2 with birdies on Nos. 10 and 14 and a bigger cushion. But he fell short off the 18th green and failed to get up-and-down on a flubbed par-putt from six feet. But his 38-35 proved enough to shove him past a slew of rivals that kept scrambling for spots atop the leaderboard while trying to buck the buffeting wind that blew from all over, sending the scores soaring and the rest of the bidders tumbling. “I targeted the front of the green (No. 18) but came up short. I had a chance to

save par from six feet but didn’t make it though,“ said Alido, whose 217 put him closer to a dream title run in the Philippine Golf Tour Asia event organized by Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. When asked of his game-plan in the last 18 holes, the 18-year-old sophomore pro said he would still opt for conservative play and “try to limit the bogeys.” Can, who with Reymon Jaraula broke out of a nine-player tie and shared the lead with a pair of 71s Thursday, failed to check his skid and skied to a 76, his two 38s marred by three bogeys and two double bogeys, mishaps that could easily ruin one’s title bid on a course as exacting as the fabled layout.

But he gunned down three birdies, the last on the par-5 No. 13 that got him back into the thick of things at 219 in a tie with Sae Ueng, whose 74 likewise lined him up for a maiden victory on the region’s emerging circuit put up by ICTSI. “I have to eliminate these kind of mistakes if I hope to get my first championship on the PGTA,” said Can, who dumped his drive into the water on No. 7, which he birdied in the second round to seize control. He also hit it into the woods on the 10th for his other 6. Jaraula fared worse than Can with a 77 that was also ruined by two double bogeys and three bogeys against two birdies. But the unheralded but talented shotmaker from Bukidnon dropped just three strokes behind Alido at 220 in the company of former champion Tony Lascuña, American Lexus Keoninh, obscure Rico Depilo and defending champion Damien Jordan of Australia.

THE five-day Bowling World Cup national finals kicks off today at Coronado Lanes with 80 men and 43 ladies targeting the title and slots in the international event set in Palembang, Indonesia on Nov. 16-24, this year. The men’s bidders led by fourtime World Cup champion Paeng Nepomuceno and highest center final scorer Kenneth Chua, roll 12 games starting at 10 o’clock this morning, while the lady finalists, headed by 2017 BWC international winner Krizziah Tabora and seasoned campaigner Liza del Rosario, play 10 games tomorrow also at 10 a.m. Based on total pinfalls, the top 34 men and top 34 ladies will advance to the second day scheduled at Superbowl on Sept. 10 (for men) and Sept. 11 (for ladies). With their scores carried over, the 34 ladies will roll 10 more games and the 34 men 12 more with lane changes after each game. Total pinfalls will determine the top 8 ladies and men who will bowl another 8 games to determine the top 4 who will advance to the semifinal and final rounds. All matches in the quarterfinal and semifinal will be best 2 of 3 and played from scratch. In the quarters, the top finisher will meet No. 4 while the second and third placers will clash, with the winners advancing to the finals. The men’s and ladies’ champions will represent the Philippines in the Palembang international finals. Other favorites for the top awards are Merwin Tan and Alexis Sy, who competed in last year’s international event at Sam’s Town in Las Vegas; Lara Posadas Wong, Mades Arles, Paulo Valdez, RJ Bautista, Raoul Miranda and Benshir Layosa.

Mordido keeps women’s chess lead

WIM Kylen Joy Mordido (right) in deep thoughts against WIM Allaney Jia Doroy.

TEENAGE sensation WIM Kylen Joy Mordido settled for a draw with WIM Allaney Jia Doroy in the fifth round to maintain a slim half-point lead in the 2019 National Women’s Championship—Grand Finals at the Philippine Academy for Chess Excellence located at Mindanao Ave., in Project 6, Quezon City. Mordido, who earned her first WGM result when she topped the premier girls’ 18-under division in the Eastern Asia Youth Championships in Korea last year, and Doroy split the point after 31 moves of the Slav defense. The draw—which ended a string of four victories—was enough for the 17-year-old pride of Dasmariñas, Cavite to stay in the leaderboard after five rouns in this prestigious 14-player tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines, headed by President/Chairman Prospero “Butch” Pichay and supported by the

Philippine Sports Commission, thru Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez. Mordido won over Samantha Umayan in the fourth round late Thursday. But close on Mordido’s heels are top seed WGM Janelle Mae Fraya, WIM Jan Jodilyn Fronda and WIM MIkee Charlene Suede, who all have four points after victories with the disadvantageous blackpieces. Frayna, the country’s highest-rated player with an ELO of 2206, defeated Rizalyn Jasmine Tejada in 35 moveas of the Alekhine defense; Fronda crushed Mary Ann Alcantara in 33 moves of the Larsen opening; and Suede demolished Umayan in only 16 moves of the French Excjange variation. Earlier, Frayna bested WIM Marie Antoinette San Diego, Fronda outplayed Tejada and Suede lost to WIM Catherine Perena-Secopito in fourth round matches.

Manila

Laylo grabs lead at Balinas Cup By Arman Armero GRANDMASTER Darwin Laylo outplayed International Master Cris Ramayrat in 48 moves of a King’s Indian Defense to grab the solo lead in the sixth round of the GM Rosendo Balinas Memorial Cup on Thursday at the 2nd floor of the Alphaland Place in Makati City. Laylo’s total, however, remained at four points after six rounds when Nick Nisperos quit the tournament after the fifth round after complaining of chest pains. According to arbiter Alex Dinoy, tournament rules states that when a player plays less than 50 percent of the entirety of the tournament, a point will be automatically deducted from the total points of all his opponents’ results.

Subsequently, no point will be credited to those who have yet to play Nisperos in the next rounds. In other results, GM Joey Antonio, IM Angelo Young drew their games against Carlo Magno Rosaupan and erstwhile solo leader IM Paulo Bersamina to bring their total to 3.5 each. Kevin Mirano, meanwhile, downed Julius Sinangote in 61 moves, while Sherwin Tiu outwitted Alfredo Rapanot to join Laylo in the win column in the sixth round. GM John Paul Gomez, meanwhile, again failed to make significant headway as he settled for a draw against upset-conscious Rolly Parondo in 45 moves in the tournament organized by the Philippine Executive Chess Association in honor of the late GM Balinas Jr.

Codinera is 3x3 Elite League commissioner JERRY Codiñera has been appointed as tournament commissioner for the 3x3 Elite League Manila 2019 set to take place September 20-22. Codiñera joins the 3x3 movement in the country in his role as tournament commissioner. Called as ‘The Defense Minister’ during his heydays as a player, Codiñera is a member of the 25 greatest professional basketball players in the Philippines. Codiñera will lead the tournament where an opportunity to carry the Philippines in the SINA

3x3 Elite League Manila 2019 will be at stake. “I’m honored to be part of this tournament. I look forward to seeing the best Filipino talents in 3x3 come together and compete for a chance to represent the Philippines in international competitions,” Codinera said. The champion team of the 3x3 Elite League Manila organized by Mediapro Asia and SINA Sports will win $3,000 and will represent the country in the SINA 3x3 Elite League 2019 scheduled December in Beijing.

Standard

TODAY ORIE NTA L

MINDORO E LEC TRIC COOPE R ATIV E , INC. (O R M E C O) Simaron, Calapan Cit y INVITATION TO BID

All interested bidders are invited to participate in the actual bidding detailed as follows: LOT I

Supply of Maintenance Service Vehicle Quantity: Five (5) Units Approved Budget Cost: Php4,883,632.00 (VAT-Inclusive) Source of Funding: 5% Reinvestment Fund Mode of Payment: Cash on Delivery Delivery Schedule: To be announced during the pre-bid proper. NOTE: AWARDING PER LOT GENERAL GUIDELINES

1 Interested bidders may secure BID DOCUMENTS and obtain further INFORMATIONS from the ORMECO, Inc. Bids and Award Committee (BAC)/Procurement Section, ORMECO, Inc., Simaron, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. A non-refundable fee in the amount of Php5,000.00 shall be collected as payment for BID DOCUMENTS. 2 Interested bidders must be accredited as supplier before joining the pre-bidding conference and accreditation will start on September 07, 2019 at 8:00am until 5:00p.m. of September 13, 2019. You can call at telephone numbers (043) 288-7801 | 288-7802 | 288-7803 or send an email at ormeco_coop@yahoo.com. 3 PRE-BID CONFERENCE will be held at ORMECO, Inc. Board Room, Sta. Isabel, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro at 2:00 p.m. of September 16, 2019. 4 SEALED PROPOSALS will be received at 2:00 p.m. of September 30, 2019, immediately after which, the said proposals will be opened during the actual bidding in the presence of the attending bidders. 5 ALL BIDS must be accompanied by a BID BOND payable to ORMECO, Inc. in the form of CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK, MANAGER’S CHECK or BANK DRAFT issued by a reputable bank equivalent to TWO PERCENT (2%) of the Approved Budget Cost (ABC). No Bid Bond in the form of Surety Bond shall be accepted. The bidder with the lowest calculated bid will be considered the winning bidder. 6 The winning bidder shall issue FIVE PERCENT (5%) in the form of CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK, MANAGER’S CHECK or BANK DRAFT from a reputable bank, representing the PERFORMANCE BOND. 7 If the bidder who submitted the best offer refuses to push through with his / her proposed BID during and after the bidding, his / her Bid Bond shall be forfeited, and failure of bidding shall be declared. 8 ORMECO, Inc. reserves the right to accept or reject any Bids, declare failure of bidding and not to award the contract without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders. ORMECO, Inc. also has no responsibility whatsoever to compensate or indemnity bidders for any expenses incurred in the preparation of their bids. ORMECO, INC.

(MS-SEPT. 7, 2019)

(SGD) ENGR. MICHAEL O. GUICO BAC-Chairperson

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor

sports@manilastandard.net

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

Greece to unleash ‘Greek Freak’ on US squad NANJING, China—Greece will unleash snarling Giannis Antetokounmpo on Team USA after the reigning NBA MVP dragged his country into the second round of the Basketball World Cup on Thursday (Friday Philippine time). The Milwaukee Bucks forward played a starring role in an edgy 10397 victory over New Zealand to set up a tasty meeting with the title-holders on Saturday (Sunday Philippine time). The 24-year-old made a sluggish start in China as Greece defeated Montenegro but then lost narrowly to Brazil to make the meeting with the “Tall Blacks” a must-win. The so-called “Greek Freak” showed that he meant business from the start in Nanjing, nailing a thunderous dunk with 77 seconds on the clock, the determination and drive etched across his face. He repeated the feat a minute later, glaring with menace. Antetokounmpo, ably assisted by his older brother Thanasis, finished with a team-best 24 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. Chants of “MVP! MVP!” occasionally rolled around the arena as Antetokounmpo finally stamped his mark on the World Cup. New Zealand’s defeat meant that local rivals Australia became the first team— other than hosts Japan—to qualify for next summer’s Tokyo Olympics. Greek coach Thanasis Skourtopoulos said that his talisman was primed to take on the Americans. “Listen, the situation with Giannis is a little bit complicated. For sure he is the superstar of the team, everyone knows what he can do,” Skourtopoulos said. “From the other side, we need to protect his health so we have to take care about the amount of time he plays. “The next game with the USA is much better for him because he knows the mentality and the way they play. “Now it’s time for him to increase the time (he plays) and everything in the game.” Brazil and the Czech Republic are the other teams in the group in the next stage. Even without their megastars the US swatted aside already eliminated Japan, 98-45, having made heavy weather of beating Turkey in overtime earlier this week. AFP

Giannis Antetokounmpo (right) of Greece snarls in celebration after scoring against New Zealand. Antetokounmpo powered his team past New Zealand to advance to the second round of the Fiba World Cup. AFP

Oftana leads Red Lions past Mapua Cardinals By Peter Atencio

ALVIN Oftana provided the leadership once again as the San Beda Red Lions repulsed the Mapua Cardinals, 69-60, yesterday at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Oftana eked out another double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds for the Red Lions, who stayed undefeated after nine games, and at the end of the first round of the 95th National Collegiate Athletic Association Men’s Basketball Tournament. James Canlas and Donald Tankoua banged in 10 points for the Red Lions, who moved away from a one-point, 45-44 edge in the third period. “We’re lucky that we won nine straight, but I don’t expect we’re gonna win it all with the way we played today,” said Red Lions coach Boyet Fernandez. Earlier, the Letran Knights banked on a big scoring run in the third period to overpower the College of St. Benilde Blazers, 88-64. The San Beda Red Cubs turned back

the Malayan Red Robins, 88-77, to end the first round of eliminations at no. 1 in the junior division after staying unbeaten after nine outings. With Jerrick Balanza, Edson Batiller and Christian Balagasay taking turns in taking charge in the first period and at the start of the second half, the Knights went on to claim their sixth win in nine outings. Balanza, who was celebrating his birthday, led with 26 points for the Knights, who moved up the standings to a share of third spot at the end of the first round. The Knights drew 10 points from Balanza in the second period to take a 46-36 edge at halftime. Balagasay struck with four of six points he made in the opening minutes of the third period. The Knights, who were already in

front, 46-35, at halftime, went on to move further away with a 14-0 run. When it was over the Knights were comfortably ahead, 62-40, at the end of the third period. “Gumanda yung ranking natin, pero mas masaya akong nalabas namin yung laro naming hinahanap ko dati pa,” said Knights coach Bonnie Tan, as the Knights climbed to a share of third spot with the Lyceum Pirates. Justine Sanchez led five teammates who made double digits with 20 points and eight rebounds and two blocks. “Nag-adjust kami ng defense namin kasi hindi nagwo-work yun nung first half. Ayun, nag-work naman,” stated Red Cubs coach Manu Inigo. Jay Ynot and Yukien Andrdada, who joined forces for 16 points in the third, helped put the Red Cubs ahead 51-41. The setback dropped Mapua to 3-6 going into the second round. Megan Galang showed the way for the Red Robins with 21 points while Jonnel Policarpio posted a 20-marker, 12-rebound double-double of his own.

