Manila Standard - 2021 April 26 - Monday

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PH asserts WPS presence

Coast Guard activates drills to secure 'maritime jurisdiction' over vast areas By Macon Ramos-Araneta

HE Philippine Coast Guard is conducting drills in the South China Sea that an official said Sunday were part of efforts to secure the country's “maritime jurisdiction” over the disputed waters.

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The exercises near the Philippine-occupied Thitu Island and China-controlled Scarborough Shoal come amid heightened tensions over the resource-rich sea. The latest diplomatic wrangle between the two countries was triggered by the detection last month of hundreds of Chinese vessels in the

Spratly Islands. Most of the boats have since dispersed around the contested archipelago. China – which claims almost the entirety of the sea – has refused repeated demands by the Philippines to call back the ships, which Manila says are maritime

militia vessels and Beijing says are fishing boats. In response, the Philippines has deployed more patrol vessels, including Coast Guard and Navy ships, to intensify surveillance and prevent illegal fishing. The coast guard drills began last week. Next page

VOL. XXXV • NO. 70 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

NAVAL DRILLS. Utilizing eight capital ships and several vessels of the national government, the Philippine Coast Guard steps up its maritime drills in the disputed areas of the West Philippine Sea under the newly-activated Task Force Pagsasanay. The naval drills also serve as an enhanced effort to patrol the high seas, officials say. Courtesy of PCG

NSA issues ‘gag order‘ over red-tagging of pantry hosts By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja THE spokespersons of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTC-ELCAC) were ordered to shut up, after they stirred up a hornet's nest and triggered calls to defund the agency by accusing organizers of charitable community pantries of be-

ing communists. National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., chairman of the NTC-ELCAC, said Sunday that Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. and Lorrine Badoy have been directed to stop making comments about community pantries in the meantime. Esperon said the "gag order" was to avoid giving the impression that they were against the concept of bayanihan

(community sharing), which is the basis for the community pantries. But Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, one of those who called to defund NTC-ELCAC, said he would continue to scrutinize the agency's P19 billion budget. "We will proceed with our proposal to defund this agency. My foremost reason for this – we lost our trust in its leadership, especially General Parlade," Gatchlian said. Next page

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr.

Consumers told Asean deems Myanmar issue a ‘family problem’ to brace for oil price increase By Rey E. Requejo

By Alena Mae S. Flores CONSUMERS can expect higher fuel prices next week of as much as P0.50 per liter to reflect the movement in world oil prices. “Expect fuel prices to go up next week. Diesel will increase by P0.40 to P0.50 per liter. Gasoline will increase by P0.30 to P0.40 per liter,” Unioil Philippines said in Next page its weekly forecast.

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said the leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations had talked about the Myanmar situation as if it were a “family problem.” “Then one after another the leaders spoke with equal candor of the ASEAN

family’s concern. It felt like a close family meeting about a family problem,” Locsin posted on his Twitter. Locsin made the statement after attending the ASEAN Special Summit on Myanmar in Jakarta over the weekend on behalf of President Rodrigo Duterte, who was not able to attend due to security concerns.

WORLD / C2

WORLD / C2

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Prime Media sets out to fill broadcast gap

82 DEAD, 110 WOUNDED IN IRAQ COVID HOSPITAL FIRE SUBMARINE FOUND CRACKED APART OFF BALI, 53 CREW DEAD

Myanmar junta chief leader Min Aung Hlaing attended the summit. The country’s top diplomat recalled that the discussion on the Myanmar issue started with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen who spoke of “his personal experience in the struggle for power in post-Pol Pot Cambodia.”

STREET PANTRY. Homeless children get food packs courtesy of members of the Kandili Eagles Club of the Fraternal Order of Eagles during a charity program held in different parts of Manila on April 25, 2021. The charity work serves as a roving version of community pantry. Norman Cruz

PRIME Media Holdings Inc. is now looking for a media group that can broadcast local shows and international sports events on television, the internet and other streaming platforms. PMHI made the statement after entering a memorandum of agreement with New Era Empire Realty Corp. in March for leisure and hospitality development. “We plan to produce local shows and host international sports events. We are open to working with Next page

LOCAL ROUNDUP

• Tayag warns of long COVID • Million mark • New curbs eyed CORONAVIRUS patients who have recovered yet experience remaining symptoms are urged to report them as they might be experiencing "long COVID," infectious disease expert Dr. Eric Tayag said Sunday. "We need to believe this. I hope home care can also be for those with long COVID, not just those who are currently suffering from the illness because they also face challenges,” Tayag told ABSCBN’s Teleradyo. He said these patients suffer from at least one symptom for 12 weeks or more. Studies show long COVID is more prevalent among women and patients from the working class. Next page

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM APRIL 25)

997,523 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

8,162 77,075 NEW

ACTIVE

16,783

109

DEATHS

NEW

903,665 20,509 NEW RECOVERIES

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MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

MM mayors’ reso on pantries out \“While the organizers of community pantries exemplify collective charity and concern for the plight of the underprivileged and are truly worthy of emulation, support, and praise, the primordial minimum public health standards under the prevailing community quarantine must remain paramount,” the resolution stated. “The sacrifices endured and gains accumulated during the ECQ and MECQ must not be put to waste by a disregard of the prohibition on mass gatherings, observance of social distancing, and the wearing of face masks and face shields,” the resolution added – referring to the en-

hanced community quarantine and modified ECQ that prevails in Metro Manila. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benhur Abalos, who is also the concurrent chairman of the MMC, said advance coordination would allow local government units to set up measures to ensure the observance of physical distancing and other public health protocols in community pantries. Abalos also reminded individuals aged 17 below and senior citizens aged 65 and older to stay at home, in accordance with the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging In-

fectious Diseases (IATF-EID). The resolution was unanimously approved by all the 17 mayors of Metro Manila on Friday, April 23, the same day that a 67-year-old man died while waiting in line for food assistance at a community pantry in Quezon City. Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra declined to comment Sunday on any possible culpability of actress Angel Locsin, who organized the community pantry in Barangay Holy Spirit in Quezon City. Guevarra said he could not make a statement on an incident that might be the subject of a complaint filed before the Department of Justice. Locsin has apologized and promised to help the family of the 67-year-old man, Rolando dela Cruz. De la Cruz collapsed while he was waiting for his turn at a community pantry organized by Locsin to celebrate her birthday. Thousands of people flocked to the area after the actress invited her followers through her social media platforms to drop

PH... "We are supporting the whole-of-nation approach in securing our maritime jurisdiction," coast guard spokesman Commodore Armando Balilo said. The exercises involve training in navigation, small boat operations, maintenance and logistical operations. They are being held near Thitu Island and Scarborough Shoal, as well as the Batanes islands in the north, and the southern and eastern parts of the country. Scarborough—one of the region's richest fishing grounds—has long been a flashpoint between Manila and Beijing. China seized it from the Philippines in 2012 following a tense standoff. The drills began as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) held joint exercises with US soldiers that ended Friday.

Beijing has ignored a 2016 international tribunal decision that declared its historical claim over most of the South China Sea to be without basis. But once-frosty relations between Manila and Beijing have warmed under President Rodrigo Duterte, who set aside the ruling in exchange for promises of trade and investment. The Philippine Foreign and Defense secretaries, however, have been engaged in a war of words with Beijing. The Foreign Affairs Department has been filing daily protests over the Chinese vessels and, in a rare move, recently summoned Beijing's envoy to express its "utmost displeasure" over the issue. But Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said Beijing no longer listens to Manila and “simply ignores us.” The country, he said, should initiate the move to present a united front with other claimants in the West Philippine Sea "to make China realize that what it

is doing is wrong and against international laws. Drilon blamed the administration's policy of appeasement and accommodation toward China, which merely emboldened Beijing. “China simply ignores us because we simply condoned… what they have been doing in our territory,” Drilon said. “What we see now are the fruits of the policy of appeasement and accommodation towards China.” Drilon said the country needed to get the support of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), particularly countries with claims on the South China Sea, to strengthen the country's stance on the West Philippine Sea. “Bilateral talks with China on the maritime dispute do not work in the country’s favor,” he said. “Apart from the protests, which I support, we should, as an objective, get the other nations to confront China, including our allies--the United States, Japan

Asean...

Consumers...

By Rey E. Requejo and Rio N. Araja

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HE Metro Manila Council (MMC) on Sunday urged organizers of community pantries in the National Capital Region (NCR) to coordinate with their respective town or city officials to ensure the proper observance of COVID-19 protocols.

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by at her pantry for free food items. People were seen ignoring social distancing while gathered at a commercial building on Don Matias Street when the pantry was set-up. The Quezon City government on Sunday urged residents and fans who went to the community pantry organized by Locsin to undergo free COVID-19 testing. Dr. Rolando Cruz, City Epidemiology & Disease Surveillance Unit chief, called on residents who are showing COVID-19 symptoms, such as flu and cough after going to Locsin’s event at the Titanium Building in Barangay Holy Spirit to come forward and have themselves checked. “We cannot just set aside the possibility of getting the infection since there were too many people who [went] there. It is better that we will not infect our own family and those in our community,” he said. He appealed to Locsin and her team to coordinate and work closely with the city government should they be aware of any individuals who need to be tested immediately. and Australia. We must unite against the unlawful Chinese incursion in the West Philippine Sea,” he said. He added that the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in favor of the Philippines is the basis of the government in rightfully and forcefully asserting the country’s claims on the WPS. The award was based on the United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which both China and the Philippines ratified. Meanwhile, Drilon said that the alleged “verbal fishing agreement” that some sectors cited as a possible reason why Chinese vessels refuse to leave the country’s exclusive economic zone, is “invalid” if it indeed exists. “To me, any verbal agreement is invalid. Any agreement between two nations, whether in the form of an executive agreement or a treaty must be in written form, otherwise it cannot be enforced,” Drilon said. With AFP

Pope saddened by tragic fate of migrants POPE Francis Sunday voiced his "sadness" and "shame" over the fate of 130 migrants who went missing after their boat capsized in the Mediterranean. European humanitarian group SOS Mediterranee said Thursday that ten bodies were spotted near a capsized rubber boat off the coast of Libya, which had around 130 people aboard. "I confess to you that I am very saddened by the tragedy which once again occurred in recent days in the Mediterranean," he told the faithful gathered in Saint Peter's Square. "Brothers and sisters, let us all ask ourselves about this umpteenth tragedy. It is a moment of shame." "One hundred and thirty migrants died at sea, these are people, these are human lives who for two whole days have implored in vain for help, aid which did not arrive," the pontiff said. "Let us pray for these brothers and sisters and for so many others who continue to die on these dramatic journeys. Let us also pray for those who can help but prefer to look in the other direction." NGOs accuse EU countries of not only failing to help migrants in danger in the Mediterranean but of hindering rescue efforts. Over 450 migrants have perished in the Mediterranean so far this year, according to the International Organization for Migration, most attempting to reach Europe from Tunisia or Libya. AFP

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Prime...

Pol Pot was a revolutionary leader who governed Cambodia as prime minister between 1975 and 1979. Internationally, he had been denounced for his role in the Cambodian genocide as leader of the Khmer Rouge responsible for the killing of two million people. “The most candid exchange of views among the top leaders of Southeast Asia, starting with Hun Sen speaking of his personal experience in the struggle for power in post-Pol Pot Cambodia. He put his notes aside and spoke from his life. Stunning. Then one after another . . .” Locsin said. “Spoke with equal candor of the ASEAN family’s concern. It felt like a close family meeting about a family problem. So privileged to have been there. I spoke for the President and I hope I did him proud. These are his personal friends.” The summit was held by the 10-member ASEAN to come up with a common stand on the crisis in Myanmar, which started in early February after the military overthrew the country’s leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. It triggered a popular revolt followed by a violent crackdown on protests and civilians that left 738 killed by security forces. ASEAN leaders called on Myanmar's military to restore democracy and stop committing violence against its citizens. "The first requested commitment is for the Myanmar military to stop the use of violence and that all parties there at the same time must refrain so that tensions can be reduced," Indonesian president Joko Widodo said Saturday. "The violence must be stopped and democracy, stability and peace in Myanmar must be restored,” Widodo added. “See. It was a success. An all ASEAN family event. No outsiders welcome or had any influence whatsoever; quite the contrary. Thank you, General,” Locsin said. Duterte was not the only head of state who failed to attend the summit. Most member-states sent representatives, mostly their foreign ministers, to keep in line with the ASEAN’s principles of consensus and non-interference that restrict the member-states from meddling in the domestic affairs of other members. The Philippines also did not join the earlier United Nations Human Rights Council resolution that called for the release of the country’s civilian leader, Suu Kyi. The country maintained that the crisis in Myanmar should be resolved domestically. The summit came after the European Union imposed stiff sanctions on the militarily-controlled Myanmar.

Oil companies adjust pump prices every Tuesday. This will be the second consecutive week of oil price hikes. On April 20, the oil companies implemented a price increase on domestic oil products. The oil firms raised the price of gasoline by P0.60 per liter, diesel by P0.70 per liter and kerosene by P0.85 per liter. These resulted in the year-to-date adjustments to stand at a total net increase of P7.15 per liter of gasoline, P5.35 per liter of diesel and P4.30 per liter of kerosene. World oil prices went up last week due to the weakening of the dollar and the revised higher global demand forecast from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and the US International Energy Agency. However, a continued increase in coronavirus cases worldwide, especially in India, tempered the oil gains.

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NSA... From A1

He said the budget allocation that they gave for the operation of the NTF-ELCAC was not small. "It's not million, but billion, what we gave them. And we're hoping that their leaders like General Parlade will properly spend it and not use them for harassment,” Gatchalian said, He described Esperon's gag order as a welcome development because Parlade and Badoy were causing divisiveness. Senator Nancy Binay also wel-

Local... From A1

COVID-19 task force to meet Tuesday The government task force on the COVID-19 response will meet on Tuesday to discuss the recommendations on the next quarantine classifications for the National Capital Region and four neighboring provinces, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said Sunday. The resolutions from the InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases will be sent to President Rodrigo Duterte for his final decision. "In our next meeting, we will tack-

content providers, especially those with interesting show concepts for television, internet and other platforms,” said PMHI Chairman and President Manolito Manalo. With the cancellation of the ABSCBN franchise, there are only two private free TV channels airing local programs: GMA-7 and TV-5. PMHI is looking for a broadcast network with a national franchise to air locally-produced content. “People are staying home nowadays. They have all the time to watch new shows, and so there is so much opportunity for new content for television and other platforms,” Manalo said. Aside from entertainment, PMHI is exploring other businesses that are related to gaming. “We are excited to start this venture. Together with our media partner, we can offer a unique content bundle that combines the excitement of both gaming and entertainment,” Manalo said.

comed the gag order, saying their rhetoric would worsen the situation. At one point, Parlade had said senators who wanted to defund his agency were “stupid.” Binay, however, said she would still support defunding the agency. "This is not about us. It's protecting the institution," she said. Quezon City Rep. Precious Hipolito Castelo on Sunday said it is high time to evaluate the people running the NTF-ELCAC. “It is erroneous to classify everyone helping during the pandemic as communist without vetting. You do not deserve to be in the government service if you can’t differentiate

charity from armed struggle,” she said in a text message to the Manila Standard. Vice President Leni Robredo on Sunday hit the NTF-ELCAC for redtagging and profiling organizers of community pantries, calling their actions irresponsible. She said local government units must protect pantry organizers from harassment. Esperon, meanwhile, defended the task force's Barangay Development Program (BDP), saying it was in the best interest of underserved barangays that communist groups would be denied the opportunity to take back control in these areas.

