Manila Standard - 2021 May 3 - Monday

twitter.com/ MlaStandard

facebook.com/ ManilaStandardPH

S

manilastandard.net

Missed your copy of Manila Standard? Call or text our Circulation Hotline at 0917-8848655 or email: circulation@manilastandard.net

China steps up naval drills

In wake of WPS exercises, Duterte crafting ‘3Cs foreign policy’—Roque By Joyce Pañares and Macon Ramos-Araneta

C

HINA'S Shandong aircraft carrier has conducted exercises in the South China Sea – military drills which the People's Liberation Army (PLA) said will be regularly held in the disputed regional waters.

“We hope the outside world can view (the exercise) objectively and rationally. The PLA Navy will continue to organize similar exercises according to the plan regularly in the future,” PLA Navy spokesman Sr. Capt. Gao Xiucheng said in a statement published by state-owned media Global Times. This is the first known voyage this

year of the Shandong aircraft carrier group. China's other aircraft carrier, Liaoning, left the South China Sea last month after being deployed in the waters along with a strike group that included a guided missile destroyer, a frigate and a replenishment ship. Gao said the military drill will contribute to boosting the PLA Navy's

capability to safeguard China's sovereignty as well as regional peace and stability. Meanwhile, Malacañang told critics of President Rodrigo Duterte to let him pursue a “careful, calibrated and calculated foreign policy to its ultimate success” as hundreds of Chinese militia vessels have swarmed the West Philippine Sea since March. Next page

PLA Navymen pour out of the Shandong aircraft carrier in this file photo. China says it will hold military exercises regularly in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, coming at the heels of a Philippine Coast Guard's staging of naval drills in Philippine-claimed islands and shoals in the West Philippine Sea.

VOL. XXXV • NO. 77 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

OCTA pushes intensified swab test as cases drop By Willie Casas and Rio N. Araja METRO Manila should double its COVID-19 testing capacity to 60,000 a day to handle any sudden upsurge in cases, a researcher tracking the pandemic said Sunday. Guido David of the OCTA Research Team said that while cases are declining now to an average of more than 3,000 a day in Metro Manila, testing capacity should be doubled in case new infections shoot up again. "If we prepare for future surges our testing capacity should be at least dou-

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM MAY 2)

1,054,983 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

8,346 71,472 NEW

ACTIVE

17,431

77

DEATHS

NEW

966,080 9,072 NEW RECOVERIES

bled," David told GMA News Online. Guido said the average number of new COVID-19 cases nationwide went down by 11 percent during the last seven days, but this should not be seen as the effect of the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) that is now in place. The Philippines logged 8,346 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of cases to 1,054,983, as seven laboratories failed to submit their data on time, the Department of Health (DOH) reported. Seventy-seven new fatalities brought the COVID-19 death toll to 17,431, which is 1.65 percent of the total cases.

The DOH also reported 9,072 new recoveries, bringing the number of people who have recovered from the disease to 966,080, which is 91.6 percent of the total. Active cases stood at 71,472, which is 6.8 percent of the total. Of the active cases, 94.7 percent were mild, 1.9 percent were asymptomatic; 1.1 percent were critical; 1.4 percent were severe; and 0.9 percent were moderate. The DOH also reported that, nationwide, 64 percent of the ICU beds, 45 percent of the isolation beds, 51 percent of the ward beds, and 43 percent of the ventilators were in use.

Sputnik V 15K doses allotted to 5 Metro cities, DOH says By Willie Casas and Othel V. Campos THE initial 15,000 trial-order doses of Russia-made Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 will be distributed to five local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila, the Department of Health

(DOH) said Sunday. In an interview on radio dzBB, Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said the five cities--Makati, Taguig, Muntinlupa, Manila and Parañaque--were chosen because they have the cold storage facilities needed for the vaccine. Simulations for the handling of the Next page

Next page

Wage subsidy for SMEs backed By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE proposed P24-billion wage subsidy program will enable small and medium private enterprises to retain their employees and prevent further job losses, Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon said Sunday. To fund the program, Drilon urged the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to immediately recommend to the President the realignment of unused special purpose funds (SPFs) and unobligated or unreleased balances of budget items in the 2021 national budget, including the P19 billion earmarked for anti-

ASTRONAUTS SPLASH DOWN OFF FLORIDA

WORLD / B2

insurgency efforts. Drilon, a former Labor secretary, said 4.4 million Filipinos went jobless in 2020, resulting in an 10 percent unemployment rate. Drilon said his study of the 2021 General Appropriations Act shows that there are P556.49 billion worth of items in the budget that can be realigned to fund the much-needed assistance to private sector workers and poor Filipinos. “I urge the DBM to immediately recommend to the President the realignment of these huge allocations in the budget," said Drilon. Next page

Oil price upswing seen at P0.40/liter By Alena Mae S. Flores OIL prices are forecast to continue its upward trend this week by as much as P0.40 per liter to reflect the movement of prices in the world market, buoyed by increased demand in the US and China. Unioil Philippines said diesel prices will likely go up by P0.30 to P0.40 per liter but gasoline prices will not move. “Expect fuel prices to have mixed movement next week (May 4 to 10). Diesel will increase by P0.30 to P0.40 per liter. Gasoline will have no price change,” the company said. On April 27, oil companies increased the price of gasoline by P0.45 per liter, Next page

MORE PANTRY SCENES. On top of grocery items, family planning products such as condoms and pills (lower panel) can be doled out to recipients of community pantries, according to the Population Commission. Meanwhile, pantry organizers in a barangay in Dasmariñas, Cavitere have devised a clevery way by requiring recipients to dip their thumbs on ink pad to prevent repeaters. JR Josue

Condoms, pills in pantries urged THE Commission on Population and tribution activities. Development has urged proponents “POPCOM is very much supportof community pantries to include ive of community pantries as a form contraceptives such as condoms and of collective action in alleviating the Next page pills as necessary goods in their dis-

DDS vs. Yellows in troll farms war DILAWAN or DDS? Senator Panfilo Lacson has just had enough of the polarization of Filipinos when it comes to important national issues, which he said was

made worse by the operation of troll farms from both sides. "We are a deeply divided nation. The DDS and the Yellows bicker over just about anything," Lacson said. Next page

A2

News

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Town administrator slain in Capiz

A

VETERAN journalist and now municipal administrator of Pilar, Capiz was shot dead by masked riding-in-tandem gunmen Sunday, the National Union of Journalists said. The group said former NUJP national director John Heredia, 54, succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds. Heredia was about to board his vehicle after coming out from a hardware store at Barangay Lawa-an, Roxas City when he was repeatedly shot by the gunmen. His wife, lawyer Criselda Heredia, said she will await the result of the police probe into her husband's killing. She said her husband was declared dead on arrival at the Capiz Doctor's Hospital. The victim was the first and longestsitting chairman of the Capiz chapter of NUJP.

Condoms,... From A1

need for sustenance of our less privileged. We believe that they will welcome the addition of condoms and pills among the goods they will source— with the help of their local healthcare personnel,” said Undersecretary for Population and Development Juan Antonio Perez III. Perez said the dispensation of family planning services and commodities as essential during the ongoing public health emergency can help prevent unplanned and teenage pregnancies. “The presence of these modern methods of contraception in community pantries should also be seen as filling a void in the rollout of family planning activities, which are greatly disrupted by the pandemic,” he added. Organizers of community pantries, Perez said, should seek the support of local health personnel such as barangay health workers as well as family planning and barangay population volunteers. “As the most popular family planning method, pills need a prescription or enrollment in the family planning program. Our BHWs and BPVs can be invited to assist in dispensing such,” the POPCOM chief added.

DDS... From A1

DDS, which stands for Diehard Duterte Supporters, refers to supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte. Dilawan, which is vernacular for yellow, is associated with the Liberal Party and that of the Aquino family. The division is evident on social media, with both sides using the terms DDS or Dilawan to criticize each other. On Facebook, several DDS versus Dilawan public debate groups have sprouted, with the discourse adversarial and with hardly any room for dissent. “Filipinos should continue speaking their minds independently, especially in the pursuit of our country's national interest," Lacson said. Lacson said in so far as the West Philippine Sea issue is concerned, neither the DDS nor Dilawan label should apply. “Instead of having one voice, we bicker among ourselves. In the meantime, China just watches and even applauds," added the senator as he reiterated his call for a united stand on the issue. “We must make it clear to our fellow Filipinos what we stand to lose if we do allow the West Philippine Sea situation to continue. That should be the focus of the conversation, not petty bickering that will confuse our people," Lacson said. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Oil... From A1

diesel by P0.35 per liter and kerosene by P0.65 per liter. These resulted in year-to-date adjustments standing at a total net increase of P7.60 per liter for gasoline, P5.70 per liter for diesel and P4.95 per liter for kerosene. On May 1, oil firms slashed the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Petron Corp. cut the price of its LPG by P3.20 per kilo (VAT-inclusive) or a total of P34.10 for an 11kilo tank.. Petron also cut the price of its autoLPG by P1.80 per liter while Solane LPG slashed its prices by P2.84 per kilo (VAT exclusive).

OCTA... From A1

In Metro Manila, 70 percent of the ICU beds, 50 percent of the isolation beds, 62 percent of the ward beds, and 54 percent of the ventilators were in use. Meanwhile, Vice President Leni Robredo said if the government falls short of vaccinating 300,000 people a day, the Philippines would have to wait until 2031 to achieve herd immunity against COVID-19. Robredo’s spokesman, Barry Gutierrez, said there is a need to vaccinate over 300,000 Filipinos every day or 2 million people weekly to achieve herd immunity. But with a limited supply of vaccines, only 35,000 people are being vaccinated daily, he said. “So we need to make the rate of vaccination faster by almost 10 times, but Secretary (Carlito Jr.) Galvez is saying that by August, it is possible to vaccinate 2 million to 3 million people every week,” he said. At that rate, Gutierrez said, the country could attain herd immunity—inoculating 70 million out of 100 million Filipinos – before 2021 ends. “If the country can do that, we can ANGELUS PRAYER. Pope Francis delivers his blessing from his studio's window overlooking Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican during the Sunday Angelus prayer on May 2, 2021. On Saturday, Pope Francis led a rosary prayer for the beginning of the month overcome the problem we are facing,” of May, a month of daily rosaries prayed at Catholic shrines around the world for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. AFP Gutierrez said.

China... From A1

Roque said former officials, including retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio and former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, “are not helping our country” and are “misleading and endangering our people with illegal, impractical and irresponsible statements.” "They should leave international relations to the one who has the foresight, information, and constitutional mandate to make sound foreign policy decisions," Roque said. A militant fishermen's group, however, took the initiative to file three petitions urging the United Nations to act on China's incursions. According to the Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya), the petitions call on the UN to declare China's Coast Guard Law null and void, seek the demilitarization of the South China Sea, and probe the effect of the incursion to Filipino fishers' livelihood and domestic food security. “Our appeal is in the framework of upholding the basic rights to food and livelihood of our fisherfolk, who are the direct victims, and for the peaceful, diplomatic and non-military resolution to the Chinese aggression and plunder,” Pamalakaya national chairperson Fernando Hicap said in a state-

Sputnik... From A1

vaccines will be conducted by the Parañaque City government in partnership with the private sector. The Makati City government has partnered with Makati Medical Center to deploy the vaccines. Sputnik V can be administered to Filipinos ages 18 and above, and its second dose must be given 21 days after the first shot, Cabotaje said. Cabotaje could not say when the remaining 485,000 Sputnik V doses can be expected, though the government earlier said it expects the jabs to be delivered in May. On Saturday, the plane carrying the

Wage... From A1

He said there is no harm if the country postpones some of these items and use the unobligated balances to feed millions of Filipinos who are struggling to put food on the table and keep the jobs of thousands, if not millions, of Filipinos. Among the items that can be the source of realignments, according to Drilon, are the special purpose funds that only require the approval of the President in order for them to be released and utilized, including the P13 billion contingent fund and P4.5 billion in confidential and intelligence funds. He also renewed his call to realign the P19 billion anti-insurgency fund, of which P16.4 billion will go to more than 800 insurgency-free barangays. “This anti-insurgency program can wait so we can reallocate the funds to more important and high-impact programs such as a wage subsidy and ayuda (assistance). The GAA allows the use of this fund for financial subsidy,” he added. Drilon also cited the huge alloca-

ment Sunday. “The Filipino fishers are tired of Mr. Duterte compromising our sovereignty in the name of foreign loans and now, vaccines,” he added. Del Rosario, for his part, chided Duterte for saying the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling that invalidated China's massive nine-dash line over the SCS cannot be enforced, saying the President should not take a defeatist stance. “There are various ways to enforce the outcome, one of which is to submit our case before the UN General Assembly to compel China to abide by the rule of law. There are several precedents that have resulted in which a small country won over a much larger country in the UN General Assembly,” Del Rosario said in an open letter to Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea. “China has been taking away our land and waters. We would like to ask, Mr. Secretary, why our fellow Filipinos are being chastised for wanting to defend our country, rather than China? Why are we giving more importance to China over that of our own people?” he added. On the other hand, Senator Richard Gordon said Filipinos may be known for being hospitable, but that does not extend to “intruders.” “History is witness to that – guests are always welcome to our homes, but we are not hospitable to intruders. Our

national anthem resounds with the line 'sa manlulupig di ka pasisiil,'” the senator said. Gordon made the statement after Chinese Ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian said China is a true friend of the Philippines as shown by its readiness to help the Duterte administration secure vaccines while other countries were busy fanning maritime tensions in the region. “Certain countries, while looking at Philippines' anxiety of vaccine need with indifference, tried to sow discord by taking advantage of the differences between China and the Philippines," the ambassador said during an online vaccine summit over the weekend. “We should stay alert. The tougher the time is, the wider our eyes should be open. We would eventually know who the real friends and reliable partners are,” Huang added. On Saturday, members of the group Makabansang Alyansa trooped to the US embassy in Manila to call for the pullout of US vessels in the South China Sea to allow the Philippines “to pursue a sovereign and non-aligned foreign policy.” “To lessen tension between claimants, a country with no territorial claims should withdraw from (the WPS),” said Roperto Nambio, Makabansa spokesman. “In the case of the Philippines, bilateral talks between claimant China and our country should be pursued.