Motherhood helps Serena reach brink of tennis history

Serena Williams hits a return to Elina Svitolina of the Ukraine during their Singles Women’s Semifinals match at the 2019 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. AFP

NEW YORK, United States—Serena Williams finds chasing after her two-year-old daughter Olympia has helped her pursuit of a record-tying 24th Grand Slam title at the US Open as her 38th birthday approaches. Williams would match Margaret Court’s alltime record of 24 Slam singles titles and claim an unprecedented seventh US Open title with a victory in Saturday’s (Sunday Philippine time) final at Arthur Ashe Stadium. “Being on the court is almost a little bit more relaxing than hanging out with a two-year-old that’s dragging you everywhere. I think that has kind of been a little helpful,” Williams said after her 6-3, 6-1 semifinal victory Thursday (Friday Philippine time) over Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina. Just two years ago, Williams was fighting for her life with a blood clot in her lung after giving birth to Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr. Now she could become only the fourth mother in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam title after Aussies Court and Evonne Goolagong Cawley and Belgium’s Kim Clijsters. “I think it’s amazing to come back with a baby and win because it’s hard,” Williams said. “My day off isn’t a day off.

PH Azkals bow to Syria, 2-5 THE Philippine Azkals absorbed a 2-5 loss to Syria in the opening game of the 2022 World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Thursday night at the Pana-ad Park and Stadium in Bacolod. Javier Patiño’s opening goal in the 7th minute, gave the Philippines the early lead. But the Syrians were in control of the game after that, and this gave them the early lead in Group A with three points. Omar Al Soma scored a brace after heading in the equalizer in the 15th minute before Khaled Almbayer con-

nected in the 30th to give Syria the upper hand, 2-1. Skipper Firas Al Khatib then struck in the 50th to hand Syria a 3-1 spread, before Al-Soma drilled in his second goal in the 56th minute with another header towards the bottom corner, 4-1. Syria wanted another goal. Mahmoud Almawas went one-on-one with Falkesgaard and netted in Syria’s 5th goal of the match. The Philippines aims to bounce back against Guam on Tuesday, September 10 at the Guam National Football Stadium. Peter Atencio

“I’m literally hanging out with baby. I’m doing activities with her. I don’t want her to forget me. I try to spend as much time (as I can) with her. I’m a full-time mom first, foremost. That means the most to me. So I train and then I rush home. “Being in a Grand Slam is difficult because it takes away a lot of time that we normally have together.” Three weeks shy of her 38th birthday, Williams would become the oldest women’s champion in Grand Slam history, surpassing the age mark she set in winning the 2017 Australian Open at 35 while pregnant. Williams seeks a record seventh US Open title to surpass the mark she now shares with Chris Evert. If she wins the finale it would give her 102 US Open match wins, one more than the record 101 she shares with Evert. Williams says she definitely would still be playing at an age when most rivals have put down the racquet even if she had already passed Court’s once-thought unassailable mark. “I definitely would still be playing if I had already passed it. I’ve had so many chances to pass it and (hope) to have a lot more, but it’s cool because I’m playing in an era... five eras with so many amazing players. AFP

SEA Games facilities ready for use THE Southeast Asia Games venues for athletics and swimming are now complete and ready for use. International representatives for athletics and swimming in the coming 30th South East Asian Games (SEA Games) said this after inspecting the world-class Athletics Stadium and Aquatics Center built in New Clark City early this week. In a meeting with officials of the Bases Conversion Development Authority, Ibrahim Fadil Naddeh, who is international representative for swimming and secretary of the Swimming Technical Committee of Asian Amateur Swimming Federation (AASF), gave his thumbs up to the pool area. And Naddeh cited the quick construction of the sports facilities in just 18 months. “This took only one year and six months to complete from the time we started construction, and for me, this is Guinness Book of World Records quality,” said Naddeh. The Aquatics Center has a 10-lane competition pool, eightlane training pool, and a diving pool with a five-meter maximum depth. National athletes who competed in the 1st Philippine National Open Swimming Championships were the f irst to use it last weekend. On the other hand, Valson Cuddikotta, the international representative for athletics, said the Athletics Stadium is “advanced and has come out very well.” “They have chosen the best equipment. And the timing and scoring equipment are worldclass,” said Cuddikotta in talks with BCDA officials. The Athletics Stadium features a nine-lane world-class track and field facility, an indoor track, has a 20,000-seating capacity, and meets the standards of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). Peter Atencio

RETURN OF THE EAGLE.

Khabib ‘The Eagle’ Nurmagomedov (right) here fighting Al Iaquinta in this file photo battles Dustin Poirier tomorrow morning at UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Nurmagomedov and Poirier battle for the undisputed UFC Lightweight Championship of the World. AFP

IN BRIEF International reserves rise to $85.61b—BSP THE country’s gross international reserves rose $0.43 billion to $85.61 billion as of end August 2019 from $85.18 billion as of end July 2019, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno said Friday. Diokno said in a statement the monthon-month increase in the GIR level reﬂected the government’s net foreign currency deposits and BSP’s income from its investments abroad. “However, the increase in reserves was partially tempered by payments made by the national government for servicing its foreign exchange obligations,” he said. “The end-August 2019 level of GIR serves as an ample external liquidity buffer and is equivalent to 7.5 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income. It is also equivalent to 5.2 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 3.8 times based on residual maturity,” he said. Net international reserves also increased by $0.43 billion to $85.6 billion as of endAugust 2019 from the end-July 2019 level of $85.17 billion. Julito G. Rada

Business

Aboitiz Power seeks competitive RE sector ABOITIZ Power Corp. called on government and energy stakeholders to help address policy and regulatory bottleneck to further promote the development of renewable energy in the country. “As the country’s demand for RE continues to grow, it is imperative for the government to create an environment that is conducive to making renewable energy more competitive, hence more beneficial to consumers,” Aboitiz Power chief operating officer Manny Rubio said during the Powertrends 2019 forum. Rubio said Aboitiz Power had come a long way and had since been a trailblazer in the RE sector. The company’s Cleanergy portfolio already has more than 30 hydro, geothermal, and solar power plants strategically located across the Philippines, with a total installed capacity of close to 1,500 MW. “We have adequate capacity, reliable facilities, and proven expertise. But the challenges are far from over. As the country’s demand for RE continues to grow, it is imperative for the government to create an environment that is conducive to making renewable energy more competitive, hence more beneficial to consumers,” the official said. Alena Mae S. Flores

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

By Othel V. Campos

PNB TROPHIES. The International Association of Business Communicators recognizes Philippine National Bank and life insurance unit Allianz PNB Life Insurance Inc. with four awards during the 17th Philippine Quill Awards held at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay City. Receiving the awards are representatives from PNB’s Public Affairs Group led by (from left) senior manager Apple Gonzales, senior assistant vice president Leia Regala-Teodoro and assistant manager Katrina dela Cruz, and officers from Allianz PNB led by (from fourth from left) chief marketing officer Gae Martinez, chief distribution officer Chris Cabognason, customer strategy officer Ethel Joy Salazar, communications specialist Patricia Ansay, business development officer Marjowyn Vito and chief legal officer Amor Datinguinoo.

BSP moving security plant complex to Clark T By Julito G. Rada

HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas will push through with an earlier plan to transfer its 41-year old Security Plant Complex in Quezon City to Clark in the province of Pampanga.

The relocation is parallel with the government’s move of transferring other government agencies outside Metro Manila to help decongest the metropolis of heavy trafﬁc that has been causing around P3.5 billion in economic losses daily based on the recent study of the Japan International Cooperation Agency. A BSP insider said Friday the BSP was set to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority next week to signal the “construction of a Security Plant Complex in Clark.” Earlier reports said the idea of relocating outside Metro Manila was ﬁrst tackled in a Monetary Board meeting in

November 2018. The BSP also planned to sell its old complex for P18 billion. Aside from Clark, other site considered by the board was Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said in a text reply to Manila Standard early Friday evening that the sale of the BSP printing complex would be subject to open public competitive bidding. On the issue of why the BSP chose Clark instead of Taguig, he cited a number of factors, such as “economic, convenience and security.” “Land is cheaper in Clark than Taguig; Clark has more better infrastructure, better roads, better power, water and telco facilities,” Diokno said. “Clark is definitely not congested and is nearer the airport. The facilities are easier to secure, and do not pose greater peril to society and people because it is not in the middle of the metropolis,” Diokno said. The complex, composed of five interconnected buildings, has an approximate floor area of 62,210 square meters built along East Avenue, with a total land area of 57,300 square meters. The Security Plant Complex consists

of the security printing plant, mint and gold refinery, and office of general services. It was inaugurated on Sept. 7, 1978. It aims to safeguard the printing/ minting/refining, issuance, distribution and durability of coins, banknotes, gold bars, government official receipts, lottery tickets, internal revenue stamps, passports, seaman identification record books, strip stamps, official documents, registration certificates, Torrens titles, treasury warrants, stocks and bonds, government contracts, among others. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Aug. 4, 2003 issued Administrative Order No. 79, designating the SPC to be sole manufacturer of presidential medals and decorations. The BSP upgraded and modernized the complex and built a P1.2-billion minting facility that was completed in 2018. The complex has the capacity to produce 3.6 billion pieces of banknotes annually. In 2014, BSP approved a 10year modernization and expansion plan of the complex. It had an existing modernization program before the plan was proposed.

FOREIGN tourist arrivals in the Philippines rose 12.4 percent to 4.8 million in the first seven months of 2019 from 4.3 million year-on-year. Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat cited sustained support from industry stakeholders, government, host communities, investors and foreign travel trade counterparts for the increase. “We remain inspired knowing that private sector, other government agencies and civil society continue to support our sustainable tourism programs and the more fun brand campaign. The Build, Build, Build program and other convergence programs, on the other hand, are key to improving our competitiveness and attractiveness,” she said. Data from the Department of Tourism show that Korea remained the top tourist market with 1.1 million arrivals, followed by China with 1,04 million. Tourists from the United State ranked third with 663,116 arrivals, while those from Japan totaled 382,634. Taiwanese tourists were the fifth-largest source of foreign travelers with 192,195. Completing the top 12 markets were Australia, 164,378; Canada, 146,000; United Kingdom, 125,371; Singapore, 94,061; Malaysia, 84,815; India, 80,383; and Germany with 62,179. “We enjoin more support for our sustainable tourism efforts not only in key destinations but in all areas to continually drive inbound traffic and spread the benefits of tourism to the countryside. After all, tourism is everybody’s business,” Puyat said. President Rodrigo Duterte earlier signed four laws declaring new tourist spots in Luzon, three of which are from Ilocos Sur, to boos tourism. The new travel destinations are Mount Bulaylay in Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, Candon City Ecotourism Zone in Ilocos Sur, Santiago Cove in Santiago, Ilocos Sur, and Pinsal Falls in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur. The DOT and the Department of Public Works and Highways will be tasked to prepare a tourism development plan “involving the construction, installation, and maintenance of such appropriate facilities and infrastructure.”

RCBC raises $300m from sale of 5-year senior notes

Tax policy should encourage switch to smoke-free options THE government’s tax policy should encourage Filipino smokers to switch to smoke-free alternatives, according to an executive of Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Corporation Inc. “The government should adopt a tax policy that would encourage Filipino smokers who can’t or won’t quit smoke to switch to smoke-free alternatives. We believe that such a tax policy is wholly consistent with the principle behind the sin taxes and related initiatives in the past,” said Patrick Muttart, external affairs and communications director of PMFTC. Muttart cited the government’s deliberate policy decision in the TRAIN Law to exempt purely electric vehicles from the excise tax on automobile, with hybrid vehicles enjoying a 50 percent lower tax rate. “This tax break was an acknowledgement that electric and hybrid vehicles, which eliminate or reduce combustion, can play a positive role in improving the health and wellbeing of Filipinos,” he said. Muttart spoke during the public hearing on Package 2+ of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program held on September 5, 2019 at the Senate. The hearing, was chaired by Senator Pia S. Cayetano who heads the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “There are already more than 225,000 users of smoke-free products in the Philippines. Our company’s research indicates that almost 60% of Filipino smokers are open to switching to smoke-free alternatives—that’s a pool of up to nine million Filipino smokers,” said Muttart. By switching to smoke-free alternatives such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, smokers fundamentally change their risk proﬁle, according to Muttart.

business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

Tourist arrivals increased 12% to 4.8m in first seven months

Mindanao hydro plant gets P1.1-b DBP loan STATE-RUN Development Bank of the Philippines, the eighth-largest lender in terms of assets, is extending a P1.1-billion term loan to Mindanao-based Liangan Power Corp. for the construction of a 11.9-megawatt hydroelectric power plant that will help improve energy supply in the area, a top ofﬁcial said Friday. DBP president and chief executive Emmanuel Herbosa said the DBP-funded power plant further supported the government’s efforts to promote reliable and environment-friendly sources of energy, in line with the inclusive growth initiatives in the region. “We are thrilled to be working with Liangan Power Corporation in this project that will produce a reliable supply of renewable energy at an affordable cost,” Herbosa said. “This should aid in addressing the country’s growing need for sustainable energy supply, particularly in Mindanao,” he said. The hydroelectric power plant is the ﬁrst project to be developed by LPC in the renewable energy sector. Julito G. Rada

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor

PLDT GROUP AWARDS. PLDT Group bagged 24 trophies, including Company of the Year–first runner-up for wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, at the recently concluded 17th Philippine Quill Awards. The staff of the telecommunications group display their awards during the annual recognition program organized by the International Association of Business Communicators.

