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FLAG DAY AMID COVID. The local government of Imus and member of the Philippine Navy conduct a rehearsal for the commemoration of the National Flag Day at the Heritage Park in Brgy. Alapan, Imus, Cavite on May 27, 2021. The event marks the 123-year-old Battle of Alapan on May 28 although presidential proclamation No. 374 officially recognizing the event was signed on March 6, 1965. JR Josue

Tougher lockdown law eyed Congress to pass one with stiffer penalties for violators By Vito Barcelo

ALACAÑANG on Thursday urged Congress to file a quarantine law that would set stiffer penalties for those who would breach quarantine protocols, after President Rodrigo Duterte expressed dismay over mounting reports of these violations.

In his public address Wednesday night, Duterte said he was looking for a suitable law to jail quarantine violators, after observing that many Filipinos continue to disregard the government’s call to follow health protocols to prevent the spread of COVID 19.

Presidential chief legal counsel Salvador Panelo said that without such a law, reckless imprudence is the possible complaint that can be filed against any violators. But presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the penalty under reckless Next page

VOL. XXXV • NO. 102 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Leonen escapes impeachment; House panel

NCR Plus tallies lower cases; unanimous, dismisses evidence as ‘hearsay‘ quarantine curbs seen easing By Maricel V. Cruz

By Vito Barcelo and Willie Casas QUARANTINE restrictions in Metro Manila and its four neighboring provinces are likely to be further relaxed due to the declining number of COVID-19 cases, the Palace said Thursday. However, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said that there are still a lot of factors that should be considered be-

fore restrictions in the National Capital Region (NCR) Plus bubble can be eased. “There’s a likelihood that the quarantine classifications might be relaxed on the basis of the formula but subject to the recommendation of Metro Manila [that] any further reopening should be gradual,” he said. In an online press briefing, Roque said the OCTA Research team continues to see a decline in COVID-19 cases in Metro Next page

THE House of Representatives committee on justice on Thursday dismissed the impeachment complaint filed against Supreme Court Associate Justice Marvic Leonen. The committee, chaired by Rep. Vicente Veloso III of Leyte, declared that the complaint filed by one Edwin Cordevilla, secretary-general of the Filipino League of Advocates For Good Government, was based on hearsay. Forty-four congressmen voted for the dismissal of the complaint while two in-

hibited themselves. Veloso said the committee will return the complaint to the House Secretary General within three session days after it decided on the complaint, with the annotations on why it dismissed the complaint. "Being hearsay and not based on an authentic record, we cannot take this as a ground even on the question of verification on the matter of the court," Veloso said. "The verification failed to satisfy the requirement that the allegations of the complainant must be based on his personal knowledge or must be based on au-

Tug-of-war over ruling party assembly By Vito Barcelo Sen. Manny Pacquiao, PDPLaban president

SENATOR Emmanuel Pacquiao has directed PDP-Laban members to "ignore" Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi's call for a national assembly by the end of the month, the party confirmed Thursday. But Cusi, PDPLaban vice chairman, told Manila Standard in a text mes-

sage the assembly on Monday would push through. In a memorandum dated May 25, Pacquiao, who is party president, "strongly advised" his party-mates not to heed "Cusi's letter calling for a national assembly on May 31, 2021." "Yes, this is a legitimate memorandum from the national headquarters," PDP-Laban Executive Director Ron Munsayac said when

Sec. Al Cusi, PDPLaban vice chairman

NATIONAL Artist for Visual Arts Arturo Luz passed away on Wednesday night, May 26. He was 94. His daughter, former actress Angela Luz, confirmed the news in her post on social media. “It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of my father, our beloved National Artist, Arturo Luz. He peacefully joined his Creator at 8:45 this Next page evening.”

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has reprimanded local government units for choosing to use Pfizer, the US brand of COVID-19 vaccine, noting that being

selective was not feasible in light of the global supply shortage. The President said equality must be followed in the country’s vaccine distribution. “Allowing some localities to administer a single brand of vaccine to their constituents would agitate other LGUs and make Next page similar demands,” he said.