Esperon appealed to lawmakers to support the BDP, noting that many communities have long waited for these sustainable development initiatives since the start of the Duterte administration in 2016. “Now that we have successfully liberated them from the clutches of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front), is it not our moral obligation to see to it that they are not at risk for recapture? Is it not our duty as public officials to guarantee that the CPPNPA-NDF will no longer return to these communities to exploit their vulnerability?” he said.

le the new classifications of quarantine in NCR plus by Tuesday. We will also study the new lockdown classifications for areas such as in Abra and Quirino,” Año told "Dobol B TV." The NCR Plus area – composed of Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite and Laguna – has been placed under modified enhanced community quarantine until the end of April. Virus cases nearing million mark The total Philippine COVID-19 cases are closely approaching the one million mark as the country logged on Sunday 8,162 new cases, bringing the total to 997,523, the Department of Health reported. Two laboratories were not operational

on April 23, 2021 while eight labs were not able to submit their data to the COVID-19 Document Repository System on time, the department said. It reported active cases at 77,075, which is 7.7 percent of the total number of cases. Of the active cases, 95.5 percent were mild, 1.5 percent were asymptomatic, 1 percent were critical, 1.2 percent were severe, and 0.84 percent were moderate. A total of 20,509 patients recently recovered, bringing the total recoveries to 903,665, which is 90.6 percent of the total. Sputnik vaccines to be distributed The Sputnik V vaccines will only be distributed to local governments with

facilities that will meet the required storage requirements for the doses, the Department of Health said on Saturday. "The main difference would be the storage. The Gamaleya or Sputnik V needs to be stored in a dark place and a temperature not exceeding -18 degrees," department spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire said in Filipino at the Laging Handa public briefing. Sinovac or AstraZeneca vaccines meanwhile could be stored in regular storage facilities at two to eight degrees. "This type of storage is not found in all places in the Philippines. When Sputnik V arrives, there are assigned local governments that will receive them because they have the facilities to store these vaccines,” Vergeire said.

News Salceda asks DA to save Albay farms ALBAY Second District Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda has asked the Department of Agriculture to control the rice tungro virus (RTV) infestation in at least three municipalities in Albay’s third district, where some I,000 hectares of rice farms have already been ravaged as of Saturday, April 24. Quoting recent reports from municipal agriculturists, Salceda said the infestation has so far affected about 375 hectares in his hometown Polangui, 221 in Libon, and 187 in Oas, mostly in their delicate reproductive stage. The neighboring municipalities form part of what is considered as Albay’s rice granary. Salceda, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, had immediately notified Agriculture Secretary William Dar and asked for “initiatives to control and manage the infestation.” “They are the rice granaries of Albay. I seek immediate assistance for the affected farmers and for measures to preempt its contagion. Should funds be required, I will help secure the funding,” Salceda said in a text message to Dar. Dar, in turn, had promised to immediately act on the Congressman’s request. The DA in Bicol had earlier alerted rice farmers in Albay, especially in the third district, against tungro, a disease usually transmitted by green leafhoppers. The leaves of infected rice plants usually turn yellow orange in color. It starts in clusters and spreads around neighboring plants. The DA said it has initially provided Libon farmers some 20 liters of insecticide to be sprayed in the affected areas, which could initially cover 80 hectares. Salceda said farmers have raised concerns the infestation could spread and bring untold damage if not immediately stopped. Most of the rice crops were not insured and local prices of palay were down to P13.50 per kilo, as against the escallatings cost of farm inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. Rio N. Araja

Rizal hospital breaks ground THE provincial government of Rizal broke ground for the Northern Luzon Regional Hospital to boost the hospital’s capability.. The 2-storey level 2 hospital Northern Tagalog Regional Hospital with 200-bed capacity will be built in a 10,000-square meter lot purchased by the local government of Montalban. Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo said the NTRH will be the first DOH hospital in the province and the 5th apex hospital of the region that will be established under his tenure and leadership “We can do many things to improve the lives of the people and give them the medical needs through this hospital,” he said. The NTRH is an initiative Rizal Rep. Juan Fidel Felipe F. Nograles through House Bill 6524 (An Act Establishing NTH in Montalban) with the support of the local government of Montalban. Assistant Regional Director Sydiongco emphasized the importance of the health facility as it will provide the needed health care and it will augment the scarcity of health in the province of Rizal. He said residents no longer need to go to Metro Manila to seek medical treatment and get excellent medical services because this hospital will address these concerns. An initial allocation of P85 million for the first phase of the project will include the out-patient department, emergency room and the main lobby. It is expected that the project will be completed in August 2022. Macon Ramos-Araneta

BREAKFAST CLUB.

Residents of Sitio Pandayan Lipana line up to get a free meal of ‘silog’ (fried rice and egg) meal at a breakfastonly pantry in Barangay Inarawan in Antipolo City on Sunday April 25, 2021. The free meals were donated by Sophie Torre, a “balikbayan” from Canada. Joey O. Razon

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021

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LUNETA HOSPITAL. Workers start construction on containers vans which will be used as medical facilities for the planned Manila Covid-19 Field Hospital in Luneta, on 25 April 2021. The P154-million hospital can accommodate 336 patients and is expected to be completed within 2 months. Norman Cruz

Garbage crisis averted in C. Luzon, DENR says By Jess Malabanan

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ITY OF SAN FERNANDO—Central Luzon produces an average of five thousand tons of garbage daily including agricultural, industrial, medical and domestic waste in seven provinces and two cities but only 12 sanitary landfills exist to accommodate the waste. The amount of garbage also include recyclables and non-biodegradable materials. The residual wastes are common in open dumpsites which have been subject of complaints due to foul smell, said Andresito Cabalar, of the Solid Waste Management Office DENR-EMB in Central Luzon. “It’s the reason why our office has to shut down the open dumpsite nt only due to pollutionbut also for violation of the Ecological and Solid Waste Management Act,” Cabalar added.

The LGUs, Cabalar said, must have an approved 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan to address the mounting garbage problem. “We also encourage LGUs to recycle and segregates the biodegradable from the non-biodegradable maerials in their respective Material Recovery Facilities (MRF). A total of 117 composter and shredding machines have been distributed to different cities and municipalities in the region to compli-

Poll exposes learning woes —Gatchalian

ment their solid waste management plan,” said Cabalar. The Metro Clark Waste Management Corporation, the only engineered sanitary landfill in Central Luzon, is a big help in preventing garbage crisis in the region, he said. The MCWMC has a 70-hectare lot intended for various kinds of garbage including medical waste. It can accommodate more than 2,000 tons of garbage per day and only 17 hectare of the land have been utilized. The campaign against open dumpsite, Cabalar said, is part of the DENREMB sustain program. “In fact , five LGUs in Central Luzon have been held liable due to the existence of open dumpsites, a prohibited garbage depository area which were recentlyshuttered by the DENR-EMB.

CADDIES’ PANTRY. The

Orchard Caddies’ Organization has built a community pantry to cater to the needs of around 440 golf caddies who lost their jobs at the Orchard Golf Course and other needy residents in Dasmarinas City, Cavite, on April 25, 2021. The goods come from donations from golfers and other good samaritans. JR Josue

By Macon Ramos-Araneta A NEW poll on distance learning woes has exposed the digital divide that hounds parents and learners nationwide amid the COVID-19 pandemic., Senator Win Gatchalian said on Sunday. Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture, said the sector’s recovery should accelerate efforts in expanding access to both internet connectivity and gadgets for learning. Out of 1,200 adults polled nationwide in a Pulse Asia survey conducted from February 22 to March 3, some 63% had a child in basic education. When asked about the educational problems they encountered during the pandemic, issues related to internet connectivity and access to gadgets were among the most common, with 43% of the respondents saying intermittent internet connection was usually their problem at home, 36% identified the lack of gadgets like cellphones, tablets or laptops, and 30% said they struggled with expensive internet fees. While the 2019 National ICT Household Survey revealed that the National Capital Region (NCR) had the highest number of households with internet access (33.2%), the Pulse Asia survey revealed that it was the region that suffered most from intermittent internet connection (55%) and expensive internet fees (47%) compared to the rest of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. While NCR suffered less (28%) from the lack of gadgets, the problem was more common in the rest of Luzon (41%), Visayas (33 percent), and Mindanao (34 percent).

DAR taps military, police to parcel out disputed land to farmers By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Agrarian Reform has tapped the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police to enact policies, plans and programs for the installation of farmer-beneficiaries on the Nemesio Tan landholdings in Pilar and President Roxas municipalities in Capiz.

The landholding involved a decadeold land dispute between the farmers and the powerful heirs of Nemesio Tan, which the DAR finally put an end to with the recent awarding of land titles to the 175 rightful beneficiaries comprising 188.08 hectares of land. Sheila Enciso, DAR Western Visayas regional director, thanked partner agen-

cies for their support during the recent distribution of land titles spearheaded by Secretary John Castriciones. “The AFP and the PNP play vital roles in the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. The DAR in Western Visayas has been facing challenges in the implementation of land reform, specifically with private contentious landhold-

ing, but through their help, we can exercise harmonious installation of ARBs,” she said. Several powerful landowners have the means to harass DAR personnel and the farmer-beneficiaries, and that through a stronger partnership with AFP and the PNP, these are assured of genuine implementation of the program and ensuring the upliftment of their lives, she said.

Hot logs seized in Pampanga By Jess Malabanan CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – Government agents seized over the weekend some P480,000 worth of Narra and Molave lumber in a raid of King and Prince Sash and Furniture shop in Barangay Remedios in Lubao, Pampanga. Narra (Pterocarpus indicus) and Molave (Vitex parviflora) are premium wood species due to their quality, said Rommel Salac, the Provincial Environment Officer of Pampanga. Salac said the owner of the furniture shop, identified as Rosemary Limpin, was invited for questioning. Police Staff Sergeant Reynaldo Camacho, a member of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Pampanga Field

Unit, said a poseur buyer visited the place and found out prohibited species of wood stockpiled at the compound of Limpin. Camacho said he saw stockpiled Narra and Molave lumber and ordered the seizure of the items measuring a total of 4,000 board feet. “We are not lowering our guards even during this pandemic but instead we further intensified our anti-illegal logging campaign together with our law enforcement partners to check movement of illegal forest contrabands,” he said. He said Narra and Molave were premium hardwood species because of their excellent quality, and primarily for furniture-making, and making these species a favorite target of illegal loggers.

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MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021

Herbosa quits UP post after Twitter gaffe on pantries

Cross-sectoral economic pacts pushed in forum ENVIRONMENT advocates from civil society and business groups called for stronger partnerships with the private sector and government to address environment issues and climate change impacts during a recent virtual forum on promoting sustainable ecosystems. The online event was organized by Stratbase Albert del Rosario Institute (ADRi) in partnership with the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (PBEST). Dr. Carlos Primo “CP” David, ADRi Trustee and PBEST convenor, said: “The largest sustainability issues we are currently facing are COVID and climate change. During these highly unusual times, the role of businesses and even of CSOs are most needed.” ADRi President Prof. Dindo Manhit, in his statement, stressed: “The government, and with the help of civil society’s lenses, should set the muchneeded responsive policies and frameworks that are conducive to doing business while ensuring compliance with ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) principles.” “We believe that the private sector, through ESG, plays a vital role in advancing the country’s sustainable development. The interconnected challenges in public health, the economy, and the environment cannot be ignored.” Ludwig Federigan, Executive Director of the Young Environmental Forum, highlighted the key role of civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-governmental organization (NGOs) in achieving a sustainable Philippine future. “CSOs can help build the political will for a new approach to development that integrates environmental and social goals. NGOs can serve as alternative to weak or inadequate democratic institutions, as avenues for more inclusive dialogues, and as conduits for disseminating information on activities and issues within the system.” Federigan said. Yoly Crisanto, Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications and Chief Sustainability Officer of Globe Telecommunication, said: “What is driving us is really the sustainability of our business anchored on our purpose, our mission, and vision as individual organizations.” “Even without incentives, the drive of the government to keep pushing for opening up the marketplace for more investments that will bring about sustainability-driven businesses, like electric cars, renewable energy―the things that are useful―and even digital transformation are the things that allow us to be resilient,” Crisanto said. In concurrence, Renato Redentor Constantino, Executive Director, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, said: “Businesses would agree that the incentives are not as important as predictability and other measures that allow businesses to thrive. There is the bigger incentive―cut red tape, make things more predictable, show us where the directions are, what is the ultimate investment strategy, and we will respond.” June Cheryl Cabal-Revilla, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer, said: “We’ve up the ante and we’ve actually committed to adhere to global sustainability standards and frameworks.” “We’ve put sustainability pillars across the businesses which include exceptional service, operational efficiency, environmental stewardship, human capital excellence, positive community impact, governance, and business ethics. We’ve also put our focus on enabling genuine progress and development,” Cabal-Revilla said.

SUNDAY RIDE. Cyclists pedal along the Marikina-Infanta Highway in Barangay Inarawan, Antipolo City on Sunday. Authorities urge cyclists to utilize bike lanes as much as possible for their safety. Joey O. Razon

SAYS CEBU SOLON

Dividends from GOCCs could fund Bayanihan 3 C By Rio N. Araja

EBU Rep. Eduardo Gullas believes that additional cash dividends from governmentowned or controlled corporations (GOCCs) could help fund the Bayanihan 3 bill seeking to stimulate the economy.

The bill would provide P420 billion in subsidies to families, businesses, workers, farmers, students and teachers adversely impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. “Right now, under the law – Republic Act 7656 – GOCCs are required to

declare as cash dividends and remit to the national treasury at least 50 percent of their (prior year’s) net earnings,” said Gullas, a House appropriations committee member, in a statement Sunday. “However, under the same law, the President, upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Finance, may increase the dividend payout to any rate higher than 50 percent for all covered GOCCs,” he said. “Despite the COVID-19 crisis, a number of GOCCs are still making good money and are a position to pay out incremental dividends to the national treasury,” Gullas added. He cited the case of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas being swamped by private corporations applying and paying for new licenses to establish digital banking and electronic money

platforms “amid the dramatic shift to online transactions.” The P420 billion the Bayanihan 3 bill seeks to provide includes a P108-billion social amelioration for households; a P100-billion capacity building assistance for badly affected businesses in critical economic sectors; a P70-billion aid for farmers; a P52-billion wage subsidy for workers in small businesses; A P30-billion grant to displaced workers; a P30-billion internet access allowance for students and teachers; P25 billion for COVID-19 treatment and vaccines; and P5 billion for rehabilitation of communities distressed by recent typhoons and floods. Citing the Department of Finance, Gullas said 57 GOCCs paid an aggregate of P157 billion in cash dividends to the national treasury in 2020.

TECHNICAL TRAINING. More

Navoteños will be given access to free technical and vocational education following the inauguration of the Navotas Vocational Training and Assessment (NAVOTAAS) Institute as the new Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) satellite office and training center in the Camanava area. TESDA Director General Isidro Lapeña (right) leads Deputy Director General Lina Sarmiento, Regional Director Florencio Sunico Jr., District Director Rolando Dela Torre, NAVOTAAS Institute Head Kathryn Anne Hilario, and Vice Mayor Clint Geronimo in the ribbon cutting and unveiling of marker at C3 Road corner Virgo Drive, Brgy. NBBS, Kaunlaran, Navotas City. Andrew Rabulan

Palace: 6th suspect in 2009 Ampatuan massacre arrested

Manila offering free cremation for COVID-19 deaths By Willie Casas MANILA is offering free cremation services for COVID-related deaths, even as the load at the Manila North Cemetery has gotten heavier in recent days, reaching 22 to 26 cadavers per day. Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said while MNC headed by Roselle “Yayay” Castaneda has been

offering free cremation services since the height of the pandemic last year, “I don’t like giving that kind of service.” Hearing about deaths taking place in the city “never fails to sadden” him, Domagoso said. Through a memo issued last year, Manila Barangay Bureau chief Romy Bagay informed all villages in the city that Domagoso had ordered the provi-

sion of free cremation services for those whose loved ones died of the coronavirus. Bagay said the free services would be on a first-come, first-served basis for COVID-related deaths. Domagoso said the rules state the remains of confirmed and suspected COVID-19 cases must be cremated or buried within 12 hours after death.