Executives of online lending firms guilty of public shaming THREE major online lending companies were found guilty of alleged public shaming of borrowers, and officers may face an imprisonment of up to seven years and fines of not more than P5 million under the Data Privacy Act of 2012, the National Privacy Commission said Friday. Commissioner Raymund Enriquez Liboro said the board members of online lending firms Fast Cash Global Lending Inc., Unipeso Lending Company Inc. and Fynamics Lending Inc. would face criminal prosecution for violating sections of the DPA. “The investigation determined that their business practice specifically targets the privacy of persons, practically making a profit out of people’s fear of losing face and dignity. These unethical practices simply have no place in a civilized society and must stop,” said Liboro.

The number of complaints filed against Fast Cash Global Lending Inc., which operates Fast Cash online app, has reached 166 as of July 31 this year. Charges were against directors and board members Kellon De Jesus Manalastas, Tiancai Huang, John Christian Sia, Jovy Co Ting and Zichao Su. The number of complaints filed against Unipeso Lending Company Inc., which operates Cashlending online app, has reached 138. Charged before the commission are executives Haolong Li, Guanqun Luo, Flordeluna Rosell, Rizza Mae Lorilla and Renyvic Duquiatan. Complaints against Fynamics Lending Inc., which operates Pondo Peso online app, reached 133. Charges were filed against officers Meng Li, Changjin Wang, Kwinnie Mae Fianza, Jacquielyn Chua Garrido, Helen Joy Amican de Luna and Bernard Salvacion Jr.

The fact-finding reports gave the commission sufficient grounds to establish that the three lending companies had not complied with legal requirements for processing personal data, failed to adhere to the principles of transparency, legitimate purpose and proportionality, and committed unauthorized processing, processing for unauthorized purpose, malicious disclosure and unauthorized disclosure. “Report found that the penalties inflicted on borrowers by these online lenders are abusive. The public shaming they carried out has caused anxiety, depression; some have even lost jobs and feel they became unemployable, that their reputation and future was put in jeopardy. The permanence of these damages is disproportionate to the mere delinquency in paying debts, sometimes as low as one thousand pesos,” Liboro said. Othel V. Campos

RIZAL Commercial Banking Corp., the 10th largest lender in terms of assets, said Friday it raised $300 million through the issuance of five-year senior unsecured sustainability notes under a $2-billion medium-term note program. RCBC told the stock exchange the return to the US dollar bond market on Sept. 4 was met by “strong interest” from both Asian and European investors. “The notes, rated Baa2 by Moody’s, will be issued at 99.751 with a coupon of 3.000 percent per annum and a maturity date of Sept. 11, 2024. The notes will be issued under the Sustainable Finance Framework of RCBC,” it said. The notes, in denominations of $200,000 and increments of $1,000 thereafter, will settle on Sept. 11, 2019. The notes will be listed with the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Ltd., similar to the bank’s other three outstanding US dollar-denominated bonds. Capitalizing on the conducive market backdrop, the bank announced a US dollar sustainability bond transaction on Sept. 4, 2019. “The transaction saw strong interest from a wide range of high-quality Asian and European investors, which allowed the bank to tighten final price guidance to 170-175 bps over the five-year US Treasury yield,” it said. The order book was well diversified, with 74 percent allocated to asset managers and fund managers, 18 percent to bank treasury and insurance and 8 percent to corporates, private bank and other investors. Julito G. Rada

Business

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stocks climb for 3rd straight day T HE stock market rose for the third straight day Friday on renewed optimism on world trade and the low 1.7-percent inﬂation rate in August that may sway the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to lower interest rates.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index added 35.28 points, or 0.4 percent, to 7,933.47 on a value turnover of P7.6 billion. Gainers edged losers, 96 to 91, with 46 issues unchanged. Major property developer Ayala Land Inc. climbed 2.1 percent to P49.50, while SM Investments Corp. of the Sy Group gained 1.6 percent to P1,048. International Container Terminal Services Inc., the biggest port operator, rose

2.8 percent to P131, while Cirtek Holdings Philippines Corp., a semiconductor manufacturer, jumped 11 percent to P12.32. The rest of Asian markets also rose Friday as the feel-good factor that fired investors the day before looked set to push into the weekend, fueled by upbeat data and trade optimism. A growing sense that Britain could avoid crashing out of the European Union was adding to the positive vibe and keeping the pound at a more than one-month high against the dollar. In afternoon trade, Hong Kong was up 0.4 percent, with dealers seeming to brush off news that Fitch had downgraded its sovereign debt rating citing the sometimes violent protests in the financial hub. Shanghai, Tokyo and Sydney all ended 0.5 percent higher. Seoul and Taipei finished 0.2 percent

higher, Wellington piled on one percent and Taipei added 0.2 percent. Singapore was up 0.1 percent, Mumbai put on 0.6 percent and Jakarta rose 0.3 percent. After a tumultuous August, dealers were given a much-needed shot in the arm this week with news that China and the United States would resume highlevel trade talks next month in Washington. This week also saw China ﬂag plans for fresh economy-boosting measures, while data out of Washington on Thursday showed August private-sector jobs creation beat the previous month and was higher than expected. “In recent months, there has been a lot of tough talk from both sides, but the prospect of the two sides sitting down, and holding trade talks has lifted sentiment,” said David Madden, market analyst at CMC Markets UK. “The trade spat has been going on for

well over a year, and it is unlikely to be wrapped up soon, but at the moment things are going in the right direction.” A forecast-topping read on the US services sector provided extra joy to investors. The reports set the scene for the muchanticipated release of non-farm payrolls later Friday, which are closely watched for clues about the state of the world’s top economy. The reading could also give an idea about the Federal Reserve’s plans for interest rates this year, with observers expecting it to unveil more cuts this year. Expectations for an extended run of reductions has lent much-needed support to markets this year. However, Kristina Hooper, chief global market strategist at Invesco, said: “While this has been some positive economic data, it makes it a little more difﬁcult for the Fed to cut rates.” With AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2019

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS 89 955,730 142.5 1,512,940 1.21 18,000 25.9 822,800 18.6 200 12.16 849,400 4.82 11,000 1.25 54,000 750 500 0.46 10,000 70.1 1,880,950 0.94 178,000 13.04 14,000 46.45 42,300 185 4,870 118 10 58 13,210 28 51,000 203.4 520,240 1,790 10 59.6 38,020

85,081,123.50 217,747,418 21,780 21,348,875 3,720 10,327,600 52,760 67,470 375,000 4,600 132,074,206.50 166,760 182,560 1,960,330 900,701 1,180 763,946 1,420,510 105,090,548 17,600 2,270,734

5,698,799 -57,381,003 -5,124,605 5,987,882 -72,803,336 -45,830 -347,325 37,000 -763,366 -137,200 7,492,260 -1,080,891

36.4 15.32 0.69 1.34 0.241 2.73 13.84 115 11.4 14.72 31.9 72.8 77 2 6.08 5.88 8.83 15 9.86 7.23 26.35 83.15 50.8 2.15 13.88 8.27 1.55 226.8 5.06 8.36 22.15 13.7 18.9 358 2.08 4.42 5.09 9.1 2.87 10.82 32.6 5.2 5.1 1.64 1.16 11.84 89.95 7.2 1.05 167 1.16 16.1 1.22

INDUSTRIAL 36.4 827,900 15.8 1,469,200 0.71 211,000 1.34 1,000 0.247 400,000 2.82 14,549,000 13.9 635,700 116.1 1,480 12.32 8,239,000 15.88 3,000 31.9 1,000 75 1,110 78.5 2,070 2.04 220,000 6.1 1,500 5.89 138,900 8.83 2,387,600 15.1 700,900 10 181,900 7.25 1,817,400 26.5 353,700 83.2 22,270 50.95 140,490 2.19 5,066,000 14.24 1,162,300 8.67 1,998,000 1.63 859,000 229 764,640 5.06 4,500 8.36 4,300 22.25 17,700 13.9 42,400 19.16 4,321,600 358 91,760 2.11 19,456,000 4.5 27,000 5.1 1,946,100 9.1 2,000 2.94 30,004,000 10.98 42,500 33 1,427,700 5.24 56,900 5.1 7,200 1.64 219,000 1.21 4,535,000 12.02 109,000 90 215,800 7.23 9,000 1.09 263,000 168.5 436,200 1.18 1,079,000 16.1 3,500 1.23 1,098,000

30,326,800 23,072,464 147,510 1,340 97,010 40,836,330 8,835,514 183,598 104,735,370 46,182 31,900 82,440 163,852.50 447,300 9,130 824,478 21,258,877 10,571,552 1,804,538 13,172,771 9,365,830 1,853,447.50 7,163,192.50 10,983,660 16,529,232 17,315,782 1,385,300 174,313,658 22,770 35,948 395,650 590,722 82,419,216 32,967,244 41,811,740 120,020 9,950,028 18,200 88,098,510 466,594 47,135,845(31 298,166 36,750 359,240 5,542,270 1,311,760 19,420,818.50 64,884 283,140 73,507,156 1,269,050 56,380 1,354,440

-21,654,105 7,938,006 6,359,760 -828,452 -18,836 -15,000 12,760 -657,812 -15,042,461 7,412,522 89,190 -1,749,977 -1,003,390 -113,241.50 5,291,176 2,530,300 -2,801,224 -3,270,558 338,000 12,206,222 58,890 4,895,890 -19,636,728 1,042,120 -3,082,671 -52,840 21,960 ,920,760.0003) -73,360 -129,780 -17,532 -8,297,996.50 7,230 -21,940,745 49,240

0.91 53.1 12.4 0.82 7.03 15 1.25 1.26 916 3.56 6.79 8.91 13.62 4.72 915 6 72.85 5.33 5.5 5.32 0.495 4.6 15.26 0.66 5.28 0.039 1.4 2.76 179 1,048 0.88 1.36 236.8 0.231 0.247

0.87 52.4 12.16 0.79 7.03 14.5 1.2 1.23 900.5 3.4 6.72 8.8 13.5 4.11 900 5.9 70.95 5.31 5.26 5.3 0.485 4.56 14.94 0.62 5.15 0.039 1.36 2.74 175 1,026 0.85 1.29 236 0.23 0.247

HOLDING FIRMS 0.87 14,847,000 52.4 773,920 12.2 6,690,200 0.8 995,000 7.03 300 14.82 67,400 1.21 5,506,000 1.24 387,000 900.5 259,260 3.43 7,085,000 6.76 4,713,200 8.82 5,438,800 13.6 52,000 4.6 20,000 900 116,000 5.9 24,600 71 1,837,080 5.33 3,800 5.5 4,200 5.3 5,500 0.49 160,000 4.59 293,000 15 1,582,300 0.66 206,000 5.2 28,161,300 0.039 3,800,000 1.4 34,000 2.74 15,000 175 106,330 1,048 1,047,880 0.86 301,000 1.36 265,000 236 970 0.231 160,000 0.247 350,000

13,189,320 40,899,545.50 81,953,010 794,240 2,109 993,854 6,698,890 481,860 234,890,190 24,735,270 31,828,527 48,138,097 705,062 90,330 105,298,235 145,150 131,790,518.5(46 20,214 22,116 29,168 78,250 1,338,980 23,737,782 133,290 146,481,656 148,200 47,270 41,250 18,790,791 1,089,940,140 258,270 348,720 229,020 36,930 86,450

782,580 -19,123,010 -37,484,816 58,940 -330,000 -115,479,270 176,040 6,700,708 -42,998,832 -108,860 -25,685,330 -144,550 ,682,573.0003) -20,214 -588,470 -1,142,974 30,984,899 -5,827,755 541,837,470 13,520 -7,082 -

15.36 0.84 1.85 0.94 49.6 2.19 4.78 0.57 0.74 0.88 0.231 0.42 9.79 21.9 0.46 1.69 1.28 4 5.26 0.325 1.41 0.395

15.34 0.81 1.85 0.9 48.7 2.17 4.62 0.55 0.74 0.85 0.221 0.4 9.45 21.4 0.455 1.65 1.26 3.95 5.19 0.315 1.39 0.39