PINOY KILLED IN US MASS SHOOTING

COW FOR A JAB RAFFLE IN PAMPANGA

NEWS / A2

By Vito Barcelo, Willie Casas, Joel E. Zurbano and Macon Ramos-Araneta

Arturo Luz

Defensor slams House decision: A sorry episode By Rey E. Requejo

Duterte chides ‘selective’ LGUs

By Bernadette Lunas

FORMER Quezon City lawmaker Matias Defensor Jr. expressed extreme disappointment Thursday over the House Justice Committee’s dismissal of the impeachment complaint against Supreme Court Associate Justice Marvic Leonen due to technicality. Defensor said the committee’s decision was “wrong” simply because Edwin Cordevilla’s documents were not “certified true copy” by the Supreme Court. Defensor pointed out that certified

National Artist Luz passes away at 94

thentic records," he added. Leonen lauded the unanimous vote of the committee on justice of the House of Representatives to dismiss the impeachment complaint against him on ground that it is insufficient in form and substance. Leonen described the House committee on justice’s vote as an affirmation of “constitutional independence of the Judiciary by not allowing others to take advantage of the vulnerability of its members. “They have created a precedent that

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM MAY 27)

1,200,430 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

6,483 48,109 NEW

ACTIVE

20,379

210

1,131,942

4,335

DEATHS

RECOVERIES

NEW

News

FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Pinoy among 8 dead in US shooting “There are eight fatalities in the shoot- ate General in San Francisco is confirming in California. The Philippine Consul- ing reports that at least one of them is of

Filipino descent,” the DFA said in a text message to reporters. “The Consulate General is with authorities to get more info and is ready to extend any assistance if warranted,” the DFA added. Before taking his own life, a transit employee opened fire at a rail yard for commuter trains in San Jose, California, killing eight of his co-workers and wounding at least one.

Local authorities did not disclose the name of the gunman, but the San Jose Mercury News and other media outlets identified him as Samuel Cassidy, a 57-year-old maintenance worker at the yard. The incident was the latest in a spate of mass shootings in the United States. At least eight deadly shootings were reported in the last three months.

similar to what other countries have that would spell out stiffer penalties for those in breach of quarantine protocols." “There are existing laws which you can apply for now but I want more effective laws that would provide for more stringent penalties so there would be more compliance for quarantine classifications,” Roque added. In his address, Duterte said people who violated quarantine restrictions were breaking the law. “You are disregarding the government ‘s appeal and it’s criminal for you to get the COVID and pass it on to another innocent person. It is really a crime,” Duterte

said. “I will look for a suitable law because you are now forcing my hand to get into this thing and control. Much as we would like to reduce the COVID cases, if this is what you’ll do, there will be no end to this,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino. “There’s no end to this perdition. We don’t have enough money,“he added. Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, meanwhile, said chiefs of large villages cannot use the size of their area of jurisdiction as an excuse for their inability to monitor and prevent super spreader events. In an interview with ABS-CBN Teleradyo, Año said they should strengthen

coordination with the local police, the city or municipal government, and other stakeholders to be able to strictly enforce health protocols. Also on Thursday, the Clark Development Corp. said with new and stricter guidelines in place, appropriate penalties will now be imposed on violators of health and safety protocols in the freeport. As it prepares to reopen the public areas of the free port, the state-owned corporation said that it opted to formulate new policies to effectively implement the health and safety protocols of the InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) in the zone.

the COVID-19 pandemic. Roque also thanked the House of Representatives for passing on second reading the Bayanihan to Arise as One bill or the Bayanihan 3 on Tuesday. Roque said Bayanihan 3, which contains a P401 billion stimulus package to provide more aid to Filipinos amid the pandemic, would make it easier for the government to tap more funds in case it needs a supplemental budget. In its latest report, the OCTA Research group said the average number of new COVID-19 infections in Metro Manila went down 23 percent to 1,023 in the past week, with an average daily attack rate of 7.41. NCR has improved from being a highrisk to moderate-risk area for COVID-19, the group said. The positivity rate in the region decreased to 10 percent from May 19 to 25, slightly higher than the target of less than 5 percent. The reproduction number was recorded at 0.52 over the past week, OCTA said. A reproduction number of one or higher is an indication of the continuous transmission of the virus. OCTA said the healthcare utilization rate in NCR was at 42 percent while ICU