Manila cops nab 3 with P680,000 in shabu

LIFE SAVERS. The Rotary Club of Manila (RCM) led by President Bobby Joseph (3rd from left), Immediate Past President Jackie Rodriquez and Vice President Thad Liamzon, recently turned over 90,000 face masks donated by Rotarian Kenji Mori of Rotary Club of Kuzuha, Japan to Pasay City Mayor Emy Calixto-Rubiano (center) in support of her project ‘Life Savers’ recently at the Philippine School for the Deaf. Mori has supported RCM for seven years now. Also present were Pasay City Chairman of the Committee on Health Councilor Joey Calixto, Star Rotarian and JCI Makati President Lawrence Tan, members of JCI Makati who provided logistical support, and Vener Catacutan, general manager of Coltrans Logistics.

DR. TEODORO Herbosa, co-lead of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) COVID-19 Response Team, has resigned from his post as the state university’s Executive Vice President. Herbosa resigned effective immediately due to “personal reasons,” according to the UP announcement on Sunday. His resignation came a day after he drew flak online following his “death by community pantry” tweet. The Twitter post was Herbosa’s reaction to reports of a senior citizen who died while waiting in line at a community pantry organized by actress Angel Locsin in Holy Spirit, Quezon City. It received online backlash, prompting Herbosa to make a public apology. UP President Danilo Concepcion accepted Herbosa’s resignation, expressing regret due to the fact that the former vice president has served the university with great dedication. “In your service as Executive Vice President, you have shown how vital this position can be to the governance of the University,” said Concepcion in his letter accepting Herbosa’s resignation. Herbosa served as UP Executive Vice President since the start of Concepcion’s administration in 2017. He was part of the UP COVID-19 Response Team, which provided projections, analyses, and recommendations to aid the government’s decisionmaking regarding COVID-19. “I sincerely apologize for my tweet earlier today, tagging as ‘death by community pantry’ news of a senior citizen’s death at a community pantry of a celebrity. It may have sounded like a criticism but was ill-judged, when many are facing hardships and being helped by these kind-hearted souls,” Herbosa said in his Facebook post. “I felt angry over a preventable death and ended up issuing the tweet when I could have expressed it in a better way.” “I assure you this has nothing to do with the institution that I serve, the University of the Philippines, I have filed a leave of absence while I reflect on my actions and this misstep,” Herbosa said.

MANILA Police District (MPD) operatives arrested three persons during a buy-bust operation in Santa Cruz, Manila, and seized P680,000 worth of shabu, the police said on Sunday. Lt. Col. John Guiagui, chief of the Santa Cruz police station, said they received information on an illegal drugs operation along Quiricada Street in Barangay 327. Their target was a certain “Atong,” a former convict. After “Atong” sold drugs to a poseur buyer policeman, the suspect was immediately arrested, together with a 28-year-old saleslady and a 40-year-old driver.

Seized from the suspects were six sachets containing shabu, weighing a total of 100 grams. Police are trying to find out who their supplier is. The three suspects were detained at the Manila Police District Station 3. Meanwhile, in Las Piñas, police arrested a man during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Talon 4. Col. Rodel Pastor of the Las Pinas police said they arrested a certain “Toto,” who worked as a construction worker. Seized from the suspect were two sachets of shabu weighing 26.5 grams, worth P180,000. Willie Casas

THE Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) lauded the arrest of another suspect in the 2009 Ampatuan massacre in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao. In a report submitted to PTFoMS, Col. Donald A. Madamba, Provincial Director of the Maguindanao Police Provincial Office, said authorities arrested Andami M. Singkala, alias Yamani Baga Dimaukom, early this month. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, co-chair of the PTFoMS, welcomed this development. “Our government has made it top priority to capture the remaining suspects of the Ampatuan Massacre. So far, six accused have been arrested through the dedicated efforts of our law enforcement agencies including the Task Force. Justice will prevail,” Andanar said in a statement. Undersecretary Joel Sy Egco, PTFoMS Executive Director, said the task force is relentless in monitoring the manhunt operations against the suspects still in hiding. “Our government will not rest until all suspects behind this heinous crime are arrested. We are relentless in seeing to it that justice is meted to these perpetrators whatever it takes,” Egco said in a news release on Sunday. Singkala’s arrest comes after an intensified nationwide manhunt for the remaining suspects as ordered by the Task Force to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region Police Office. The suspect was brought to Datu Saudi Ampatuan Municipal Police Station (MPS) for documentation and will be turned over to Parang MPS for safekeeping.

Opinion On seeing red

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021

EDITORIAL

Boys who cry ‘I will resign’ T

Someone sent me a video clip taken from hisNAKED car, where he showed the long, long line of peoTHOUGHT ple waiting to partake of whatever in the Maginhawa experiment turned folk culture. CHARLIE V. Seeing red and ascribing subversive motives on the progenitor of the Maginhawa MANALO syndrome will simply be condemned and HE spokesman of the National Task Force to End Local shouted out by the people, whether politicians, media, or common folk using social Communist Armed Conflict, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., WHAT started as a bright idea on the part media platforms. sounded defiant as he claimed he was prepared to step down of an ordinary do-gooder to share what she Because helping out is never a crime. And could to the needy in nearby communities accepting help when in need is ingrained in from his post. Parlade drew flak after his statements linking the has become such a huge cause celebre, much our culture. THE FIFTH organizer of the Maginhawa Community Pantry to communist like a small bushfire gone wild. As my priestly friend said in his Viber GOSPEL groups; he even went as far as likening her to Satan. In reaction, And the reason for attracting so much message: “The brain can provide the thrust, CROSSROADS public attention and sparking so much con- while the heart will provide the care.” several lawmakers called for the defunding of the NTF-ELCAC; JUDE troversy was not confined to the demonhe adds a commentary: “To borJ.A. concern rowFurther he, in turn, called them “stupid.” stration effect such communal Christ’s words, Filipinos are like sheep ACIDRE would normally beget,DELA where people wanting without a shepherd in these times. What we CRUZ “I can resign tomorrow. I can file my to do something to help their fellowmen in need is a responsible and loving leader.” times of crisis normally do. resignation, I can call Secretary (HerHe ended by citing someone who he thinks It was the reaction of some people in can fit that description in 2021. But I would For many officials, mogenes) Esperon (Jr.) now and submit government to the community pantry. It was rather not divulge his early choice. my resignation tomorrow if that is what such words are figures a case of seeing red in practically anything Beleaguered as it already is, and how many they want, so this problem will end,” and everyone, just like that Republican other governments all over the world are now of speech. Parlade said in a radio interview. senator from Wisconsin, Joseph McCarthy, at their wit’s end in dealing with this unseen NAKED who accused so many Americans from aca- virus, ours certainly does not have any need Until today, however, there have been SO OPEN deme, government and the arts as “commu- for McCarthyists who seize on everything no actual resignations, highlighting the THOUGHT nists” at the time of the Cold War. they see and hear and even smell as people I SEE THOUGHTS stark difference between one’s ability to ignation. He was briefly praised out to subvert lawfully constituted authority. resign and the actual act of resignation. CHARLIE for being V. accountable for his acPresident Duterte is better off dealing LITOwith ORLANDO MANALO Then again, resignations themselves tions. All too soon, however, the the crisis without these characters. President Duterte BANAYO OXALES *** could still be qualified as being irrevo- public learned that his resignation Meanwhile, from here in Taipei where I is better off dealing with cable or not. Recall that a few months was revocable—and since it was had my first shot of the AstraZeneca vaccine ago, the mayor of Baguio City, who is not accepted by the Inter-Agency the crisis without these in the National Taiwan University Hospital also contact tracing czar for the govern- Task Force for the Management of (similar to our PGH which is operated by our characters. premiere state university), comes a cautionary ment’s COVID-19 response, was seen Emerging Infectious Diseases, he THE FIFTH advice from Dr. James Liao, president of attending a fundraiser in his city where stayed on. Taiwan’s leading research institute, the Achealth protocols were violated. GOSPEL Such behavior is characteristic of CROSSROADS From the unlamented senator who was ademia Sinica, who encouraged everyone to Retired police official Benjamin many of our government officials, eventually censured by his peers was derived be vaccinated against COVID-19 despite the JUDE the term “McCarythism” to denote anti-com- island’s low, low numbers of infection. Magalong apologized for his lapse from the highest level down to the J.A. ACIDRE munist activities then, but has now evolved into Speaking before the legislature, Dr. Liao in judgment and tendered his res- lowest. “I will resign” is a term all DELA CRUZ a broader connotation to refer to reckless and dashed “overly optimistic” expectations of norunsubstantiated accusations on political targets. malcy by year-end, noting the continual rise of In this time when all of our citizens are new Covid variants elsewhere in the world. grappling with a pandemic, battling a war Meanwhile, he urged the public to reon an unseen virus that kills and debilitates, main vigilant and to continue wearing face apart from causing the collapse of our econ- masks even after their vaccination, as the omy, rendering millions jobless, hungry and slowing down of transmissions due to vacdesperate, we have no need of McCarthyists cinations could easily be erased by a resurvestments, responsible and efficient business in our midst. We do not need Badoys and gence of infections. operations, and reporting, as well as efficient OPEN Parlades who see red wherever they please, pollution management.” In short, we should never let our guard down. who in this day and age still think that anyThe private sector represented by industry *** THOUGHTS thing that quacks must be a duck. leading corporations presented the length and Even the travel “bubbles” which constitute A Catholic priest who works among the experiments on normalizing international travbreadth of their sustainability interventions ORLANDO people of Batangas, and who was actively el between “safe” countries or territories, are which optimizes the sinews of their respecOXALES involved in helping evacuees from the Taal having problems with the initial wobbly steps. tive businesses and centered on stakeholders Volcano eruption in January of last year, sent Coca-Cola Country President, Mr. AnTaiwan and Palau came up with a travel me a very eloquent observation on the brou- bubble which was launched with much fanWE ARE now in the most existentially tonio del Rosario, showed how their investhaha over the community pantry. Said he: threatening and most complex global crisis ments to meet a global commitment on water fare late March. After a few trips, the bubble “Filipinos are a relational and communal burst because of low demand. that some experts see as the perfect storm of achieved 124 percent of their 2020 target. Anpeople. We do not like being independent, so the pandemic and global warming. other global program is World Without Waste Meanwhile, Australia and New Zealand we help and we ask for help. A sense of urgency to rally all sectors of which is especially important in the Philipstarted a travel bubble as well recently. But “Filipinos are never ashamed of asking, or just as soon as it started, a new outbreak of the nation for immediate action became the pines because of the P2.3 billion state-of-the even begging for help. Our culture’s point the virus struck in Australia, and the restriccommon call of sustainability advocates art PETValue recycling plant project. of departure can be described in Tagalog as tions resumed. from the government, private sector, civil “kung nangangailangan, dapat ay tulungan”. society organizations (CSOs) and non-govIATA predicted last year that international “That also explains the reality of ex- travel would not normalize until 2024. The ernment organizations (NGOs) convened These big agendas tended families, of why OFWs work hard jeremiads of doom for our own travel indusin the latest online event by the Stratbase to help not only their immediate families try have spawned bankruptcies all over, from Albert del Rosario (ADRi) Institute in partcould only succeed if but even cousins, uncles and other relatives airlines with both domestic and international nership with the Philippine Business for there is discipline in when they need help. Environmental Stewardship. service routes, to hotels and resorts, restaurants “Kapag hindi tumulong, nagiging outcast and other service establishments which cater Environment Undersecretary for Finance, individual behavior. sa pamilya, even if those relatives may sim- to the travel industry. And has condemned the Information Systems and Climate Change ply be too lazy to work. Analiza Teh raised the need “to adapt the millions of their workers to penury. NAKED “Millions have become destitute because strategy which is long-lasting sustainable, When will we see a glimpse of the light at THOUGHT of the coronavirus pandemic, which is why the end of this long dark tunnel? inclusive, resilient, low-carbon low-polluting, Globe Telecommunications Senior there are long lines in the community pannature positive and circular economic-based Vice-President Ms. Yoly Crisanto showed And yet, we have to put up with characters tries that have sprung (as started by the Mag- who how as a telecom company they have become CHARLIE V. see red in so many things in these dark pathway for the country. inhawa do-gooder named Patreng Non). “ “The crisis that we are all unfortunately a catalyst for development by driving the and desperate times. MANALO confronting provides us with the opportu- digital transformation of the economy. Intenity to rethink, re-evaluate our directions or grating green solutions in their networks and choices for the economy, for the environment infrastructure harnesses digital technologies and for humanity.” to engage stakeholders in sustainability proShe highlighted the relevance of digital grams while reducing carbon footprint. technology in accelerating climate action Global food conglomerate Mondelēz Incame with dealing with this crisis would have particularly in monitoring and gathering data ternational Country manager, Atty. Joseph THE FIFTH more importantly increased our ability to preon the climate, harmful emissions, water pol- Fabul, shared how their ESG platform is pare for the next pandemic. lution, weather prediction and pushing inno- centered on “Sustainable Snacking” that has GOSPEL An important feature, for example, of the vations that will help mitigate the impacts of evolved into a manufacturing process with proposed DDR is unity of command. Admitclimate change. sustainable ingredients, renewable energy, JUDE tedly, much of the challenges in our country’s ADRi President Prof. Dindo Manhit recog- water management, child labor due diligence, ACIDRE COVID-19 response is brought about by a nized the value of the ongoing efforts of the recycling, and progressive reduction of their fragmented institutional arrangement, with private sector in addressing the economic ad- use of virgin plastic. several “czars” responsible for the different HOWEVER bleak the prospects are, we are versities by creating jobs, and livelihood opMetro Pacific Investments Corporation all certain that this coronavirus crisis shall aspects of the response who need to work in portunities to alleviate poverty and upgrade Chief Finance and Sustainability Officer Ms. come to pass. The critical question to be asked close coordination with each other. But with the healthcare system. June Cheryl Cabal-Revilla expounded on the is how, and not when, this pandemic will end. COVID-19 being the seemingly insurmountProf. Manhit points out that “The private group’s extensive efforts to go beyond global able crisis that it is, effective coordination This is an important matter to consider sector, without a doubt, plays a vital role in sustainability standards in MPIC’s compabecause as previous epidemics have taught among the different “czars” as well as other advancing the country’s sustainable devel- nies. Under the Gabay Kalikasan program, us, other than building individual immunity, frontline national government agencies turned opment. We believe that by adopting Envi- recycling, upcycling, and using technologies an important OPEN key to overcoming the virus is out to be easier said than done. ronment, Social, and Corporate Governance that benefit customers and employees demonUnity of command is also critical in enensuring adaptability and resilience. The hard (ESG) principles, a new order of sustainable strated how sustainable practices actually THOUGHTS truth is, we may never be back to the old fa- suring coordination between the national and ecosystems will arise by pushing for green in- complement business objectives. miliar ways of everyday life. But the sooner local levels of government. The current instiORLANDO we are able to keep a lifestyle that prevents tutional set-up under the Inter-Agency Task the continued transmission of the virus, such Force for the Management of Emerging Infecas building resilience against the disease. dealing with an emergency situation. OXALES as by observing minimum health precautions, tious Diseases (IATF) as well as its counterWith the DDR in place, resolving the disconWhile in most cases, governments around the sooner we are able to get to a new normal parts at the regional, provincial and municipal nect between national and local policy could the world have dealt with the crisis on the go, levels appears to mimic the existing National way of doing things. have been avoided, especially in maintaining a having an agency that is already responsible The concept of a “new normal” interesting- Disaster Risk Reduction and Management functional healthcare system, guaranteeing the for emergency coordination and management, ly is not new. When supertyphoon Yolanda Council (NDRRMC). Here, authority is continued delivery of social services, preserv- and for integrating scientific and technical struck the country seven years ago, the “new shared, responsibility is dispersed and resourcing businesses and jobs and more importantly advice into the decision-making processes, normal” became the benchmark for build- es are scattered, making it difficult to operate in maintaining social stability and offsetting any including ensuring an effective and coherent an appropriate and immediate response, thus ing forward better. Thus, it became strongly long-term adverse consequences. It would have communication to the public, would have linked with disaster resilience, and our soci- delaying critical COVID-19 efforts. avoided the heavy dependence on tabletop exer- made a lot of difference. ety’s collective capacity for adaptability. cises and scenario building, and instead provide As it is often said, we cannot let a good criIt is unfortunate, however, that the Senate the needed technical experience and know-how sis come to waste. Twice in our nation’s histocontinues to tarry on the long-awaited passage resulting actual response efforts on the ground. ry have we revealed our ill-preparedness for We cannot let a good of the bill creating the Department of Disaster Having DDR offices organized at the regional, large-scale emergencies. Reducing the risks crisis go to waste. Resilience. The establishment of a focused provincial and municipal level would have been and vulnerabilities that increase the transmisdisaster management agency could have sigpossible to easily avoid competing bureaucratic sion of the disease such as in high population nificantly beefed up our country’s capacity “silos” responsible for each aspect and level of density settings, or the application of physical to deal with this emergency from a disaster our COVID-19 response and balance our social distancing measures in evacuation centers Having a single focal agency responsible risk reduction perspective, and speed up the and economic priorities with adopting quaran- could improve the way we deal with similar implementation of more durable solutions to for the COVID-19 response and for cursory tine restrictions and ensuring provision of essen- emergencies in the future. Much of the burden risk assessment, a role that could have easily this crisis. tial services with greater agility and innovation. brought about by this fight against COVID-19 While the proposed DDR bill approved on been filled in by the proposed DDR, would It is important to note that an effective strate- upon our health system and on society at large third reading by the House of Representatives help streamline and synchronize government gy to address the COVID-19 pandemic depends could have been best resolved by risk-informed specifies that the new department will focus action at both national and local levels. With significantly on how we are able to build a planning, deploying the best response system its improved institutional capacity for disasexclusively on natural disasters, it includes a responsive institutional fit, such as the DDR. and building community resilience on the go. standby provision that contemplates a com- ter resilience, including incidence manageAlthough emergency situations may differ in This coronavirus crisis may not be the last plementary role for the Department of Di- ment in emergency situations, the DDR could nature and extent, there are management pro- pandemic in our lifetime, and it would be very saster Resilience in responding to man-made have helped reduce the health vulnerabilities cedures that are applicable to all, which will important that how we address COVID-19 will disasters. Not only will its trained manpower ef- that many of our communities are currently help skip the learning curve in rolling out an help bring more focused and in-depth attention fectively help on-the-ground incidence man- exposed to, improve the local knowledge in already available response system rather than and knowledge in the way we understand, preagement, but the institutional knowledge that controlling the spread of the infection as well be impeded by many “unknown unknowns” in pare and respond to future pandemics.