PROPERTY 15.36 211,500 0.84 1,370,000 1.85 485,000 0.9 1,420,000 49.5 12,984,700 2.18 149,000 4.66 38,000 0.56 8,720,000 0.74 1,000 0.88 182,000 0.231 830,000 0.42 600,000 9.69 61,700 21.6 147,200 0.455 1,500,000 1.65 19,763,000 1.28 113,000 4 23,000 5.19 20,366,900 0.325 2,170,000 1.41 1,265,000 0.39 20,000

3,244,910 1,138,680 897,250 1,289,250 639,445,660 324,750 178,870 4,887,610 740 154,800 184,080 245,350 596,794 3,179,130 682,550 32,990,280 144,040 91,900 106,377,352 692,000 1,769,100 7,850

-230,100 -8,207,400 -26,130 50 -1,240,960 46,410 -12,450 220,499 404,065 -16,801,220 -31,058,460 150,290 -

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

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

88.5 145 1.21 26 18.6 12.12 4.81 1.24 750 0.46 70.5 0.95 13.04 46.5 185 118 57.9 27.8 201 1,730 60

89.7 145 1.21 26 18.6 12.2 4.82 1.25 750 0.46 70.55 0.95 13.04 46.8 185 118 58 28 205 1,790 60

88.5 142.5 1.21 25.9 18.6 12.1 4.78 1.24 750 0.46 70.1 0.93 13.04 46 184.8 118 57.7 27.5 200 1,730 59.55

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

36.6 15.34 0.7 1.34 0.241 2.74 13.84 127.9 11.4 15 31.9 74.9 81 2.04 6.08 6 8.95 15.1 9.99 7.24 26.8 84 51 2.17 14.6 8.29 1.6 229 5.06 8.36 22.45 13.8 18.9 363 2.12 4.45 5.09 9.1 2.94 10.98 32.8 5.21 5.1 1.64 1.16 11.84 90 7.23 1.1 167 1.18 16.12 1.27

37 15.8 0.71 1.34 0.247 2.85 13.96 128 13.7 15.88 31.9 75.45 81 2.05 6.1 6 9.03 15.12 10 7.25 26.8 84 51.4 2.19 14.6 9 1.64 230 5.06 8.36 22.5 14 19.4 363 2.22 4.5 5.16 9.1 2.99 10.98 33.3 5.34 5.13 1.66 1.26 12.2 90 7.23 1.1 170.4 1.18 16.12 1.27

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 FJ PRINCE A GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT JOLLIVILLE HLDG KEPPEL HLDG A KEPPEL HLDG B LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA PRIME MEDIA REPUBLIC GLASS SAN MIGUEL CORP SM INVESTMENTS SOC RESOURCES SOLID GROUP TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

0.88 52.7 12.16 0.81 7.03 14.8 1.24 1.25 906 3.5 6.72 8.91 13.62 4.29 912.5 6 71.85 5.31 5.26 5.32 0.495 4.6 15.26 0.65 5.26 0.039 1.4 2.76 177.8 1,028 0.88 1.29 236.8 0.23 0.247

8990 HLDG A BROWN ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CENTURY PROP CITY AND LAND CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES CYBER BAY DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE KEPPEL PROP MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL INFRADEV PHIL REALTY

15.34 0.84 1.85 0.93 48.8 2.18 4.62 0.56 0.74 0.86 0.222 0.405 9.69 21.7 0.46 1.69 1.26 3.95 5.25 0.315 1.41 0.395

VOLUME

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

PRIMEX CORP PTFC REDEV CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

2.07 53.75 24.75 2.35 3.35 34.45 2.49 5.63 0.9 7.72

2.12 53.75 25.35 2.39 3.35 34.85 2.49 5.75 0.92 7.72

2.04 53.75 24.6 2.35 3.35 34.45 2.4 5.61 0.89 7.66

2.12 53.75 25 2.37 3.35 34.55 2.47 5.75 0.92 7.7

1,224,000 40 2,539,100 135,000 1,000 9,973,500 206,000 48,400 361,000 4,392,200

2,528,630 2,150 63,607,915 319,650 3,350 345,173,370 507,400 272,611 329,550 33,795,730

-168,200 3,108,650 7,110 -78,850,890 -1,686 -8,732,051

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

10.5 20.45 1.66 0.57 0.047 18.26 2.32 10.76 0.058 94.9 7.35 6.15 9.95 1,950 5.39 423 9.82 1.83 129.9 9.59 0.112 5.4 14 3.05 0.9 18.9 0.46 3.24 2.49 3.19 2.74 8.45 142 3.5 1,150 0.72 0.63 44 78 9.4 2.92 0.7 0.355 5.45 0.72 16.78

10.5 20.45 1.66 0.58 0.05 18.26 2.4 11.28 0.06 95.35 7.4 6.15 9.95 1,954 5.39 435 9.82 1.86 131 9.59 0.113 5.45 14 3.21 0.93 19.1 0.46 3.3 2.49 3.25 2.76 8.45 142 3.51 1,154 0.74 0.64 44.1 78.9 9.4 2.95 0.7 0.37 5.46 0.72 16.8

10.04 19.9 1.66 0.55 0.047 18.26 2.32 10.74 0.058 94 7.17 6.15 9.8 1,910 5.3 423 9.82 1.79 127.6 9.59 0.11 5.3 14 3 0.9 18.9 0.46 3.24 2.44 3.09 2.66 8.45 138 3.35 1,140 0.72 0.59 43.8 77.05 9.38 2.89 0.69 0.355 5.45 0.69 16.6

SERVICES 10.3 19.94 1.66 0.58 0.049 18.26 2.4 11.12 0.059 95 7.24 6.15 9.82 1,947 5.3 435 9.82 1.83 131 9.59 0.113 5.43 14 3.19 0.92 19.1 0.46 3.25 2.45 3.1 2.72 8.45 138 3.43 1,144 0.73 0.6 44 77.05 9.38 2.93 0.7 0.365 5.45 0.7 16.7

19,000 204,500 62,000 11,995,000 60,000 1,700 77,000 3,893,100 12,580,000 141,710 488,600 100 46,300 33,120 183,800 730 600 838,000 670,220 800 1,090,000 2,228,000 3,300 1,612,000 165,000 120,600 30,000 112,000 494,000 3,992,000 93,000 5,600 40 1,232,000 38,720 9,588,000 36,124,000 645,700 22,070 11,600 2,649,000 29,000 4,610,000 3,194,600 937,000 1,793,400

195,566 4,106,196 102,920 6,798,050 2,870 31,042 183,110 43,248,196 740,650 13,371,395.50 3,533,733 615 457,830 64,429,255 975,382 311,270 5,892 1,539,400 87,409,660 7,672 121,610 12,006,136 46,200 5,046,550 150,930 2,302,294 13,800 365,330 1,209,950 12,502,050 253,230 47,320 5,600 4,194,640 44,438,340 6,956,620 22,057,740 28,409,910 1,703,879 108,868 7,748,250 20,050 1,686,600 17,422,600 650,520 30,061,082

-11,260.00 18,615,826 -84,775 -644,166 5,956,505 -80,330 -11,641,459 -55,190 241,218 9,420 -381,000 -218,020 -215,620 12,405,215 349,470 249,620 -11,673,525 -20,748 -15,980 2,913,450 -2,972,292 10,069,686

2,323,800 2,923,460 23,990 51,210 1,090,220 930,340 2,800 11,708 70,868,160 331,790 411,380 106,600 383,430 115,159,980 94,940 19,200 370,980 735,900 32,532,648 6,353,220 8,055,064 9,462,950 114,000

4,800 8,680 -886,570 -81,600 1,004,230 -33,000 -3,719,280 -19,200 -88,000 406,089 -87,150 270,024 1,412,030 -

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

0.0017 1.25 11.4 1.17 1.11 2.73 0.28 7.83 1.69 0.22 0.11 0.115 1.19 4.4 1.11 0.48 0.87 0.011 9.19 4.03 10.8 22.8 0.0072

0.0018 1.25 11.9 1.22 1.22 2.73 0.28 7.83 1.73 0.22 0.112 0.115 1.23 4.69 1.11 0.48 0.89 0.011 9.81 4.05 10.8 23.35 0.0072

0.0016 1.22 11.4 1.17 1.11 2.72 0.28 7.79 1.61 0.215 0.109 0.11 1.18 4.26 1.06 0.48 0.87 0.011 8.9 3.93 10.4 22.5 0.007

MINING &OIL 0.0018 1,421,000,000 1.23 2,370,000 11.9 2,100 1.22 43,000 1.14 975,000 2.72 342,000 0.28 10,000 7.79 1,500 1.63 42,540,000 0.218 1,530,000 0.112 3,750,000 0.114 960,000 1.21 316,000 4.32 25,787,000 1.08 88,000 0.48 40,000 0.87 425,000 0.011 66,900,000 9.78 3,430,500 3.96 1,600,000 10.46 764,200 23.35 410,500 0.007 16,000,000

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B1 AC PREF B2 GLO PREF P GTCAP PREF B HOUSE PREF A LR PREF MWIDE PREF PCOR PREF 3A PCOR PREF 3B SMC FB PREF 2 SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2D SMC PREF 2F SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2I

19.4 500 504 503 980 99.7 0.99 101.3 1,050 1,055 990 76.6 79 75.7 78 75.6 76.95

19.4 500 504 505 980 99.7 0.99 101.3 1,055 1,060 995 76.6 79 75.8 78 77 76.95

18.7 500 504 503 980 99.7 0.98 101.3 1,003 1,055 982 75.8 77.5 75.5 78 75.6 76.95

PREFERRED 18.7 67,300 500 250 504 30 505 2,460 980 2,450 99.7 10 0.98 816,000 101.3 40 1,050 6,275 1,060 6,950 995 2,700 75.8 220 78.95 86,710 75.8 20,000 78 17,420 77 28,820 76.95 30

1,264,980 125,000 15,120 1,240,300 2,401,000 997 807,830 4,052 6,545,860 7,344,000 2,673,900 16,836 6,785,511 1,511,330 1,358,760 2,214,940 2,308.50

-129,034 -5,040 -1,155,960 -

LR WARRANT

1.67

1.68

1.59

WARRANTS 1.65 131,000

213,310

ITALPINAS KEPWEALTH XURPAS

6.3 11.16 0.97

6.3 11.4 0.97

6.11 9.82 0.94

6.18 9.9 0.96

2,321,003 14,953,419 2,252,610

-11,267 41,052 -169,620

FIRST METRO ETF

118.7

119.6

118.3

358,151

9,496

79,663.60

USD DMPL A1

10.3

10.32

TRADING SUMMARY FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL HOLDING FIRMS

SHARES 7,116,970

169,962,094 85,531,732

PROPERTY

137,491,384

SERVICES

105,550,778

MINING & OIL

1,589,369,249

GRAND TOTAL

2,099,193,695

10.3

SME

376,000 1,425,400 2,366,000

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 118.9 3,010 DDS 10.32

7,730

VALUE 1,804.17 (down) 11.54 600,141,341.61 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 10,915.02 (up) 21.97 1,790,571,629.196 HOLDING FIRMS 7,908.14 (up) 3.21 2,078,333,385.98 PROPERTY 4,050.97 (up) 61.55 1,594.99 (up) 18.31 2,419,182,228.22 SERVICES MINING & OIL 9,269.45 (down) 107.92 493,029,261.44 PSEI 7,933.47 (up) 35.28 252,444,454.959 All Shares Index 4,785.02 (up) 10.74 7,653,588,852.40 Gainers: 96; Losers: 91; Unchanged: 46; Total: 233

Cebu Pacific asks CAB to increase flights to Hong Kong By Darwin G. Amojelar CEBU Pacific, the country’s largest budget airline, is seeking more flight entitlements to Hong Kong. The airline, owned by industrialist John Gokongwei, filed a petition with the Civil Aeronautics Board for allocation of entitlements to Hong Kong under the Philippines-Hong Kong Air Services Agreement. The CAB has set a hearing on September 16. Cebu Pacific currently flies to Hong Kong from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Clark and Iloilo. “Parties/airlines on or before to the granting of this application must file their written opposition on or before the said date furnishing a copy of the same to the applicant with such evidence as may be proper under the circumstances,” the CAB said. “Failure on the part of any interested party to file their opposition on time shall be construed as a waiver of their right to be heard and the CAB shall proceed to hear and decide the application on its merits,” the agency added. Cebu Pacific earlier reported a net income of P7.14 billion in the first half of the year, up 116 percent from P3.31 billion year-on-year. The company generated revenues of P44.70 billion in the six months ended June, 18.2 percent higher than P37.84 billion in the same period last year. Passenger revenues rose 17.8 percent to P33.35 billion for the first half from P28.30 billion recorded on year. Cebu Pacific attributed the higher revenues to the 8.8-percent increase in average fares to P2,974 for the first six months from P2,734 on year. Passenger volume grew 8.3 percent to 11.213 million from 10.354 million last year as the group added bigger A321 aircraft to its fleet. Cargo revenues rose 6.9 percent to P2.84 billion for the six months ended June from P2.65 billion on year, following the increase in both volume and yield of cargo transported in 2019. Cebu Pacific incurred operating expenses of P35.772 billion, higher by 8.2 percent than P33.060 billion on year.