Multilateral and third-party countries who have no territorial claims should never be entertained,” the group added. President Rodrigo Duterte last week raised doubts on the commitment of the United States to come to the Philippines’ defense if maritime tensions come to a head. The President also directed Philippine ships in the West Philippine Sea not to leave the waterway despite the risk of damaging the country’s present relationship with China. “This will really be a test: I read China said we (Philippine ships) should leave. I now say (to PH vessels): Do not leave. Period. Regardless of whether America will help us or not. Let us stop pinning our hopes on America. They will not help us. A nuclear war – you think America will intervene?” Duterte said Wednesday. The President said he did not want to contend with China over the WPS, but reiterated the Philippines maintains its claim of sovereignty over the islands and the waters within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). “I am stating it for the record: We do not want war with China. China is a good friend. We owe China a debt of gratitude – including our vaccines. Let it be known that China is a good friend and we do not want trouble with China. But there are things which are not really subject to a compromise,” the President said.

trial-order doses of Russia's Gamaleya Research Institute vaccine landed in Manila. Its arrival was delayed twice due to logistical concerns. Brazil's health regulator last week rejected Sputnik V over “inherent risks and serious defects,” citing lack of information on safety, quality and effectiveness. But earlier, the Philippine Food and Drug Administration said Sputnik V has a 91 percent efficacy rate. Cabotaje, citing latest available data, said that 1.8 million Filipinos have been vaccinated against COVID-19 as of April 28. However, she admitted that vaccination is "constrained" by the low supply of vaccines. On Saturday, a health expert said

COVID-19 vaccines are safe to be given to mothers who have just given birth. Dr. Sybil Lizanne Bravo, an OBGYN and clinical associate at the UP College of Medicine said COVID-19 vaccines are safe for breastfeeding or postpartum mothers. “It's safe, please have your vaccine right away,” said Bravo, addressing new mothers. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) called on the Philippine business community to help in the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. “I do call on the Filipino business community to stand up and put pressure, wherever you can, on the government's local level, and globally, to ac-

tually fully fund the COVAX facility,” said ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton in a virtual vaccine summit held April 30, 2021. Organized by the International Chamber of Commerce Philippines (ICCP) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) the vaccine summit “Equitable Distribution and Safety" highlighted the important role of the private sector in the reliable roll-out of vaccines nationwide. Denton noted that it is incumbent upon the private sector to assist the government to secure the required magnitude of dosage to attain herd immunity and dispel any thoughts on the so-called vaccine nationalism, based on a global perspective.

tions for various infrastructure projects under the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He said that given the pandemic, he is certain that a significant portion of the budget of the Public Works department for 2021 remains unused. “Given the absorptive capacity of DPWH and the continuing pandemic, DPWH will not be able to implement and construct all these local roads, bridges and multi-purpose halls this year. We can put to good use these funds to provide food on the table of Filipinos who went hungry and lost jobs,” Drilon said. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) was studying the wage subsidy proposal. Lopez, who chairs the inter-agency National Employment Recovery Strategy (NERS) Task Force, said that the P24-billion proposed wage subsidy for private sector workers is first on the list of the government’s eight-point employment recovery agenda. The wage subsidy is “intended to preserve and protect existing employment,” Lopez said. “The proposed program shall provide wage subsidy equivalent to

P8,000 per month for a maximum of three months to affected workers through establishments’ payroll system,” he said. Senator Joel Villanueva threw his support behind the wage subsidy. "I support it because we have to diversify our [assistance] program," said Villanueva, chairman of the Senate labor committee, adding the conventional track is to help workers who have lost their jobs. "This one helps [protect] workers from losing theirs. We have to invest more in payroll retention and job protection programs that help both employers and workers," he said. He cited government data which shows that micro- small- and mediumscale enterprises (MSMEs) are 99.5 percent of all registered business enterprises in the country, and they are responsible for 62.4 percent of the country's total employment. "When we aid a struggling MSME, our subsidy cascades down to the workers who will be able to keep their paycheck because we have helped avert a shutdown," he said. In such a kind of a rescue, he said the government wins too, because it will continue receiving taxes paid by labor and capital.

Meanwhile, opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima called for 10 days paid leaves for employees afflicted with COVID-19. She filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 2148 mandates paid pandemic leaves for all qualified employees, whether in public or private sector, who are confirmed cases of COVID-19, during the duration of the pandemic. The bill seeks to grant 10 working days of paid COVID-19 leave for employees who contracted the virus and need to undergo quarantine and who because of the nature of their occupation, work or activity cannot avail of a telecommuting program or work from home scheme. De Lima said granting the 10-day pandemic leave for employees not only protects the welfare of workers and their families but also ensures occupational safety and health in workplaces and avoids further spread of the virus in the workplace. Meanwhile, former speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and his allies on Saturday gave P10,000 in cash assistance each to nearly 200 beneficiaries as part of their campaign for the immediate passage of a bill to provide P10,000 cash assistance to displaced workers and poor families.

News

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

A3

Lawmaker seeks booster shot for local drug makers By Rio N. Araja THE local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry needs to be strengthened so that it can improve the country’s access to quality, affordable, safe and effective mediciness, according to Bagong Henerasyon party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera. Addressing members of the Philippine Chamber of Pharmaceutical Industry Inc., Herrera said the role of local drug manufacturers has never been more important during the pandemic when nations scramble for life-saving drugs necessary to combat COVID-19. “It is already the survival of our country and we need to tap our own resources, and this is the direction we would like to take,” she said. “We need to survive as a country and we cannot survive without our local pharma industry, and that we see its importance,” she added, referring to Filipino drug manufacturers. Congress is now drafting a bill that would strengthen pharmaceutical production in the Philippines, Herrera said. She said she wanted the local industry to contribute in this undertaking by helping lawmakers find a way to reduce the country’s reliance on imported medicines. “I think we all want a self-sufficient industry. We want to be reliant on our resources here in the country. We should look inside and not look outside,” she raised. To encourage the local pharma industry to move up the value chain, Herrera said the Department of Health and the Food and Drug Administration must cut the red tape for Filipino drug manufacturers, she noted.

2 suspects nabbed with P3.4-m shabu By Jess Malabanan CITY OF SAN FERNANDO—Antinarcotic agents arrested two suspsected bigtime illegal drug traffickers and seized some 500 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride with an estimated street value of P3.4 million during a sting operations along Magalang-Concepcion Road, Barangay San Francisco, Concepcion, Tarlac Saturday. Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency director Christian Frivaldo identified the suspects as siblings Cervando Montano Gayas, 26, alias Mata and Aurora, 29, both of Bgy Rizal, Makati City Metro Manila. He said the suspects motored all the way from Makati City to Concepcion town in Tarlac just to deliver shabu to a poseur buyer with whom they negotiated the sale of illegal drugs through exchange of text messages. Frivaldo said the suspects and the PDEA agent agreed to meet along the national highway of Concepcion town at Bgy San Francisco section past 11 p.m. Saturday. He said both were immediately arrested after handing over a resealable transparent plastic bag containing white crystalline substance. Sensing they are being set up, one of the suspect tried to escape and ran towards the bush but PDEA operatives tailed him and arrested moments later, Frivaldo. The Gayas siblings are known bigtime courier of shabu in Makati City and nearby areas in Metro Manila and Central Luzon, said Frivaldo. Both suspects are in the radar of PDEA for their involvement in the illegal drugs trade, he said. The suspects also yielded a cellular phone and other paraphernalia during the buy-bust.

SANITATION ROUTINE.

Misting and fogging operations continue in the city of Manila as part of daily efforts to sanitize and disinfect public offices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other diseases. Among those visited by the disaster management personnel were the offices of the Department of Education in Arroceros Park, Metropolitan Trial Court, and Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School.

ISOLATION VAN. San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora together with

DPWH officials and city officials attend the blessing of the new 52-room container van quarantine facility on April 30, 2021. Personnel manning the facility will provide free food and P3000.00 cash assistance to those undergoing quarantine in the city. The new facility was constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways under the IATF’s ‘We Heal As One’ project. Manny Palmero

DOJ vows to prevent onerous water deals

By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE Department of Justice on Sunday assured the people that there will no longer be onerous provisions in the new concession agreements with both Manila Water Company, Inc. and Maynilad Water Services, Inc. Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra made the assurance as the government panel meets today, May 3, with representatives of the Maynilad to discuss its new water concession agreement. The government and Manila Water have signed a revised CA last March 31 and the agreement will be effective six months after the signing. Guevarra stressed that there will be no more grossly disadvantageous provisions in the new concession agreement

that will be signed with Maynilad. “There are certain provisions which, I believe, are non-negotiable,” Guevarra said. “The removal of the non-interference clause, the non-chargeability of corporate income tax to consumers’ water bills, no government guarantees for future debts, COA (Commission on Audit) audit, and a more transparent governance mechanism are some of these,” he added.

Guevarra admitted that the government panel has already sent a copy of the revised concession agreement to Maynila Water. “Until we hear the initial comments of Maynilad Water, we can’t say if we’ll have a CA that is not too different from the CA with Manila Water” (Manila Water Company, Inc.), he said. Maynilad Water and Manila Water are the two water concessionaires in Metro Manila and some nearby provinces. President Duterte himself pushed for the revision of the pre-existing water concession agreements with the two companies as early as December 2019 after a panel of reviewers from the Department of Justice found numerous onerous provisions.

BTS AYUDA.

Former Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez both of the “Balik sa Tamang Serbisyo “ (BTS) sa Kongreso movement, gave P10,000 in cash assistance each to 200 beneficiaries from all over the Philippines as part of their campaign for the immediate passage of the proposed 10k Ayuda Bill. The event was held at Dangal Headquarters in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna. Norman Cruz

Pension benefits for cops, soldiers must be raised, Salceda says ALBAY Rep. Joey Salceda wants more benefits for soldiers and cops killed or wounded in action as part of pension reform. Salceda, House ways and means chairperson, said his proposed fiscal framework for the military and uniformed personnel (MUP) pension under House Bill No. 9271 would help the government pay bigger benefits to military and police personnel killed or wounded in the line of duty. The bill, an administration-backed version of the reform, said would improve the benefits for those who are killed or wounded among the MUP personnel, “in recognition of their willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for the country.” “Right now, we can’t make those compensations, because we don’t have a reserve fund for their pension, and we pay all pensions out of the national budget. Once we get the GSIS to run the military pension, we will be able to create an insurance system for the unique risks they take in the line of duty,” he added. Under Salceda’s proposal, an MUP trust fund would be created out of mandatory contributions from the MUP and the national government. The Government Service Insurance System would run the pension fund as administrator. The bill also mandates the GSIS to create an insurance system for uniformed service members. According to Salceda, the Department of Finance has already endorsed his proposal to the House leadership, and that Speaker Lord Allan Velasco has already consulted him on the matter. Rio N. Araja

Labor leader bats for world treaty to protect state workers

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte should certify as urgent the passage of an enabling law for an international treaty on the protection of government workers’ rights to organize and negotiate the terms and conditions of their employment, according to a party-list lawmaker. Rep. Raymond Mendoza, also the president of Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, made the call as he presented the labor sector agenda during the Task Group on Economic Recovery

(TGER) and the National Employment Recovery Strategy’s (NERS) Job Summit on Saturday. Mendoza said there must be an enabling law to be passed by Congress for the International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention 151, or the Public Service Labour Relations Convention, to ensure that the full trade union rights of public sector employees are given meaning. The ILO 151 guarantees government

employees’ rights against anti-union discriminatory acts, right to collective bargaining, and right to be heard through dispute settlement. “[It] is only right as they are front-liners too, in the fight against Covid-19,” Mendoza said. He also pushed for the regularization of all government workers who have provided 3 years of satisfactory service. “Let us not make government as the

number one employer of all labor-only contracting,” he said. He called for the ratification of the ILO Convention 190, or the Violence and Harassment Convention, to finally put an end to harassment and other forms of violence inflicted on workers in the workplace; as well as ILO Convention 188, or the Work in Fishing Convention, so that the fishermen who toil and are exploited in fishing vessels are given ample protection. Rio N. Araja

QC acquires swab machine from SG QUEZON City is a recipient of viral RNA extraction machine and a RTPCR machine donated by Singapore. Mayor Joy Belmonte, along with city administrator Michael Alimurung and COVID-Task Force head Joseph Belmonte, accepted the donation from Temasek Foundation and MiRXES Pte. Ltd. represented by their local partner, Armand Arreza from Synergy Sourcing and Development Group. Temasek Foundation’s latest donation came after past donations of oxygen concentrators and masks which benefitted the Quezon City community.

To further support the City’s COVID-19 containment effort, especially in the area of frontline testing of medical and economic frontliners, Temasek Foundation, MiRXES and Synergy made available diagnostic equipment, RT-PCR test kits and other peripherals will benefit workers in Quezon City, as well as in other local government units and agencies. Belmonte thanked Temasek Foundation, MiRXES and Synergy for their generous support and cited that the new gesture would further strengthen the city’s strong ties with Singapore. Rio N. Araja

A4

News

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

OFF LIMITS. A Philippine coast guard patroller drives people out of the water of Manila Bay, as it still not safe to swim in it, on Sunday at the Baseco Beach in Manila. The Department of Health has not yet allowed people to plunge into the polluted waters. Norman Cruz

Main database for protection orders sought By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Manuel “Lito” Lapid has proposed to create a central database for all Temporary and Permanent Protection Orders by courts to better protect women and children. He filed a bill that seeks to strengthen the enforcement of TPOs and PPOs issued pursuant to Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004. “It is clear that our government is responsible under RA 9262 to protect all women and the youth against all abuses and intimidation,” he stressed. With this measure, Lapid said victims will not be burdened with the task of always providing certified copies of TPOs and PPOs whenever they ask for police assistance. “A victim will no longer fear for her/his safety. We can be assured that the response of our police on the call for protection will be fast,” Lapid said of the central database. To make sure that the database will always be up to date, TPOs and PPOs shall be immediately registered to the central repository by the courts issuing the same. A protection order is issued to prevent further acts of violence against a woman or her child and granting other necessary relief. The relief granted under a protection order serves to safeguard the victim from further harm, the lawmaker said. TPOs and PPOs also seek to minimize any disruption in the victim’s daily life by facilitating the opportunity and ability of the individual to independently regain control over her life, Lapid said. Senate Bill 2143 pushes to strengthen the enforcement of such TPOs and PPOs by ensuring that all police officers and other law enforcement authorities who may need to implement these shall have easy access to such information, the senator noted.

‘Manila Bay years away from being swimmable’ By Rio N. Araja

B

UHAY Party-list Rep. Joselito Atienza on Sunday said Manila Bay being “swimmable” is still years away.

He said it may take “several years” before the public could enjoy swimming safely in the waters of Manila Bay at the rate households in the National Capital Region are being connected to a sewage system. “Sadly, we expect the bay’s fecal coliform levels to stay extremely elevated in the years ahead, considering that some 85 percent or 13.9 million of the water-served population in Metro Manila are still not hooked up to a sewage network,” Atienza said. The greater part of Metro Manila’s toilet waste will continue to get discharged into stormwater drains and flow untreated into channels, including

the Pasig River, that all empty out into the bay every day, the lawmaker noted. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources should exert more pressure on the private water concessionaires and “expeditiously fulfill” their obligations under the Clean Water Act of 2004, Atienza said. “Under the law, they are supposed to attach all households to a sewage system, and then treat all the collected wastewater. They can either reuse the cleaned water, or recycle it back into the natural environment,” the former Environment secretary added.

Both Manila Water Co. Inc. and Maynilad Water Services Inc. have projected they would need another 16 years, or until 2037, to connect all homes to a sewage network. The Supreme Court in 2019 penalized the two concessionaires and the Metropolitan Waterworks Sewerage System with P1.84 billion in combined fines due to their failure to connect households to a sewage system and their lack of wastewater treatment facilities, Atienza noted. The three parties were ordered to pay a rolling penalty of P322,102 per day until they achieve 100 percent sewage connection. The tribunal upheld the penalty originally imposed by Atienza when he was the DENR chief in 2009, after the concessionaires failed to comply with the Clean Water Act’s five-year deadline for them to link up their customers to a sewage system.

ROTARY AWARD.

His Excellency Harald Fries (center), Sweden Ambassador, was the recipient of the Ambassador Carlos P. Romulo Award for Excellence in Diplomatic Relations from the Rotary Club of Manila in a simple ceremony at the Embassy of Sweden . The prestigious award was given for Fries’ exceptional accomplishments in Diplomacy, Culture and the Arts, Manpower, Trade and Commerce between the Philippines and Sweden. With Fries (from left) are RCM Vice President Thad Liamzon, Immediate Past President Jack Rodriguez, President Bobby Joseph, PDG Vince Carlos, and Madame Cynthia Carreon, President of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines.

Gatchalian: Distance learning inequalities in PH must be bridged

AIRING his concern over students’ difficulty in answering modules, Sen. Win Gatchalian on Sunday underscored the need to bridge distance learning inequalities across the country. In addressing the challenges of distance learning and fostering recovery for the country’s basic educa-

tion sector, he also pressed to ensure equitable learning for the country’s K to 12 learners. Gatchalian, chair of the Senate committee on basic education, cited the results of a survey conducted by Pulse Asia from February 22 to March 3, where 53% of the parents surveyed nationwide identified difficulty in an-

swering modules as the most common educational problem encountered in distance learning amid the coronavirus pandemic. The problem with modules is more common among respondents in Mindanao (74%) compared to those in the National Capital Region (32%), the rest of Luzon (43%), and Visayas (62%), the

‘Hispanizing’ Maguindanao draws flak By Nash B. Maulana

COTABATO CITY—Maguindanao “del Norte” and “Sur”—instead of “North” and “South”—as an amendment into proposed bills dividing the province is drawing flak among professional residents. Odin Abdula, a former Consul at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Riyadh, said all was well with Senate Bill (SB) 1714 and SB 1824 authored by Senators Cynthia Villar and Francis Tolentino, respectively, dividing the province into North and South Maguindanao. Maguindanao Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu, author of the House counterpart measure, HB 6413, earlier said he was thankful to senators supporting the measure in the upper chamber — among them Villar and Tolentino, and Senators Maria

Josefa Imelda Marcos, Ronald dela Rosa, Sherwin Gatchalian, and Christopher Lawrence Go. Abdula said an amendment was introduced by two other senators to change the north and south into the Spanish “norte” and “sur,” adding that with an obtaining cordial dialogue, Maguindanao Governor Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu opted not to object to the proposed amendment. He did not name the senators concerned. Still, others said senators should be “sensitive of historical facts” that the Sultanate of Maguindanao had successfully defended its realm from centuries of colonial subjugation by Spain in what was then Las Islas Filipinas (Philippine Islands). According to the Filipino writer-historian Ambeth Ocampo, Maguindanao’s Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat successfully repelled Spain’s Mindanao expeditions under 11 governors-general.

survey showed. While 23% of respondents nationwide reported they do not understand what the teacher is teaching, this problem is also more common among respondents from Mindanao (33%) compared to the National Capital Region (17%), the rest of Luzon (24%), and Visayas (10%).