SO I SEE LITO BANAYO

B1

too familiar—we hear this as some sort of guarantee that the person “threatening” to resign is not able to deliver on his or her promise. Of course, we later on realize that such pronouncements are figures of speech. They were not serious after all, even after proof that they had failed spectacularly at their job. Perhaps they see resignation—the actual, irrevocable act, not the promise, possibility or threat of one—as a form of capitulation, an admission of guilt or failure, or simply a quitter’s habit. In governance, though, resignation is the ultimate act of humility, responsibility and true honor. It is an acknowledgment that the good to be done is way bigger than one person’s ego, that they were fallible enough to commit lapses on the job, or that another person could in fact step up and do a better job. Alas, there seems to be a dearth of leaders in government who think like this. Instead they see their positions, elective or appointive, as turfs they would not give up at all costs—even when there is a preponderance of evidence that they should go, or that they should not have been there in the first place.

The sustainability movement

DDR and COVID-19

JG Summit Senior Vice-President Atty Renato Salud gave a pragmatic look into sustainability and that entrepreneurship is a foundation of sustainability, “There is nothing to sustain if there is no business to begin with.” They believe that done properly, sustainability gives a competitive advantage. Meralco Vice-President and Chief Sustainability Officer Mr. Raymund Ravelo revealed that they are poised to secure 1,500 MW of clean energy contracts within five years. Their company MGreen, will be investing into 1,500 MW of renewable energy projects through 2027. Executive Director of Young Environmental Forum Mr. Ludwig Federigan defined the CSOs value in helping build the political will for a new approach to development that integrates environmental and social goals while NGOs, serve as alternatives to weak or inadequate democratic institutions, as avenues for more inclusive dialogues, and as conduits for disseminating information on activities and issues. Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities Executive Director, Mr. Renato Redentor Constantino, warned that current legislation is not enough to stop global warming. He sees the pandemic as an opportunity to mainstream climate concerns into long-term strategies and urges a science based agenda that takes a different path forward. As a consumer advocate, I believe that all these big ESG investments and sustainability agendas can only succeed if there is discipline in individual behavior. Developing clean habits by simply not littering, disposal of solid waste in our homes and workplace properly, and consuming power and energy in a smart way will cost us nothing. These are, in fact, the first line of defense in protecting the environment. The next time you see someone recklessly tossing trash on the street, take action by kindly calling the person’s attention. Let us all be part of the sustainability movement to save our planet.

SO I SEE LITO BANAYO

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Checking China’s maritime push NAKED THOUGHT CHARLIE V. MANALO

Discriminatory, you say?

EVERYMAN TO THE The significance of the POINT Battle of Mactan by Ernesto Banawis EMIL P. JURADO

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

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BANGKO SENTRAL PILIPINAS OFFICE OF THE MONETARY BOARD

Circular No. 1114 Series of 2021

Subject: Guidelines on Reputational Risk Management The Monetary Board, in its Resolution No. 449 dated 08 April 2021, approved the guidelines on reputational risk management for Bangko Sentral Supervised Financial Institutions (BSFIs).

a.

Section 1. Sections 155/151-Q are hereby added to the Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB)/Manual of Regulations for Non-Bank Financial Institutions (MORNBFI), respectively, to read as follows: 155/151-Q

REPUTATIONAL RISK MANAGEMENT

Policy statement. The Bangko Sentral recognizes that building and sustaining a good reputation is a critical element in promoting the safety and soundness of individual supervised financial institutions and the financial system. A good and strong reputation allows Bangko Sentral Supervised Financial Institutions (BSFIs) to strengthen their market position, increase their market value, and enable them to attract and retain employees. This underscores the need for BSFIs to adopt a framework to holistically and actively manage reputational risk.

b.

Senior management. The senior management shall be responsible for the implementation of the boardapproved reputational risk management framework. They shall promote employee awareness of the types of risks or issues that have implications on the BSFI’s reputation, the mechanisms in place to report such concerns, as well as the specific reputational risk management tools and processes in place. The senior management shall ensure that the training and communication programs continually emphasize the role of employees in preserving and promoting the BSFI‘s reputation.

c.

Business units. As the first line of defense, business line management and personnel shall ensure that all significant risks to the BSFI’s reputation in their respective areas are identified and adequately managed. They shall ensure that identified significant risks are reported to senior management in a timely manner. Cognizant that customers are considered as key stakeholders for managing reputational risk, business units shall also ensure that customer perception and expectations are well-managed, and that customer’s interest and experience is continuously protected and improved.

d.

Risk management function. The risk management function/personnel shall be responsible for ensuring the oversight and coordination of reputational risk management efforts across the institution. In particular, it shall provide technical expertise and valuable insights for managing reputational risk allowing the BSFI to appropriately identify and timely respond to uncertainties relating to its business objectives.

e.

Compliance function. The compliance function shall ensure that a robust compliance system is in place to ascertain that the BSFI conducts business in accordance with relevant laws, rules, regulations and internal policies. It shall identify areas which are likely to lead to incidents or violations that can undermine the institution’s reputation.

The guidelines set out the supervisory expectations and the minimum prudential requirements in managing reputational risk. These guidelines are aligned with international standards and recognized practices, to the extent practicable. A BSFI is expected to adopt a reputational risk management framework that is commensurate to its size, nature and complexity of operations, overall risk profile, and systemic importance. The reputational risk management framework shall be embedded in the BSFI’s enterprise risk management system. Definition of reputational risk. Reputational risk refers to the risk to earnings, capital, and liquidity arising from negative perception on the BSFI of its customers, shareholders, investors, and employees, market analysts, the media, and other stakeholders such as regulators and other government agencies, that can adversely affect the BSFI‘s ability to maintain existing business relationships, establish new businesses or partnerships, or continuously access varied sources of funding. Sources of reputational risk. The BSFI may be affected by perceptions of different stakeholders on its reputation that could be in relation to the areas of corporate and risk governance, personnel/ management ethics and integrity, staff competence, organizational culture, business practices, product/service quality, employee and customer relations including the handling of feedback or resolution of complaints, financial soundness/business viability, and legal or regulatory compliance, among others. A clear understanding of the various sources of reputational risk and how these may impact the institution is crucial in determining the appropriate approach to managing reputational risk. Reputational risk is connected and related to other risk exposures (e.g., credit, market, liquidity, and operational risks) such that it can result from or may be triggered by other types of risks. Exposures to environmental, social and governance (ESG) risk factors, both direct and indirect through its lending and investment decisions, as well as the BSFI impact on ESG factors may likewise have material effect on the BSFI’s reputation. A sound risk management and control environment is critical to mitigating and controlling reputational risk exposures. In this regard, BSFIs are expected to adopt risk management processes following the standards set forth under Chapter E of Part One on Risk Management, Appendices 69/Q-41 on Guidelines on Supervision by Risk and Part X/Part VII on BSP Regulations on Financial Consumer Protection. BSFIs belonging to a conglomerate or group of related entities are susceptible to reputation events1 affecting the parent bank or holding company, subsidiaries, affiliates and/or other members of the group.2 For instance, regulatory sanctions imposed on, or concerns on safety and soundness of any member of the group may damage the reputation of the BSFI. In the case of stand-alone BSFIs, the cause of failure of one BSFI may have a crippling or damaging effect for smaller institutions located within the same geographic area or serving the same market as the failed BSFI. The contagion effects on reputation may also arise from business relationships or close association with key customers and counterparties which are engaged in unethical or unlawful acts, or with major service providers that have substandard service quality or lax controls. Other external events, such as unfounded rumors and accusations may likewise have damaging impact on the BSFI’s reputation and the level of public confidence. Moreover, social media may accelerate the speed and magnitude of the potential reputational damage. Sound corporate and risk governance frameworks, and effective internal control system. The establishment of strong corporate and risk governance frameworks, and effective internal control system are the foundation to effectively manage reputational risk. Sound corporate governance fosters a culture where the board of directors/trustees and senior management as well as officers and employees at all levels of the organization, align with the institution’s desired values and conduct in pursuing corporate goals and objectives. In this respect, BSFIs are expected to adhere to the standards set forth under Chapter D of Part One on Corporate Governance/Corporate Governance Guidelines, Sec. 142/142-Q on Risk Governance Framework, and Sec. 162/162-Q on Internal Control Framework. BSFIs shall set out clear objectives and expectations on reputational risk management as well as define the responsibilities of those involved in the risk management process. The reputational risk management framework, and the respective roles and responsibilities of personnel across the organization in terms of implementing such framework shall be disseminated and clearly communicated throughout the institution. BSFIs shall also adopt an effective mechanism to monitor performance and promptly manage reputational risk concerns. BSFIs shall likewise provide adequate training to raise employee awareness and to support them in the proper discharge of their responsibilities relative to the management of reputational risks. Roles and responsibilities. The responsibility for managing reputational risk rests on the entire organization. Each employee is capable of influencing the stakeholders’ perception on the institution through the individual’s conduct. Governance and management of reputational risk require clear accountability and engagement across the various organizational functions. In this respect, the roles and responsibilities of the different parties are as follows: 1 Reputation event refers to any incident or circumstance that has the potential to adversely affect the perception of relevant stakeholders of the BSFI. Such critical event, if not responded to quickly and appropriately, may cause damage to the BSFI’s reputation and lead to a full-blown crisis. 2 Part VII of Appendix 71 on Guidelines on Liquidity Risk Management requires a bank belonging to a group to assess the possibility of a reputation contagion arising from a liquidity problem in an entity within its group, and to address such inherent vulnerability in its intragroup liquidity risk management system.

Board of directors/trustees. The board of directors/ trustees shall establish the “tone at the top“ and provide adequate oversight on matters relating to the BSFI‘s strategic direction, key policies, and risk appetite, and overall governance framework. The board of directors/trustees shall ensure that BSFI‘s reputational risk management is embedded in its enterprise risk management strategy. The board of directors/trustees shall approve the BSFI’s reputational risk management framework and ensure that it provides an effective and efficient system for identifying, measuring, monitoring, and controlling reputational risk. The board of directors/ trustees shall also ensure that the reputational risk management system is periodically reviewed by an independent and competent party to provide assurance that the controls in place to manage reputational risks are operating as intended.

f.

g.

risk to the organization, shall be adequately documented in the minutes of meetings. Reputational risk management framework. A BSFI shall adopt an appropriate reputational risk management framework as part of the enterprise risk management system that is commensurate to its size, nature and complexity of operations, overall risk profile, and systemic importance. The primary objective of sound reputational risk management is to identify potential reputational risks before they materialize or escalate beyond manageable level: a. Risk identification and assessment. Effective risk identification and assessment can disclose significant threats to reputation and identify areas requiring implementation of response plans. Such a process shall aid the board and management in determining whether to implement mitigation.

Branches of foreign banks may adopt the relevant policies and practices of the head office/regional office that are consistent with applicable provisions in this Section. They are expected to have adequate systems and controls for managing reputational risk and handling local reputation events. For non-complex or simple banks/finanical institutions , the board of directors/trustees and the committee/s in charge of risk management in the organization are expected, at the minimum, to regularly discuss reputational risk concerns as part of the risk universe of the institution. Such discussions, including the decisions/actions taken on matters which may pose reputational 4

3 Pursuant to Secs. 149/148-Q on Business Continuity Management, members of the crisis management team of BSFIs will convene and activate the crisis management plan to attain control over the crisis and minimize its impact to operations during and immediately after a crisis. For other NBFIs, please refer to Secs. 146-S/143-P/127N/126-T, as applicable. 4 For this purpose, banks shall refer to Sec. 131 on Corporate Governance (Policy statement and definition of terms) on the definition of “Complex banks”. Meanwhile, NBFIs shall be classified as “Simple” unless notified by the Bangko Sentral of a higher classification.

(2)

BSFIs shall adopt tools and mechanisms proportionate to their size, nature and complexity of operations, overall risk profile, and systemic importance to identify and assess significant threats to reputation. The tools may be in the form of interviews, surveys or questionnaires, focus group discussions, self-assessment or other techniques as deemed appropriate to suit the needs of the organization.

BSFIs with simple operations are not expected to adopt sophisticated tools but they should be able to demonstrate that their reputational risk management incorporates the critical elements set out in these guidelines. At the minimum, simple BSFIs should be able to identify which issues or events will effectively undermine their reputation as well as the affected key stakeholders, and gauge the effect or consequence on their overall reputation. These reputation issues or events may be identified from the tools used in identifying and assessing their operational risk exposures: the (i) results of internal/external audit and independent party review, (ii) supervisory issues raised by the Bangko Sentral, or (iii) internal loss data collection and analysis.

Crisis management team. The crisis management team (includes the public relations unit or its equivalent) shall be responsible for formulating, implementing, and coordinating the approach to managing a reputation event. It shall determine the appropriate countermeasures depending on the circumstances of the event and actively manage stakeholder communication during a reputational crisis.3

In the case of banking groups, the board of the parent bank shall approve the policy defining the reputational risk management framework that shall apply to entities across the group (i.e., established centrally at the parent bank or separately in each of the identified subsidiary). The parent bank shall have overall responsibility with respect to the management of reputational risk exposures of its subsidiaries and affiliates.

BSFIs shall identify the potential sources of reputational risk exposures. These shall include, among others, the business lines, liabilities5, affiliated operations, off-balance sheet vehicles, and the markets where they operate. Consumer complaints also provide valuable insights into areas representing consumer protection risks and potential regulatory violations which may damage the BSFI’s reputation. The established key sources of risk may be categorized according to the type of risk, business activity, and/or the area of operations.