Globe Telecom, Araneta Center OK Wi-Fi tie-up GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Friday it teamed up with Araneta Center to provide fast and reliable internet connectivity for free to mall goers. “This partnership with Araneta Center will allow more customers to enjoy free WiFi services using Globe’s highspeed GoWiFi service and make their shopping—and internet surfing—truly a one-of-a-kind experience,” said Globe president and chief executive Ernest Cu. GoWiFi as of the first half of the year was accessible in 2,500 sites nationwide, up by 500 sites from the previous year. The company plans to double the GoWifi sites to 5,000 by next year. “Globe Wifi is a very important concept for Globe. We also realized that we cannot serve the whole public’s appetite for mobile data just through the mobile network so it’s important to augment that,” Cu said. “So, Globe Wifi is our way of doing that. We are now reaching 2,500 locations around the Philippines and it is our ambition to become expansive and prevalent Wifi network in the country,” he added. GoWiFi continues its expansion plans nationwide, especially in high-traffic areas like malls, hospitals, and schools to make high-quality internet connection accessible and affordable to more Filipinos. “The Araneta Center is happy to collaborate with Globe in providing a fast, reliable, and seamless Wi-Fi facility within its estate,” said Araneta Center senior vice president for business development John Peter Castelo. “We look forward to attract even more patrons by providing a robust internet-enabling service to many of our tech-savvy customers who rely heavily on their mobile phones and related devices for their lifestyle choices,” he added. Castelo said GoWiFi would further allow its shoppers and visitors to enjoy online-enabled services and features suited to their needs. “We are providing a technology platform and an online tool to enjoy new discoveries. This Araneta Center-Globe partnership offers an innovative shopping experience that comes with a huge benefit to our lessees and loyal shoppers,” he added.

World

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Australian blokes become unlikely Russian heroes MULLUMBIMBY―The idea of starting a Russian choir in rural Australia began as a vodka-fueled lark, but five years on a rag-tag bunch of farmers, lawyers and laborers have become unlikely international folk heroes. None of them speaks Russian, only one has ever traveled to Russia, and absolutely no one would mistake their tiny coastal hometown of Mullumbimby for Moscow. But “Dustyesky” has won over fans from Sydney to Sochi with renditions of traditional Russian folk songs, which they perform at festivals across Australia. Andrew Swain, a local builder and the choir’s director, admitted the all-male group had varying degrees of choral experience. It ranges, he said, from “the guys who can actually sing” to those who “don’t have any idea what they’re doing-but they’re great company”. “There’s no Russian talent, let’s be clear about that,” he said. Swain said he offered to set up the 28-strong cult act in 2014 when a friend who runs the town’s music festival complained he would love to feature a Russian choir at the event but couldn’t afford to fly one in. “We were drinking vodka and it was late at night, and I said to him, ‘mate, we’ll just start our own’,” he said. “The next morning we woke up and I thought, I don’t really know what I’ve done here, but I’ve run choirs before and I think we can do this. AFP

IN BRIEF Scientists find new dinosaur species TOKYO―Japanese scientists have identified a new species of dinosaur from a nearly complete skeleton that was the largest ever discovered in the country, measuring 26 feet long. After analyzing hundreds of bones dating back 72 million years, the team led by Hokkaido University concluded the skeleton once belonged to a new species of hadrosaurid dinosaur, a herbivorous beast that roamed the Earth in the late Cretaceous period. A partial tail was first found in northern Japan in 2013 and later excavations revealed the entire skeleton. The team named the dinosaur “Kamuysaurus japonicus,” which means “Japanese dragon god,” according to a statement issued by the university. They believe the dinosaur was an adult aged nine years old and would have weighed either four tons or 5.3 tons―depending on whether it walked on two legs or four. The discovery was published in British peer-reviewed journal “Scientific Reports”. “The fact a new dinosaur was discovered in Japan means there was once an independent world of dinosaurs in Japan or in East Asia, and an independent evolution process,” said team leader Yoshitsugu Kobayashi. Kamuysaurus japonicus probably lived in coastal areas, a rare habitat for dinosaurs at that time and the fossils also provide valuable insights into their environment. The research raises the possibility that some species of dinosaurs “preferred to inhabit areas near the ocean, suggesting the coastline environment was an important factor in the diversification” of the dinosaurs in their early evolution, the university said. AFP

ARRIVAL. Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a Holy Mass at the Zimpeto stadium in Maputo on September 6, 2019. AFP

Security squeeze in China’s capital Supporters B EIJING―Beijing’s karaoke bars are closing, toy weapon sales are banned and every delivery package is being scanned: the capital is taking no chances weeks ahead of a massive military parade to mark Communist China’s 70th anniversary.

Beijing has been preparing for the big celebration well ahead of the October 1 event, with several large screens installed at Tiananmen Square, where tanks and other army hardware will be shown off. Security was already tighter than usual to enter Beijing’s massive square as guards sifted through every bag in the long line of local tourists heading for a visit on Thursday. An AFP journalist was not allowed to go through. Several kilometers away, the Workers Stadium has been closed off, with temporary high walls covered in fake grass surrounding the facility normally used by Chinese football team Beijing Guoan. A security guard told AFP that the government “wants to use the stadium for the 70th anniversary preparations.” All businesses inside the stadium, including a gym and restaurants, have

been told to close between September 5 and the October 1 national day. “The government has notified us to close up,” said Joey Xu, manager of Puerta 20, a restaurant inside the stadium. “Our staff will be offered paid vacation. But the government isn’t compensating businesses for their losses,” he said. Other businesses near the stadium are also closing up from midSeptember. “Authorities fear that businesses around the stadium that operate late into the night, especially ones with loud patrons like ours, could cause disturbances,” said a manager at Mei Karaoke bar who only offered his last name, Zhang. The parade comes as a trade war between Beijing and Washington threatens to drag down the global economy and follows three months of anti-government civil

unrest in Hong Kong. The parade is expected to showcase some of the most advanced weaponry of the Chinese army, in an attempt to drum up patriotic fervour. Other plans for the anniversary celebration include an awards ceremony, fireworks, souvenir stamps and coins, an official documentary, and a musical. Roads around Tiananmen Square and Changan Avenue, where soldiers will march, will be closed Saturday and Sunday for a rehearsal of the massive parade. Beijing’s army of delivery staff—who carry hot meals and other packages across the city within minutes—have been told to reject parcels from anyone who cannot produce valid identity documents. It forms part of a broader campaign to tighten postal security ahead of the 70th celebrations. The State Post Bureau last month said all packages coming into Beijing will have to be X-rayed and individually stamped to prove they have been inspected. AFP

Russians go to polls after protests MOSCOW―Russians are set to vote in local elections on Sunday following a hugely controversial campaign in Moscow that degenerated into the biggest police crackdown on protesters in nearly a decade. Municipal and regional polls will be held across the vast country, but most attention will be focused on the Moscow parliament vote following the arrests and jailings of independent would-be candidates and their supporters. Analysts say the results of the vote will be keenly watched ahead of parliamentary elections in 2021 and will help shape Russia’s political future as President Vladimir Putin enters his third decade in power. Over the past weeks tens of thousands have taken part in Moscow protests demanding a fair vote after allies of opposition leader Alexei Navalny were barred from the election. Rap stars and prominent bloggers backed the demonstrations. Authorities responded with a police crackdown—the biggest since a wave of protests in 2011-12 against Putin’s return to the Kremlin after a stint as prime minister. Tatyana Stanovaya, head of the R.Politik analysis firm, said the campaign exposed a growing rift between authorities bent on preserving the status quo and Russians wanting political change. “The Moscow parliament elections have become a litmus test of the authorities’ ability to accept this new reality,” Stanovaya told AFP. “They sought to act and think just like in the old times. Putin believes everything is fine.” Authorities briefly jailed nearly all opposition politicians seeking to get on the ballot in Moscow. Several people were also imprisoned for alleged violence against police even though opposition supporters said their rallies were peaceful. One man was sentenced to five years over a tweet in which he called for attacks on the children of police in response to the crackdown. Some 7.2 million people are eligible to elect 45 lawmakers in the Moscow parliament, which is dominated by the ruling United Russia party and never opposes the policies of staunchly pro-Kremlin Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. AFP

PREMIERE. From left, Maureen McCormick, Barry Williams, Eve Plumb, Christopher Knight, Mike Lookinland and

Susan Olsen attend the premiere of HGTV's ‘A Very Brady Renovation’ at The Garland Hotel on September 05, 2019 in North Hollywood, California. AFP

of Taliban cheer US plans to withdraw

KANDAHAR―Taliban loyalists are cheering the prospect of a deal with the US that, after 18 years of a grueling conflict, will see “defeated” American “invaders” finally go home. While the details of the deal have not been announced, it is widely expected the Pentagon will slash its troop presence in Afghanistan in return for various Taliban commitments. AFP spoke to several Taliban fighters and supporters in and around Kandahar―the southern Afghan province that is the birthplace of the Islamist movement and a key stronghold. Mohammad Manzoor Hussaini, who previously fought for the Taliban, was until two years ago hiding out in Pakistan but returned to Kandahar as the group’s influence strengthened. All Afghans want is a peace foundedw on “Islamic values”, he said, using the same stock phrase the Taliban have used in talks with the United States. The term is seen as contentious because it is open to broad interpretation, and the Taliban are known for pushing some of the most extreme views of the Islamic faith, including an almost total denial of all freedoms for women. “Afghans wish for peace, moreover they want a dignified peace based on Islamic values, and peace among all Afghans,” Hussaini said. “Afghans should trust each other, and should be honest to each other, and should not pay attention to any foreigners.” But if things are handled poorly, the war could go on for another 20 years and spread to other countries too, Hussaini warned. Hafiz Mohammad Wali, a gardener from the Shahjoy District of Zabul province, which neighbours Kandahar, was delighted at news that a deal is likely to see the US military draw down its forces. “For nearly 20 years, we have been hoping for this news, to see the Americans leave Afghanistan with shame,” he said. “People now are praying for peace in the country. We have fought a lot, and the fighting still continues today.” Like most of the Taliban supporters AFP spoke to, Wali worried about whether the group would be able to make a separate agreement with the Afghan government. AFP

In Greenland, shorter winters cast doubts over dog sledding KULUSUK, Denmark―Tethered between pastel-colored wooden houses in the Greenlandic village of Kulusuk and on hills nearby, the island’s famous sled dogs wait through the summer for the ice to form so their hunting season can begin. Greenlanders prize the dogs for their endurance, using them to pull their sleds to hunt seals, whales and polar bears in the winter months when temperatures can drop to minus 35 degrees Celsius (minus 31 Fahrenheit). But as the ice that covers 85 percent of Greenland melts and its winters grow unpredictable, climate change is casting a

shadow over the much loved tradition in Denmark’s autonomous territory. “The ice is changing,” says Moses Bajare, a 59-year-old musher from the village. Snowmobiles are not used to hunt in east Greenland as hunting from boats has long been seen as an easier way to track seals and whales in these parts of the North Atlantic. In winter, when the sea ice freezes, Bajare’s team of 12 dogs pulls his wooden sled out to the edge of the sea ice. From there, he kayaks out with a rifle to hunt seals.

But, he says, in the 35 years he has kept dogs, sea ice patterns have become less predictable. The ice used to be thick enough to sled on from February until June or July. Now, it’s freezing later and thinning earlier, and the areas where it’s safe to sled vary frequently. Sledding is a way to get back to nature, says Bajare. “When I have a problem, with the family, or life, I go with the dogs into nature. “And in a day, two days, when I come back, it’s gone,” he says, his face covered by a mosquito net as he cleans his

dogs’ enclosure on a rocky outcrop outside the village. The dogs loll about Bajare, cleaning their distinctive woolly coats and wagging their curled tails under the mild summer sun. Like most of the village’s 250 inhabitants, Bajare is Inuit, an indigenous people who make up some 90 percent of Greenland’s population. Known for adapting to their surroundings, the Inuit have always made do with what nature provides in these harsh conditions, hunting animals for food, clothing, fuel and to build tools. AFP

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

Joel D. Lacsamana, Editor jdlacsamana@gmail.com

FEELING AT HOME. At the upcoming Valencia Hills Tower E, residents benefit from having only six to eight units on every floor of the 28-storey building. This gives residents generous yet private living spaces.

RENT OR BUY?

ENT or buy? This is the age-old dilemma of people looking for a new place to live in.