Pantry runners must prioritize health—group A GROUP of front-liners on Sunday urged community pantry organizers to prioritize basic health protocols above good intentions when helping the needy during COVID-19 pandemic. In a virtual interview during the Lingkud Bayanihan weekly video show, Alvin Constantino, Confederate Sentinels of God (CSG) Inc. founder, appealed to well-intentioned organizers to strictly observe the minimum health protocols to protect everyone against the coronavirus during such events. “Let us think and plan out well our community pantry projects so we can truly help our less fortunate and suffering neighbors experiencing hunger because of the pandemic,” he said. “Let us not cause COVID-19 transmissions in our communities that can lead to the untimely deaths of our poor neighbors. I salute the hearts of community pantry organizers. Your hearts are similarly attuned to the hearts of our patriotic Filipino heroes of the past,” Constantino added. Last April 23, a 67-year-old man collapsed and died while waiting in line at a community pantry organized by actress Angel Locsin in Barangay Holy Spirit. Four individuals who also lined up at Locsin’s community pantry tested positive for COVID-19, according to the Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit. Dr. Leo Olarte, Bayanihan Frontliners Movement lawyer-president, told reporters their food and relief goods operations are coupled with a free 24/7 online telemedicine service (www.docph.org) that would roll out house-to-house nationwide starting in Metro Manila, with help from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Dr. Benito Atienza, Philippine Medical Association president, said a joint Lingkud Bayanihan caravan kicked off Sunday at Hospital de San Jose Orphanage in Quiapo, Manila for the distribution of food, relief goods, and access to free online telemedicine services to about 450 children and elderly.

SC lets women judges attend world confab

THE Supreme Court has granted permission to the members of the Philippine Women Judges Association to attend the three-day online biennial conference of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) starting May 7. In a circular, Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez stressed that the attendance of PWJA members during the 15th conference of the IAWJ on May 7 will be on official time “provided that their respective court calendars are properly managed, and the parties are duly notified of any cancelled hearing.” The IAWJ conference is hosted by the New Zealand Association of Women Judges. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Diversity.” SC Senior Associate Justice Estela M. Perlas Bernabe is PWJA president. PWJA secretary, Judge Josefina E. Siscar, was directed to submit to the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) a report 10 days after the conference with a complete list of all Philippine judges who attended. IAWJ was founded in 1991 after 50 female judges from around the world were invited to participate in the 10th anniversary meeting of the United States National Association of Women Judges. Published reports stated that the first IAWJ meeting was held in the United States in October 1992 with 82 judges from 42 countries in attendance. Rey E. Requejo

ESTERO TRASH.

Department of Public Safety District 2 personnel haul away waste placed along Jose Abad Santos Avenue corner Antipolo Street fished from the Estero de Kabulusan. The City Government of Manila has repeatedly reminded everyone not to use Manila’s waterways as dumping sites, as esteros clogged with garbage lead to flooding. Manila DPS Photo

Opinion LGUs are more effective

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

B1

EDITORIAL

Unshackled

NAKED masks in public. Minister Chen conducted daily press conTHOUGHT ferences, without a spokesman for the CECC, but himself, until the situation normalized. CHARLIE V. He was a cool, not shrill, purveyor of the latMANALO est news and government directives. There was no lockdown, only a selective closure reprehensible. Then again, for governORLD Press Freedom Day today coincides with a of crowded venues. Schools closed only for ment agencies, perhaps the line is blurred IN THE war against COVID-19, whether at two weeks in February, then resumed with multitude of issues confronting media in general and between news delivery and propaganda. the tracing and testing stage, to the need for social distancing (which of course was not a Philippine journalists in particular. better healthcare facilities, and now the slow problem for Taiwan which has so many pubWe hope, thus, that our government low population roll-out of the vaccines that are in short sup- lic schools, and because of THE leaders realize that those who criticize FIFTH ply, the national government should learn to growth, have few enrollees compared to our According to UNESCO, this day them do not necessarily want to bring GOSPEL use the local government officials more jampacked classrooms). CROSSROADS acts as a reminder to governments of them down. Only fools with binary We are only truly But all that is in the past. Everyone with instead of its fossilized bureaucrats. the need to respect their commitment JUDE minds would ever think that. We critiI recall an incident a J.A. month ago when enough brains in the Philippines knows how free if we can gather to press freedom; it is also a day of cize because it is our job to hold offiwrong move senators, aghast at the confusion in our difficult it is to cure an originalACIDRE DELA CRUZof the insofar as a pandemic is concerned. We reflection among media professioncials accountable and to suggest ways pandemic war, proposed the abolition enough humility to als about issues of press freedom and Inter-Agency Task Force that presides over failed to do the right things from the start, to run the country better. examine ourselves and the fight against COVID-19. It was the young now we suffer the consequences of inaction professional ethics. On this day, as well, journalists need mayor of Manila, Isko Moreno Domagoso, and delayed action. our practices, correct Today we have in mind the disturbto assert that despite economic and other Moving forward, now that we are trying to who took the cudgels for the task force, ing provision in the Anti-Terrorism Law challenges, we chose this vocation and our mistakes and renew inoculate millions with the vaccines available, saying that this was not the time to ascribe which, if it falls on the wrong hands or is are here for the long haul. Then again, we fault or re-invent the tools of war, but to have a whether donated or purchased by the governour commitment to implemented by someone with a vengeshould free ourselves from our own sense unified stand on how to correct what was wrong. ment or the private sector, I noticed that, at NAKED excellence and the least in the national capital region, itSO is young ful or dictatorial bent, could be potentially OPEN of infallibility and self-importance. THOUGHT and dynamic mayors who are the more effecused to suppress dissent or criticism. It could be tempting to think of jourpublic good. THOUGHTS I SEE tive implementers of the vaccination drive. If “Any person who, without taking any CHARLIE V. nalism as a crusade, something underThe national only their effectiveness were not hobbled by a direct part in the commission of terrorism, ORLANDO taken by those with the purest of hearts LITO and laggard national government bureaucracy government should MANALO shall incite others to the execution of Communications Operations Offi ce to and the noblest of intentions. But it OXALES a debating society called the IATF. BANAYO learn to use them more any of the acts specified in Section 4 various officials of the government media could also be easy to fall by the waySec. Charlie Galvez is a very cool perhereof by means of speeches, procla- agency to “convey to the public that the side or get caught up in hubris, believson, but maybe he should stop abiding with instead of its fossilized the interminable talk of his members and mations, writings, emblems, banners Philippines is faring better than many oth- ing that we can do no wrong. bureaucrats. inviting resource persons who love to talk or other representations tending to the er countries in addressing the pandemic.” Today, as we mark World Press without understanding either the simple same end, shall suffer the penalty of An earlier phrase emphasizing the Freedom Day, may we remember that THE FIFTH math of supply versus demand for vaccines, imprisonment of twelve (12) years,” need to include global updates in the we are only truly free if we can gather I now wonder if Yorme was just being or are more heart than science. GOSPEL according to Section 9, falling under In- fight against COVID-19 is correct; the enough humility to examine ourselves CROSSROADS Here is an unsolicited advice to the gentlenice, a case of noblesse oblige even. citing to Commit Terrorism, of theJUDE law. instruction to spin the narrative to make and our practices, correct our mistakes Someone in the staff of one of the 28 man czar: Use the local governments more J.A. and Today, too, we remember that note it appear that the government response to and renew our commitment to excelregular members who compose the IATF than the national government bureaucrats ACIDRE them. CRUZ who worked with me at one time in the recent the headless chickens who lead from an undersecretary of the Presidential the pandemic is adequate is wrong, even lence and the public good. DELA Young or youngish mayors like Vico Sotto, past told me that they have interminably long meetings, sometimes lasting for more than Isko Moreno, Abigail Binay, Marcy Teodoro, nine hours straight, with resource persons Rex Gatchalian, Lino Cayetano, Toby Tiangco, from the medical and scientific community and others are showing that they know what it allowed to speak lengthily, sometimes emo- takes to get things done efficiently and effectionally, with the meetings failing to come up tively. They also know how to use their local resources optimally and complementary to the with a definitive program of action. rector Kelly Bird, during a recent online 2021, about two weeks in ECQ and about over I wondered: Aren’t these resource persons national government; and more than anything OPEN briefing, sees that Philippine recovery will 4 weeks in MECQ would add up to an estisupposed to be in a technical working group else, they know their communities, the people not be as fast considering the uncertain mated total of about P98 billion in workers’ meeting, the output of which would be policy and their respective environments. They can THOUGHTS environment and dependencies on global income lost in NCR Plus by mid-May. The recommendations from which the top hon- localize actions and reactions. They can solve and domestic developments in controlling way new infections are still hovering under chos of the IATF could base their informed problems when they appear, on the spot. ORLANDO COVID 19. How fast vaccines are de10,000 a day, and hospital congestion still at Now compare that with the DOH bureaudecisions? OXALES ployed and return of consumer confidence critical levels, it’s hard to be optimistic. Also, why such a huge number of cracy, and even other departments involved in will be closely connected. This will be key Such is the magnitude of the lockdowns members in the task force, each one, the IATF, and weep. Thank God Secretary in opening up the economy. UNCERTAINTY, the specter of financial in the NCR because of the economic output typical of most Filipino bureaucrats, in- Galvez has a Vince Dizon as his co-worker, Commenting on recent government procatastrophe and death spawned by this new of the region to the national economy. These sisting on their ten minutes of fame speaking who is both intelligent and a busybody. nouncements on the increase in the number surge of COVID 19 mutations is a daily wor- disruptions have caused a crisis in food and over the microphone, sometimes spewing Even the dynamic Baguio City Mayor of jobs in recent months, Bird points out that ry for all bread-winners. Staying gainfully accommodation services, education, conBenjie Magalong seems to have given up nonsense, just to be heard? this is actually a labor shift from formal to employed is a blessing. Losing one’s source of struction, storage, transportation, retail, and I don’t want to make comparisons with working with the jurassics. informal sector which are low quality jobs manufacturing industries. active income is a dreaded probability. And to think that we started off the present Taiwan, where the results of the war against where earning is not stable, not covered by The everyday burdens that Filipino workers COVID-19 are now hailed world-wide as a administration espousing federalism, which in the social system, and may create some long must now endure is a manifestation of the systemplate on how to tame the pandemic. But essence means devolving power and responsiterm scarring effects. The Filipino labor temic flaws in the country’s bureaucracy, indespite the huge difference in their healthcare bility to the local government units. Like the More voices are becoming very critical of frastructure, health system, and governance. system and ours, there is one sticking lesson former mayor of Davao, now president of the force must now exert the government’s pandemic response. PolitiThe early excuse of global unpreparedness that I observed. And that is a single unified land, local government officials are more incal spin doctoring, and useless theatrics will was patiently tolerated by the people, but afheroic fortitude to system under the Minister of Health as head timately knowledgeable of their constituents, soon lose their entertainment value as peoter over a year of lockdowns, record-breaking and are subject to accountability every three of the Central Epidemic Command Center. cope with the risks and ple start losing patience and demand results. infection rates and over a million documented years. So unless they are idiots or simply buy Of course, comparing Minister Chen ShihIt made me cringe listening to some cabinet cases, the growing sense of desperation and chung with our Secretary Francisco Duque is votes to get themselves re-elected, they know diffi culties of this deep members parry the embarrassing comparifrustration may overshadow the Filipino’s they have to perform and perform well so they like comparing gold to un-plated “tanso.” son to Vietnam’s pandemic response, which recession. ever patient nature and spark the rise of destaFrom the start of the epidemic, and before pass the test of public service. many analysts have seen as a great example bilizing social unrest. Appointed officials and their sluggish the WHO decided to call it a pandemic, of how swift response to three outbreaks Government’s February 2021 data reMinister Chen got the transportation ministry, bureaucrats just play to the political music, using science and the familiar methods of It’s not just our workers in Metro Manila ported a shocking 4.5 million jobless Filithe economic affairs ministry, the national im- or get atrophied by protection of civil service Testing, Tracking, Isolating, and Treating to pinos, 600,000 more compared to the previ- getting hit, according to Labor Secretary migration agency, and other relevant offices to permanence. successfully stop the virus. Recent reports Silvestre H. Bello III, 646,827 overseas Filous month. NEDA Secretary Karl Kendrick This war against the pandemic will last first: Close the borders on all flights coming count only 2,910 cases and 35 deaths. It has Chua estimated the income losses from ipino workers (OFW) are now jobless befrom Hubei, and a week later, all of China. beyond the 2022 elections, and the public NAKED reopened beaches to citizens. work wages from the last days of March to cause of the economic slump in Europe and Then he asked the MOEA to call together all will realize, if they have not yet realized, who Another interesting factor is their great the Middle East. end April at P83.3 billion. the capable manufacturers to ramp up their are the dedicated, the effective, the efficient, THOUGHT mistrust of their bordering neighbor ChiFindings from the Social Weather Stations The revert to ECQ (Enhanced Communiproduction of face masks, because he would versus the fence-sitters, the worn-out, and the na, When the Vietnam government dety Quarantine) restrictions drastically lim- November 2020 survey showed even higher incompetents. order every citizen and resident toCHARLIE wear face V. tected the first cases of the Wuhan virus, ited the people’s mobility and forced busi- figures with 12.7 million Filipinos unemMANALO they did not hesitate to close their borders, ness to scale down or suspend operations. ployed. Furthermore, 4 million families said something our government delayed doing Recent news reports quoting the Labor De- they experienced involuntary hunger. Six-- and you know why. partment said that some 118,000 were lost ty-two percent of the respondents said that Let me end by recognizing our Filipino their quality of life had deteriorated compared from January to March this year. labor force, our most important national asSecretary Chua further explained that for to the previous year. set who must now exert heroic fortitude to Even more burden is the rising inflation every week of ECQ in Metro Manila and outis one lesson is to make the most out of our cope with the risks and difficulties of this which according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipilying provinces, there is P19.6 billion in lost THE FIFTH available skills and resources in order to not deep recession. I also appeal to the private income because of the absence or limited op- nas Governor Benjamin Diokno might reach only withstand this crisis, but by learning to GOSPEL sector to continue supporting your workers erations of business establishments. MECQ the 4.2 percent to 5 percent level in April and do more with less, also to emerge from it even by using your dynamism and innovativeness likely to surpass the last high of 5.1 percent which is still in effect, is causing a weekly stronger. Thus, it is important for us to think JUDE to sustain continuity while learning to live loss of P14.7 billion. With the recent an- recorded in December 2018. creatively. This means thinking out of the box, with this virus. Asian Development Bank country dinouncement of further extending to May 14, ACIDRE having the eye for innovation and the courage to embrace change in the process. The gainers that have fared better than IT HAS been more than a year since this coropied many of our everyday concerns replaced Until the pandemic happened. All of a sud- for leaders to speak the truth, show courage, navirus pandemic started. I am certain many the others during this crisis are those by the more familiar that we once took for den, our businesses, politics and economies admit when they do not know, and take risks of us are already tired and anxious about organizations and companies who have granted—family, faith and friendship. Before, were all turned upside down. All of a sudden, navigating the unknown when this crisis is going to end. Many of us pivoted quickly in the face of this panwe gave time and attention to our business or the systems that we were used to were not are hoping for the time when things will be demic and allowed for adaptability. professions; now we spend them more with working anymore. So we turn to the very peoback to the way they were before. the people who mean to us, or with activities ple who made them work. We have learned to But more than a year into this pandemic, that have sparked some new inspiration in us. put our feet into their shoes. We have started we are facedOPEN with an inconvenient truth: We We need people who In a way, this crisis has changed the way we to listen to their cares and concerns. We realare never going back. The ways by which live our lives. We have come face to face with ize that people will cherish our actions more we have THOUGHTS adopted and adapted our lifestyle to speak the truth, show how what we thought to be formidable now to be during challenging times, and that kindness in the towering demands of this global health fragile and even at risk, in the end changing our a moment of difficulty is an investment that courage, admit when emergency are here to stay. The more relevant ORLANDO outlook and perspective of the world. Health has yields long-term results. Now we see once question that we should be asking instead is OXALES they do not know, and become more important than wealth, our pur- more the value of inspiring and motivating how—not when—this crisis is going to end. (www.manilastandard.net) pose more valuable than our positions and that others to take action in the face of the most How can we make this crisis work to our take risks navigating the people worth more than profi t. trying challenges. advantage? This is, for me, the most important lesson That is why whenever I have the opportuniunknown. It is often said, every crisis comes with an SO NAKED from this pandemic: We put people first. The ty to speak to young leaders, I always remind opportunity. But are the opportunities that I SEE THOUGHT unfettered drive for success in the pre-pan- them that this crisis is one of the best times to come with this crisis? demic society has often made us think that be a leader. When we have to learn how to beAs young leaders, what have we learned Three things come to mind: To learn more LITO V. CHARLIE people are like lifeless cogs in a machine, that come a leader with empathetic agility. When creatively, live more meaningfully and lead from learning creatively is that availability is BANAYO MANALO they are but dispensable components to a sys- we learn how to be a leader with passionate as important as ability. That the willingness with more empathy. tem. But this crisis has made us realize once purpose. When we become leaders through First, learn creatively. No society, country to learn is as important as the lessons to be more the importance of human relationships. compassionate service. Nothing will test our or organization today can ever claim being a embraced. That the courage to change is as The real crime The paradox is unmistakable: Forced by being mettle as a leader more powerfully than this hundred percent prepared for this pandemic. impactful as the change itself that we want to disconnected physically, we are finding more time of adversity. In fact, many if not all were caught by sur- achieve. It would not be easy, but it is exactly and more reasons and ways to get connected. More than a leader who speaks well, we prise. I remember, at the beginning of this the adversity that we have to deal with that Third, lead with more empathy. In the days look up to a leader who listens more intently. crisis, I was hopeful that it would all be over will help us become even better. In the end, CROSSROADS TO THE before this pandemic, strong leadership was giv- More than a leader who can easily convince in three to four months. But three, six, nine we realize that while this new normal of doen a premium, and the leaders who got things a client, far more important is someone who months came by, and still no clear end in ing things may be different—in many ways, it POINT J.A. done, whatever the cost, were well applauded. It cares for the team. Much more than a leader sight. Even now the number of infections has could be better. DELA CRUZ was unheard of the need for a business or politiwho forces people to action, we need someone EMIL P. Second, live more meaningfully. The peosurged once more, and it seems the gains of cal leader to be compassionate and supportive. In who inspires others to find their purpose. ple and institutions that we thought to be forthe past months have all been lost. JURADO a dog-eat-dog world, it was far more important More than ever before, the extraordinary So how to survive in a time of challenge? midable—the giants of politics, economics Mount Kilimanjaro for them to motivate others to produce results. circumstances surrounding the COVID We learn the power of the pivot. We learn and even culture—have all been shaken by Winning was all that mattered. pandemic have brought to the fore the need to move and redirect strategy quickly. This this crisis. We saw the matters that once occuSO I SEE LITO BANAYO