Considering that reputational risk is inherent in all the risks an institution faces, BSFIs may use existing measures or tools to identify and assess reputational risks relevant to their business and industry. For instance, the identification and assessment of reputational risk can be linked to the tools and instruments used for operational risk but modified accordingly to capture reputational risk issues and concerns. Sample tools which may be considered to identify possible reputation events and to assess/measure their potential impact are provided in Appendix 146/Q-89 (Annex A of this Circular).

Internal audit function. The internal audit function shall provide an independent assessment of the adequacy of the risk management processes and internal control system as well as the effectiveness of actions taken to address material risks affecting the BSFI‘s reputation. It shall remain abreast of issues affecting the BSFI and its business environment that may impact its reputation (e.g., environmental and social issues), and identify areas that are not being properly managed and, thus, represent threats to reputation. The internal audit function shall also ensure that reputational risks are assessed both at the inherent and the residual levels. It shall timely apprise the board and management of the audit results, including any issues and weaknesses identified, to enable them to take prompt remedial actions, where necessary.

Reputational risk management function. The reputational risk management function may be a stand-alone function or integrated with other risk management functions depending on how the BSFI manages its reputational risk exposures considering its size, nature and complexity of operations, overall risk profile, and systemic importance. Notwithstanding the approach adopted, senior management shall ensure that reputational risk within and across the different business lines/functions are properly identified, assessed, monitored, controlled, and reported to the board, as appropriate. Considering that threats to reputation may emanate from various areas, cross-functional teams may be constituted to bring together different perspectives to identify and proactively manage reputational risk across the organization.

(1)

(3)

BSFIs shall have appropriate policies in place to identify sources of reputational risk when entering new markets, products or lines of activities, or establishing new business relationships including, among others, policies, programs and controls to address fraud or gross misconduct, and manage consumer complaints.

(4)

BSFI shall incorporate the identified sources of reputational risk in the risk management processes and appropriately address the same in the internal capital adequacy assessment/capital planning process and liquidity contingency plans.

(5)

BSFIs shall have appropriate procedures in place to ensure that the identified reputational risks are regularly reviewed and updated and that no major risk areas affecting reputation are inadvertently excluded.

b.

Risk control and mitigation. BSFIs shall determine the appropriate measures to control and/or mitigate the impact of identified risks considering the results of risk assessment. In particular, BSFIs shall ascertain which of these risks warrant management attention and require either the crafting of a specific action plan (e.g., need to adopt additional controls or to strengthen existing controls), the development of a contingency plan, or close monitoring.

c.

Risk monitoring and reporting. BSFIs shall ensure that sufficient mechanisms are in place to monitor reputational risk across the different business lines and functions. Such a process shall enable the board and management to address any significant issues and developments. To ensure that identified risks are properly controlled, the progress and effectiveness of measures implemented should be periodically monitored. Early warning systems should also be established to detect emerging threats and ensure that corrective actions are carried out in a timely manner. Sample early warning indicators include volume of complaints, number of negative news on the institution, number of violations of laws/regulations/ codes of conduct with material penalties or sanctions for non-compliance. BSFIs may also include reputation concerns in their risk appetite frameworks to facilitate setting of thresholds against relevant indicators.

5 This refers to liabilities arising from failure to meet regulatory or legal obligations, such as noncompliance with applicable laws and regulations, gross misconduct of employees or senior management, failure to adequately meet customer expectations, and contractual requirements, among others.

Business

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MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stock market to stay passive this week; eyes on Q1 earnings L By Jenniffer B. Austria

WATERMELON SEASON. Traders and buyers gather around watermelon stalls at a fruit market in Peshawar on April 24,

2021. AFP

Rosemarie Bosch-Ong: ‘Iron Lady’ from the Rock ALL jobs are challenging for one reason or another. But some fields are more notorious for the lack of women because people believe that only men can deliver the work or men have dominated the industry. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics data from 2019 revealed 10 male-dominated occupations. Among those jobs, women workers account for only 9.9 percent in the construction field. I believe this phenomenon exists in most countries, and the Philippines is no exception to this. Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, however, has inspired many female workers by showing how significant an influence a woman can give in the male-dominated field. She is the senior executive vice president and chief operating officer of Wilcon Depot Inc. This company has grown from a small hardware store to become a famous home improvement and construction supply retailer, with over 50 stores nationwide. Due to COVID-19, the company has encountered difficulties, but it has rapidly adapted to these difficult times. Although it is early to proclaim a victory, she shared the strategies the company used to overcome the pandemic and attain leadership in the home improvement and construction supplies industry, where women are underrepresented. WIN strategy of Wilcon Depot The WIN strategy refers to Withstand with the people and the community, Innovate methods and products, and Navigate for the route of the business. This strategy is simple, but it was impressive to learn how she managed through the difficulties in the hard times. The most impressive strategy for me was that the company has chosen to “Withstand” with their people. I took Corporate Social Responsibility course few terms ago. Writing a CSR proposal for the final paper, I learned that it is vital to keep important stakeholders involved to make CSR valuable for the community and the organization. While companies, in general, are easily tempted by strategies that can directly maximize their company’s profit only, Wilcon Depot did not forget to protect its various stakeholders, especially in critical moments. That’s why I was touched when I learned that the Wilcon Depot stood up to prioritize their employees and the community where they live in. Moreover, Ms. Bosch-Ong addressed them as “the most important stakeholders,” showing how the company valued the welfare of people and society. Before she introduced the strategy, she told us the story of two wolves. The story gives wisdom that the one we feed wins the fight. This pandemic is one of the biggest crises the company has faced. Depending on the company’s strategies and goals, the result will make it a winner or a loser. The company chose to feed the people and the community. I believe that a company that stands with them will earn a

YURA PARK

Green LiGht

victory as they triumph against the pandemic. My organization also has struggled to serve the community as the COVID-19 broke out. It didn’t benefit us financially nor brought an outcome we wanted, but we are serving them continually. And this has motivated me to work harder and to stay strong with the organization. I can’t tell if we are winning versus the pandemic for now, but my organization won my heart for sure! The Law of Harvest Ms. Bosch-Ong also introduced the law of the harvest. This law illustrates how she managed to survive in the male-dominated industry. She was a mere purchasing manager 36 years ago when she first joined the company. But she believed in the law that hard work and perseverance would bear fruits, a lesson she learned from the founder of Wilcon. As she emphasized, there are no shortcuts in business as well as in her career. There is no magic ingredient for surviving and succeeding in the tough industry. Yet, she assured the class that a lot of hard work she planted yielded good returns over the years. Since joining my organization, I couldn’t see the fruits of my hard work for many years. Even worse, due to the pandemic, I had to close a center I opened with my own hands. It was heartbreaking. But her assurance of the law encouraged me greatly to keep running and seeking opportunity and innovation persistently. In addition, her success in a male-dominated industry encouraged my dream. South Korea ranked the lowest on The Economist’s latest glass-ceiling index among OECD. (The Economist, 2019). In my organization, it is also hard to meet married women in high positions. I always wanted to work at the international headquarter of my organization. My dream is not just to attain a higher position but to be an inspiration to female workers that we can still be good influencers in the organization as we are at home. Conclusion The world is more unpredictable than ever. The future is uncertain. But I learned that the values I planted with perseverance and sweat would bring me a victory one day. Will our dreams come true? Let’s feed the good wolf first; then let the law of the harvest work for us. The author is an MBA student of the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business. This article is part of her blog, a requirement of the course, Trends and Issues in Business and Management: CEO Series. Visit her blog at https://blog.naver. com/yura_park. The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.

OCAL stocks are expected to remain listless this week, with investors keeping an eye on first-quarter corporate earnings results.

Analysts said the absence of fresh catalysts is pushing investors to remain on the sidelines as the country’s economic situation remains uncertain amid the pandemic. “The index is trading at a downward bias for some time and a break below 6,300 may mean a revisit of the crucial 6,000 level,” online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia.com said. “Note, however, that the recent slide was accompanied by markedly thin participation especially on the local side, which may imply that amid uncertainties on the ground, some confidence on the second half recovery is brewing, prompting players to hold,” it added. Among the companies that will report first-quarter results this week are Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc., Aboitiz Power Corp. Manila Electric Co. and Wilcon Depot Inc. One factor that could boost the market sentiments next months is the upcoming initial public offering of Monde Nissin Corp. and the share sale of AC Energy Corp. The Philippine Stock Exchange In-

dex last week dropped 1.8 percent to 6,378.07, while the broader All Shares Index fell 1.4 percent to 3,927.19 amid lackluster trading. Except for the industrial index which inched up 0.2 percent, all sectoral indices ended in red led by property (-2.8 percent), mining and oil (2.7 percent) and holding firms (-2.5 percent). Foreign selling increased to P4.4 billion this year while the average daily value traded was flat at P5.5 billion. Weekly to price gainers were Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corp., which jumped 12.5 percent to P7.28; Century Pacific Food Inc., which rose 8.7 percent to P20.65; and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., which climbed 4.5 percent to P17.82. Weekly top price losers were GMA Network Inc., which declined 13 percent to P7.84; JG Summit Holdings Inc., which dropped 7.7 percent to P53.90; and Megaworld Corp., which shed 7.7 percent to P3.12. Meanwhile, Wall Street rebounded Friday from earlier losses on reports that US President Joe Biden will seek a huge tax hike, but Europe remained on the back foot despite bright economic data. Wall Street’s main indices had ended Thursday down nearly one percent after the first reports broke of the possible hike that would cut into earnings made on selling stocks. But after a mixed start on Friday, major indices pushed higher and finished with solid gains. The broad-based S&P 500 gained 1.1 percent. With AFP

Computer chip lack may slow auto output PARIS, France—What was initially downplayed as a brief hiccup in the supply of semiconductors looks more and more like a shortage that may last throughout the year in what would be a big blow to automakers. They were planning to rev up production this year to meet an expected surge in demand from consumers as the pandemic wanes and to recover from last year’s losses. But without enough chips those hopes are fading. The shortage of chips has pushed automakers to idle production lines for brief periods when they temporarily run out of supplies. Toyota, Volkswagen, Ford, Peugeot, Fiat, Jeep, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover and even the Chinese startup Nio have had to pause production in their factories in the past months.

Automakers have reduced the stocks of parts they keep on hand in recent years as part of cost-cutting measures, so delivery delays can quickly force an entire shutdown. Renault CEO Luca de Meo told shareholders this past week that “the semiconductor shortage could cause a drop in production volume this year of at least 100,000 vehicles.” In Germany, thousands of autoworkers were on reduced work hours or temporary unemployment as Volkswagen and Mercedes factories were forced to halt production. Fiat slowed production at its Brazilian factory in Betim for the second time this month. The Stellantis factory in Rennes-La Janais in France, where 2,000 people work, was also nearly idle. AFP

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

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MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021

Business

PSE INDEX CLOSING Friday, April 23, 2021

-37.46 PTS. 6,378.07

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

2,037,340,955 69,007 5,868,177,061.68 64 132 47

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • FRIDAY, MARCH 26APRIL 23, 2021

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

48.4020

Japan

Yen

0.009264

0.4484

UK

Pound

1.384100

66.9932

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128871

6.2376

Switzerland

Franc

1.090631

52.7887

Canada

Dollar

0.799936

38.7185

Singapore

Dollar

0.752502

36.4226

Australia

Dollar

0.771100

37.3228

Bahrain

Dinar

2.655478

128.5304

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266674

12.9076

Brunei

Dollar

0.749681

36.2861

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000069

0.0033

Thailand

Baht

0.031918

1.5449

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.1785

Euro

Euro

1.201800

58.1695

Korea

Won

0.000893

0.0432

China

Yuan

0.154055

7.4566

India

Rupee

0.013314

0.6444

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.243279

11.7752

New Zealand

Dollar

0.716000

34.6558

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035606

1.7234 Source: BSP

Shareholders approve share swap plan of AREIT and ALI By Jenniffer B. Austria AREIT Inc. obtained shareholders’ approval on the proposed P15-billion property-for-share swap with sponsor firm Ayala Land Inc. to ensure the company’s growth and expansion plans. Shareholders in their first annual meeting on Friday also approved the plan to increase AREIT’s authorized capital stock to P29.5 billion from P11.7 billion to enable it to implement the P15.5-billion worth of commercial assets infusion from ALI in exchange for 483 million shares. “Despite the challenging conditions of the pandemic, AREIT remained relatively resilient. We focused on opportunities to create value for our shareholders, democratize commercial real estate and promote reinvestment in the country,” AREIT president and chief executive Carol Mills said. ALI and its subsidiaries plan to infuse 10 properties into AREIT’s leasing portfolio, boosting its gross leasable area from 344,000 square meters to 549,000 sq. m. These are Vertis North Commercial Development (three office towers and a retail podium) in Quezon City; One and Two Evotech Buildings in Nuvali Sta Rosa, Laguna; Bacolod Capitol Corporate Center and Ayala Northpoint Technohub in Bacolod; the BPI Philam Life office units on Ayala Ave., Makati City; and Madrigal Business Park in Alabang. These properties are strategically located within Ayala Land developments in key growth centers across the country and will diversify AREIT’s geographic reach and tenant base. The properties have an excellent operating track record, with 98-percent average occupancy and a stable tenant mix of multinational companies and top players in the business process outsourcing industry. After the infusion, ALI will own about 66 percent of AREIT’s total outstanding shares, demonstrating its strong support as the sponsor, while adhering to the prescribed minimum public ownership requirements under Philippine laws. AREIT’s deposited property value will reach P52 billion with the addition of the new assets. This will further increase AREIT’s cashflows which will result in higher distributable income for shareholders.

LBC Express books lower profit of P200m

NET income of Logistics service provider LBC Express Holdings Inc. declined 60 percent in 2020 to P200 million from P494.5 a year ago, driven by the shortfall on revenues and higher operating expenses mostly due to the pandemic. LBC said in disclosure to the stock exchange over the weekend revenues last year seven percent to P14.12 billion from P15.21 billion in 2019 on decreased demand following the worldwide lockdowns starting in the second quarter of the year. “The group’s branches remained open and delivery service operational, however, with extended lead times, due to safety, security and varied travel restrictions,” LBC Express said. The group recouped revenues in the second half with the easing of the quarantine measures and a pick-up in consumer demand. While cost of services declined by five percent to P10.65 billion in 2020, it was offset by an increase in cost due to higher depreciation and amortization, as well as capital expenditures related to new branches and higher salaries and benefits of employees. Jenniffer B. Austria

PSE clears IPO of Monde Nissin

ECUADOR ZONE. Contecon Guayaquil S.A., International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s subsidiary in Ecuador, welcomes the creation of a special economic zone at the country’s main seaport as an immense opportunity to boost the country’s foreign trade. On April 20, the port operator, along with national government and port authority representatives, formally presented its declaration of special economic development zone—a high-impact project that aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Ecuador’s exports. Leading the unveiling of the economic zone are Ecuador Minister of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments and Fisheries Iván Ontaneda (left) and CGSA general manager José Antonio Contreras.

Vires Energy obtains nod to proceed with LNG hub

By Alena Mae S. Flores

T

HE Department of Energy said over the weekend it approved the application of Vires Energy Corp., controlled by A Brown Company Inc., to proceed with its proposed integrated liquefied natural gas project in Batangas province. Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said in a statement he was hoping the proponent would complete all the requirements within six months so that the Vires LNG project would proceed as scheduled. “The proposed integrated natural gas-

fired power plant and LNG storage and re-gasification terminal project of Vires Energy Corp. will boost the attainment of our vision to develop the Philippines as a LNG hub in the Southeast Asian region,” Cusi said. The proposed LNG terminal and

re-gasification project will consist of a turret mooring system for the floating storage re-gasification unit, a 1.6-kilometer subsea gas pipeline and a 500-megawatt floating power plant which will serve as an anchor market. It will also be the largest floating power plant in the country. The project will utilize a land area classified as a “heavy industrial zone” for backup fuel supply of diesel during gas outage events. Vires proposed to utilize the converted LNG tanker “BW Paris”, built in 2009 with a regasification capacity of up to 3 million tonnes per year and a 500-MW floating power plant.