Logic, of course, defines the pros and cons for both renting and buying. But at the end of the day, the decision hinges largely on your needs and and resources. With the boom in the real estate industry and the influx of expatriate employees from BPO and online gaming firms, the residential sector has become highly competitive. There has been an explosion of new developments in the various parts of the Metro, and other urban centers of the country. While there are many options available, there are very specific, and personal factors to consider. MASTERPLANNED COMMUNITIES One particular development on the rise is Tower E of the already thriving Valencia Hills community, a master-planned development located at the corner of N. Domingo and Valencia Streets in Quezon City. Owned by Topsphere Realty Development Company, Inc., the development is part of Federal Land’s growing real estate portfolio which includes GT Tower International in Makati and Grand Hyatt Manila Residences in Taguig. Architect Esteban Y. Tan designed the 5th tower of Valencia Hills with three crucial decisionmaking factors in mind, taking into account that these factors define what a worthwhile investment should be. EXPENSE VERSUS INVESTMENT The main decision factor is money, or lack thereof. This leads many condo-hunters to rent instead of buy. But if the plan is for a prolonged stay, then renting is not the better option, as it will turn out to be an expense that cannot be recovered. On the other hand, buying property will

Things to mull over when investing in a condo

A DIP WITH A VIEW. Pools, gyms and common areas are standard fare in high-quality compounds. But the difference lies in how innovative, well-designed and well-built these amenities are. only be a worthwhile investment if both the unit bought and the area it is in, are marketable. The ﬁrst step is to assess what the property will be for. Buying the property will be more suitable for families who are ready to settle down and see the unit as a permanent home. Professionals with a stable career can also consider investing in the

SEE-THROUGH ELEGANCE FOR THE MODERN HOME

WINDOWS and doors…what are their functions in a home? They are portals and passageways for air, sunlight and outdoor views. These also provide warmth and ventilation that can affect one’s mood and quality of life. Choosing the right kind of window and door structure involves proper design, structural integrity and installation. Many may not be aware of this, but what frames to use for doors and windows have an impact on the total look and functionality of a room. Orama minimal frames makes stateof-the-art aluminum frames for modern homes. Manufactured in Greece, and now available in the Philippines, Orama aims to ﬁnd the right frame solution for any architectural requirement - no matter how extreme or ambitious. Unobstructed views Orama is the Greek word for vision. Its minimalist frames, created from high-end technology, create stunning and unobstructed views to the outside, bringing a seamless interaction between interior and exterior, and enhancing the perception of both spaces. The frames are installed ﬂush with the

ﬂoor and the ceiling, with only a very thin 4mm of frame visible around the openings. For the central vertical frame, Orama keeps it minimal with just a 24mm visible vertical surface and up to a maximum of 30mm thickness for extremely tall windows and doors. Versatile sizes including corner free solutions open up the view up to 360 degrees. THERMALLY BROKEN, SOUND PROOF Orama frames feature clean lines, maximum functionality, and comfort combined with silent sliding. It offers high performance in thermal insulation making it suitable for all climatic zones. Despite the thin dimensions of the proﬁles, Orama frames can carry weights of up to 1000 kg. The height of each glass panel can reach 3.0m using the 24mm width frame and up to 6.5m with the slightly wider 30mm width frame. Thanks to the dual stainless steel rails with two double stainless steel rollers on each side of each vent, the sliding system operates smooth and silently. Orama is distributed by Focus Global Inc.

property as a home base in the short-term and an additional source of income in the long-term. Those who are still exploring career opportunities or with no clear plans of settling down, however, will beneﬁt from the ﬂexibility of renting a unit. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION The importance of location does not only apply

to commercial spaces, but also to residences. Living in a prime location means easy access to one’s place of work and to essential services like hospitals, schools, places of worship and key business hubs. Location will also define a certain lifestyle —your choice of locale must afford you conveniences and a level of enjoyment. With the worsening traffic conditions in the metro, it’s ideal to live closer to your workplace and necessities. QUALITY OF LIFE Some of the first questions of potential buyers are the amenities included in the property. Pools, gyms, and common areas are standard fare in high-quality compounds, but the difference lies in how innovative, well-designed and well-built these amenities are. On top of this, potential buyers should also consider the density of the property. In well-planned communities, residents enjoy privacy and personal space despite sharing facilities and amenities with other residents. Whether renting or buying will cost more in the long run, is difficult to say, but it all boils down to what it will be used for, and what one can afford. Renting gives flexibility while owning builds equity with a possibility of future income. Owners have the freedom to design their units and transform them into homes that are to their liking, while renters are restricted by the terms of their lease. Ultimately, whether it is to rent or to buy, the place still needs to feel like home.

WELL-CENTRIC BUILDING. Menarco Development Corporation’s Menarco tower recently unveiled its Well gold plaque from the International Well Building Institute (IWBI) Asia during ceremonies held at the 32nd street tower in BGC. The official certificate was handed over by IWBI Asia director of business development, Samantha Allen, to Menarco founder and CEO, Carmen Jimenez-Ong. The Well building standard is a global tool that measures the health and well-being of buildings and its occupants. It also certifies buildings according to verified financial outcomes of building tenants, as a result of their respective employees’ productivity. “It makes good business sense to invest on the welfare of occupants in an office building,” said JimenezOng. Some of Menarco tower’s notable Well-centric features and facilities include filtered air circulation, ambient music and natural light in fire staircases, healthy food choices in the food hall, and drinkable tap water. Menarco tower is also certified LEED Gold, and was recognized as best green development at the Philippine property awards in 2016.

RESORT-INSPIRED REDOUBT IN QC.

RAINFOREST HAVEN. Pueblo de Oro Development Corporation (PDO) recently inked an agreement with the ICCP Group Foundation, Inc., the Bukidnon local government, and the Department of Natural Resources (DENR) to build and manage the first urban rainforest in the Philippines, at Cagayan de Oro. Pueblo de Oro kicked off its preservation efforts by planting endemic plant seedlings, or “wildlings”, sourced from the rainforests of Mt. Kitanglad and other nearby mountains in Bukidnon, at its 400-hectare township project. The urban rainforest is a 40-hectare area in the heart of Cagayan de Oro’s growth area, abundant with different plants animals. There are at least 20 species of birds that can be found within the township. They have been seen taking flight over the combination of grasslands and woodlands in the area, including different breeds of kingfishers and grass owls. More recently, PDO employees were joined by the archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, represented by members of the Laudato Si and Faith and Light communities, parishioners from the St. Francis Xavier chaplaincy, all of whom who heeded Pope Francis’ call to “care for our common home”.

Developer DMCI Homes recently launched Cameron Residences to add to its growing portfolio of resortinspired communities in Quezon City. “Quezon City more than ever is shaping up to be a real estate hotspot with the government’s aggressive infrastructure push in the area,” explained DMCI assistant vice president for project development Dennis Yap. “We hope to help address the increasing demand by launching more projects in the city in the coming months.” Cameron Residences is located along Mapalad Street, Quezon City, just minutes from the Skyway extension project, which is on its way to completion. Designed for the single working dweller, or young families, the 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom unit sizes range from 26 to 83 square meters at a price of P3.94 million – P9.74 million. Cameron Residences is targeted for completion in 2025.

Life

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

ARTS AND CULTURE

@MStandardLIFE SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

Must-reads

Graphic novels, romance fiction, learning solutions and more at 40th MIBF ONE FOR THE BOOKS. The country’s biggest and longest running book fair, the Manila International Book Fair, happening on Sept. 11-15 at the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia, will feature more

than 200 publishers offering books at discounted prices. (Photo from MIBF/Facebook)

OOKWORMS, ready your push carts!

The country’s biggest and longest running book fair publishers, distributors, booksellers, agents, authors, turns 40 and treats visitors to thousands of titles from and bookworms to converge and collaborate. local and foreign publishers. The Manila International This year’s edition, more than 200 publishers Book Fair, happening on Sept. 11-15 at the SMX Con- will offer books at discounted prices. vention Center in Mall of Asia, provides an avenue for Here are some of the titles you can get your hands on.

Graphic novels featuring Philippine folklore Graphic novels are stories written in prose but presented along- main story spread out over many issues. Graphic novels, on the side illustrations. They’re different from comic books and Japa- other hand, are lengthy. They encapsulate a full story, much like nese manga in that the former ones are shorter per issue and the an actual book.

Trese Series by Budjette Ran and KaJo Baldisimo Trese, which Netflix announced last year would be adapted into an animated series, revolves around titular character Alexandra Trese and her encounters with the supernatural as a hybrid crime and spirit detective. Set in Manila where creatures out of Philippine classic folklore hide among humans, it combines elements of crime noir and gangster fiction with real life myths surrounding the streets of Manila.

The Mythology Class Series by Arnold Arre As a graduating student struggling to finally escape school, Nicole Lacson and a group of friends are introduced to Mrs. Enkanta, who opens their eyes to a world of myth and mystery. A truly Filipino comic book with heart and creativity, it is another novel set to be adapted into film.

Tabi Po Series by Mervin Malonzo With no recollection of how he came to be in a tree in Balete Drive, newlyborn aswang named Elias feels his bloodlust rise as he roams the forest area. That is when he runs into Tasyo and Sabel, two more creatures straight out of myth who guide him as they seek answers about their existence. This graphic novel has been adapted into a TV series of the same name.

Janus Silang Series by Edgar Calabia Samar Titular character Janus, a gamer in virtual MMORPG TALA (Terra Anima Legion of Anitos) finds himself in a deep mythical mystery following the deaths of other TALA online players all over the Philippines. His adventure starts when a man who claims to have also survived the event contacts him, spurring on a plot that throws in monsters and miscreants from local folklore into a world where the line between reality and virtual reality is blurred.

Ella Arcangel by Julius Villanueva It’s not the supernatural beasts and entities that Villanueva pits Ella against, but rather the modern societal circumstances that surround her. Growing up under the poverty line does not stop Ella from doing what is right and living by an unshakable principle of kindness. The story skillfully blends the mythical with actual problems Filipinos today face, which makes for a read that resonates through a wide audience.

Panagdadapun Festival highlights Quirino’s cultural heritage THE celebration of Quirino province’s 21st Panagdadapun Festival, which also coincides with its 48th founding anniversary, on Sept. 6-10 highlights the convergence of cultures of its six municipalities. Panagdadapun is an Ilocono word that means “gathering” Anchored on the theme “I Love Quirino Forever More,” major event on Sept. 10 includes an anniversary program, grand parade, and street dance parade showcasing the municipal festivals of Penenkakasisit of Nagtipunan, Pagay-Pagay of Saguday, Panagsasalog of Maddela, Ginnamuluan of Cabarroguis, Pammadayaw of Diffun, and Panagsalukag of Aglipay, which depict the indigenous and small-town way of

life of the locals. Also part of the festivities is the first Quirino Invitational Wakeboarding Competition which will gather more than 70 of the top board-riders from all the wakeparks in the country at the newlyopened Quirino Watersports Complex. According to Quirino governor Dakila Carlo Cua, the celebrations will underscore the economic, political, and governance gains the province has achieved since its creation on Sept. 10, 1971 from its mother province of Nueva Vizcaya. This year’s celebration is special as it coincides with the Department of Interior and Local Government Seal of Good Local Governance Award the province received in 2015-2018 for its

Quirino’s Provincial Museum showcases artefacts from the Dumagat, Ifugao, Isinay, Bugkalot, and Gaddang indigenous peoples.

excellence in financial administration, disaster preparedness, social protection, and peace and order. Quirino is also a recipient of the 2018 Best Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council in the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s Gawad Kalasag, the country’s premier annual awards for outstanding contribution in DRRM and humanitarian assistance. Cua noted that the festival is also an opportunity to showcase Quirino’s natural charm through its ecotourism attractions, such as the Aglipay Caves and Provincial Forest Park, Siitan Nature Park in Nagtipunan, Governor Rapids at the Cagayan River in Maddela, and the countless waterfalls tucked inside its forest. The landlocked province is also gaining popularity as a mecca for motocross with its annual Quirino Motorismo, the country’s biggest motorcycle sports festival, which features a 1,000-kilometer scenic ride around north Luzon. Beyond the festivities, guests can visit the Provincial Museum, the repository of Quirino’s cultural heritage of the Dumagat, Ifugao, Isinay, Bugkalot, and Gaddang indigenous peoples, and lowland settlers, dominated by the Ilocanos. For a meaningful trip worth remembering, tourists can also immerse in the Igorot, Kalinga, Dumagat (Agta), and Bugkalot tribes’ indigenous way of life. Immersion encounters can be arranged with municipal authorities. For more information, follow the Provincial Government of Quirino on Facebook or log on to www.quirinoprovince.org.ph.

Street dance performances showcasing Quirino’s municipal festivals.

Bugkalot tribal dance

Turn to C2

Life

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019 manilastandardlife@gmail.com

‘The World in Pictures’ exhibit in Dumaguete

By Penn Larena

FIVE-MONTH art exhibition showcasing the works of National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz is currently mounted at Silliman University’s Dr. Romeo P. Ariniego Art Gallery in Dumaguete City.