W

Our most important national asset

Leadership in the time of COVID-19

MORE OPINION ONLINE

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. manilastandard.net

ONLINE

can be accessed at: manilastandard.net

MEMBER

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

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

Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Joyce Pangco Pañares Adelle Chua

Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor Opinion Editor

Emil P. Jurado

Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Jimbo Owen Gulle City Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

B2

World

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Lifesaving oxygen arrives amid India’s record death toll

M

ORE emergency medical aid from foreign donors to alleviate a dire oxygen shortage arrived in India on Sunday, as COVID-19 deaths in the South Asian nation rose to a new record. India is setting almost-daily records for new infections and deaths as the virus crisis engulfs overstretched hospitals in cities and spreads into rural regions. The country of 1.3 billion reported 3,689 deaths on Sunday – the highest single-day rise yet in the pandemic, to take the overall toll to more than 215,000.

Just under 400,000 infections were added, bringing the total number of cases past 19.5 million. The latest figures came as medical equipment, including oxygen-generation plants, was flown into the capital New Delhi from France and Germany as part of a huge international effort. “We are here because we are bringing

help that... will save lives,” Germany’s ambassador to India, Walter J. Lindner, said as 120 ventilators arrived late Saturday. “Out there the hospitals are full. People are sometimes dying in front of the hospitals. They have no more oxygen. Sometimes (they are dying) in their cars.” French ambassador Emmanuel Lenain said his country wanted to show solidarity with India. “The epidemic is still going on in one country. The world won’t be safe until we are all safe. So it’s a matter of ur-

IN BRIEF Berlin police hit May Day violence

gency,” he said early Sunday following the delivery of eight oxygen-generation plants and dozens of ventilators from France. There are growing fears about the surge of the virus in rural regions where health infrastructure is already patchy and limited. Hospitals in Delhi have continued to issue SOS calls for oxygen on social media, with the latest appeal posted by a children’s hospital on Twitter on Sunday. The plea came a day after up to a dozen patients died at a Delhi hospital amid an oxygen shortage, local media reported. AFP

Protesters call for anti-junta ‘spring revolt’ THOUSANDS of anti-coup protesters marched in Myanmar Sunday, calling for a “spring revolution” with the country in its fourth month under a military regime. Cities, rural areas, remote mountainous regions and even Myanmar’s rebel-controlled border territories have been in uproar since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup. The junta has aimed to suppress dissent through a brutal crackdown that has seen mass arrests and an escalating death toll. Demonstrations kicked off early in commercial hub Yangon as activists called for a show of force and a “spring revolution.” Youths gathered on a street corner before marching swiftly down the streets in a flash mob – dispersing soon after to avoid clashing with authorities. “To get democracy is our course!” they chanted, waving a three-finger salute of resistance. “To bring down the military dictatorship is our course!” The Central Mandalay region saw hundreds take the streets led by monks in saffron-coloured robes, carrying the flag of Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy. In northern Shan state, youths carried a banner that read: “We cannot be ruled at all.” By 10 a.m., violence erupted in the state’s Hsipaw township, when security forces cracked down on protesters there, killing at least one. “He was shot in the head and died immediately,” said one protester, who said he rushed to hide his friend’s body in case authorities tried to take it away. AFP

BERLIN police on Sunday said they had arrested some 240 people after May Day rallies descended into “unacceptable” violence that saw protesters pelt officers with stones and bottles and set fire to bins. More than 30,000 people from across the political spectrum took part in several marches in the German capital on Saturday as part of the traditional Labor Day workers’ rights demonstrations. Most of the demonstrations passed off peacefully, police said. But the mood darkened in the evening after police pulled far-left “black block” protesters out of the crowd for not adhering to pandemic hygiene regulations such as social distancing. Along with thousands of others, they had been marching in the “Revolutionary May Day” demonstration to protest racism, capitalism and rising rents in the city. Heavy scuffles ensued, with protesters throwing glass bottles and stones at police and setting dustbins and wooden pallets ablaze in the streets. Around 20 officers were injured by the time the protest was broken up, Berlin police said. “Violence during demonstrations is absolutely unacceptable,” said Berlin police chief Barbara Slowik. “The situation did degenerate but was quickly brought under control,” she added. The German capital had deployed around 5,600 officers on Saturday to monitor the May Day protests, which have turned violent in the past. AFP

Gunman kills two at Wisconsin casino

LIVING ON A PRAYER. A mask-clad

Palestinian Greek Orthodox worshipper attends the Easter night mass at the church of Saint Porphyrius in Gaza City on May 2, 2021. AFP

Pope embarks on prayer ‘marathon’ against COVID POPE Francis on Saturday launched a month-long prayer marathon to hasten the end of the coronavirus pandemic with a prayer at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican before some 150 believers. The Argentinian pontiff gave the inaugural rosary prayer to kick off a series which will be streamed live each day this month at 1600 GMT from different Catholic shrines across the world. They range from Fatima in Portugal and Lourdes in France to shrines in Poland, Nigeria, Cuba and South Korea as well as the Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington. Francis, who said he was praying for

“wounded humanity,” will conclude the series at a Vatican Gardens chapel on May 31. The choice of the rosary prayer comes with May traditionally being the month the Catholic Church dedicates to the Virgin Mary. Those participating in the cycle of prayer are urged to pray for an end to the pandemic and for society to return to normal. Francis lamented the “dramatic current situation, charged with suffering and anxiety,” some 16 months after the virus first surfaced in China before swiftly spreading across the globe, killing more than three million to date and wreaking massive economic

destruction. The pope urged protection for those left bereaved after losing loved ones “buried sometimes in a manner which wounds the soul” given the restrictions of social distancing. He hailed “the heroic fatigue” of doctors and nurses and other medical personnel putting their own lives on the line to aid those suffering. The pontiff called on the Virgin Mary to “illuminate the spirits of men and women of science so they may find good solutions to defeat this virus” and “touch consciences so that the enormous sums used to develop and perfect” those solutions” allow the prevention of such catastrophes in future.” AFP

A GUNMAN killed two people and seriously wounded another at a casino in the northern US state of Wisconsin on Saturday night before being shot dead by police, authorities said. Police said they first received a call at 7:28 p.m. about a shooting at a restaurant at the Oneida Casino/Radisson Hotel and Conference Center complex near Green Bay, which is operated by the Oneida Nation. “The suspect is deceased, the police have shot the suspect so there’s no threat to the public,” Lieutenant Kevin Pawlak of the Brown County Sheriff’s office told reporters after midnight. Pawlak said it appeared to be a “targeted event not a random shooting.” The intended target was an employee who was not there at the time but the gunman decided to shoot some of their friends or acquaintances, he said. The FBI were at the scene assisting with the investigation. The seriously wounded victim was airlifted to a Milwaukee hospital, Pawlak said. AFP

New Zealand resumes Perth travel bubble

NEW Zealand on Sunday agreed to reopen its travel bubble with Western Australia, 24 hours after grounding flights when three people in Perth tested positive for COVID-19. Health officials said that following consultation with their Australian counterparts they determined the risk to New Zealand was not significant and flight could resume on Monday. However, anyone who has been at “locations of interest” identified by the which has become NASA’s favored Western Australian government cannot commercial transportation partner. travel to New Zealand within 14 days Seven astronauts remained on the ISS of exposure. including a new crew of four who ar“While the public health risk is rived on a different SpaceX craft last deemed low, we must all remain vigiweek. lant as we enjoy the opportunities quarantine-free travel has given us,” “Thanks for your hospitality,” Hopthe director-general of health, Ashley kins said earlier as the capsule unBloomfield, said. docked from the space station for its It was the second disruption to the return journey. “We’ll see you back on ground-breaking travel bubble beEarth.” tween New Zealand and Australia in Prior to that, two American astrothe two weeks since it opened, endnauts made a test mission to the ISS in ing more than a year since both closed YELLOW BLACK May and stayed for two months. CYAN MAGENTA their international borders due to the That was the first launch to the ISS pandemic. from US soil since the end of the Space Flights between New ZeaShuttle program in 2011. It was also the land and Western Australia were briefly suspended when the Perth first crewed mission run by a private and Peel regions were sent into a company, as opposed to NASA. three-day lockdown after recordUntil then US astronauts had caught ing a case of community transmisrides to the ISS aboard Russian spacesion on April 23. AFP craft. AFP

Four ISS astronauts splash down off Florida on SpaceX Crew Dragon

Manila

Standard

TODAY

MAY DAY HOLIDAY. People wait to order snacks at a shop on Qianmen Street,

a popular pedestrian street with shops and restaurants, during the Labor Day holidays, which take place from May 1 to May 5, in Beijing on May 2, 2021. AFP NOTICE is hereby given that the Articles of Incorporation of TOYO INK COMPOUNDS CORPORATION, a corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the Philippines, was amended by a majority vote of Directors and by the vote of Stockholders representing at least two-thirds (2/3) of the outstanding capital stock of the corporation at a meeting held on February 11, 2021 at 106-A Integrity Avenue, Carmelray Industrial Park 1, Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna, the principal office of the Corporation. The amendment refers to shortening of the term of existence of the corporation by amending Article FOURTH of its Articles of Incorporation, as follow: FOURTH: That the term for which the Corporation is to exist shall end on August 31, 2021. NOTICE is likewise given that any person who may have any legitimate claims for or against the Corporation after August 31, 2021 may contact, for the purpose, A.M. SISON, JR. & PARTNERS LAW OFFICE, represented by Atty. Carlito P. Egaña, with address at 20/F Security Bank Centre, 6776 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, and with Telephone Nos. 8891-1338 to 40, the party duly authorized by the Corporation to handle its liquidation and winding-up affairs. CARLITO P. EGAÑA Corporate Secretary (MS-MAY 3, 10 & 17, 2021)

A SPACEX Crew Dragon capsule carrying four astronauts back to Earth splashed down off Panama City early Sunday, a NASA livestream showed. Boats were retrieving the spacecraft and crew after their six-month mission aboard the International Space Station. The crew reported they were feeling well, NASA said. The capsule splashed down at 2:56 a.m. (0656 GMT) in the dark in the Gulf of Mexico off the Florida coast after a six-and-a-half hour flight from the ISS, images relayed by NASA’s WB-57 high-altitude research aircraft showed. Astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, Shannon Walker and Japan’s Soichi Noguchi went to space last November as the crew on the first fully operational mission to the ISS aboard a vehicle made by Elon Musk’s SpaceX,

North Korea says Biden has a ‘hostile policy,’ warns of response NORTH Korea on Sunday accused US President Joe Biden of pursuing a hostile policy, dismissing “spurious” American diplomacy and warning of a response. Biden had said Wednesday that his administration would deal with the threat posed by Pyongyang’s nuclear programme “through diplomacy as well as stern deterrence.” The White House said Friday that the president was open to negotiations with North Korea on denuclearisation following the completion of a policy review, but Pyongyang said Biden had made a “big blunder.” “His statement clearly reflects his intent to keep enforcing the hostile policy toward the DPRK as it had been done by the US for over

half a century,” Kwon Jung Gun, a foreign ministry official, said in a statement released by the official KCNA news agency. “The US-claimed ‘diplomacy’ is a spurious signboard for covering up its hostile acts, and ‘deterrence’ touted by it is just a means for posing nuclear threats to the DPRK,” Kwon added, using the official name of North Korea. “Now that the keynote of the US new DPRK policy has become clear, we will be compelled to press for corresponding measures.” The White House said Friday that its goal remains “the complete denuclearization of the Korean peninsula.”