occupancy was at 57 percent. Quezon City reported the highest number of new COVID-19 cases among the local government units across the country from May 20 to 26, with 250 new cases per day. This was followed by Zamboanga City with 109 new cases and Manila with 107. Meanwhile, San Fernando in Pampanga, Santa Rosa in Laguna, and Marikina reported the least number of new cases per day with 34, 32, and 31, respectively. OCTA observed that Malabon and Caloocan had recorded the lowest average daily attack rates of 3.57 and 4.89, respectively. “Outside the bubble, Zamboanga City had the second-highest number of new cases, although its trend is now decreasing,” it said. But OCTA observed significant oneweek growth rates in the cities of Davao, Puerto Princesa, General Santos, Butuan, and Cebu. The Philippines logged 6,483 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, bringing the total number of infections to 1,200,430, as six laboratories failed to submit data on time, the Department of Health (DOH)

reported. The death toll climbed to 20,379 with 210 new fatalities, the highest daily deaths recorded since May 4 this year. The DOH also announced that 4,335 more patients recovered from the illness, bringing the total to 1,131,942. Active cases rose slightly to 48,109. Of the active cases, 92.7 percent were mild, 2.2 percent were asymptomatic, 2.1 percent were severe, 1.6 percent were critical, and 1.47 percent were moderate. Data also showed that 59 percent of the country’s intensive care unit beds are in use while 38 percent of the mechanical ventilators are occupied. In the National Capital Region (NCR), 57 percent of the ICU beds are being utilized while 38 percent of the mechanical ventilators are in use. The OCTA Research group earlier said the average number of new COVID-19 infections in NCR decreased by 23 percent to 1,023 in the past week. Also on Thursday, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos said Metro Manila mayors are likely to recommend a higher limit on religious gatherings.

"People are dying every day and we need all the time we have in Congress to legislate measures that will help our people fight this disease and our country to recover," Abante said. "Do we really need an impeachment during a pandemic? Is this really the right time to do this?" he added. Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Carlos Zarate agreed with his fellow legislators that the Cordevilla complaint had to be dismissed outright. Cordevilla filed the impeachment complaint at the House in December 2020. Cordevilla in his complaint said Leonen committed a culpable violation of the Constitution. He accused Leonen of allegedly “arbitrarily, willfully, intentionally, deliberately and malevolently, with evident bad faith, failing to dispose of at least” 37 cases out of more than 81 cases that were raffled off to his court few months after he was appointed to the Supreme Court in November 2012. The 37 cases were categorized for Leonen’s immediate decision, Cordevilla said in his filing. Supreme Court records showed that Leonen has the highest number of cases under his docket. Cordevilla also accused Leonen of not doing his job as head of the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal (HRET), as the magistrate had no decision on “dozens” of electoral protests as of this month. Leonen was also accused of refusing to file his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) for 15 times while serving as professor at the College of Law at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.

Defensor...

online press briefing. Roque issued the statement following a clamor for Duterte to seek the vice presidency next year. Duterte has been repeatedly urged to pair either with his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, or his former long-time aide, Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, in next year’s elections. Roque said he already heard the President say at one point that he had become president, so why would he want to become vice president, adding “But I don't know if there's been any change.” Munsayac did not give details on why Cusi was calling for an assembly about five months before the filing of certificates of candidacy for the 2022 national

elections. In March, Pacquiao warned Cusi not to sow division within the ruling party after the energy chief and his allies allegedly pushed Duterte to run for vice president in the upcoming elections. “I am not the kind of person you can toy with. This is simply a warning: I am not fighting with you. I want us to become friends,” Pacquiao said in a press conference two months ago. “Do not go back on your word that we should set aside politics and help our people first. Do not divide the minds of our partymates just to further your own interest. If you are going around to help our people, I will applaud you.” “But if you go around talking about

By Rey Requejo

HE Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Thursday that at least one Filipino was among the eight fatalities in a recent mass shooting in California.