Curated by Lisa Guerrero-Nakpil, the show, entitled “The World in Pictures,” opened on August 21 and will run until Jan. 31, 2020. It also features GuerreroNakpil’s authoritative exhibit essays on the art of Alcuaz and the late Ramon Villegas, a famous antique jeweler and art historian. In her essay, Guerrero-Nakpil connects Alcuaz (1932-2011) to the late 19th-century Philippine expatriate community in Europe, notably Juan Novicio Luna and Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo. Like Luna and Hidalgo, Alcuaz found fame in Spain and France after a Madrid education at the same art academy as the ilustrados who came before him. He went on to join a league of other artists based in Barcelona. “As a result, he earned recognition in Spain, including the first prize at the Premio Moncada in 1957, followed by the Prix Francisco Goya the next year; first prize at the Pintura de Sant Pol del

Mar in 1961 and second prize at the Premio Vancell at the Fourth Biennial of Tarrasa in Barcelona in 1964,” writes Guerrero-Nakpil. In Paris, Alcuaz was awarded the Diploma of Honor at the International Exhibition of Art Libre in 1961; as well as the Arts, Letters and Sciences award from the French government and the Order of French Genius, both in 1964. He is known for his Cubist-inspired paintings. Most often depicting nude women, interiors, still life, and landscapes, Alcuaz’s work is characterized by soft blurred edges coupled with bold lines and shapes. His paintings, which depict his many travels around Europe, are in the collections of 20 museums and major cultural institutions in the world such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Barcelona, Museum of Contemporary Art in Madrid, Gulbenkian Foundation Museum of London, Museum of Modern Art

Himamaylan Beachscape, 1954

‘Artist’s Studio,’ 1982

of Warsaw, Museum of Modern Art of Krakow, and Philips Cultural Museum of the Netherlands. The grand opening was well attended by the people from the arts and culture society in Dumaguete as well as representatives from Silliman University Arts and Culture Council, Dumaguete City Festival and Arts Society, and Dumaguete Heritage Council. The occasion was also graced by art-

‘Untitled,’ 1985

ists like Kitty Taniguchi, Danilo Sollesta, Hersley-Ven Casero, and Irish Tirambulo Armogenia. Curators and art historian Tonico Manahan and Toto Gonzalez gave a lecture of Philippine contemporary arts to the students of the arts and design track

Some of the members from the art and culture circle of Dumaguete: Joyce Neri Calbog, Pichina Teves, Signora Jennylyn Bertoldi, Linda Flores Basmayor, Bais City Mayor Mercedes Teves Goñi, and Elsie Lee.

and fine arts of Silliman University. Dr. Jenny Lind Elmaco, Silliman University strategic partnerships director, was the lady of the ceremony. The exhibit was organized by Leon Gallery, a leading auction house in the country.

Acclaimed artist Kitty Taniguchi (left) with art patrons Lilian Macay Diamond and Marilou Vicente Ortiz.

WORKSHOP

Learn how to make bayong decoupage SENIOR recreation center Sunshine Place offers a workshop that teaches participants how to embellish bayong. Berverly Lim, who completed a Decoupage Teacher Course Workshop designed by Calambour Italy, will lead a bayong decoupage workshop on October 12, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Decoupage refers to the art or craft of decorating objects with paper cutouts. Made by woven dried leaves such as buri and pandan, bayong is a multipurpose bag popular with Filipinos; it is usually used to carry goods bought from the market.

ABS-CBN Books launches 9 titles at MIBF 2019.

Must-reads... From C1

Fiction and non-fiction titles

Registration is open until October 3. Workshop rate includes bayong and other materials needed. Contact Mae at 0905-5695643 or email madsg711@ gmail for more information. Participants will learn how to embellish bayong with paper cutouts

iPhoto

Art for the sea From left: Manila Yacht Club Commodore Robert Lim Joseph, scientist Jun Catan, indigenous artist Kiel Tuan, Sen. Cynthia Villar, Apostolic Nuncio Gabrielle Giordano Caccia, Earthsaver founder Heherson Alvarez, and UNESCO artist for peace Cecile GuidoteAlvarez led the opening of the The Gallery of the Sea exhibit at the Manila Yacht Club. The Gallery of the Sea is a collective effort of Earthsavers, Manila Yacht Club, government agencies, benefactors, and 25 visual artists to encourage Filipino to care for our ocean and environment.

Bringing art to more people From left: Fundacion Sanso’s curator Ricky Francisco and chairman Jack Teotico, Mohammed Ronagih, Mrs. Felicidad Sy, SM senior vice president for marketing Jonjon San Agustin, Gallery Francesca owner Susanne Tiausas, SM vice president for strategy development and premier malls marketing Gino Borromeo, and assistant vice president for operations Ian Mathay led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of Art for Everyone at SM Megamall. Art For Everyone features seasoned and amateur artists, connecting them with different audiences.

Bargain with the Rebel Heartbreaker by Vixenne Anne

Stop In The Name of Love. Amen by AB Castueras ABS-CBN Books joins MIBF 2019 where it will host meet-and-greet sesPanagutan Mo ‘Ko sions with Kapamilya authors and by JC Quin launch 10 new reads, including two books from international fiction auAside from these new titles, bookthors, who will be bringing their welllovers will get to see their favorite auloved stories to the Philippines. thors at the ABS-CBN booth, including inspirational poet Jerico Silvers, YouTrue Beauty Tubers Lloyd Cadena, Bakla Ng Taon by Priscilla Wu It is a dystopian romance fiction that (BNT), and Jelai Andres. Kapamilya authors Dimples Romabrings two extremely different lives together in a tale of love, friendship, and sal- na, Joena San Diego, Soyen, and Chef vation. Inspired by the K-pop group EXO, Tatung Sarthou, as well as the most folthe story from the Asianfanfics author allowed Wattpad authors—Binibining Mia, Alesana Marie, JC Quin, Charready has one million authentic reads. maine Lasar, Ethyl Dela Pena, Patyeah, Arlo Icabandi, Ma. Theresa Anna Prince with Benefits Cruzate, Vixenne Anne, and AB Casby Gaby Gabezut A contemporary fairy tale filled with tueras—will also be present for various the delights and dramas of falling in meet-and-greet sessions. love with a real life Prince Charming. Digital learning solutions Gabezut’s story already has over 100 Learning solutions provider REX will million reads, making her a Wattpad Star with the highest-ranking royalty showcase new offerings in the field of digital learning solutions and holistic story in said online community. education practices at the 40th MIBF. REX’s symphony of learning soluWinning For Life tions is designed with an integrative apby Denis Waitley proach that creates easy-to-understand A motivational book. learner experiences through cohesive and intuitive interfaces that enable Pera Ni Mister, Pera ni Misis young learners to easily comprehend by Chinkee and Nove-Ann Tan and manage information. A financial guide for couples REX’s space at the book fair is themed “Silk Road,” an allusion to the Never Be Number 2 ancient land routes connecting East by Jelai Andres A self-help book that offers tips on and West. This theme reflects the company’s surviving broken marriage and dealing campaigns and initiatives to sustain with cheaters. learning experiences and environments for the Whole Child, an eduLa Na Bye cational philosophy that merges best by Kakai Bautista practices in the industry to address the A “hugot” poetry book. demands of 21st century learning. REX will also offer free semiPBB Otso Collector’s Edition A print collectible on the recent hit re- nars, workshops, a book sale, ality show PBB Otso and its housemates. and book launches during the event.

Entertainment

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

nickie.standard@gmail.com

Open hearts

Janella and Maja in a scene from 'The Killer Bride,' which joins the list of most watched Kapamilya programs.

ABS-CBN keeps double-digit lead in nationwide numbers game

ILIPINO households are still turning to ABS-CBN for insightful news and heartfelt TV programs as the network continued to hold on to its average audience share of 45 percent in August, or 14 points higher than GMA’s 31 percent, according to data from Kantar Media.

FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano (35.8 percent) continued to maintain its winning streak for almost four years now as the most watched show nationwide. Similarly, the return of The Voice Kids (35.5 percent) on TV made it claim the title as the top pick of Filipinos among weekend shows. The General’s Daughter’s (30.9 percent) high-octane episodes kept viewers entertained in August, while weekend shows Hiwaga ng Kambat (30.6 percent) and Maalaala Mo Kaya (30.2 percent) proved that how much Filipinos love values-laden programs.

Couch Potato... From C4

Megan lends face to Lenovo Actress, model, host, Miss World 2013 is now the newest face of global technology brand Lenovo. Yes, Megan Young is definitely on a roll, with her latest achievement allowing her to flaunt her techie side for the world’s leading PC developer. Used to the limelight by now, Young will be gracing Lenovo events and supporting the company’s advocacies. She’ll be giving fans sneak peeks of current and upcoming Lenovo products and devices and engaging them with exclusive content. At present, Young has 2.4M followers on Instagram and her official Facebook page has 2.1M likes, which she leverages for her Beauty With A Purpose projects and personal

Rounding out the top ten list of most watched shows nationwide are TV Patrol (28.1 percent), Home Sweetie Home: Extra Sweet (24.2 percent), Kadenang Ginto (22.7 percent), and The Killer Bride (22.5 percent), which broke into the top 10 in less than a month since it premiered. Meanwhile, ABS-CBN also won all time blocks in August, asserting its dominance in primetime (6:00 p.m. to 12:00 mn) where it recorded 48 percent share, versus GMA’s 31 percent; in the afternoon block (3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.)

advocacies. “We’re very excited to have Megan Young represent Lenovo this moment in our history when we are solidifying all efforts to maintain our position as the world’s number one PC maker. She embodies Lenovo, with her sophistication, elegance, style, and, more importantly, vibrant personality and ﬂexibility, allowing her to adjust to any situation or role—key qualities we are integrating into our consumer devices,” said Lenovo Philippines Country General Manager Michael Ngan. While more popularly known for her TV and ﬁlm stints, Young is also closely associated with technology, revealing she is a gamer at the Miss World Philippines 2013 pageant. She admits that technology played an important part of her lifestyle growing up and until now, with her various commitments. “I’m what you can call as a simple

CROSSWORD PUZZLE Saturday, September 7, 2019

ACROSS 1 Gullets 5 Unfreezes 10 Karate studio 14 River in Russia 15 Copy 16 Like Mr. Hyde 17 Skirt style 18 Drive forward 19 Blue ox of legend 20 Broadway’s “Miss —” 22 Frogs-to-be 24 Walk in the wild 26 “The King and I” actress 27 Elbowed rudely 30 Harvested 34 Sort 35 Quiet 38 See-through 39 Strive to win 40 Not gradual 42 “We — the World” 43 Occasion 46 Egypt’s Anwar — 48 Estuary 49 Loose end 51 Snarled 53 Pair of mules 55 Sight from Messina 56 Familiarize 60 Tree trimmer

64 Buzz 65 Fountain in Rome 67 Mosaic unit 68 Diet 69 — salts 70 Kyrgyzstan range 71 Puts into words 72 Oil-bearing rock 73 Portuguese title DOWN 1 Football corsages 2 Diva’s solo 3 Dry riverbed 4 Very little 5 Junk jewelry 6 Dress bottom 7 Client mtg. 8 Cause, as havoc 9 Join, as metal 10 Biblical judge 11 Zero-shaped 12 Agree 13 Cheers for toreros 21 Van Gogh’s medium 23 Corp. bigwig 25 Works on a manuscript 27 Fast-talked 28 Martini extra 29 Trapshooting 31 One of a strand 32 Paranormal, to

some 33 Be frightened of 36 Meadow 37 Flowerpot spot 41 Type of job (hyph.) 44 Temperaments 45 Makes fast 47 Writer — Morrison 50 Starbucks orders 52 Newspaper notice (2 wds.) 54 Change shape

56 Leather punches 57 “Wool” on clay sheep 58 Important town 59 Tableland 61 Farm building 62 Dash 63 “Star Wars” princess 66 Ref. book

with 47 percent, compared to GMA’s 33 percent; in the noontime block (12:00 nn to 3:00 p.m.) with 46 percent, versus GMA’s 32 percent, and in the morning block (6:00 a.m. to 12:00 mn) with 39 percent, in contrast to GMA’s 29 percent. Likewise, the Kapamilya network also emerged triumphant again Metro Manila as it registered 41 percent share, or 16 points higher than GMA’s 25 percent. In Mega Manila, ABS-CBN registered 36 percent, while GMA got 31 percent. In Total Luzon, ABS-CBN earned 41 percent, versus GMA’s 34 percent. It also won in Total Visayas with 55 percent, beating GMA’s 24 percent, as well as in Total Mindanao with 52 percent, trailing GMA’s 28 percent. Multinational audience measurement provider Kantar Media uses a nationwide panel size of 2,610 urban and rural homes that represent 100 percent of the total Philippine TV viewing population.

techie. I actually grew up being involved with technology. I didn’t go out that much when I was young and I was on my computer instead playing games. My computer was my outlet when my parents were out working. As a matter of fact, when I won Miss World, my gift to myself was a laptop,” Young said. A self-confessed casual gamer, Young shares her gaming experience to the public via online streaming. Her latest gameplay to date, which saw her playing Stardew Valley, has been viewed by at least 57,000 times on Facebook. Last year, she was able to display her skills in League of Legends by taking part in a celebrity showmatch held at Conquerors Manila sponsored by Lenovo and Globe. The match was able to raise P134,000 for charity. “I’m delighted with my partnership with Lenovo because it will deﬁnitely help elevate my streaming experience,”

ONE of the lead actresses in Andoy Ranay’s Open, a film in competition entry in this year’s Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, a flagship project of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), is Ina Raymundo. Raymundo sizzled and made sparks fly during the 90s, as the iconic Sabado Nights girl for the country’s national beer. Dusky, petite, with a girly gait and a woman of the world aura, seeing and interviewing her now, is nothing but a throwback moment because the years have truly been kind to her. She continues to be in her fighting form despite having five children, and married for 19 years. Clad in a white undergarment top and electric pleated skirt, she expresses her sentiments regarding the label, the Philippines hottest momma. Ina says, rather demurely: “Of course, it is flattering. It is even nakakakilig. What I do, however, I don’t want that idea to sink in my mind to the point I can tell my husband, ‘Honey, so many fancy me. And they are all younger. And richer. So, I may just pick one and leave you and good riddance.” She blurts a womanly laugh after her statement. Raymundo carries on: “You know, I take care of myself because I have to, I am a mother of five, it is easy to let go, and you know, be losyang, right? I want to live long for my husband, my children and my future grandchildren. My family is my driving force. Eating healthy, daily exercise, regular consultation with my doctor, all the works needed for wellness, count me in.” She is an almost two decade marriage with husband Bryan Poturnak. “He is my soul mate,” Mrs. Poturnak enthuses. “And I can say one of my best friends. Kasi kami, open lagi ang communication lines namin. We always converse. It helps that he has no insecurities. He knows and respect my work as an actress.” After the family update, she shares about her character in Open whose name is Erika. Raymundo comes clean: “Erika is my lucky name. My eldest daughter’s name is Erika. When I won best actress for an international film festival, Erika was also my character’s name. Here in Open,

said Young. Asked what she likes the most about Lenovo’s products, Young said it’s how the devices are able to combine power, performance, and a premium look and feel into one. Her Legion Y740, for example, ﬁts well at meetings and in coffee shops because of its sleek, business-like look. Another of Young’s favorites is the Yoga S940, with its impressive nearly bezel-free display. These products are part of Lenovo’s consumer lineups which recently underwent a premium refresh on their designs. Previously bulky and ruggedlooking, the latest IdeaPad, Yoga, and Legion laptops are now sleeker, thinner, and lighter. Expect to see more of Lenovo’s consumer devices with Megan Young at the forefront. For more updates, follow her on Facebook (@MeganYoungPage) and Instagram (@meganbata).