Biden’s press secretary Jen Psaki gave little indication of what kind of diplomatic initiative this could entail, but suggested that the president had learned from the experience of his predecessors, who struggled to deal with North Korea’s leadership and its nuclear weapons program. But Psaki said Washington would not “focus on achieving a grand bargain,” apparently referring to the kind of dramatic over-arching deal that former president Donald Trump initially suggested was possible when he met with North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un. Neither would the White House follow the more standoffish approach espoused by Barack Obama, she added. AFP

Business Bacon, copper lead commodity price surge on demand boom WASHINGTON—Global prices for raw materials are soaring thanks to a boom in demand due to the recovery from the COVID-19 downturn, coupled with logistical bottlenecks. Copper in the past week hit a 10year high, while pork prices have fattened in part due to higher demand for bacon from Americans working and eating breakfast at home. Bloomberg’s agriculture Commodity Price Index has climbed 22 percent so far this year to its highest level since 2016, while crude oil has risen 30 percent in the past year. Lumber has tripled over the past 12 months, and the National Association of Homebuilders said that has added $36,000 to the cost of a new house. Tin, used in electronic circuits, automotive components and batteries, also hit its highest level since 2011, as the price doubled in the past year. The reasons for these increases are varied. For sugar, a shortage of shipping containers and bottlenecks at ports are pushing prices up, while corn, soybeans and wheat are also experiencing delivery problems. For oil, global demand is accelerating with the reopening of economies following the pandemic shutdowns. The price of gasoline at the pump in the United States has risen to $2.89 a gallon from $1.77 a year ago, according to the AAA, an automobile association. Bart Melek of TD Securities said the price of Brent crude “appears unstoppable” as the market is expecting demand to increase massively and stocks to be further reduced in the second half of the year.” “US consumers are a major reason markets remain bullish,” Bjornar Tonhaugen of Rystad Energy said in an analysis. The Chinese and US “locomotives” far outweigh the impact of the slowdown in India, which has been overwhelmed by a resurgence of COVID-19 infections, he said. “Dr Copper”—so called because its widespread use means it often offers an accurate diagnosis of the global economy—has grabbed headlines this week when it topped $10,000 a ton. The gains have been driven by strong Chinese demand as well as labor protests in Chile, impacting mines and ports. The weak US dollar also means it takes more American greenbacks to buy the same amount of metal. AFP

ExxonMobil, Chevron back in the black in the 1st quarter NEW YORK—After a string of losses, ExxonMobil and Chevron on Friday both reported a return to profitability in the first quarter, bolstered by a significant jump in oil prices. The results, which come amid a similar round of profits by Royal Dutch Shell, Total and other European petroleum giants, point to a much-improved demand outlook compared with last year, when oil prices tumbled midway through the first quarter as the coronavirus crisis shuttered large parts of the economy. “Earnings strengthened primarily due to higher oil prices as the economy recovers,” said Chevron Chief Executive Mike Wirth. Yet larger petroleum companies still face major challenges, including campaigns from activist shareholders at annual meetings next month over their response to climate change. Both US oil firms also face weakness in their downstream business amid tepid demand for petroleum products, especially jet fuel. ExxonMobil, which reported losses in all four quarters in 2020, reported profits of $2.7 billion in the first quarter. Revenues rose 5.3 percent to $59.1 billion. At Chevron, which reported losses the last three quarter, earnings came in at $1.4 billion, down 61.7 percent from the year-ago period, due in part to a steep drop in downstream profits. Revenues rose 1.7 percent to $32 billion. ExxonMobil said its average price for crude oil sold rose 42 percent compared with the fourth quarter, while natural gas prices climbed 33 percent. Conditions in the downstream business improved from the fourth quarter, “but remained below 10-year lows driven by market oversupply and high product inventory levels,” ExxonMobil said. AFP

B3

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

More active trading seen in May TOP GAINERS T By Jenniffer B. Austria

RADING at the Philippine Stock Exchange is expected to pick up this month after the flattish sessions in April as more companies release their first-quarter financial performance.

“We think the market will be more active in May in anticipation of the first quarter 2021 earnings season,” online brokerage firm UTrade said. Among the companies that are expected to report first-quarter earnings this week are blue chip companies PLDT Inc., SM Investments Corp. and San Miguel Corp. Investors will also await the release of

the April inflation rate and the upcoming monetary board policy meeting. The March inflation rate already slowed down to 4.5 percent, but analysts said the April inflation rate is a wildcard. Online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia.com said the declaration of stricter quarantine in Metro Manila and nearby provinces could have pulled the inflation lower but higher power rates and increased input costs could push the rate higher. The Philippine Stock Exchange Index last week slipped 0.1 percent to 6,370.87. Four of the six sectoral indices, however, managed to post week-on-week gains led by mining and oil, which rose 10.5 percent, followed by financials which added 0.7 percent. The property index declined by 1 percent while holding firms dipped 0.1 percent.

Foreign investors were net sellers for the week by P2.6 billion, while the average daily value traded remained was muted at P5.7 billion. Weekly top price gainers were Philippine National Bank, which jumped 35.7 percent to P31.15, Del Monte Pacific Ltd. which advanced 28.3 percent to P13 and Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corp., which climbed 19.2 percent to P8.68. Weekly top price losers were Leisure & Resorts World Corp., which fell 10.6 percent to P1.60, Chelsea Logistics and Infrastructure Holdings Corp., which dropped 7.2 percent to P2.98, and Megawide Construction Corp., which declined 5.8 percent to P6.61. US markets, meanwhile, were hit by a bout of profit-taking on Friday, while in Europe data confirming the eurozone is back in recession dampened investor enthusiasm. With AFP

PSEi April 30, 2021

1

UPM

LAST PRICE 0.012

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

TUGS PNB OV EVER JAS MA PX GEO MAB

1.36 31.15 0.013 0.189 2.38 0.015 6.8 0.385 0.016

% CHANGE CHANGE 0.002 20.00% 0.16 2.45 0.001 0.014 0.16 0.001 0.45 0.025 0.001

13.33% 8.54% 8.33% 8.00% 7.21% 7.14% 7.09% 6.94% 6.67%

TOP LOSERS ON THE MARKET.

Visitors are seen between market stalls in Mongkok district of Hong Kong on May 2, 2021. AFP

1

OPMB

LAST PRICE 0.012

2 3 4 5

PHES BHI MBC DELM

0.61 0.094 10.36 13.3

-0.04 -0.006 -0.64 -0.78

-6.15% -6.00% -5.82% -5.54%

6 7 8 9 10

LAND CDC GTPPA ACE SMPH

1.8 0.9 981 1.8 34.45

-0.1 -0.05 -47 -0.08 -1.45

-5.26% -5.26% -4.57% -4.26% -4.04%

MOST ACTIVE

Spaniard first woman to join German blue-chip CEOs FRANKFURT, Germany—Belen Garijo will take over as CEO at German pharmaceuticals giant Merck from May—the first woman to singlehandedly run a DAX 30-listed company—as Europe’s top economy debates quotas for greater boardroom equality. Spanish-born Garijo, 60, currently serves as the group’s deputy chief executive officer and head of its healthcare unit and says she’s not content to be a one-off. “It’s more important to me not to be the last woman at the top of a company than to be the only one,” the trained doctor recently told the daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. She is replacing Stefan Oschmann, 63,

whose term ended after five years at the helm of the Darmstadt-based, family-owned group, which had never had a female chief executive in its 350-year history. Garijo, a mother of two and a passionate Real Madrid supporter, is making history as the first solo female leader of a firm listed on Frankfurt’s blue-chip DAX 30 index. German software group SAP made the first cracks in the glass ceiling in 2019 when it appointed Jennifer Morgan as co-CEO alongside a male executive. However she bowed out last year after just six months, as SAP decided to switch back to a sole chief executive— Christian Klein—to steer it through the

pandemic upheaval. Although Germany has been run by a woman chancellor for nearly 16 years and Christine Lagarde heads the Frankfurt-based European Central Bank, female top executives remain a rare sight in Europe’s leading economy. Germany’s gender pay gap is also one of the largest in Europe, with women earning about 21 percent less than men on average. But things are changing. The German government introduced legislation in 2015 requiring women to make up 30 percent of supervisory board seats in large companies, and Chancellor Angela Merkel’s cabinet approved plans in January to introduce similar rules for executive boards.AFP

% CHANGE CHANGE -0.001 -7.69%

1 2 3 4

ALI SM SMPH BPI

VOLUME 23506900 363380 8304800 3230240

5 6 7 8 9 10

GLO BDO ICT TEL ACEN AC

115730 1946390 1432180 137310 25271300 209990

VALUE (PHP) 765455320 350178785 288846025 267878716 212729615 202219820 186027174 175822880 171366273 157093825

Stakeholder engagement, accreditation and business school resilience DR. EMILINA R. SARREAL

Green LiGht

JUST like any organization, business schools are adversely affected by the shocks brought about by the pandemic for an extended period of time. According to Lengnick-Hall and Beck (2011), organizational resilience is the organization’s ability to effectively absorb, develop situation-specific responses, and ultimately engage in transformative activities to gain advantage from unpredictable disruptions that potentially threaten organization survival. Organizational resilience relies on strong leadership, awareness, and understanding of the operating environment, the ability to manage vulnerabilities, and the ability to respond to change (Umoh et al., 2014) rapidly. Being resilient is crucial. Its absence would result in the organization’s lifecycle’s decline. In a study done on universities, Thoenig & Paradeise (2016) described strategic capacity as how an institution lines its internal components to achieve some common ends. The study goes on to describe that an organization’s strategic capacity acts as a blueprint for its internal stakeholders to make decisions based on an agreed-upon identity and the priorities of an organization. Strategic capacity can be seen as the steps an organization takes to ensure that its internal players are able to cope and address situations when called for and act in a proper way that is aligned with company goals and objectives. In a world of tight competition created by globalization through boundary-shattering technology, the need to become “complete organizations,” meaning having defined goals and even complete strategic programs, be accountable for achievements and display more effective administration and management, has become even more vital now than ever (Thoenig & Paradeise, 2016). Behavioral capabilities (e.g., improvisation, experimentation, and knowledge implementation) ensure that resources are utilized, and necessary actions are taken (Duchek, 2019). As exemplified by these behaviors, strategic flexibility is beneficial on the firm’s performance in responding and adapting to a conflicting environment (Fan, Wu & Wu, 2013, p. 197). Organizations need proactive people who are willing to be actors of change. Bateman & Crant (1993, as cited in Kim, Hon, & Lee, 2010) explain how in contrast to passive people, proactive people are initiators who are willing to take action, manipulate their environment, and seek new information and practices for continuous improvement. Reece Hinchcliff’s journal article on implementing accreditation programs for health services defined these

programs as complex, system-wide quality and safety interventions for continuous improvement. Despite their international popularity, evidence of their effectiveness has not been fully examined due to varied implementation in different contexts. Accreditation programs point to critical enablers of effective implementation: the accreditation program should be collaborative, valid and uses relevant standards; accreditation is favorably received by stakeholders; organizations are capable of embracing accreditation; and accreditation is appropriately aligned with other regulatory initiatives and supported by relevant incentives. Stakeholder engagement with accreditation programs is modified by participants’ comprehension of their value. By understanding the perspectives and experiences of practices and other stakeholders who have engaged with accreditation, program strengths and areas for improvement can be identified. Strengths and weaknesses in the accreditation program influence, and are influenced by, stakeholder engagement and disengagement. In one of the virtual conferences held in 2020 by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), emphasis was on enhancing stakeholder engagement in organizations not only for accreditation but primarily for addressing future challenges. AACSB International (AACSB), a nonprofit global membership association for the business education industry, strives to continuously improve engagement among business, faculty, institutions, and learners so that business education is aligned with business practice. AACSB’s standards contain an imperative that AACSB-accredited business schools demonstrate a positive impact on society in furtherance of its vision that “business and business schools are a force for good, contributing to the world’s economy and to society, and AACSB plays a significant role in making that benefit better known to all stakeholders by serving business schools, learners, business, and society.” Engagement in the context of AACSB The defining feature of quality business schools is that they are making a significant difference through educational activities, thought leadership and engagement with external stakeholders. AACSB accreditation standards are strongly related to stakeholder engagement and provide guidance to know who they are and what systems and processes are needed for collecting, updating and communicating with stakeholder contacts. These standards (contained in full in https://www.aacsb. edu/accreditation/standards/business) are: Standard 1: Schools having a well-devised strategic plan that demonstrates stakeholder involvement at every stage of the process, from the creation of the strategic plan to review and reporting, Standard 2: School manages its physical, virtual, and financial resources to sustain the school on an ongoing basis,

Standard 3: Sufficient participating and supporting faculty who demonstrate significant academic and professional engagement Standard 4: Students have succeeded and excelled through curricular and co-curricular engagement with faculty and the business community. Standard 5: Assurance of Learning (AOL) include both direct and indirect measures of assessment should be used within the portfolio of program. Standard 6: Post-graduation success occurs on a consistent basis such as in job placement outcomes, internships, entrepreneurial and career development activities. Standard 7: Faculty take responsibility for continuing their professional development to maintain currency and relevancy. Standard 8: Collaboration with a wide variety of external stakeholders to create and transfer credible, relevant, and timely knowledge that informs theory, policy, and/or practice of business. Standard 9: Exemplars of engagements with external stakeholders that lead to societal impact. Benefits of stakeholder engagement with AACSB standards include crafting STRATEGIES for advisory support, differentiation, reputation enhancement and societal impact; ACADEMIC advice and recommendations for program alignment, curriculum relevance, authentic assessment, case writing, research, student recruitment, quality assurance and improvement; INDUSTRY LIAISON through internships, industry mentors, and student employment; FINANCIAL strategies for revenue generation, sponsorship, asset donation, endowed chairs, and joint venture opportunities; and STAFFING strategies for adjunct professors, staff development and staffing support. Being part of the AACSB Business Education Alliance (a network of business educators, businesses, and nonprofit and public-sector organizations dedicated to sharing knowledge and best practices that accelerate innovation in business education), our university was exposed and oriented to the various educational trends and standards. This experience strengthen our resolve to be more resilient to achieve our vision, mission and objectives to survive and thrive after this pandemic. AACSB invites us for a free Virtual Philippines Information Session on May 6, 2021, Thursday, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. (Philippines time). Please register using this link: http://engage.aacsb.edu/cn/aqzv6/InfoSessionPh The information session will feature a panel discussion involving accredited and aspiring for accreditation schools’ journey with AACSB network to achieve international objectives, such a building collaborative partnerships and benchmarking global quality standards. The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty and its administrators.

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

B4

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

Business

PSE INDEX CLOSING Friday, April 30, 2021

-116.64 PTS. 6,370.87

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

6,771,412,685 80,100 8,622,407,143.04 91 110 47

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • FRIDAY, APRIL 30, 2021

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

48.3900

Japan

Yen

0.009182

0.4443

UK

Pound

1.394300

67.4702

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128813

6.2333

Switzerland

Franc

1.100837

53.2695

Canada

Dollar

0.814531

39.4152

Singapore

Dollar

0.754091

36.4905

Australia

Dollar

0.776800

37.5894

Bahrain

Dinar

2.655549

128.5020

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266681

12.9047

Brunei

Dollar

0.751258

36.3534

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000069

0.0033

Thailand

Baht

0.032051

1.5509

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.1752

Euro

Euro

1.212600

58.6777

Korea

Won

0.000903

0.0437

China

Yuan

0.154512

7.4768

India

Rupee

0.013497

0.6531

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.243902

11.8024

New Zealand

Dollar

0.724200

35.0440

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035908

1.7376 Source: BSP

URC’s net profit jumped 51% to P3.2b in Q1 on higher revenues By Jenniffer B. Austria FOOD manufacturer Universal Robina Corp. said over the weekend net income jumped 51 percent in the first quarter to P3.2 billion from a year ago, driven by higher operating income and lower net foreign exchange loss. First-quarter sales improved 3 percent to P34.6 billion from the same period last year, URC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange over the weekend. “This performance was driven by growth in operating income, lower foreign exchange losses, controlled financing costs and was further boosted by benefits from the Comprehensive Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act,” URC said. It said the continued recovery of URC’s international business units and growth from its commodity division offset the challenges in domestic branded consumer foods. Operating income was up 9 percent from the same period last year to end at P4.3 billion as the company was able to register improvement in margins despite rising commodity costs. Sales of branded consumer foods to the domestic market declined by 5 percent P14.9 billion, as market sentiment continued to be challenged. “COVID-19 is still very much with us. In general, domestic sentiment remains muted, with many consumers still very cautious on spending. On the cost side, we face headwinds as commodity prices continue rising. Despite these challenges, we were able to gain market share, increase overall top line sales, and achieve good profit growth,” URC president and chief executive Irwin Lee said. International revenues hit P10.8 billion, up by 11 percent from last year, driven by the strong recovery of ASEAN markets particularly Vietnam and Thailand and favorable exchange rates. Meanwhile, sales from agro-industrial and commodities group totaled P8.5 billion, up 10 percent from a year ago. URC last year acquired Central Azucarera de La Carlota and Roxol Bioenergy Corp. from Roxas Holdings Inc. which continued to perform ahead of expectations “As the pandemic continues, URC will continue to navigate and mobilize in the face of change. We will build on every valuable insight and experience from 2020, stay attuned to market trends, and adapt when appropriate, all while keeping to our purpose: to delight everyone with good food choices,” Lee said.