MELCO’S ACCREDITATION.

Melco Resorts & Entertainment, the operator of City of Dreams Manila (shown above), becomes the first integrated resort operator in Macau and the Philippines to achieve the esteemed international third-party responsible gaming accreditation RG Check, with its entire integrated resort portfolio including Altira Macau, City of Dreams Macau, Studio City and City of Dreams Manila receiving the certification. Developed by the Responsible Gambling Council, RG Check is the world’s most comprehensive and rigorous responsible gaming accreditation program. Melco chairman and chief executive Lawrence Ho says responsible gaming remains at the core of the company’s commitment to society as it continues to offer the highest standards of service.

Trade, manufacturing show signs of recovery from deep slump By Julito G. Rada THE economy started to show signs of recovery from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, as evidenced by the slight rebound of merchandise trade and manufacturing activities in February, the Department of Finance said over the weekend. Preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that after a year of decline, total merchandise trade in February amounted to $12.9 billion, up 0.6 percent from $12.8 billion in the same month last year. Imports in February snapped the downtrend since May 2019 after posting a year-on-year growth of 2.7 percent to $7.60 billion from $7.40 billion. Exports also continued to show signs of recovery. Data showed merchandise export sales fell 2.3 percent to $5.31 billion in February, following a 4.8-per-

cent contraction in January. The balance of trade in goods in February posted a deficit of $2.29 billion, an increase of 16.5 percent from a gap of $1.968 billion a year ago. The trade deficit in the previous month recorded an annual decline of -23.4 percent. The recovery trend in trade was also seen in the improvement in manufacturing indicators. In the first three months of 2021, the Purchasing Managers’ Index stayed above 50, indicating expansion of manufacturing activities. “The rebound in merchandise trade and indicators of expansion in manufacturing activities signify that the green shoots of economic recovery are growing, albeit precariously given downside risks posed by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the uncertainties of its variants,” the DOF said in an economic bulletin. It said, however, the spread of the virus needed to be contained and its risks

managed, through pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions. “Otherwise, draconian measures will be implemented again and the incipient recovery be, so to speak, nipped in the bud,” it said. Economic Planning Secretary Karl Chua last week said the government was working to ensure the equitable distribution of vaccines, which could help facilitate the gradual reopening of the economy. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno said earlier the latest rounds of community quarantines implemented in the NCR Plus (including Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal) by the government could impact economic recovery in the first half. Diokno said he was expecting a gross domestic product growth of 6 percent to 7 percent in 2021, instead of the previous estimate of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent.

Meralco subsidiary launches RED Fiber broadband service to provide customers more choices RADIUS Telecoms, a 100-percent subsidiary of Manila Electric Co., said it is launching its latest fiber broadband service, RED Fiber, in response to the overwhelming need of Filipinos for better internet service. Radius Telecom said since its launch in November 2020, RED Fiber proved to be a game changer as it maintained its progressive approach as the “broadband of choices” in Greater Metro Manila, CALABARZON and parts of Central Luzon. “Certain areas are implementing granu-

IN BRIEF

lar lockdowns brought about by this global health crisis. Having a grand product launch doesn’t feel right at the moment. But at the same time, we want to continue creating ways to serve our customers safely and efficiently. That is why we launched RED Fiber online―to provide ease of transaction for our customers,” said Radius Telecoms president and chief executive Exequiel Delgado. The online portal facilitates the speedy processing of new subscriber applications. Customers can check the avail-

ability of RED Fiber’s service in any residential area. Upon approval of the application, the fiber internet service can be installed within 48 hours. Radius Telecoms also signed a partnership with Cignal TV, a leading payTV provider, to launch dual-play plans, giving consumers unlimited fiber internet with premium channels. The company said its superior internet network ensures 90-percent service reliability and 33-percent minimum speed for fiber internet home plans. This kind of

service level commitment was previously limited to business customers. “It is high time for internet home users to get acquainted with a broadband provider that commits a service level agreement. At RED Fiber, we will work hard to deliver this SLA consistently,” Delgado said. He said being a market newbie had not deterred RED Fiber from living up to its promise to provide fast, reliable and affordable internet service and entertainment.

THE Philippine Stock Exchange approved the maiden share offering of noodle maker Monde Nissin Corp. and the follow-on offering of Ayala Corp. unit AC Energy Corp. The planned share sale of the two companies are scheduled in May. Monde Nissin is offering 3.6 billion primary shares and up to 540 million over-allotment option shares at a price of up to P17.50 apiece for the initial public offering. It will determine the final price on May 18, 2021 after the company conducts a bookbuilding process. The offering period of Monde Nissin is scheduled on May 24 to 28, 2021 while the tentative listing date is set on June 7, 2021. “As a company responsible for several household brands in the food sector, Monde Nissin is certainly a welcome addition to our roster of listed companies. We are pleased that the company chose to raise capital and list in the PSE as investors have been looking forward to this IPO,” said PSE president and chief executive Ramon S. Monzon. Jenniffer B. Austria

ePLDT bares Cebu disaster recovery hub

ePLDT Inc., the ICT arm of PLDT Enterprise, has launched its first disaster recovery facility in Cebu. Housed in ePLDT’s VITRO Data Center Cebu 2―the biggest purpose-built data center facility outside Luzon―the disaster recovery facility will enable Cebu-based enterprises in developing their own business continuity plan and becoming compliant with global standards. A disaster recovery facility serves as a data backup site or alternative office space, which companies can use to recover and restore their IT systems or operations in the event of a failure or natural disaster. The site is a crucial component of any company’s business continuity plan and part of standards on operational risk management. Highly-regulated industries such as banking and financial institutions are required to abide by a clear and complete BCP to keep their services running no matter the circumstance. Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT president and chief executive and senior vice president and head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups, said “the Cebu DR facility is part of ePLDT’s initiatives to fortify businesses’ BCPs as we continue to face disasters and disruptions.” Darwin G. Amojelar

PCCI asks gov’t to review priority investments plan By Othel V. Campos A MAJOR business group called for a review of the Strategic Investment Priorities Plan in the wake of the pandemic and the passage of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act. This was one of the key proposals of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the National Employment Resurgence Strategy dialog on April 23. PCCI president Benedicto Yujuico said the business sector was aiming to achieve the national goal of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic through inclusive and sustainable economic growth based on the principles of social justice, full employment and decent work. “As our country continues to battle the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and transition into a ‘new normal’, we foresee continuing challenges with the fast-evolving work patterns and environment and other disruptions that may hinder the attainment of decent work and affect employment and livelihood of individuals,” he said. PCCI also asked the government to improve data security and privacy and monitor online transactions to restore business confidence. “As businesses adopt the digital transformation and more workers are in WFH arrangement, the need for better data security is also more apparent. The government, in partnership with the private sector, must explore means of improving the security of the Philippines’ internet infrastructure, provide standards in data security for businesses and monitor e-commerce transactions to ensure consumer protection,” Yujuico said. He said issues such as uncertainty, risks and wait-and-see attitudes slowed down economic activities, particularly investments and consumption. These episodes resulted in lower sales and cash liquidity constraints for businesses, exerting downward pressure on productivity and operational capacity.

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021

Asian boxing in India called off due to rise in virus cases

Parañaque City folks pick their food items at the Elorde Community Pantry.

Red-carpet welcome for Sotto in Australia By Lito Cinco ADELAIDE-BOUND Filipino cager Kai Sotto is assured of a red-carpet welcome when he arrives in Australian to join his 36ers team in the National Basketball League. There are about half a million Australia-based Filipinos who will form his instant base of fans, according to former Philippine Basketball Association cager Chito Loyzaga, who played in Sydney prior to the NBL. “The Filipino community there has requested for assistance in getting in touch with Kai’s family in order to prepare a warm welcoming event for him. At the same time, they also are communicating with the Adelaide 36ers team to coordinate things,” Loyzaga told the Manila Standard. He added that the Filipino community in Australia will be inspired seeing him play in the NBL. “He will certainly enjoy the hospitality of every Filipino he meets there, what else can he ask for?” asked Loyzaga. The opportunity for a dual citizenship for him and his family to join him there eventually will also be there for Sotto, according to Loyzaga. “But he should remain focused on his objective in being there, take his game to the next level, and then take it from there for his future, before particularly suiting up for the NBA. He should not entertain offers from the PBA, I believe,” concluded Loyzaga.

Kai Sotto

Elorde family puts up own community pantry version

By Randy M. Caluag

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HE sporting community will not be left behind in joining the crusade to help feed hungry Filipinos during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Elorde boxing family, for one, has put up its own modified version of community pantry—which they vowed to hold every Wednesday in Paranaque City. Juan Martin “Bai” Elorde, grandson of boxing legend Gabriel “Flash” Elorde, posted on his Facebook page several pictures of the food donation activity for the people living in the vicinity of their familyowned Elorde Sports Center in Sucat. It is not the type, however, where people have the liberty to get what and how much they want. In the Elorde’s version of the community pantry, the items are limited to a certain amount per item. For example, one can only get three pieces of banana, one kilo of rice, two pieces of sweet potato (camote) and so on and so forth.

This system makes sure that more people are benefitted from the charity activity and discourages those who will try to get more than what they actually need. Needless to say, the Elordes are trying to prevent an ghastly scene that took place a few days ago at a community pantry in Pasig, where a group of women with eco bags took everything in one fell swoop. Bai’s mother, Liza said the first day helped more than 400 families. “Muli po ang aming taos pusong pasasalamat sa mga nag-donate, mga kamag anak, mga kasamahan natin sa Rotary, mga kaibigan at mga volunteers at ang tulong ng ating Bgy San Antonio. Kita-kita po ulit tayo every Wednesday,” she said in her Facebook post. Liza is wife of boxing promoter

Johnny Elorde. Bai was a former WBO International Lightflyweight champion and has a fight record of 24 wins, (11 by knockouts), 2 losses and a draw. His last fight was a decision win against Indon Renga Renga in March 2019. Bai’s brother Mig, also a pro boxer who has a ring record of 28 wins ( 15 KO) and 2 losses, joined them in the charity. His last bout was a TKO loss to Emanuel Navarette in September 2019 in Las Vegas for the WBO Super Bantamweight title. Earlier in March of the same year, he successfully defended his WBO Asia Pacific super bantamweight title against Shoehi Kawashima via a unanimous decision win. He improved his record to 28 wins with 15 knockouts against a single defeat. The organizer of the first community pantry, Ana Patricia Non, at Maginhawa Street in Quezon City, had a noble intention to have honesty prevail among people lining up for free food for their family. But sometimes, it needs some sort of rules to make this work

THE 2021 Asian Elite Boxing Championship will no longer be held in New Delhi, India which continues to experience an astronomic rise in COVID-19 cases. Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines secretary general Ed Picson revealed to Manila Standard that the Asian Boxing Confederation is “looking for an alternate host city. Baka Dubai or Bahrain.” India has reported the world’s highest daily cases for the third day with an average of 300,000-plus. Virus cases in India now stands at 16.6 million. Citing the serious COVID-19 threat in India, the Philippine Sports Commission recently disapproved ABAP’s request to finance the 11-man national boxing team’s participation in New Delhi on May 21 to 31. The PSC does not want to be part of the move that may put the national boxers at risk, especially those who are going to the Tokyo Olympics in July, when they head to a virus hotbed like New Delhi. In a report by Peter Lucas over Radyo Pilipinas 2, PSC commissioner Ramon Fernandez said the “PSC Board disapproved the India trip for health and safety concerns.” “The risk in going to India outweighs the benefits,” Fernandez added. The PSC, however, approved to finance another one-month extension of the Filipino boxers’ training bubble in Thailand until end of May. But with the Asian tourney going to a different venue where COVID-19 cases are low or almost nil, Picson said they will ask the PSC to reconsider the request. ABAP might have to send another request once the new host country is finalized. “After a long hibernation period, the exposure to a high-caliber tournament such as this Asian Championships, is essential. We hope we can take advantage of this opportunity,” added Picson. The team is composed of seven male and four female boxers, including Tokyo Olympics-bound Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, Iris Magno and Carlo Paalam. Randy Caluag

Knott bags 200-m bronze in Louisiana By Peter Atencio WITH good rest, Kristina Knott is finally getting into the groove again as the Filipino-American Olympic aspirant came up with one of her best showings in nine months. Knott took a bronze medal in the women’s 200-meters’ Olympic Development race an hour after she almost set a new national record in the 100-meter dash at the 2021 Louisiana State University Alumni Gold Athletics meet in Baton Rouge. The 5’6” Knott clocked 11.28 seconds Saturday (Sunday in Manila) in the women’s 100-meter dash. Her clocking, which came close to a national record-breaking performance in August last year, was good for fifth place, behind Alelia Hobbs, who earned first place in 10.91 seconds. “We took a week off and worked on things. So, now it’s time to rest and recover and get back to it,” Knott’s coach Rohsaan Griffin told the Manila Standard. Knott came 13/100ths of a second from the Olympic Qualifying standard of 11.15 seconds. Tamara Clark snatched the silver medal in 10.96 seconds, while Mikiah Brisco and Symone Mason shared the bronze in 11.02 seconds. An hour after her 100-meter dash stint, Knott finished third place in the women’s 200-meters in 23.17 seconds. Knott’s clocking was 16/100ths of a second off her

time of 23.01 seconds she registered in winning the gold in the 2019 SEA Games. “It was great anytime you run that close to both of your personal bests, which are the national records. It’s great,” added Griffin, who added Knott did not have enough time to rest in between the 100-meters and the 200-meters because the schedules were too close. “She did run 11.28 which is 0.01 off of her personal best 11.27 and less than a hour later, because they moved to a rolling schedule, she ran 23.17 in the 200 for 0.16 off of her personal best in that event as well,” added Griffin. “You have to remember the winners of her last two races were some of the fastest times in the world. And these girls have training partners that are just as fast as them or faster and we do this alone,” said Griffin. Knott is set to fly to Europe to be in the Meeting International Citta Di Savona on May 13, the first scheduled European outdoor meet this summer. Meanwhile, Eric Cray continued his search for an Olympic qualifying berth, finishing fifth place in 51.2 seconds in the men’s 400-meter hurdles of the Drake Relays, also last Saturday in Des Moines, Iowa. Cray’s time is far from the OQS of 51.2 seconds. He was behind Brazil’s Alson Dos Santos, who won the gold in 48.15 seconds, which breached the Olympic Standard of 48.9 seconds.

Sports news is good news IT IS quite interesting that a lot of successful people, life coaches, and motivational speakers pick up the sports page first before the front page. Some even claim that they skip the main headlines altogether. It is the positive vibes that sports news offers they say. In and of itself, sports speak of man’s triumphs, wins and victories. Sports stories are entertaining, and more importantly encouraging. As we continue to live in unsure times, some of our Filipino athletes continue to fly on their own on the world stage. Their experiences are newsworthy enough to make the banner of any broadsheet. Consider the following: Hidilyn Diaz qualifies for the Tokyo Olympics Last April 18, Rio Olympics silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Competing at the Asian Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Diaz placed 4th overall with a total lift of 212 kgs. (94kgs in the snatch and 118kgs. in

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THE COACH MIKE OCHOSA the clean-and-jerk). With this performance, Diaz maintained her world no. 2 ranking and qualified her for the Olympics. The top 8 athletes in each weight category as of April 30, 2021 will be given a slot at the games, according to Tokyo’s weightlifting qualification rules. Another Filipina representing well in weightlifting In the same event, Filipina weightlifter Elreen Ando took home three medals (2 silvers and 1 bronze) in the women’s 64kg finals. The 25-year-old Ando lifted 94kgs. and 119 kgs. in the snatch and clean-and-jerk categories, respectively. Her total lift was 213 kgs, two kgs. heavier than South Korea’s Sojin Han (211 kgs.)