Tougher... From A1

imprudence would not be “stiff enough to serve as an example to others, to comply with quarantine regulations.” “There should be a higher penalty to be imposed on individuals who will be responsible for super spreader events because as you know, the case for reckless imprudence, there’s hardly any imprisonment. And it is subject to settlement,” Roque said in an interview on the ABSCBN News Channel. “I would prefer to see Congress specifically enact a national quarantine law,

NCR... From A1

Manila, with more than 1,000 cases per day and the reproduction number declining to 0.53. Roque also cited declines in the average COVID-19 daily attack rate, the twoweek growth rate, and hospital occupancy throughout the country. “Technically, the numbers suggest the further easing of restrictions but there are many things to consider," Roque said. The President may announce the new quarantine classifications on or before May 31, Roque said. Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal are under a general community quarantine (GCQ) but with heightened restrictions until the end of the month. In the same press briefing, Roque announced that President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the additional P5 billion allocation for the repatriation of overseas Filipino workers. This developed after Duterte vowed Monday to expedite the return of Filipino workers who lost their jobs abroad due to

Leonen... From A1

warns against the abuse and trivialization of constitutional processes,” Leonen said in a statement. Speaker Lord Allan Velasco said the decision of the House justice panel must be respected even as he urged the parties concerned to move on to allow Congress to focus on its legislative function especially at this time of pandemic. "The House committee on justice has spoken and we must respect its decision," Velasco said in a statement. "With the dismissal of the impeachment complaint against Justice Leonen, Congress can now focus more on the task at hand, which is to produce legislation that would further help our countrymen and the economy recover from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic," Velasco added. Several legislators agreed with the decision of the committee to dismiss the complaint as the allegations cited in the complaint were not based on personal knowledge and were not supported by authentic records. Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said the impeachment complaint was both insufficient in form and in substance. He said newspaper accounts as well as columnists' opinions as bases would render the impeachment complaint as "invariably hearsay," and that the allegations stated in the complaint should be based on "personal knowledge." Similarly, Deputy Speaker Bienvenido Abante Jr. questioned the timing of the filing of the complaint as the country is still facing the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tug-of-war... From A1

asked about the document that had been circulating on social media. "Any call for a national council and/or assembly must be approved by both the chairman and the president only," read a highlighted part of Pacquiao's memorandum. The ruling party's chairman is President Rodrigo Duterte, who said he was leaving it to God whether he would run or not for vice president in the 2022 elections, Malacañang said Thursday. "I think I will quote the President, he leaves it to God," presidential spokesman Harry Roque said in an

ment, the Justice Committee is tasked to find out first the form of the impeachment From A1 complaint. Then, the committee will submit its true copies of documents were not need- decision to the House secretary–general ed to prove the veracity and accuracy of for the latter to work on its official and Cordevilla’s impeachment complaint formal report. against Leonen. Defensor, the lead counsel of CordevThe Justice Committee will look into illa, said the high bench would never is- the “substance” afterwards as directed by sue documents and subsequently mark the Impeachment Rules. them certified true copy documents where the purpose was to use them as pieces of Whatever its decision, it will also evidence against a magistrate of the high bring it to the House secretary–general, court. and the latter will also make an official A member of Cordevilla's legal team, and formal report. Lorenzo Gadon, explained “the particuDefensor pointed out that the lawmaklar records involved in the [impeach- ers should have given Cordevilla an opment] charges are all kept at the Supreme portunity to explain the accusations he Court.” hurled against Leonen. Cordevilla, the secretary-general of If the solons need real documents, they the Filipino League of Advocates of Good should issue subpoenas to the Supreme Governance – MAHARLIKA (FLAGG Court, or the College of Law of the Uni– MAHARLIKA), described the Justice versity of the Philippines, for them to find Committee’s decision as “a sorry episode out if the crime supposedly committed in Philippine history." by Leonen was true, or mere invention of “That sovereignty resides in the peo- Cordevilla’s imaginative mind. ple is now officially just a verbal display, Defensor explained there was no need music to the ears but has lost its meaning for the congressmen to be extremely because unreal. That high public officials strict in the character of the documents can be made accountable to the people is because the crimes hurled on Leonen illusory. Justice is further hurt by Con- had been made public long before they gress today," he said. were brought to the halls of Congress by In the first hearing on the impeachment Cordevilla. complaint, members of the Justice ComTo prove the correctness of legal view, mittee put an end to the charges against Defensor averred that even in libel cases, Leonen due to the absence of “form” on court judges do not ask for certified true Cordevilla’s accusations since they have copy documents to continue the charges no real documents. against journalists. The Justice committee chairman is Defensor said that the crime on the Leyte Representative Vicente Veloso Jr. Statement of Assets and Liabilities Net Before he became a lawmaker, Veloso worth (SALN) alone was a big issue, of was a magistrate at the Court of Appeals. which there are clear pieces of evidence Based on the House Rules of Impeach- to pin down Leonen. politics – don’t do that. Do not poison the minds of our party-mates to cause a division,” said the senator, whom political observers said would likely seek the presidency in next year’s polls. Cusi, for his part, said partymates who attended a consultative meeting in Manila on March 8 agreed to execute and sign a resolution supporting Duterte as the PDPLaban’s vice presidential bet next year. “The common sentiment is continuity of service. It was instinctive on the part of the members because of their recognition that the pandemic and the natural disasters that converged in 2020 unreasonably interrupted the economic programs and infrastructure projects of the administration,” Cusi said in a statement.