POWER consumers may experience higher power rates in May with the completion of the refund of pass-through charges, coupled with the increase in Wholesale Electricity Spot Market rate, Manila Electric Co. said over the weekend. “Overall, there may be an increase in the May power rate as the refund of pass-through charges that started in January 2021 was completed in April

TransCo to build line to Catanduanes

THE National Transmission Corp. and the First Catanduanes Electric Cooperatives Inc. signed a memorandum of agreement that will pave the way for the island’s interconnection to the Luzon grid and for a modern system operation. TransCo said in a statement over the weekend the island interconnection would benefit all consumers in the country as FICELCO would no longer need subsidies under the universal charges for missionary electrification. “It is our privilege to become instrumental in empowering and stabilizing power in our small islands. We are one with the energy family in addressing the inadequate, unreliable, and costly power supply and delivery system,” said TransCo president Melvin Matibag. The agreement for the construction and installation of 69-kV sub-transmission submarine electric cable lines from Presentacion/ Caramoan, Camarines Sur, to Codon, Catanduanes was signed on April 30. Under the agreement, TransCo will conduct the feasibility study, including hydrographic analysis for the engineering design of the Catanduanes Island Interconnection to Luzon Grid. Alena Mae S. Flores

Bulacan solar plant set to start operations

CALAX CALL BOXES. MPCALA Holdings Inc., a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., installs state-of-the-art emergency call box devices along Cavite-Laguna Expressway with multi-modal communication features.The newly-mounted Emergency Roadside Communication System call boxes enable communication between motorists and CALAX Traffic Operation Center. Using the call boxes, motorists can seek help with a press of a button during emergencies. The call boxes have built-in loudspeaker, camera and hearing aids, designed for the hearing impaired. Roy Tomandao

Economic managers vow to finish reform objectives

By Julito G. Rada

E

CONOMIC managers expect to complete the administration’s reform agenda before the end of the Duterte presidency, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said over the weekend. Dominguez said in a business forum the Duterte administration is relentless in pushing its “zero to 10 point” socioeconomic program, particularly the tax reform initiative, since it took office in 2016. He said the Duterte administration became the first to successfully reduce both personal and corporate income taxes. President Rodrigo Duterte spearhead-

ed the passage of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law in 2018, which slashed personal income tax rates for 99 percent of salary earners. Dominguez said the reforms, particularly the TRAIN Law, and the government’s judicious fiscal management provided the Philippines the stamina to weather the health and economic crises unleashed last year by COVID-19.

Owing to government’s fiscal prudence amid the global downturn, Dominguez said that international credit-rating agencies maintained the Philippines’ high-investment-grade status, which then allowed the government to borrow at cheaper interest rates and longer payment terms. “As our credit ratings remain better than our peers, we continue to have good access to official development assistance and external commercial loans,” he said. To help in revitalizing local businesses, Dominguez said the Duterte administration also pushed for the immediate passage of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act and the Financial Institutions Strategic Transfer measures.

MAYNILAD PIPELINE.

Maynilad Water Services Inc. starts the laying of a primary pipeline along Umali Street in Barangay Poblacion, Muntinlupa City in preparation for the construction of a new water treatment plant that will draw its supply from Laguna Lake—the company’s third such facility to be built since it began tapping the lake as source in 2010. The 1,800-mm-diameter line will convey water to be produced by the soon-to-rise Poblacion Water Treatment Plant—a P10-billion treatment facility that is part of Maynilad’s medium-term plan to produce additional supply so it can meet the growing water demand and ease over-reliance on Angat Dam.

MPTC expects Swiss Challenge for CTBEX project before end-2021 By Darwin G. Amojelar METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. said over the weekend it expects the government to hold the Swiss Challenge for the P22.4-billion Cavite-Tagaytay-Batangas Expressway before the end of 2021. “We were awarded original status for CTBEX. We are still discussing with NEDA [National Economic and Development Authority] and DPWH [Department of Public Works and Highways] on the details, by which we can fully conduct the Swiss Challenge by end of the year or first quarter of 2022,” MPTC South president Roberto Bontia told reporters in a virtual briefing. The Public Works Department granted the original proponent status to MPTC for the construction of CTBEX in 2018. CTBEX is a 50.4-kilometer expressway that will connect Cavite and Batangas, with a spur road to Tagaytay City

and ultimately terminating in Nasugbu and another spur road to Tuy, Batangas. CTBEX would decongest about 23,000 vehicles daily from the nearby thoroughfares. The project will start at Silang East Interchange of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway. The alignment will traverse the towns of Silang, Amadeo, Mendez, Alfonso and Tagaytay in Cavite and Nasugbu in Batangas. Meanwhile, Bontia said MPTC South would spend P4 billion to P5 billion to complete Segment 3B of the Cavitex C5 from RSG Airport View Subdivision to Sucat interchange. The C5 Southlink Project is a 7.7-kilometer six-lane divided expressway, stretching from R-1 Expressway to SLEX/C5. Bontia said the Cavite-Laguna Expressway Subsection 5 was now 93-percent completed and might be opened to motorists by the third quarter.

Subsection 5 is a 7.2-km expressway linking Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Interchange to Silang East Interchange. “Once operational, we expect CALAX to serve around 5,000 motorists daily, thereby helping decongest traffic along Governor’s Drive, Aguinaldo Highway and Sta. RosaTagaytay Road. It is also expected to help accelerate economic progress in Laguna and Cavite as it connects the two provinces of Region IV-A,” Bontia said Toll structures of the upcoming Silang East interchange were already erected while other miscellaneous works including construction of drainage system and installation of expressways road and safety features were on track. Upon completion, CALAX will span 45 kilometers with eight interchanges at Kawit, Governor’s Drive, Open Canal, Silang (Aguinaldo) Highway, Silang East, Santa Rosa-Tagaytay, Laguna Boulevard and Laguna Technopark.

Power rates likely to increase in May with completion of pass-through charges refund—Meralco By Alena Mae S. Flores

IN BRIEF

and the corresponding deduction will no longer appear beginning the May bill,” Meralco vice president and head of utility economics Lawrence Fernandez said. The Energy Regulatory Commission, in a decision on Dec. 29, 2020, directed Meralco to refund over-recoveries in transmission and other pass-through charges over a period of around three months or until the amount is fully refunded. “For a residential customer, the refund was equivalent to around P0.15 per

kWh. Meralco implemented the ERCapproved adjustments starting January 2021 and completed the refund in April,” Fernandez said. He said Meralco was still waiting for the final bills from power suppliers but based on initial projections, “there may be an upward pressure on the generation charge for the month of May” due to observed increase in WESM prices. The WESM is the country’s trading floor of electricity. Historically, WESM

prices go up during the dry months because of high demand and the lower generation capacity from hydro power plants. WESM charges also go up with more power plants on outage, resulting in thin power reserves. “Despite the re-imposition of ECQ in NCR Plus, power situation in the grid remained tight as capacity on outage is remained above 3,300 megawatts and Luzon peak demand in April still exceeded 10,400 MW,” Fernandez said.

MERALCO PowerGen Corp., which acquired a majority take in PowerSource First Bulacan Solar Inc., will start the commercial operations of its 50-megawatt solar project in Bulacan province this month. The P4.25-billion Bulacan solar project is MGen’s first solar investment covering a land area of 72 hectares in San Miguel town. MGen acquired an additional 20-percent equity in PFBSI through wholly-owned subsidiary MGen Renewable Energy Inc. in January to bring up its indirect holdings to 60 percent. Power retailer Manila Electric Co. owns 100-percent stake in MGen. The project reached a completion rate of 94.47 percent as of April 19. “MGreen targets around 1,500 MW of renewable energy projects over the next five to seven years. The focus is on the development of a portfolio of utility scale solar, wind and hydro power projects to supply Luzon grid and electricity consumers with competitive tariff,” MGen president Rogelio Singson said. Alena Mae S. Flores

IPOPHL notes IPR compliance THE Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines highlighted the country’s efforts to improve its compliance and solidarity to the global campaign against counterfeit and piracy. It said the Philippines was cited in the US Trade Representative 2021 report for its successful implementation of the Anti-Camcording Law, which is considered as an example and best practice. The US urged countries to adopt laws and enforcement practices designed to prevent unauthorized camcording, such as laws that were adopted in Canada, Japan and the Philippines, the report said. IPOPHL deputy director-general Teodoro Pascua said the even Greenhills, a shipping mall in San Juan City famous for pirated DVD movies, was removed from the notorious watch list while Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam remained on the watch list. “But under COVID, it is almost two years since the cinemas closed and not many theatre films is likely to be shown up to next year. Also, Netflix and streaming are viable replacement for movies,” he said. The 301 Report, however, called out negatively on the Philippines as a source of counterfeit medicines, which was based on a report of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Othel V. Campos

DITO Telecom expands services to 15 more areas DITO Telecommunity Corp. announced over the weekend the expansion of its mobile services to 15 more towns and cities nationwide. The company said its services as of May 1 became available in Plaridel, Bulacan; San Fernando City, Pampanga; Gapan City, San Leonardo and San Jose City in Nueva Ecija; Ibaan and Batangas City in Batangas; Kawit, Bacoor City and Imus City in Cavite. It said they are also now available in Toledo City, Balamban and Barili in Cebu province in Visayas and in Santo Tomas and Braulio E. Dujali in Davao del Norte in Mindanao. “Subscribers from Central Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao can avail of DITO’s 25-GB High Speed Data for P199 promo, which is valid for 30-days,” DITO said. “Aside from fast and reliable data services, they can also enjoy unlimited DITO-to-DITO calls and texts plus unlimited texts and 300 minutes of voice calls to other mobile networks. Features such as call waiting, call forwarding and video over LTE are also now available for DITO subscribers,” it added. DITO initially rolled out its commercial service in 15 cities in the Visayas and Mindanao on March 8, before expanding to 21 more cities mostly in Luzon on April 16. DITO earlier said it would launch its mobile services in Metro Manila by the second quarter. The company spent over P150 billion for the initial rollout of its infrastructure and other operating expenses as part of its commitment to invest P250 billion over a five-year period to achieve 55 mbps of internet speed, covering 84 percent of the population. Darwin G. Amojelar

Sports

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

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

Medina Spirit, Baffert make Kentucky Derby history Medina Spirit #8, ridden by jockey John Velazquez, (right) crosses the finish line to win the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby ahead of Mandaloun #7, ridden by Florent Geroux, and Hot Rod Charlie #9 ridden by Flavien Prat ,at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. AFP

Ancajas thankful to PH Navy INTERNATIONAL Boxing Federation super flyweight champion Jerwin “The Pretty Boy” Ancajas expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Philippine Navy for awarding him the prestigious “Gawad sa Kaunlaran Award” recently at its naval main headquarters, along Roxas Boulevard in Manila. Ancajas was given the recognition for his impressive unanimous decision win over mandatory challenger Jonathan Javier Rodriguez of Mexico last April 10 in Connecticut. That was his ninth successful title defense. “I am thankful to the Philippine Navy and the Marines for helping me in my training. I am very proud to bring glory and honor to our country as I carry the name of the Philippine Navy and the Marines all over the world,” Ancajas said in his speech. He thanked Navy Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlos Bacordo, Flag Secretary Captain Oliver Reforba, NAVSOCOM Commander Capt. Dwight Steven Dulnoan, Marine Commandant Philippine Marine Corp Major General Ariel Caculitan and Naval Reserve Command’s Rear Admiral Dorvin Legaspi, Rear Admiral AFP Vice Comamnder Adeluis Bordado, Rear Admiral Chief of Staff Nichols Driz, Brigadier General Jose Johnriel Cenabre and retired Fernando Parcon for supporting him in his training for the past years. The reservist with a rank of senior chief petty officer is set to fly to Zamboanga City via Philippine Airlines Monday night to join the training camp of Olympic-bound Eumir Felix Marcial at the Zamboanga MLV Valientes’ boxing gym. They will also visit Big Boss Cement owner Gilbert Cruz in Dipolog City once Ancajas touches down in Zamboanga City. “We would like to thank him (Cruz) personally for his generosity and all-out support,” he said

Bubble training can’t go beyond 3 months By Peter Atencio

S

ENDING national athletes to train under a bubble cannot go beyond three months.

National training director Marc Velasco said this as the Philippine Sports Commission gets set to put members of the national contingent under numerous training bubbles by July. “It’s not possible for them to train (under a bubble) for a whole year. If the coaches plan this properly, we can make them ready in three months,” said Velasco. Putting national athletes in a bubble for long period of time, according to Velasco, will have a bad effect on their mental health. This is the reason why the PSC has put a team of psychologists to observe national athletes currently doing their preparations in Calamba, Laguna.

Marc Velasco

The PSC is looking for at least four venues to put national athletes in bubble training. This includes the Teachers’ Camp in Baguio City, along with the cities of Sta. Rosa in Laguna, Taguig and Tagaytay. The four cities have opened their doors to hosting the final months of training of national athletes seeing action in the biennial meet. Velasco said putting national athletes in bubble training will be a good substitute to sending them abroad for international exposure. Not many athletes can go abroad for international meets because of limitations posed by restrictions done by many countries to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. PSC chairman William Ramirez said a high level of performance can be achieved by keeping national athletes in shape and in training, even if they’re done virtually. “This is now the look out of the NSAs. Those athletes who are in constant practice with their coaches have the edge,” said Ramirez.

C1

WASHINGTON—Medina Spirit won the 147th Kentucky Derby Saturday at Churchill Downs, giving trainer Bob Baffert a record seventh victory in the US f lat racing classic. Puerto Rican jockey John Velazquez piloted Medina Spirit to the front early and held on to win the first jewel of US racing’s Triple Crown for the fourth time as overwhelming pre-race favorite Essential Quality finished fourth. “I cannot believe he won this race,” Baffert said of 12-1 shot Medina Spirit, who was second in his previous start in the Santa Anita Derby on April 3. “He won this race. That little horse, it was all guts.” Velazquez said he and Baffert had decided to take Medina Spirit to the front early, and the strategy paid off. “Johnny had him in a perfect spot, and if you have him on the lead he’ll fight.” Mandaloun, a 26-1 shot trained by Brad Cox and ridden by USbased French jockey Florent Geroux, applied the most pressure in the final straight, but settled for second ahead of Hot Rod Charlie, trained by Doug O’Neill and ridden by another US-based Frenchman, Flavien Prat. The bigger disappointment for Cox, trying to become the first Louisvilleborn trainer to win the Kentucky Derby, must be the failure of Essential Quality. Unbeaten in five prior starts, the gray colt owned by Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum’s Godolphin stables left the global racing and breeding powerhouse still seeking a Kentucky Derby win after 12 attempts. Baffert moved out of a tie with legendary trainer Ben Jones for most career Kentucky Derby wins. His six prior winners of the 1 1/4-mile race for 3-year-olds at Churchill Downs included Triple Crown winners Justify and American Pharoah. Baffert admitted he didn’t have the same kind of expectations for Medina Spirit that he had for those greats. “I’m so spoiled bringing these heavy duty horses here,” he said. “But that little horse has such a heart.” The Triple Crown chase resumes on May 15 with the Preakness at Pimlico in Baltimore, and concludes June 5 with the Belmont Stakes in New York. AFP

Vera standing in way of De Ridder’s 3-title quest DUTCH fighter Reinier De Ridder wants to have three titles. To get it, the 30-year-old De Ridder will have to get past ONE Championship heavyweight king Brandon Vera first. And his bid to claim an unprecedented hat-trick of world championships in the Asian promotion is getting the support of ONE Championship founder, Thailand’s Chatri Sityodtong. “I’m open to the idea of him going for three division titles. But we’ll have to see the result of Brandon Vera’s next fight,” said Sityodtong, Vera, who lost to Aung La N Sang in October, 2019, is set to defend his heavyweight ONE Championship title on May 15.