Erika ulit.” What does he think of JC Santos? Ina avers, “My co-actors, JC and Arci Munoz, these two are amazing. Sobra silang generous kapag ka-eksena mo sila. Pareho silang brilliant. At ang guapo ni JC at ang ganda ni Arci on screen.” Ina describes Erika as: “A woman who knows what she wants and she knows how to get what she wants. She is empowered in that sense but also vulnerable. She also has an endearing side and I think many women, will relate to her causes, ﬂaws and humanity.” The First Gentleman of T-REX Entertainment Rex Tiri, opens why he produced this ﬁlm, “It is a brave concept that is aligned to TREX’ tagline “productions that matters”. He adds: “I want to have a discourse on the issue because sobrang taboo yung topic. It is a good feeling when somehow, you are instrumental in letting people see a different perspective to something that most people frown about or detest it simply because it is not within our societal or cultural DNA.” Andoy Ranay’s Open is showing Sept. 13 to 19 in all cinemas nationwide.

Ina Raymundo shares the screen with JC Santos and Arci Muñoz in the PPP 2019 film, 'Open.'

Ryle Santiago... From C4

Apart from It’s Showtime and It’s Showtime Online, Ryle also hosts the digital shows, One Music Popssss and Wander Jam. “In It’s Showtime, it’s more of fun group banters. One Music Popssss is informing the netizens about songs, singers and bands while in Wander Jam, it’s just me and the featured band doing road trips. Every episode is a learning experience,” Ryle says. With his current involvement in shows about music, it’s not surprising that the 20-year-old has already written three songs ranging from pop, country and rock ballad about love and heartbreak, arranged by his brother, Lorenz Tan. There are plans to launch it in It’s Showtime. “I hope to collaborate with Janine Berdin and my idols, Rico Blanco and IV of Spades one day,”he chimes. Apart from music, Ryle also wants to concentrate on acting. Winning the recent PMPC Star Awards New Movie Actor of the Year for Bakwit Boys made him want to try a variety of roles from leading man to contravida. He recently delivered another ﬁne performance as a soldier rendering support to Joshua Garcia in the “Medalya” episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya. During the airing, #MMKMedalOfValor claimed the number one spot in Twitter’s Top Trends in the Philippines. Ryle continues to work on his acting while waiting for his next project. Aside from his showbiz commitments, he is also an incoming third year student in Meridian International (MINT) College taking up Film. He applies and experiments his camera shots in his Youtube channel. “Being an actor is like being in school because I’m a student of the craft. As a singer, songwriter and dancer, I’m able to express what’s inside my heart, while hosting and vlogging help me express my spontaneous self. And in between are my shows for Cherub Baby Care products, where I can be all of who I am,” ends Ryle. For more info, please like Cherub Baby Care on Facebook, follow Megasoft_ph on Twitter and Instagram and log on to www.megasoft.com.ph.

Entertainment

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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

VERY WANG NICKIE WANG

LAD in a suite of unconventional color, Alden Richards arrived at the restaurant on 17th floor of GMA Network Center to meet with the members of the entertainment press who were there to witness the unveiling of the sneak peak for The Gift, his latest television project, and to congratulate him for signing another contract with the network. “Hello, thanks for coming,” Alden greeted everyone in his sweetest demeanor with his bedimpled cheeks fronting all the camera and smartphone lenses that were raised to capture the moment. Now dubbed as the Asia’s Multimedia Star Alden is right where he deserves to be—on top of his game. The Kapuso homegrown talent is one of the country’s premier actors, a top celebrity endorser, a successful businessman, a highly-talented host, an award-winning performer, a charttopping recording artist, and a recordbreaking box office star. But it is his genuine dedication towards excelling in his craft that sets him apart. Recently, Alden received the ‘Asian Star Prize’ from the Seoul International Drama Awards 2019 at the Kyunghee University in South Korea and the firstever ‘Celebrity Icon Award’ from the Okada Manila 2019 Icon Awards – two more accolades added to his growing list of accomplishments in the industry. Despite all his feats, Alden remains an inspiration to the people around him and his legions of fans for his humility and passion in acting. As he renewed his contract with GMA Network yesterday, September 3, Alden attributed his success to his home network for almost a decade. “Since I started in GMA up to this point of my career, sila ‘yung sumusugal sa’kin. They gave me huge projects, huge opportunities and regardless kung successful or hindi, hindi sila tumitigil. Hindi nila ako pinabayaan. They kept on believing, kahit na minsan wala ng angle to believe in. Hinawakan nila ‘yung kamay ko through ups and downs, hindi ko nakita ‘yon with others,” he said. Throughout his years as a Kapuso, Alden has proven his versatility by portraying several formidable roles. In his upcoming primetime drama, The Gift, he is taking on another challenging role as a visually-impaired fruit vendor named Sep. “In my nine years of stay in GMA, I keep on discovering something new about myself and my craft. Project after project, it gives me more hunger to do more and inspire more people through my works and the things that I do. Pag

Coney Reyes plays the title role in CBN Asia's Holy Week special, 'Wanda' s Wonderful World. '

COUCH POTATO IVY ROSSINI

Christian film wins at filmfest in New York

ON A ROLL. Fresh from the massive box office success of 'Hello, Love, Goodbye, ' Alden Richards is starring in a television series, 'The Gift,' soon airing on GMA-7.

ALDEN RICHARDS Asia’s Multimedia Star

The Pambansang Bae with GMA Network top guns during a contract renewal held Wednesday at GMA Network Center.

may lumalapit sa’kin and sasabihin nila, ‘Alden sobrang ganda ng ginawa mo, nabago ‘yung buhay ko.’ Sobra akong namo-move to be appreciated by these people by the thing I love to do most. I want projects that could touch lives - that’s my ultimate goal as an artist. Ang sarap kasi noong nakakapagpabago ka ng buhay ng ibang tao kagaya ng pagbabago ng GMA sa buhay ko. I also want to be a vessel to help others.” Present in the contract signing were GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon; President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr.; Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong; Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Chief

Risk Ofﬁcer and First Vice President for Corporate Strategic Planning and Program Support Department Regie C. Bautista; Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Acuña-Magno; Vice President for Business Development Department III Darling de Jesus-Bodegon; Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angel Javier Cruz; Vice President for Regional TV Oliver Amoroso; Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara; Assistant Vice President for Business Development Department II Bang Arespacochaga; Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; Assistant Vice President for Talent Imaging and Marketing Simoun Ferrer; Senior Program Managers

Helen Rose Sese, Ruth Mariñas, Mae Zambrano, Mildred Natividad, Cecille de Guzman, Ian Roxas, and Charles Koo. During the contract signing held at the Boardroom of GMA Network, Atty. Gozon expressed his admiration over the actor’s loyalty towards the Kapuso Network, “As one of GMA’s most treasured stars, we are honored to be part of your unrivaled accomplishments as an artist. Even though you are now one of the biggest stars in the country, you remain humble that’s why we are conﬁdent that you will achieve more successes. Being a homegrown talent of GMA, kami dito sa GMA ay very proud of your achievements and gratiﬁed that you’ll continue to be a Kapuso.”

Ryle Santiago works diligently as multimedia artist A YEAR and a half of more than 30 successful shows including school visits, mall events and festivals, Ryle Santiago renews his contract as Cherub Baby Care products brand

Singer-actor and Hashtag member Ryle Santiago with Megasoft executive Aileen Choi-Go.

ambassador. “We were in our Cagayan de Oro show. Knowing my contract is expiring, I told the audience to chant, ‘i-renew na ‘yan’. And they happily obliged. I saw our Megasoft VicePresident Ms. Aileen smiling to what I did. I guess it worked. But kidding aside, I’m extremely happy and proud with the trust and conﬁdence given to me by my Megasoft family,” shares Ryle. Megasoft Hygienic Products VP for sales and marketing Aileen ChoiGo acknowledges Ryle’s efforts as Cherub celebrity endorser. “Ryle has a bubbly personality, always happy, optimistic and perky much like how our brand Cherub has been portrayed in the market. His ﬁrst 18 months as an endorser for Cherub has been very fast and I applaud how he is able to balance the pressure of being a student and a celebrity yet maintaining his quirky self,” says Choi-Go. “Clearly, he is an embodiment of what we are looking for in our brand that is positioned to be an inspiration to all the students nationwide as we aim to reach our 100th school for Megasoft’s School is Cool advocacy,” Choi-Go adds. Continued on C3

Writer Matthew Michael Carnahan (C) said his condition for directing the film was that it be shot in Arabic and he was flabbergasted when the Russos agreed straight away.

Avengers’ team launches Hollywood’s first all-Arabic action movie THE makers of the world’s biggest blockbuster unveiled the first Hollywood action movie shot entirely in Arabic Wednesday at the Venice film festival. Every line in Mosul, based on the Iraqi police’s Nineveh SWAT team, whose members fought to take back their home city from the Islamic State, is in Iraqi dialect. Its producers Joe and Anthony Russo—who made Avengers: Endgame the biggest grossing movie of all time—said they “did not hesitate for a second” about making the blistering epic of house-tohouse battles in anything but its original language. Joe Russo said he cried when he first read an account of the unit, made up of officers who had lost family to IS, in the

New Yorker magazine. “I’d never read a piece of journalism and cried at the end. The plight of this team and everyone in Mosul brought me to tears. That needed to be told as authentically as possible. There was no other way to make it,” he insisted. With Hollywood frequently accused of demeaning and demonizing Arabs, the producers said that they hoped the movie would become a turning point in the way Muslims were portrayed on the big screen. It is also the ﬁrst ﬁlm to come out of the Russo Brother’s new studio, AGBO, and Joe Russo said “we couldn’t be prouder of it.” AFP

INTERNATIONAL

IT’S really some Wanda-ful news (pardon the pun)! Because the film is about a woman named Wanda and it’s played by Coney Reyes. CBN Asia’s Holy Week Special Wanda’s Wonderful World earned the respect of international movie critics and enthusiasts winning awards and nominations at the Great Lakes Christian Film Festival (GLCFF) 2019 in Buffalo, New York, on Aug. 4. Among hundreds of films around the world, the faith-based film that graced last year’s Lent was hailed as the Winner of Best Special Effects in a Narrative Feature, Best Experimental/Most Creative in a Narrative Feature, and Best Lighting in a Narrative Feature. It also received four nominations for Best Producer in a Narrative Feature, Best Director in a Narrative Feature, Best Comedy in a Narrative Feature, and Best Cinematography in a Narrative Feature. Coney Reyes, Tirso Cruz III, and Ricky Davao play the lead characters in the story that revolves around Wanda (Coney), a former beauty queen and the CEO of a wellrenowned events company, Wanda’s Wonderful World—and her endless pursuit for true love and purpose. “I enjoyed doing this project. Thank you, Lord! Glory to God! Congratulations CBN Asia and Team Wanda’s Wonderful World,” Coney said after learning of the accolades the film earned at the film fest. Meanwhile, writer-director and CBN Asia’s Special Projects Manager Icko Gonzalez shared how viewers can relate to Wanda, as people continually seek to fill the void in their hearts, and from whom can they find the wholeness in life. “There is a Wanda in all of us. Like Wanda, I hope that we find our wholeness in a God who’s not only our Father but a Best Friend who truly understands us and loves us, no matter what. We are extremely grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to tell stories that inspire and celebrate second chances,” he ended. CBN Asia produces inspiring made-for-TV films like Wanda’s Wonderful World every Holy Week to showcase stories of freedom from bondage and the love of God. It is also the producer of the flagship TV program The 700 Club Asia from Monday to Friday, 12:00 midnight on GMA 7, and bible-based adventure stories for children, Superbook, every Sunday, 9:15 a.m. on ABSCBN. Continued on C3

SNAPSHOT HOLLYWOOD legend Julie Andrews, 83, insisted that she was “never a goodie two shoes” as she picked up a lifetime achievement award at the Venice ﬁlm festival. AFP