Cow for a jab raffle promo in Pampanga THE mayor of a rural town in the Philippines has come up with a bovine solution for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in his farming community—a cow raffle. Starting in July, anyone who gets a shot in San Luis in the northern province of Pampanga will go into a monthly draw for a cow worth about P30,000, Mayor Jayson Sagum told AFP. The raffle will be held for a year, which Sagum hopes will be long enough to get most adults in the town of 60,000 people vaccinated. "For us to attain our goal, we have to think of a strategy. And we know Filipinos like a game of chance," said Sagum, who hopes to find donors willing to provide or pay for the beasts. Only three percent of San Luis residents have received a jab, mainly due to the lack of supply, he said, and surveys show about half of town's elderly are worried about getting the vaccine due to reports of adverse side-effects. Officials had considered using giveaways of cash, food packs or even jewellery to motivate people to get the jab. In the end, a bovine prize was seen as more appropriate in a community where most people are involved in rice, duck and tilapia fish farming. "Cattle are the perfect fit for us," he said, adding the raffles will be livestreamed on the town's social media pages. AFP

Duterte... From A1

“I cannot administer exclusive Pfizer in just one area to the exclusion of other Filipinos. So it is not possible. We need to mix and let the people (be) blind on what vaccine to get. It's still a vaccine,” he added. Pfizer is just one brand among many that the Philippines is procuring from COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers, the President said, noting vaccine brands do not vary in efficacy. “Vaccine is vaccine, no one can choose.. And the best bakuna is really the one that’s available for you,” he said. Chinese nationals inoculated? The Department of Health said Thursday they were looking into reports that several Chinese nationals had been vaccinated against COVID-19 in the Philippines, as the agency noted that the basis of their inoculation was “unclear.” The Pasay City local government earlier said the Chinese nationals were inoculated as they were either senior citizens or persons with comorbidities, among the priority sectors of the country's COVID-19 vaccination program. "We will have that investigated because it remains unclear what the basis for their vaccination was,” Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said. Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano earlier said the Chinese nationals went through the regular vaccination process and were not given special treatment in inoculation sites. Supply scarcity Duque said the Philippines had not yet included teens and children in its COVID-19 vaccination program while the country had yet to get sufficient vaccines for more vulnerable sectors. "We cannot include them yet because they are not part of the high-risk group and because we still lack vaccines,” Duque said.