It will be the main event of “ONE: Dangal”. This will be Vera’s third consecutive heavyweight title defense. The undefeated De Ridder, who is on a roll after 14 fights, now has the light heavyweight belt after he won by unanimous decision over Aung last Wednesday. It was his second belt after De Ridder snatched the middleweight title, also from Aung, also known as “The Burmese Python,” last October in Singapore. Vera, known as the “The Truth”, is back fighting in the 205-pound category after his loss to Aung. So far, Vera has won four of his ONE fights, three of which were championship fights. Peter Atencio

Brandon Vera

ML: Bang Bang celebrates biggest 515 E-party to date MOBILE Legends: Bang Bang’s global-wide campaign, the 515 E-party, is celebrated annually as a festival every May 15 featuring various in-game and online activities. This year’s 515 E-party slogan is “Together We Achieve More”. It’s a celebration of camaraderie and overcoming all challenges as a team and how a strong bond with you as the player, your teammates, and Mobile Legends, can reach goals that would have been impossible without the help of the others. “This year, we promise our loyal supporters that they can expect a bigger 515 E-party celebration,” said Lilian Gao from Moonton. “To make our 515 E-party even more special this year, MLBB will be launching its virtual music group named S.T.U.N., an abbreviation for Strength, Tactic, Unite, and Novel

which every MLBB player embodies,” she adds. The said virtual music group, which exudes an edgy, post-cyber-

punk vibe, features three beloved heroes: Chou, Selena, and Brody which will come complete with new and stunning skins, alluring voice lines,

effects, and a new soundtrack. Loyal fans of the game will also get to see their well-loved heroes perform their newest song as their highly-anticipated international music video debuts on May 8. It features dancing and rapping Chou with a skateboard, lead vocalist Selena, and the trio’s DJ, Brody. S.T.U.N. Chou skin and everything that goes along with it was released last April 27 while S.T.U.N. Brody skin and S.T.U.N. Selena skin will be released on May 8 and May 15 respectively. During the 515 E-party, waves of rewards will be given away. Free new hero from May 1 - May 16 Free 515 Exclusive skin from May 13 - May 31 Awesome skin chest and limited skin comeback from May 11 to May 20

Guaranteed free elite skins from May 15 to May 17 Players can win all heroes and skins on May 15 Diamonds to be given away during the 515 event and players can win up to 9999 diamonds by inviting friends to join Discount coupons to be given away until May 16 S.T.U.N. skins out by April 27 until June 15 55% off on MLBB in-game items from May 12 to May 16 Fans and gamers can unlock more surprises by simply logging in to the game. To learn more about this year’s 515 E-party and get more exciting updates, make sure to follow Mobile Legends: Bang Bang on its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MobileLegendsOnlinePH/.

C2

Sports

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

Doncic triple-double lifts Mavs

Running icon Bekele skips selection, may miss Olympics

L

OS ANGELES—Luka Doncic posted a triple double with 31 points, 20 assists and 12 rebounds as the Dallas Mavericks won their sixth game in the last seven by edging the Washington Wizards 125-124 on Saturday. It was the first triple double for Doncic since March 15 as he spearheaded a Mavericks’ attack that led the game by 12 points after the first quarter and by five at halftime. “Everyone expects greatness from him every single night,” said Dallas coach Rick Carlisle. “Just think about it, at 22 years old and having that kind of expectation put on him every night. But he is an amazing player. “He does an amazing job of absorbing all of it.” Dorian Finney-Smith drained the deciding three with nine seconds left in front of a pandemic-limited crowd of 4,300 at American Airlines Center in Texas.

PARIS—Running legend Kenenisa Bekele is a doubtful starter in the Tokyo Olympic marathon after sitting out the Ethiopian selection race on Saturday. The 38-year-old apparently decided not to take part in the 35-kilometer race close to the capital Addis Ababa, which was won by the 2020 London Marathon winner Shura Kitata in 1hr 45min 55sec, according to the Ethiopian federation on its social networks. World champion Lelisa Desisa was 20 seconds behind in second with Sisay Lemma, who came third in London last year, again in third. Each country can nominate three runners for the Olympic marathon. Bekele’s pedigree includes three Olympic gold medals on the track —10,000m in 2004 and the 5,000m and 10,000m double in 2008—and the second best marathon performance in history when he clocked 2:01:41 in winning the 2019 Berlin Marathon. “Bekele refused to run because it was cold, the race took place at altitude (at 2,356m), and only over 35 kilometres,” his agent Jos Hermens told AFP. “These are bad conditions for him... and which will have nothing to do with those in Tokyo. “The best team is clearly with Kenenisa Bekele. He will be ready, he is in good shape. “I have nothing against the athletes who participated on Saturday but I think we should select Bekele over Lemma who finished almost two minutes behind him in Berlin in 2019.” Although he did not compete in Saturday’s race, the Ethiopian federation can still draft Bekele if they wish for a much-awaited duel with reigning Olympic champion and Kenyan world record holder Eliud Kipchoge. FP

Finney-Smith finished with 22 points, Maxi Kleber tallied 17 and Tim Hardaway scored 16 points for the Mavericks, who improved to 3627 on the season. Russell Westbrook equalled his season-high of 42 points and Bradley Beal had 29 points as the Wizards suffered just their second loss in the past dozen games. Doncic hit a jump shot with 34 seconds left to tie it 122-122. Bradley Beal put Washington in front with a pair of free throws with 26 seconds to go before Doncic found FinneySmith open for his clutch three. Beal failed to connect on a potential game-winning three-pointer with two

seconds left on the clock. Elsewhere, Stephen Curry poured in 30 points and the Golden State Warriors tightened up on defence to beat the Houston Rockets 113-87 and give their playoff push a much needed boost. Curry scored 23 points in the third quarter as the Warriors seized control by going on a 24-0 run for a 77-59 lead. The win couldn’t have come at a better time for the Warriors, who halted a two-game losing skid after winning seven of nine previously. The Warriors struggled on defence in both losses, surrendering a 25-0 run to the Dallas Mavericks and then giving up 37 fourth quarter points against the Minnesota Timberwolves. “We just need to bring a little joy. It’s been tough trying to create consistency, we’ve had guys in and out of the lineup and really playing eight guys every night,” Curry said.

Inter Milan a step away from Serie A football title

Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks dunks the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. AFP

Bradley, Burns share PGA Vaspar lead MIAMI—Americans Keegan Bradley and Sam Burns each fired a two-under par 69 to remain deadlocked for the lead after Saturday’s third round of the US PGA Valspar Championship. Burns, chasing his first PGA title, sank a bogey putt from just outside eight feet at the closing hole while Bradley, the 2011 PGA Championship winner, missed a par putt from just inside eight feet at the par-4 18th. That left them level for the 54hole lead on 14-under 199 at Innisbrook resort’s Copperhead course in Palm Harbor, Florida, with compatriot Max Homa third on 200 after firing a 66. Bradley and Burns matched the 54-hole course record set by South Korea’s K.J. Choi in 2002 and equaled by Canada’s Adam Hadwin in 2017. Burns, who has had four 36-hole PGA leads this season but only a best of third at Riviera in February,

“Bringing energy is our focus, but when we bring joy and let that flow on the court—and I’ve got to lead that -that’s when good things happen.” Curry also had six rebounds and five assists while Canadian Andrew Wiggins chipped in 20 points. Draymond Green finished with 11 rebounds and eight assists for the Warriors. Kevin Porter, who was coming off a 50-point performance over Milwaukee on Thursday, scored 14 of his 16 points in the first half and added six assists for the under-manned Rockets. Jae’Sean Tate had 14 points for Houston, who led by as many as 11 points in the first half. At one stage of the contest, Houston went scoreless for 5:25, missing all 12 of their shot attempts. In Charlotte, Terry Rozier scored 29 points as the Charlotte Hornets used a 13-0 run in the final quarter to beat the Detroit Pistons 107-94. AFP

opened with an eagle and was fourunder through five, but bogeys at 16 and 18 dropped him back. “I played really well, got off to a great start,” Burns said. “Overall, I played solid. “Tomorrow will be a fresh start. I’ll try to commit to the process and keep playing well,” Burns said. “Managing the golf course, putting it in the right spots, will be big tomorrow.” Bradley produced the thirdlowest 54-hole score of his career but a host of near-miss putts left him shaking his head over what might have been. “Today could have been my best round of the tournament. I just didn’t hole the putts I did the first two rounds,” Bradley said. “But I’m still tied for the lead and still in the tournament.” He would welcome another chance at some of the putts that went off target. “I hit perfect shots. I put the ball

where I wanted it. I was hitting the ball nicely,” Bradley said. “I know I can do it. I feel like if I go out tomorrow and stick to my process I can have a chance at the end.” Final-pair partners Bradley and Burns were both in bunkers at 18. Burns had a plugged lie and powered the ball 75 feet from the hole while Bradley punched out to just beyond seven feet, but each made five. “I would have taken five after seeing where that plugged lie was,” Burns said. Eagle energizes Bradley Burns dropped his approach inside three feet from the cup at the par-5 opening hole and tapped in for eagle while Bradley birdied. At the par-4 third, Burns sank a 34-foot birdie putt and made a 12-footer to match Bradley with a birdie at the par-5 fifth. Bradley missed a four-foot birdie putt at the par-5 11th and a sevenfoot birdie putt at the par-4 12th to leave Burns ahead by two. AFP

Keegan Bradley of the United States lines up a putt on the seventh green during the third round of the Valspar Championship on the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida. AFP

MILAN—Christian Eriksen and Achraf Hakimi scored in the second half as Inter Milan beat Crotone 2-0 to move to the brink of the Serie A title on Saturday. Antonio Conte’s side are 13 points ahead of city rivals AC Milan who reclaimed second place with a 2-0 win over 18th-placed Benevento, with four games to play. Inter can claim their first Scudetto since 2010 on Sunday if Atalanta, a further point adrift in third, fail to win at Sassuolo. “We are succeeding in toppling a kingdom that had lasted for nine years,” said former Juventus coach Conte, who led the Turin giants to the first three of their current run of nine consecutive league titles. “We’re aware that we can do something extraordinary because Inter haven’t won a Scudetto in 11 years, and we’re breaking up a dynasty. The lads deserve this joy, congratulations to them. “We’re a step away from making history.” Dane Eriksen came on as a substitute in the 65th minute and scored four minutes later, firing home a shot which took a deflection off Crotone defender Lisandro Magallan, from Romelu Lukaku’s lay-off. Lukaku had a goal ruled out before Hakimi struck a second in injury time. “It’s an important goal because it moves us closer to the title, but we still haven’t won it yet,” said Eriksen of just his second goal this campaign. “If it proves to be the decisive goal, then obviously it’ll be the most important one of the season. Every goal is important, but the one that takes you to your objective is extra special. “Today, I came on as a substitute, and when you do this the aim is to make your mark: you want to shake things up. I’m happy that I managed to do so.” Ibrahimovic return lifts Milan The match in Calabria pitted the Serie A leaders against the bottom team who were relegated as a result of the loss. Both sides had chances in the first half with Adam Ounas threatening early for the hosts who lost defender Arkadiusz Reca to injury before the break. AFP

Jags make Clemson quarterback Lawrence top pick in NFL Draft LOS ANGELES—The Jacksonville Jaguars selected gridiron prodigy Trevor Lawrence with the top pick in the NFL Draft on Thursday, hopefully acquiring the franchise quarterback they have long sought. The move had been virtually certain ever since the Jaguars were assured of the No. 1 overall pick in December, when they finished with the NFL’s worst record of 1-15. The long-haired Lawrence went 34-2 in three years as a starter at Clemson University. At 6ft 6in (1.98m) and 220 pounds (100kg) the 21-year-old has physical presence to go with a powerful arm and rare deep-ball accuracy and is already being mentioned in the same breath as NFL icons such as Peyton Manning and John Elway. “Pretty surreal,” Lawrence told ESPN’s Marty Smith on the draft telecast from Seneca, South Carolina, shortly after his selection was announced by

Screens show the Jacksonville Jaguars selection of Trevor Lawrence with the first pick of the 2021 NFL Draft at the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, Ohio. AFP

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell at the ceremony in Cleveland, Ohio. “Obviously this has been the dream for the past few years. And like I’ve said, I didn’t even dream this as a kid so (it’s) really special and just having all the people that I care about here watching, it’s really hard to explain. “I was super nervous before and just am so excited to be a part of the Jacksonville community. “I’m super excited to be coming to Jacksonville and play for you guys and can’t wait to go to work,” added Lawrence, who is expected to step in as a starter immediately for new Jaguars head coach Urban Meyer as they try to turn around the fortunes of a club that has lost 10 or more games in nine of the past 10 seasons. Quarterbacks went one-two-three as the New York Jets took Zach Wilson with the number two selection and the San Francisco 49ers selected Trey Lance. Wilson led Brigham Young University to an 11-1 record in 2020, finishing with 3,692

passing yards, completing a career-best 73.5 percent of his passes with 33 touchdowns and added 10 scores on the ground. Lance, a lesser-known product of North Dakota State University who won’t turn 21 until May 9, could spend at least part of his rookie NFL season backing up 49ers starter Jimmy Garoppolo. Lance has a lower division collegiate championship to his credit from the 2019 season, but he played just one game last autumn as the university opted out amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Atlanta Falcons used their fourth overall selection to take dynamic tight end Kyle Pitts, providing another weapon for an offense now led by quarterback Matt Ryan. The Cincinnati Bengals grabbed Louisiana State University wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase with the fifth selection. The move reunited Chase with Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow after they played together on LSU’s 2019 national championship-winning team. AFP

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

Kapamilya rolls out red carpet for Sunshine Dizon, Jake Ejercito

Sunshine Dizon and Jake Ejercito were roped in to be Kapamlya stars to be part of Dreamscapes newest project, ‘Marry Me, Marry You.’

A

BS-CBN warmly welcomed newly minted Kapamilya stars Sunshine Dizon and Jake Ejercito in a virtual press event held Friday. Sunshine and Jake expressed their gratitude about getting to work on their first TV series in ABS-CBN, Marry Me, Marry You, which goes into production this month. Sunshine shared that when she was offered a part in the Kapamilya series, she knew it was “meant to be.” “I’ve always asked the Lord to plant me where I will bloom. In all the seasons of my life, I’ve trusted His will. I’m just grateful and excited that I am given this opportunity to be working with Kapamilya naman ngayon. When my manager said there’s an offer from Dreamscape, from sir Deo Endrinal, I just knew in my heart that it was meant to be. In this season in my life, in my career, I needed to do this,” said Sunshine. The award-winning actress also said that with Marry Me, Marry You, the thing she is looking forward to the most is working with people she looks up to, including director Dwein Ruedas Baltazar, Vina Morales, and Cherry Pie Picache. The series will also launch the fresh team-up of Paulo Avelino and Janine Gutierrez. “I’m excited because I’m a big fan of Direk Dwein. And the environment, these are actors that I look up to. For my career, it’s coming to a full circle na maka-experience naman ako ng mga pinapanood ko lang noon, makakasama ko na

ngayon,” she added. Jake, in a separate media conference, revealed he has been busy preparing for his first-ever teleserye role, which he said he has been waiting for since he started doing acting stints in teleseryes and movies. “Until now I’m still overwhelmed to be part of the show and to be amongst these brilliant talented actors… Ever since noon, inaaral ko na ang script that we have. I just wanna get into taping. When I saw the list ng mga makakasama sa show, parang na-check na ang lahat ng nasa checklist ko. It’s a mix of very talented, brilliant actors and actresses, veterans, and newbies like me. Talagang ibang klase ang mix,” he said. Jake also teased viewers about his role and what they can anticipate about the series. According to him, his character’s name is Cedric, a childhood friend and the right-hand man of Paulo’s character. “The series is great, it’s what the viewers need now. It’s not your typical drama, it’s lighter than usual. This is a great time to be releasing and offering this series to our viewers now,” Jake stated.