The gold medal went to Chinese Taipei’s Chen Wen-Huei who lifted a total of 228 kgs. Despite the difference in their total lifts, Ando proved that in weightlifting, Filipinos can compete with the best in the world. A Filipino athlete’s dream playing out In tennis, 16-year-old Alex Eala leapt 53 places up the WTA rankings. From 715, she is now ranked 662nd in the world. The Filipina ace continued her winning ways in the $60,000 Bellinzona International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournament in Switzerland. Her overall performance catapulted Alex nearer to her dream. Despite twists and turns Everyone was rooting and expectant that 7-foot-2 Kai Sotto was clearly on his way to be the first homegrown Filipino basketball player to make it to the National Basketball Association (NBA). The initial plan was for him to play in the NBA G- League in preparation for his entry to the NBA Draft this summer. But with big plans come big challenges. After sifting through all his options, the 19-year-old Sotto will be playing for the

Kristina Knott

Adelaide 36ers in the Australian National Basketball league (NBL) 2021-2022 season. Although this represents a different path, the goal to get into the NBA draft remains. A true Filipino patriot At 22-year-old, Eugene Torre made history in the 1974 Nice Olympiad in France by becoming Asia’s first grandmaster. Despite the inconsistent presence of local support, Torre’s commitment to the sport never wavered. It is more noteworthy that Torre pledged his allegiance to play for the Philippines even if he was being lured by other countries to represent them. The Filipino woodpusher continued to represent the country and Asia in Chess Olympiads from 1970-2016. On April 20, Torre received the highest honor that can be given in the world of chess. The World Chess Federation (FIDE) inducted Torre into the World Chess Hall of Fame. He is the first Asian male ever to be given this accolade. There are only 37 inductees in the World Chess Hall of Fame. It should be an honor for every Filipino to see Torre’s name together with the likes of Bobby Fischer, Emmanuel Lasker, Raul Capablanca and of course, not to forget the other great chess players like Anatoly Karpov, Garry Kasar-

pov and Boris Spassky. Sports stories make better headlines It is sad that bad news apparently attract more readers. The emergence of social media reveals that more engagement is generated by negative talk, uncontrolled gossip and incomplete buzz. It is therefore no surprise that we continue to espouse an atmosphere of uncertainty and cultivate a feeling of negativity. Sports fortunately provides a respite from all this. Consider following the advice of successful people. Read the sports news first. Or even better, don’t read the main headline at all. *** Mike Ochosa is an avid sportsman. He has written for various broadsheets and on line publication providing his thoughts and insights on various sports. He is a freelance TV boxing analyst having sat ringside in 14 of Pacquiao’s fights and for various international sports networks as well. He was President of Punchout Boxing Club and is currently President and Program Director of Philippine Habagat Baseball. Follow him on social media: Website: mikeochosa.com FB: https://www. facebook.com/coachmikeochosa/, IG: @ coachmike.O, witter account, https://twitter.com/mikeochosa

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World

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

82 dead, 110 wounded in Iraq COVID hospital fire IRAQIS on Sunday demanded officials be sacked after at least 82 people died and 110 were wounded in a fire at a COVID-19 hospital, in a country with long-dilapidated health infrastructure. “The interior ministry announces the death of 82 people and injury of 110 in the Ibn al-Khatib fire accident,” it said in a statement carried by state media. The fire at Baghdad’s Ibn al-Khatib hospital started with an explosion caused by “a fault in the storage of oxygen cylinders,” medical sources told AFP. Flames spread quickly across multiple floors in the middle of the night, as dozens of relatives were at the bedsides of the 30 patients in the hospital’s intensive care unit where most severe COVID-19 cases are treated, a medical source said. “The hospital had no fire protection system and false ceilings allowed the flames to spread to highly flammable products,” the civil defense said. “The majority of the victims died because they had to be moved and were taken off ventilators, while the others were suffocated by the smoke,” it added. The civil defense said its members “rescued 90 people out of 120 patients and their relatives.” Iraq’s hospitals have been worn down by decades of conflict and poor investment, with shortages in medicines and hospital beds. The incident sparked outrage on social media and Prime Minister Mustafa al-Khademi called for an investigation into the cause of the blaze, and declared three days of national mourning. After daybreak, dozens of tall oxygen cylinders that had been evacuated could be seen lined up outside the building, alongside gurneys and scattered debris, an AFP photograph said. Videos on social media showed firefighters trying to extinguish the blaze as patients and their relatives tried to flee the building. Amir, 35, told AFP he “saved his brothers who were at the hospital by the skin of his teeth.” “It was the people who got the wounded out.” More than 200 patients in all were rescued, according to the health ministry, which pledged to release an official toll of the dead and wounded later. AFP

Shadow gov’t welcomes call to end violence

This photo taken and received from an anonymous source via Facebook on April 25, 2021 shows protesters holding out the three finger salute during a “red paint protest” as part of demonstrations against the military coup in Myingyan in Myanmar’s Mandalay division. AFP

Vaccine doses pass 1b as cases top new record

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HE number of COVID-19 jabs administered globally surpassed the onebillion mark on Saturday, offering hope even as the number of viruscases worldwide hit a new daily record mainly due to an explosion ofinfections in India. At least 1,002,938,540 vaccine doses have been administered in 207 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally. Nevertheless, the number of new infections topped 893,000 worldwide on Friday, a new daily record. India accounted for more than a third of these, with authorities there announcing 346,786 new cases on Saturday, a record for a single country since the start of the pandemic. Thailand, which had long avoided the worst of the virus, was also grappling with a spiralling caseload. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said Saturday that more than 1,400 COVID-19 patients were waiting to be admitted to hospital. The pandemic has now killed more than three million people worldwide since the outbreak emerged in China in December 2019. Hard-hit Brazil has seen its deadliest month yet of the virus with nearly 68,000

Submarine found cracked apart off Bali, 53 crew dead A MISSING Indonesian submarine has been found cracked apart on the seafloor in waters off Bali, the military said Sunday, as it confirmed that all 53 crew were dead. “There were parts of KRI Nanggala 402 —it was broken into three pieces,” said Navy Chief of Staff Yudo Margono. Indonesian military head Hadi Tjahjanto, meanwhile, told reporters that “all 53 personnel onboard have passed.” Authorities said that they received signals from the location more than 800 meters deep early Sunday morning and that they had used an underwater submarine rescue vehicle supplied by Singapore to get a visual confirmation. Tjahjanto said more parts from the vessel were discovered Sunday, including an anchor and safety suits worn by crew members. On Saturday, the navy had first said fragments of the submarine, including items from inside the vessel, had been Manila retrieved, but its location had yet to be Standard confirmed. TODAY The discovery comes after the submarine disappeared early Wednesday during live torpedo training exercises off the holiday island. AFP The PAMBANSANG RAGBI LIGA NG PILIPINAS, INC (Philippine National Rugby League), recognized by the International Rugby League (the world governing body) on the 5th of Feb 2021 as the only representative of the International Rugby League in Philippines, responsible for the development of rugby league in the country, as well as national representative selections, tournaments, technical courses and activities in general hereby declares it is applying for membership with the Philippine Olympic Committee. If there are many other Sports bodies who claims to represent the same in the Philippines objections to the application for membership of the PNRL should be presented before the POC Membership Commission within a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of this publication. For information on how to get involved, local teams and partnership opportunities please contact us at play@pnrl.org or via facebook: Philippine National Rugby League or Sumali Sa Liga (MS-APRIL 26, 2021)

reported fatalities in April, even though there is still a week to go. India reported 2,624 deaths, a daily record, on Saturday as a surge of cases has pushed the government to organise special trains to get oxygen supplies to worst-hit cities. One “oxygen express” carrying 30,000 litres of oxygen arrived in northern Lucknow at dawn on Saturday, where armed guards were waiting to escort trucks to hospitals. The Indian air force is also being used to transport oxygen tankers and other supplies around the country and to bring oxygen equipment from Singapore. With the pandemic still showing no sign of slowing, governments around the world are placing their hopes in vaccines. And worldwide, the number of vaccine doses administered has doubled in less than a month. Nevertheless, while the majority of poor countries have also started to vacci-

nate—mainly thanks to the Covax program —inoculation is still largely a privilege of high-income countries, home to 16 percent of the world’s population, administering 47 percent of vaccine doses. By contrast, low-income countries account for just 0.2 percent of shots so far. In the US, regulators have approved the re-start of a rollout of Johnson & Johnson vaccines halted over blood clotting concerns. In Europe, Belgium said Saturday it would authorize the J&J shot for all adults, having already received 36,000 doses and expecting a total of 1.4 million between April and June. The European Union as a whole said it would have enough vaccines to immunize 70 percent of its adult population by the end of July. A 91-year-old British grandmother, Margaret Keenan, who on December 8 became the first person in the Western world to get an approved coronavirus vaccine, urged people to get inoculated. “It really is the best thing I’ve ever done,” she said. “I’m telling everyone to go and get it... I hope everyone comes forward,” she said. AFP

MYANMAR’S shadow government of ousted lawmakers has welcomed a call by Southeast Asian leaders for an end to “military violence” after their crisis talks in Jakarta with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing. The general attended a high-level summit Saturday with leaders from the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations to discuss Myanmar’s mounting crisis. Since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup, Myanmar has been in an uproar with near-daily protests and a nationwide civil disobedience movement. Security forces have deployed live ammunition to quell the uprising, killing more than 740 people in brutal crackdowns, according to local monitoring group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP). The ASEAN meeting produced a consensus that there would be “an immediate cessation of violence in Myanmar,” the bloc said Saturday. It added that ASEAN will also have a special envoy to “facilitate mediation” between all parties, and this representative will be able to travel to Myanmar. But while they “heard calls for the release of all political prisoners,” a commitment to free them was not included in the consensus statement. A spokesperson from the shadow government—known as the National Unity Government (NUG)— said ASEAN’s statement was “encouraging news.” “We look forward to firm action by ASEAN to follow up its decisions and restore our democracy and freedom for our people and for the region,” said Dr Sasa, the NUG’s minister of international cooperation, who is currently in hiding with the rest of his fellow lawmakers. The lawmakers—most of whom were part of Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party—are wanted for high treason by the junta. Overnight, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc will continue to call for the release of political prisoners. As Myanmar nears three months under the military regime, escalating violence by its security forces—especially in urban centers—has pushed protesters and prominent activists into hiding. The junta has also throttled communications across the country, imposing a nightly internet shutdown for 70 consecutive days and restricting mobile data to a mere trickle. By Saturday, the number of detainees climbed to 3,389, according to AAPP. AFP

New York set as next marijuana hub KAELAN Castetter has plans for the unused offices next to his factory: dedicate all 35,000 square feet of it to growing marijuana, which just became legal for recreational use in New York state. “We are going to build out a state-of-the-art and world-class genetics and cultivation facility along with our finished goods manufacturing,” said Castetter, whose company Empire Standard has since last year made products using already legal cannabidiol (CBD) at a facility in the town of Binghamton that he now wants to expand. The company produces and sells oils, salves, smokes, gummies and drinks containing CBD, a cannabis substance prized for its relaxing properties that Congress allowed to be cultivated in 2018. However, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in marijuana, is illegal federally, but a number of US states have nonetheless green-lit its recreational use. New York’s governor last month signed a law allowing its possession and use for adults aged 21 and older, and expanding its distribution for medical purposes. That allows companies like Empire Standard, which already are well-versed in cannabis cultivation for use in CBD, to now sell products with high concentrations of THC.

“How often do you get a chance to be in an established market with a product that has not been allowed to be sold? That’s not even a once in a lifetime,” said Jim Castetter, the company’s sales chief. At the Binghamton factory’s assembly line about three hours from New York City, Jim, Kaelan Castetter’s father, watches as employees in white lab coats assemble small boxes of CBD flowers. The 55-year-old is a pioneer in the New York cannabis industry, after having been involved in several more or less legal business ventures over the years. He sees legalization as a historic opportunity. “It’s that change in generations, that change in mindset, the change in political structure, that now we’ve arrived at this point where everyone says ‘This is no big deal,’” he said. Among Americans, legalization has never enjoyed such strong support: 68 percent of respondents to a Gallup survey conducted at the end of last year are in favor of it, compared to less than half a decade ago. Kaelan Castetter believes New York is primed to become a marijuana mecca on par with California, the most-populous state in the nation which legalized its recreational use via a voter-approved ballot measure in 2016.

View of hemp flowers at Empire Standard, a hemp extract processing and distribution plant in Binghamton, New York. New York’s governor last month signed a law allowing its possession and use for adults aged 21 and older, and expanding its distribution for medical purposes. AFP

“This can’t be a better time for New York to legalise adult-use cannabis and create an industry that’s 30,000 or 50,000 jobs and billions of dollars pumped into the economy,” he said. AFP

China farm region now a ‘lingerie capital’ AMERICANS like their lingerie to be risque, Europeans prefer it more classy, and Chinese remain a bit shy but are opening up. But the biggest order of all came from North Korea. So goes the street-corner discussion in Guanyun, a sleepy coastal county that for generations followed the rhythms of wheat and rice cultivation, but today concerns itself with global preferences on sensual wear. The flat farming region between Beijing and Shanghai is China’s self-proclaimed “Lingerie Capital” where sewing machines hum in village-level microfactories to meet up to 70 percent of the fast-growing domestic demand. Millions more items are exported annually in a textbook example of the ability of internet-enabled Chinese entrepreneurs to profit from even the most off-the-wall idea. The man widely credited with lighting the spark is Lei Congrui, a lanky 30-year-old with a ponytail and cap who would look at home on a skateboard. It all happened almost by accident. As a teenager, Lei began making extra cash by hawking various consumer goods on China’s rapidly

growing e-commerce sites 15 years ago. “Customers kept asking if we have any lingerie. I had

This photo shows Chang Kailin posin during an interview with AFP at his lingerie factory in Guanyun county, some 50 kilometers from Lianyungang in China’s northeastern Jiangsu province. AFP

never heard of it before, but I just said ‘yes’ and then looked up what it was,” he said. Lei “figured out a way” and now employs more than 100 workers who push lacy black and red panties and bustiers through stitching machines. His brands such as “Midnight pull in YELLOW more than $1.5 million in anCYANCharm” MAGENTA BLACK nual revenue, he said. The success of early movers like Lei inspired an industrial revolution. Guanyun’s government says there are now more than 500 factories employing tens of thousands and churning out more than $300 million worth of lingerie annually. Loosening Chinese sexual attitudes made it all possible. Communism left a prevailing legacy of modesty. Pornography is banned and authorities launch periodic crackdowns on anything deemed”vulgar.” But prolonged exposure to more open foreign attitudes is liberating a younger generation, especially women. Market consultancy iiMedia said Chinese online sales of sex-related products grew 50 percent in 2019 to $7 billion. It predicted a further 35 percent growth in 2020 despite pandemic disruptions. AFP

Entertainment

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MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021 nickie.standard@gmail.com

Who votes for the Oscars, and how does it work?

More than 9,300 people in the entertainment industry select the Oscar honorees.

THE ballots are all in. Millions of television viewers around the globe will tune in Sunday (Monday morning in Manila) to watch the Oscars, the glitziest night in showbiz, but most don't know how the winners are chosen. Answer: more than 9,300 people in the entertainment industry select the honorees. The number is a record high. But who are they and how did they get to become voters? Here is a look at the complex, sometimes confounding process that leads to the winners of the 23 Academy Awards:

Angel Locsin gets support from ABS-CBN after tragic community pantry incident THOUSANDS trooped to Angel Locsin’s community pantry along Holy Spirit Drive in Don Antonio Heights in Quezon City on Friday. They hoped to get free goods from the actress who organized the pantry to mark her 36th birthday.