National... From A1

Angela said she was beside his father when he took his last breath. Luz’s granddaughter, Paulina SottoLlanes took to Instagram to share a loving tribute to her “second dad.” “I’ve always been a Lolo’s girl,” said Paulina, who is also a painter. “We had such a strong bond, which only grew stronger when I followed in his footsteps as an artist.” Luz studied painting at the University of Santo Tomas’ School of Fine Arts in Manila. He further expanded his knowledge at the California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, then at the Brooklyn Museum Art School in New York, and at the Academie de La Grande Chaumiere in Paris. With a career spanning over six decades, Luz delved into different art forms such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, and design. He was famous for his minimalist, geometric abstracts, from the earlier Carnival series to the recent Cyclist series, which theNational Commission for Culture and the Arts said, “elevated Filipino aesthetic vision to new heights of sophisticated simplicity.” Luz was conferred the National Artist award in 1997. He described his paintings as “semirepresentational [and] semi-abstract”.

News Duterte signs 3 new laws; Maguindanao split into two President Rodrigo Duterte has signed three new laws, the first is seeking to divide Maguindanao, and creating additional legislative districts in Caloocan City and Bulacan, second and third respectively, Malacañang said. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that under the new law, the two new provinces of Maguindanao will be called Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur. The Palace has yet to release an official copy of the new law. Meanwhile, Republic Act No. 11545, signed by the President on May 23, splits the first legislative district of Caloocan City into two districts. “The First Legislative District of the City of Caloocan is hereby reapportioned into two legislative districts to be designated as the First Legislative District and the Third Legislative District to take effect in the 2022 national and local elections,” the law read. The second district of Caloocan City has been retained. The President also signed Republic Act No. 11546 reapportioning the province of Bulacan into six legislative districts, from the current four. The creation of the new districts will take effect in next year’s elections. Under RA 11546 signed on May 26, the first district of Bulacan is composed of Calumpit, Hagonoy, Paombong, Pulilan, Bulakan and Malolos City. The second district includes Baliuag, Bustos, and Plaridel while the third district will comprise San Ildefonso, San Miguel, San Rafael and Doña Remedios Trinidad. Obando, Marilao and City of Meycauayan will form Bulacan’s fourth district while Guiguinto, Balagtas, Pandi and Bocaue will become the fifth district. The six district of Bulacan will consist of Sta. Maria, Norzagaray and Angat. “All the incumbent Representatives of the Province of Bulacan shall continue to hold office until the expiration of their terms of office,” the law says.

Senators scoff at Cha-cha timing By Macon Ramos-Araneta

INKERING with the Constitution should always be the Senate’s last resort, Senator Grace Poe said on Thursday even as Senate President Vicente Sotto III said there might not be enough time for the senators to look into the proposed economic amendments to the 1987 Constitution. Poe said It’s not a question of time stressing that until such time that the manner of voting—jointly or separately has been resolved, amendments to certain provisions of the Constitution would not materialize. Poe also emphasized that you don’t just change the Constitution on a whim now that everyone is fearful of a creeping invasion in our shores. “I am personally wary of a piecemeal revision of the Constitution. It is a living document which holds the aspirations of the people. It should only be revised under the strictest of scrutiny for the right reasons,” she said. Sotto said that they only have ﬁve days left before Congress’ sine die adjournment. “Anyway, the bills certiﬁed by the Palace as

urgent have passed or are in advance stages in the Senate,” he added. According to Poe, like any other measure, the resolutions will of course merit some debate in the Senate. However, she believes that an economic cha-cha would probably deserve less attention given that we already have other foreign investment measures that are certiﬁed urgent. The certiﬁed bills, she noted, will already address the current economic concerns but with much better safeguards. She said the PSA Amendments will allow more foreign investments to come in to give better services to the public, subject to wellcalibrated safeguards. Poe said the amendments to the For-

eign Investment Act will further relax restrictions under the Negative List, while the Retail Trade Liberalization Act which just passed the Senate lowered the paidup capital to allow more businesses to come in and create more jobs. “All of the gains of above measures can be had even without a cha-cha,” further atated Poe. Senator Panﬁlo Lacson said the restrictive economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution are now being addressed in the two bills, relying heavily on existing jurisprudence which they are now trying to reconcile with the proposed amendments as contained in the said Senate bills. Lacson said there is no compelling reason to amend the Charter without running afoul of the issue involving the manner of voting by the members of the two chambers of Congress - whether jointly or separately. Senators assert that only the Supreme Court can interpret the provision to amend or revise the Charter, Lacson said. “The problem is the absence of the cause of action that would trigger the Court to act and resolve the matter,” also said Lacson.