Grammys scrap ‘secret’ nomination committees THE organizers of the Grammys said Friday they were scrapping the "secret" committees that select which acts get nominated for the prestigious music awards following criticism from artists and allegations of rigging. The Recording Academy said nominations for the 2022 awards would be decided by its entire voting membership of more than 11,000, rather than the anonymous 15 to 30 member expert committees who had previously made the selections. The Academy said the "significant changes" to the awards process "reflect its ongoing commitment to evolve with the musical landscape and to ensure that the Grammy Awards rules and guidelines are transparent and equitable." In its statement, the organization said it was also reducing the number of categories in which voters can vote and added two new award categories, in Latin and global music, to bring the total to 86. The changes come after R&B star The Weeknd in November accused the Grammy organizers of being corrupt after he surprisingly received no nominations, despite a big year commercially. "The Grammys remain corrupt. You owe me, my fans, and the industry transparency...," the Canadian, known for hits like "Blinding Lights" and "Starboy," tweeted at the time and pledged to stop

Taylor Swift won the Album of the Year award for 'Folklore' at this year's Grammys.

submitting music for awards consideration. Harvey Mason, Jr., chairman and interim president of the Academy, said it had "been a year of unprecedented, transformational change for the Recording Academy." "This is a new Academy, one that is driven to action and that has doubled down on the commitment to meeting the needs of the music community." Last year the Academy's first female CEO, Deborah Dugan was fired over alleged bullying. In a legal complaint, Dugan said she was ousted after raising concerns ranging from voting irregularities to sexual harassment and alleged rape.

One-stop-shop mobile app ELVIE Crespo, Lucky Mart Grocery’s general manager for merchandising, believes that a celebrity endorser can further boost their company’s reach in introducing their mobile app. Also, partnering with other companies that do grocery delivery is also a good option. But Lucky Mart Grocery wanted to customize its service and ensure its people’s safety above all. While getting a celebrity endorser may be considered in the future, the brand wanted to be establish itself first for its excellent customer service before hiring someone to promote the app and the brand. “We have a few plans for the app. But in the meantime, our main focus is to improve our services. A lot of companies have changed doing business right now so we wanted to be competitive and make this app convenient for our customers and make sure that we can maintain the price of the goods being sold in our stores,” Crespo told Manila Standard Entertainment in a virtual interview.

C3

“Patrons can shop for groceries at the comfort of their home and get their groceries within twotow hours. That’s our guarantee,” she added. Lucky Mart Grocery Delivery mobile app promises a wide variety of grocery items and essential goods available on its mobile app without any delay in delivery. “Our customers needs are changing especially because of the pandemic. Our goal is to provide a delivery service that’s convenient, easy-to-use and fast to address those needs. Here at Lucky Mart, we have our own delivery riders available from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily to guarantee a two-hour delivery period.” said Crespo. The app also brings special prizes to its users. With just a minimum purchase of P1,000, each successful purchase with a redeemed Shop and Win a PS5 coupon is already equivalent to one raffle entry. Purchases from May 1 to 31 are qualified for the June 2 Raffle Draw. Two brand new PlayStation 5s will be given away each draw. Promo period is from Feb. 20 to May 31, 2021 per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-114047 Series of 2021. Lucky Mart now delivers to customers within Parañaque, Pasay, Las Piñas, Makati, Muntinlupa City, Taguig, and Bacoor City. The Lucky Mart Grocery Delivery app is now available for download on all Android and IOS Lucky Mart executives with program host Jan Enriquez. devices.

ARIAS ALWIN IGNACIO “A DREAM is a wish your heart makes,” a line from the iconic animated Cinderella Disney motion picture rings true for multi-awarded TV and film director and renowned contemporary visual artist Louie Ignacio. His eight-year-old passion project billed Abe-Nida gets the all systems go approval from BG Productions International, headed by film maven Baby Go, which is going back to film production after being inactive since the pandemic last year. In a nutshell, Abe Nida, written by Ralston Jover, is about a sculptor Abe and the love of his life and muse, Nida. Think of the tragic love story between Juan Luna and Paz Pardo de Tavera and one gets the perfect idea of what to expect from this Ignacio helmed art captured in film offering. “This is based on a true story,” Ignacio comes clean. “I personally know the artist. I know his whereabouts. Bought some of his works. When I met him and learned of his story, I know it would make interesting material for a movie.” Adds the director: “He is an artist, a wonderful sculptor. Sadly, he has a mental condition as well. His art has been his refuge and therapy. You know, it makes me wonder how does he cope with the reality of his life and that despite it, he creates divine pieces of sculptured art. Yes, aside from exorcising his so-called mental-emotional demons through his art, he is under medication and that calms him and puts his mental health issues at bay.” Meanwhile, Ignacio explains why

The curious case of Louie Ignacio’s ‘Abe-Nida’

Director Louie Ignacio

Seasoned actor Allen Dizon is paired with Katrina Halili in the big-screen offering of BG Productions, ‘Abe Nida.’

Allen Dizon was chosen to play the lead. He said he had the award-winning actor in mind when he was writing the story. “I want him to do a role that he hasn’t done yet. He is perfect for the role and he is challenged by it. There will be a lot of emotional and physical bearing in the film. And most of Abe’s struggles are internal. I know that Allen is an intelligent actor so I am certain that he will be able to give the nuances and the emotional truth of Abe.” Dizon is ecstatic to give life to Abe and he just feels lucky to get good roles. “I am not the type of actor who’d say I’d like this role for my next film or this is my dream role. I believe I am just fortunate to be offered a role as interesting as this one. I know he’s kind of crazy. This is a rare chance for me to play a character who has a mental condition na dapat hindi halata kasi he acts and looks normal.” For casting Katrina Halili as Nida,

Ignacio believes that the actress can deliver. “She is just waiting for the right project that will show her mettle as an actress. I believe this is the one for her. She is my only choice to be Nida,” Ignacio reveals. Giving life to two pivotal characters in the film are Laurice Guillen who plays Allen’s domineering and loud-mouthed aunt and Joel Lamangan who plays a priest. Rounding up the cast are Maureen Mauricio, Ina Alegre, and Leandro Baldemor, who happens to be a sculptor in real life. “My objective in doing Abe Nida, is to let audiences see that the lives and world of visual artists are wonderful sources of inspiration and learning. And yes, cinema is indeed is the perfect medium to fully capture the many layers of their personalities and will further immortalize their artistry and achievements,” ends Ignacio.

Anne Curtis expresses gratitude to loved ones ACTRESS Anne Curtis turned emotional at the virtual launch of Family Thanksgiving Month—a new campaign by Jollibee that encourages people to openly and actively express their gratitude to their families and loved ones. The 36-year-old screen star couldn’t contain her emotions when she was surprised with a video message from her mother, father, and brother who are all in Australia at the moment. “Growing up I feel very fortunate to be showered with much love from my parents and sister, and now my husband Erwan and baby Dahlia. So, every chance I get I want to make them feel how much I appreciate them – whether spending more quality time with them, sharing a meal, or even saying a simple thank you,” says Anne. The event also served as the launchpad of the campaign’s manifesto video directed by Joel Ruiz and featuring Anne Curtis in her first comeback project with Jollibee after returning from a year-long break in Australia with her family and newborn daughter Dahlia. The short but meaningful video reminds everyone why we should be thankful for our family and make the effort or go the extra mile to express their gratitude more often starting with the Family Thanksgiving Month. “We think that this is the perfect

Anne Curtis, who is the face of a fast-food chain’s Family Thanksgiving campaign, said that motherhood has changed her perspective on life completely.

time to start openly showing our appreciation to the people who matter most to us – our families. Jollibee has always been about the joy of family and togetherness, and with the launch of the Family Thanksgiving Month,” says JFC Philippines Country/Regional Marketing Head and Jollibee Philippines Marketing Head Francis Flores. “We hope to remind and encourage

people to appreciate the time we spend with our families, and to say thank you for all the things that they have done or continued doing for us not just for a day, or a month but for as long as we can. Because if there’s one thing that this pandemic taught us, it’s to never take anything for granted and cherish the people who matter most,” Flores adds. Another highlight of the program was a panel discussion on the topic ‘Why appreciating our Family is important’, with Anne, Francis Flores, and couple parenting experts Edricand Joy Mendoza. The panel discussion was streamed live on Jollibee's official Facebook page. To cap off the event, Anne led the media guests in saying their simple thank you to loved ones via the #IDontSayThisEveryDayBut activity. This online movement has been trending on Instagram, with Jollibee endorsers, influencers, and netizens all expressing their gratitude to their families. With its virality on Instagram, netizens took the initiative to bring the #IDontSayThisEveryDayButMovement on Facebook and Twitter as well, resulting in thousands of posts in a matter of days. Jollibee’s Family Thanksgiving video was unveiled on May 1 on Jollibee’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Life

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

C4

FOOD

MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021

Delicious takeaways

for Mother’s Day

By Steph Llarena

S

HOWER your mother with love and all of life’s wonders. Don’t let her slave away in the kitchen on her special day. Go treat her and the family to a meal sweet and savory. Here, we list down a selection available for mom’s special occasion. Gourmet takeaway

A burst of flavors in Tapenade’s Spanish Feast which is good for three to four persons.

Spanish spread

Celebrate Dia de la Madre with festive Spanish flavors from Discovery Primea’s Tapenade. The three-to-four-person Mother’s Day Spanish Feast it offers starts with croquetas de pollo y trufa with aioli dip, tortilla de patatas, and gambas al ajillo with a baguette. It also comes with a serving of ensalada campera with seared tuna and mixed greens, but the highlight of the spread are Executive Chef Luis Chikiamco’s paella de mar y montaña (available only on Mother’s Day weekend) made with chicken, chorizo, shrimp, and squid; and pescado al horno featuring oven-baked black sea bass The meals ends on a sweet note with crema catalana flan with caramel. To make the feast extra special, the set comes with a bottle of Prosecco or non-alcoholic sparkling wine and a box of Madelenas de Chocolate. The Spanish Feast is priced at P4,500 nett and can be ordered for takeout or delivery via the customer’s preferred delivery service from May 7 to May 9. Call (02) 7955-8888 or email primea.restaurants@discovery.com.ph.

Who says the family cannot enjoy gourmet while staying safe? Edsa Shangri-La’s Gourmet On the Move Mother’s Day at Home Set menu features a delectable spread of salmon coulibiac, roast chicken casserole with red wine, seafood paella with chorizo and scallops, quinoa and feta stuffed roasted bell peppers, potato lyonnaise with gruyere gratin vegetables, a selection of cupcakes, and chocolate lava with chocolate sauce. This Edsa Shangri-La’s Mother’s Day gift hamper five-person set is available at P3,700 nett for the whole month of May. The hotel also has a special Mother’s Day Filipino-themed Afternoon Tea Set at P1,700, specialty cakes, and a gift hampers filled with treats starting at P2,500 net. Edsa Shangri-La is also opening its al fresco dining setting by the pool for its barbecue a la carte and set menu available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Its al fresco dining also features HEAT and Summer Palace’s favorites, as well as a special Mother’s Day set menu available for the whole month of May. More gifts for moms are on offer. Call (02) 8633-8888 or email reservations.esl@shangri-la.com for inquiries and reservations.

Crockpot and cakes

For a complete meal that’s good for three to four persons, Marriott Manila offers Mama’s Crockpot Special (P3,700 nett) that comes with a Classic Slow-Cooked Beef Roulade (1.5kg) in mushroom sauce served with fettuccini pasta in black truffle cream, buttery whipped potatoes, and sautéed organic vegetable medley. Each order of this set also comes with a Makeup Kit Cake made with moist chocolate cake, salted chocolate caramel ganache, chocolate butter cream, and fondant icing. In addition to the Makeup Kit Cake (P1,200 nett), Marriott Café Bakery has more for mothers: Carrot Entremet (P1,200 nett), Caramel and Chocolate Cake (P1,200 nett), Ube Leche Flan Cake (P1,200 nett), Tiramisu Streusel Cake (P1,200 nett), King James Cake (P1,200 nett), Mango Cheesecake (P1,300 nett), and Strawberry Cheesecake (P1,300 nett). All Mother’s Day offers are available for pickup and takeaway until May 9; call (02) 8998-9999 or 0917-859-9521 for orders. Delivery may also be arranged via Delishvery. More offers are available on Pickaroo, GrabFood, and foodpanda.

Tête-à-tête over tea

Dainty delicacies

Crimson Hotel’s soon-toopen patisserie and boulangerie, Baker J has dainty treats in store for moms on her special day. Surprise her with a breakfast in bed that comes with buttery pastries such as pain au chocolat, cashew praliné, raspberry croissant, madeleine, and more. Or go for a delectable Choco Royale, Dulce de Leche Cheesecake, Red Pearl, or Mango Graham cake at 25 Cakes at Baker J are available at 25 percent off. Purchases worth at least percent off. P1,500 comes with a free Rustan’s Gouache canvas pouch. Call 0998-961-3409 or email dining@ crimsonhotel.com for more details.

Mama’s Crockpot Special from Marriott Manila includes slow-cooked beef roulade, sides, and a cake.

Brasserie 3’s Signature Takeaway Feasts prepared by executive Chef Daniel Patterson are served in HotBox for easy reheating.

Roast in a hotbox

Brasserie on 3 at Conrad Manila takes the hassle out of reheating takeaways with its selection of Family Platter, Chef’s Specials, and Family Roast all served in a HotBox—the innovative packaging that instantly reheats meals with a pull of a thread. A complimentary dish goes with a minimum purchase of four items in the menu. For Mother’s Day, China Blue by Jereme Leung has a special set menu whose price starts at P3,388 nett; C Lounge offers a takeaway Afternoon High Tea set for two persons at P1,650 nett; and Bru Coffee Bar serves a collection of floral-themed pastries, cakes, and chocolates starting at P500 nett. Online takeaway and delivery is available on May 3-9. Go to bit. ly/conradmestore, call 0917-650-4043, or email conradmanila@ conradhotels.com.

Catch up with mom or share stories over a cup of special blend TWG Tea made with green tea infused with sweet jasmine flowers. Bring her to a fragrant secret garden with the heady, intoxicating perfume of the Jasmine Queen Tea from the Cotton Teabag (P1,355) and Loose Leaf Tea Collections (P595 per 50g), infused in the brand’s artisanal Design Orchid Teapot (P6,895) with removable fil- TWG’s Jasmine Queen Tea is made with green tea ter. Enhance the infused with sweet jasmine flowers. whole affair with Bain de Roses Tea Scented Candle (P3,895). Get them at TWG Tea boutiques or check out its LazMall flagship store.

Chef Gino and Pauleen Luna-Sotto’s secret seasoning

Diners can enjoy their food under the sky at the Manhattan Al Fresco Row in Araneta City in Cubao, Quezon City. (Photo from Araneta City/Facebook)

Al fresco dining at Araneta City ARANETA City in Cubao levels up its outdoor dining strip along General Malvar Avenue. Located between Manhattan Parkway and Manhattan Parkview, the Manhattan Row Al Fresco is an Instagram-worthy outdoor setting where diners can enjoy food from Giovanni’s, Marina Grill, Gilligan’s, The Eatery, Mister Kabab, Bonchon, and Moonleaf

Milk Tea, as well as from those sold at food stalls in the area. Araneta City says the strip, being nestled between the Manhattan Towers, has a temperate environment ideal especially this summer. Come nighttime, the lanterns that line the street are lit up, giving it a romantic vibe. The Manhattan Row Al Fresco is open daily from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

RENOWNED chef Gino Gonzalez and celebrity mom Pauleen Luna-Sotto recently posted on their respective social media pages their recipes using the same seasoning mix. Chef Gino made the Kapampangan dish Asadong Vaca made with beef ribs, while Luna-Sotto cooked Cheese Quesadilla with button mushroom and cheese. Both used Aji-Ginisa Flavor Seasoning Mix to make their dishes tastier. “Aji-Ginisa is best for stirfried dishes like vegetables and noodles. However, it is also suitable for saucy dishes like afritada because of its meaty gisa deliciousness,” says Daryl Magno, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation’s seasonings category manager. The seasoning mix is part of the brand’s “Eat Well, Live Well” promise to make mealtimes healthy, delicious, and enjoyable. Pauleen Luna-Sotto presents her Cheese Quesadilla (left) and Chef Gino with his Asadong Vaca.