Angel Locsin

The initiative, however, turned into a tragic event when 67-year-old Rolando dela Cruz, among the thousands who turned up hoping to get free goods, lost consciousness and was declared dead on arrival in a hospital. Angel apologized and confirmed that Dela Cruz had been in queue since 3:00 a.m. According to the Kapamilya star, she coordinated with the family and vowed to support them all the way. Meanwhile, Angel’s mother studio has released an official statement to show their support to the actress, who continuously gets flak on social media for setting up the pantry where social distancing and other health protocols were hardly observed. In a statement sent to Manila Standard Entertainment by ABS-CBN corporate communications head Kane Errol Choa, the network said that they believe in the goodness of the heart of Angel, who in her personal capacity has tirelessly helped our countrymen in times of crisis. “We admire her commitment to continue serving the Filipino people with selfless dedication and love. We stand by her and thank her for being a shining example of generosity, accountability, and compassion,” the statement read.

Love stories FROM the classic romantic drama Love Story, came these iconic movie lines, “Love means never having to say you’re story,” and “What can you say about a 25-year-old girl who died? That she was beautiful. And brilliant. That she loved Mozart and Bach. And the Beatles. And me.” With the gorgeous music teacher Ali Mc Graw as Jenny and the handsome and affluent preppie Oliver Barrett IV portrayed by Ryan O’ Neal, this motion picture has stood the test of time and can be considered as the ultimate hugot flick devoid of melodrama and the usual trappings and trimmings of a romantic silver screen offering. Nowadays, most especially in local Tinseltown, all eyes are on three pairings whose love stories have been scrutinized to bits: Derek Ramsay and Ellen Adarna’s instant romance; Gerald Anderson and Julie Barretto’s tempestuous fantasy; and the you-and-me-against-the-world pink coupling of Vice Ganda and Ion Perez. Two adjectives are the most apt adjectives for the Ramsay-Adarna pairing: fast because their first official meeting happened with an eating encounter with Ruffa Gutierrez and before we can even digest their emotional entanglement in full, in a snap they are lovers, then engaged, now cohabiting with Derek now acts as the father figure to Ellen’s

biological firstborn with drama king John Lloyd Cruz. No blood bad between the two alphas. The other adjective, of course, is furious, especially coming from the fans and supporters of Andrea Torres, Derek’s ex-girlfriend whom he proclaimed before as the one he was most likely to walk down the aisle with—a broken promise and all Andrea can do now is to live well and be devastatingly beautiful at that, as her best revenge. And what about the love story of Anderson and Barretto? Their combined last names sound like a formidable and reputable law firm whose specialties are marital and extramarital shenanigans and woes. A not-so-secret romance they failed to cover up miserably. After a year in hiding,” the confession of Gerald about it was met with dismay, disgust, not to mention anger and wrath from all the women who identify with the ordeal and suffering of Bea Alonzo. Add the fact that the big “I love Julia” reveal became a promotional ploy for his latest drama offering added more insult to the injured, Plus, Anderson’s riding the “moral high horse," so full in his conviction that no jilting and ghosting transpired, is a total knock over in any romance and reallife book on relationships. Read full story on manilastandard.net

Who votes? The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Los Angeles currently has 9,362 voting members. Academy membership is divided into 17 branches—actors, directors, producers, costume designers and so on—and candidates must be active or otherwise have "achieved distinction" in the industry. Applicants must be sponsored by two Academy members representing their branch. Oscar winners and nominees are automatically considered for

membership and don't need sponsors. Applications are reviewed once a year by the Academy's Board of Governors, which has the final say on who joins the elite group. Members used to enjoy voting rights for life but since 2016, "voting status" has been limited to 10 years, and is renewable, to avoid having voters who are no longer active in the business. Lifetime voting rights only come after three 10-year terms. Those not active become "emeritus" members who cannot vote. Read full story on manilastandard.net

Serving love in a cup M

ARK Sicat Dela Cruz, the director of the series Heartful Cafe that premieres tonight on GMA, believes that chemistry between two actors, most especially in a romantic comedy, is a magical connection that makes the audience feel the characters’ emotions.

In Heartful Cafe, which sees the fresh pairing of singer-actress Julie Anne San Jose and actor-model David Licauco, Mark notices a believable attraction between the lead characters. And for him, it makes the series even more beautiful and exciting. “This pairing is so special because they trust each other. Onscreen, they have each other’s back,” Mark shares with Manila Standard Entertainment in a virtual interview. “It’s my first time to direct Julie and David, pero kinikilig ako. They have strong chemistry and I didn’t have any hard time making that appear on screen,” he adds. The original series introduces Julie as Heart Fulgencio, an online romance novelist, and coffee enthusiast who owns a cozy and quaint cafe called The Heartful Cafe, and David as Ace Nobleza, a competitive and goal-driven businessman who takes an interest in Heart's cafe. Set in a coffee shop located inside a university campus, The Heartful Cafe is more than just a stomping ground for coffee drinkers; rather, it’s a place where all the magic happens. Despite having experienced heartbreak herself, Heart enjoys playing cupid for her customers who seek help regarding matters of the heart. When her cafe turns into shambles, Ace Nobleza, a handsome co-investor comes into her life and rescues her. “We are serving love in a cup,” Julie starts. “The story is very light. I believe that makes this program really relevant. Everyone needs something easy to watch right now.” Julie shares that she is both excited

‘Heartful Cafe’ features the fresh onscreen pairing of Julie Anne San Jose and David Licauco.

The cast of ‘Heartful Cafe’

and challenged to be acting again, "It's really good to be back doing a series, it’s exciting and challenging. I’m excited kasi ang ganda ng story ng Heartful Cafe, may new set of actors na makaka-work ako, and of course production team na bago rin. It’s also challenging because of our current situation na new normal. We have limitations and we have to follow safety protocols." Apart from the romance and comedy elements of the series, David believes that viewers can also learn a thing or two about business management, “Not only 'yung mga tao matutuwa dahil romanticcomedy siya, it’s light, I think the

audience will learn to be passionate when it comes to business, be goaldriven and hardworking kasi 'yung mga characters sa show ay talagang very focused sa ginagawa nila." Adding flavor to the series are EA Guzman, Ayra Mariano, Victor Anastacio, Angel Guardian, Zonia Mejia, and Jamir Zabarte. Heartful Cafe airs right after First Yaya, on GMA Network. It will also be simultaneously aired on GMA Heart of Asia. Viewers abroad can also watch the series via GMA's flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. For the program guide, visit www.gmapinoytv. com.

Celebs add zest to #ItsGoodToChill livestream Gerald Anderson and Julia Barreto

Derek Ramsay and Ellen Adarna

Vice Ganda and Ion Perez

WITH stress-inducing factors all around us in our everyday even when stuck at home,” Sarah said. lives, it’s more important than ever to learn how to cope with “As more people are looking for ways to take some time off stress. Mints brand Tic Tac aims to give us a little hand with from what’s currently happening around the world, we are here its latest “It’s Good To Chill” to remind you that it’s okay to campaign, which kicked off sit back, relax, loosen up, and with a banter-filled online chill out,” she added. event on April 7. The interactive livestream The #ItsGoodToChill kicked off with the unboxing livestream, hosted by actress of giant Tic Tac boxes, which Sarah Carlos, featured singer contained several packs of Christian Bautista, social Tic Tac in various flavors: media personality Aeriel Mint, Spearmint, Strawberry, Garcia, actor Julian Trono, Orange, and the limitedvlogger and TV host Aryanna edition Coca-Cola variant. Epperson, and sportscaster While Christian, Aeriel, Martin Javier. Aryanna, and Martin laughed “Staying true to its gentle and teased each other about nature, Tic Tac is encouraging the sandbags they found at us to make time to chill and the bottom of their boxes, relax. As each Tic Tac has Julian found a smaller box over 100 layers of coating that containing a brand-new allows for a gentle release of Sony PlayStation 5, which flavors and freshness, it’s the has been very difficult to perfect solution to help uplift purchase since its release in the mood, especially for those November 2020. Read full who still lead a fast-paced life Christian Bautista (left) and Julian Trono story on manilastandard.net

Life

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

C4

FOOD

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2021

Pinoy cooks

promote local cuisine

GrabFood deals at P250 or less ANSWER to your cravings without breaking the bank with these deals and menu items from brands available on GrabFood. Do note that some of these are available for a limited time only. Kanzen’s sushi rolls

Sushi rolls and more

Kanzen Sushi Roll, with several locations across Metro Manila and Rizal, offers eight-piece Sushi Prime Rolls or Kani Rolls for P99 a set. A serving of its Kani Salad or Spicy Kani Salad, meanwhile, is available for P155.

Popeyes’ Cajun chicken

Cajun chicken

Popeyes’ one-piece Fried Chicken Meal with rice and fries and drink starts as low as P119 (or sometimes even lower depending on Today’s Offer). A two-piece chicken meal, on the other hand, is priced at P182. Other less than P250 deals include the 82-peso Large Cajun Fries.

Chefs Michelle Africa and Sébastien Chamaret guide guests on how to cook Filipino dishes with a twist in their Online Experience offering on Airbnb.

G

ROWING up in a household where cooking lumpiang shanghai and adobong manok was child’s play inspired Ai Magno to seek a career in the kitchen.

The 30-year-old home cook shares what she has learned through the years of cooking Filipino food with guests around the world through her interactive “Philippines, Food, Drinks, History” Online Experience on Airbnb. Airbnb’s Online Experiences program was launched in April 2020, allowing the platform’s hosts to continue offering services in a safe way. In the Online Experience she hosts, Magno, who specializes in Filipino staples such as kare-kare, sisig, and sinigang, as well as sweet treats such as halo-halo and leche flan, shares a list of ingredients to prepare and tips on where to procure them. Guests taking part of the workshop held via Zoom also learn more about about the dishes they’re making. “Filipino food is the ultimate fusion food. Thousands of years in the making, it was prepared by our Malay ancestors, sautéed by the Chinese, stewed by the Spanish, grilled by the Americans, and enjoyed by the modern Filipinos. It should be shared around the world for others to enjoy,” opines Magno. Meanwhile, Filipino sous chef, lawyer, and educator Michelle Africa, and French chef Sébastien Chamaret team up to offer an Online Experience that showcases Filipino cuisine with a French twist. Africa and Chamaret’s “Filipino Cooking with a French Flair” On-

line Experience takes guests on a cultural journey where they learn how to create adobo, lumpia, and pancit, among others. This popular Experience holds a rating of 4.88 out of 5, with over 40 positive reviews from guests globally. “Thanks for a great evening learning to cook something brand new to me. You were very patient! It was a great way to celebrate a friend’s birthday during this pandemic. I wish we could have met you in person,” shared Sherri, one of their guests from San Diego. Airbnb Online Experiences connect the global community to various activities in cities around the world, providing a new way for people to connect, travel virtually, and earn income during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to cooking, other activities such as tarot card reading, wine tour, guided meditation, and more are available on the platform. Here in the Philippines, 51 percent of Online Experiences hosts are women, with 35 percent of them saying they started to offer this service to replace income lost from a full-time or part-time job. “The Airbnb Online Experiences is for everyone who wants to share their passion and interact with people from all over the world,” shares Amanpreet Bajaj, general manager for India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

BITES

Baker John Chocolate Cinnamon Loaf

Chocolate meets cinnamon ONE of the world’s favorite combinations, chocolate and cinnamon, comes together in a locally made loaf. Universal Robina Corporation’s Baker John launches its Chocolate Cinnamon Loaf. Each pack contains sliced chocolate-cinnamon loaf bread with swirls of chocolate, best enjoyed as is or with chocolate or peanut butter spread if you prefer. Baker John Chocolate Cinnamon Loaf is now available in select supermarkets nationwide.

Recovery Food’s Tapa de Morning

Tapa and other Pinoy fare

Recovery Food’s Tapa De Morning, Lecheng Kawali, Doc Sisig Full, Bulalo Batangas, and other filling Pinoy comfort food are all under P250 each. Select branches also have an ongoing free delivery offer as part of GrabFood’s BAHAYCATION promotion.

Krispy Kreme’s Original Glazed doughnuts Ai Magno teaches participants in her online cooking Experience how to cook Pinoy food staples such as kare-kare, inihaw, and halo-halo, while sharing bits of information about each dish.

Doughnuts with coffee

Get a box of six Original Glazed doughnuts from Krispy Kreme for P225 and pair it with an iced coffee (available in select branches) that’s priced as low as P105 (Signature Iced Classic).

Cookies

From left: Frenchipino Adobo, Sinangag, Chicken Soup and Coconut, and Pan de sal with French twist by Chefs Michelle and Sébastien.

Mini-docu series bares 500-year Filipino food history HOW much do you know about our Filipino food, According to historians, the food of our ancestors from the cuisines we enjoy to the customs we follow? was all about freshness. It featured the richness of Na- the resources of the islands: fish in broth, meat in In a 10-part mini-documentary series, the Na tional Quincentennial Committee, in collaboration broth, kinilaw (vinegar cooked fish) and other vinAs- egar dishes, tuba, rice, kakanin (sweet rice desserts), with Mama Sita Foundation and the Philippine As his- and porridge, as well as whole foods that came sociation of Condiments Producers, shares the his tory that influenced our rich Filipino cuisine. aplenty like ginger, coconut, batuan (souring agent The “Pagkain Natin: found only in certain places), Food of Our Ancestors” and banana. solidarwas organized in solidar The conversation – atQuinity with the 2021 Quin tended as well by Samar hisCommemoracentennial Commemora torian Rosario Nabong-Cartions in the Philippines bado, Philippine culinary that marks the 500th anadvocate and founder of niversary of the events Via Mare Glenda Rosalesthat took place here in Barretto, president of the the country during the Mama Sita Foundation Clara Magellan-Elcano circumcircum Reyes-Lapus, and host Ian navigation of the world. Alfonso of the National The first of the 10-part seHistorical Commission of ries, entitled “The Welcome,” the Philippines – went from premiered on March 18 and what Pigafetta found and focused on food as a gift for chronicled, what could be receiving others and the cul- The ’Pagkain Natin: Food of Our Ancestors’ 10- discovered of our food cultural aspect of sharing a meal part mini documentary series discusses the ture by gleaning through as a sign of friendship. the earliest dictionaries pubhistory of Filipino food beginning in 1521. “Our culture makes us lished, to discovering how want to feed people. We become happy if we can the early Filipinos used spices like cinnamon bark feed people, and that’s part of being Filipino,” in cooking (surprise! it was used for firewood). Philippine culinary historian Felice Prudente-Sta. Future episodes of the series are set to show Maria said during the launch, relating the story of throughout the year: “The Coconut” on April 27, the reception received by the crew of Ferdinand “Tuba” on May 2, “Vinegar” on May 4, “Fish” on Magellan after crossing the Pacific Ocean from May 7, “Chicken” on May 13, “Rice” on May 27, South America. “Leaf-wrapped Food” on June 21, “Roasting” on Accounts of the first meeting are about sharing Oct. 25, and “1521 to 2021” on Oct. 28. a meal of fish, coconut wine, coconut, rice, and The videos can be viewed on Mga Kuwentong rice cakes. Pagkain Facebook page.

Bite into Scout’s Honor’s 1 Bite 2 Bite cookies (Peanut Butter Fledge, Dark Chocolate Chip, Milk Chocolate Chip) available for P110 per dozen, or go for Cub Scout Cookies (Ultimate Chocolate Chip, 1969, Macadamia Cashew Dark Chocolate, Rocky Road, White Cranberry Oatmeal) priced at P70.

Scout’s Honor’s 1 Bite 2 Bite cookies

Serenitea milk tea

Milk tea

Beat the heat with two cups of Serenitea’s Brown Sugar Fresh Milk with Big Pearls for only P158 or Hokkaido Milk Tea for P125, available as part of its Buy One, Get One promo. Koomi’s Banana Dance with Some Berries

Yogurt drink

Choose from Koomi’s yogurt drinks (including Banana Dance with Some Berries, Masarap Ba’s Langkashewlad, Mango Moo, Nuts About You, Cookies N’ Dream, and more) available on GrabFood. Prices start at P138, and no cup is more than P200.