CONTACT TRACING. Navotas City launches a contact tracers program under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLECAMANAVA) and City Mayor Toby Tiangco. Ninety Navoteños are the beneficiaries of the program which will last for three months. The program includes Rep. John Rey Tiangco, Ronald Del Rosario rom DOLE Camanava, Sudie Valencia from DILG-Navotas, Dra.Liberty Domingo- Navotas City Health Office and Genesis Sanoy- Public Employment Services Office Manager. Andrew Rabulan

Davao City has new tag: PH ‘chocolate capital’ PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has signed a law declaring the city of Davao as the “Chocolate Capital of the Philippines” and the entire Davao Region (Region 11) as the “Cacao Capital of the Philippines.” Republic Act 115471, signed by Duterte on Thursday, recognizes the importance of cacao as a driver of rural development because of its potential as a raw material that can increase the country’s export earnings tremendously. The law also recognizes cacao for putting the name of the country on the map for producing the ﬁnest chocolate beans and having provided livelihood to many small farmers in the countryside. “In recognition of its status as the country’s biggest producer of cacao and its vital contribution in making the Philippines world-renowned and sought after by chocolate makers from the US, Japan, and Europe, the City of Davao is hereby declared as the Chocolate Capital of the Philippines and the entire Region 11(Davao Region) as the Cacao Capital of the Philippines. Senator Cynthia Villar, sponsor of the measure in the upper chamber, has been eyeing to name Davao City as the country’s Chocolate Capital noting that Philippine Sta-

FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

tistics Authority (PSA) data showed the bulk of the total annual cacao production came from Davao. PSA records showed that about 78.76 percent of the annual production of cacao in the Philippines came from the Davao Region composed of Davao del Sur, Davao City, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental and Davao de Oro and Davao Occidental. Villar, who is also chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food and Agrarian Reform, said there are more than 20,000 hectares of cacao farms in Davao Region. She said the measure also hopes to make Davao City and the Davao Region become an inspiration and a benchmark to motivate other local government units to emulate. Villar also said cacao farmers have received international acknowledgment as evidenced by the awards they got over the years. Davao’s Malagos Chocolate, for example, bagged seven international awards in 2019. The company also placed second in the 100 percent unsweetened drink category and third in the sweetened drink category of the prestigious International Chocolate Competition of the Academy of Chocolate in London in 2017.

WAITING GAME. It’s an anxious wait for a family of three at the Balik Probinsya program depot in Quezon City on Thursday (May 27, 2021). They are among the beneficiaries who will be sent home to Tacloban, Leyte on Friday morning, if their COVID-19 tests are negative, to rebuild their lives amid the pandemic. Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Zambo mayor, predecessor accused of graft—NBI THE National Bureau of Investigation has recommended to the Office of the Ombudsman the filing of graft charges against the former mayor of Siayan town in Zamboanga Del Norte and two municipal employees who conspired with each other in commiting illegal acts. Also recommended to be charged is the incumbent mayor of Siayan for obstruction of justice. NBI Officer-in-Charge (OIC)-Director Eric Distor identified the suspects as former Mayor Flora Villarosa, the two employees, Ana Marco and Jennifer Pumicpic, and incumbent mayor, Lawyer Josecor Gepolongca. On May 17, 2021, Villarosa, Marco, Pumicpic, and Gepolongca were recommended for prosecution before the Office of the Ombudsman. Villarosa was charged with violation of Section 3 (e), (h), and (j) of R.A. 3019, otherwise known as the “Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act”, in relation to vArticle 216 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC), for causing undue injury to the Government, Section 7, 8, and 89 (1) of R.A. 6713, otherwise known as the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials. Villarosa was also charged with perjury and falsification of public documents. Subjects Marco and Pumicpic were charged for violation of Section 3 (h) of R.A. 3019, otherwise known as the “AntiGraft and Corrupt Practices Act” andf falsification of public document. Gepolongca was recommended to be charged with Obstruction of Justice and Sections 4 (b) and 5 (a), (c), (d), and (e) of R.A. 6713. Marco was also recommended by the NBI-AGD to be a statewitness because her testimony as dummy is absolutely necessary and may be considered as a compelling evidence. Distor said that the recommendation was arrived at after months of exhaustive investigation conducted by the NBI-Anti Graft Division. Willie Casas

News

FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

Chinese vessels cost PH fishers 70% of income per fishing trip Defensor says ivermectin use T cut QC COVID By Macon Ramos-Araneta

cases by half

By Maricel V. Cruz A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Thursday said the use of COVID-19 experimental drug ivermectin in Barangay Matandang Balara in Quezon City has reduced virus infection cases there by more than half in less than a month. Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor, who with Sagip Party-list Rep. Rolande Marcoleta distributed ivermectin to residents of the area last April 30, said the Barangay Health Emergency Response Team reported 138 cases the day before, or on April 29. He said by May 22, or less than a month after the distribution, infection numbers were down to 59, or by 57.2 percent, he said. Two days later, on May 24, cases further decreased to just 39, he said. “The significant decline is a tremendous achievement in the fight against COVID-19 and further bolsters our appeal to undertake mass distribution of ivermectin to our people,” Defensor stressed. The decrease in Matandang Balara is “far larger” than the 34.2-percent reduction in District 3, to which the barangay belongs, he added. Defensor and Marcoleta have urged the Department of Health and the Department of Science and Technology to expedite clinical trials on ivermectin, which President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the two agencies to conduct. “We could save many lives with the use of this wonder drug,” Defensor said. Ivermectin is still not registered in the country for prevention or treatment of COVID-19. The Food and Drug Administration earlier gave six hospitals compassionate special permits to administer the anti-parasitic drug to coronavirus patients. Earlier this month, the FDA announced it approved a company’s application to register ivermectin as an anti-nematode (roundworm) drug. Still, Defensor and Marcoleta lamented that while they and other concerned citizens, including volunteer doctors and other health professionals, are helping communities fight COVID-19, other public officials in Quezon City are reportedly violating health protocols in distributing aid.

he increasing presence of Chinese vessels in Panatag Shoal (Scarborough Shoal) is costing Filipino fishermen in Zambales 70 percent of their income, the militant group Pamalakaya said Thursday.

From an average income of P1,000 per fishing trip, fishermen now earn a measly P300 since last year, said Pamalakaya vice chair for Luzon Bobby Roldan. Roldan, a fisherman from Botolan, Zambales, said small fishers who used to go to Panatag Shoal now crowd the town’s 15-kilometer fishing grounds along with advanced local commercial

fishing vessels. “Government should encourage and fund our big fishing operators to sail in the West Philippine Sea so we can take back what is ours that China is consuming,” he said in Filipino. “We only earn enough each trip for the cost of fuel and ice. At worst, it’s not enough. We will surely drown in debt,” Roldan added. He and his colleagues are unable to return to Panatag Shoal out of fear of being harassed or aggressively driven away by Chinese vessels there. Meanwhile, Senator Francis “Tol” N. Tolentino has filed a bill seeking to rename Benham Rise on the country’s eastern shore as the “Philippine Rise” or “Talampas ng Pilipinas” to underscore the country’s assertion of sovereign rights over the 13-million-hectare underwater plateau. “Renaming the Benham Rise to Philip-

pine Rise or Talampas ng Pilipinas is an exercise of sovereignty and is aimed at protecting national interest,” said Tolentino. In his Senate Bill No. 2235, Tolentino said the measure will complement President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order No. 25, which changed Benham Rise’s name to Philippine Rise. Tolentino’s measure also intends to name the 22 undersea features found in the area. China’s militarization not only leads to the destruction of marine resources but also exhausts fish stocks, said Fernando Hicap, Pamalakaya national chairperson and former Anakpawis Party-list representative. “The intensified Chinese annexation is adversely affecting our domestic food security. Decisively asserting our sovereign rights is a matter of right to food and livelihood for the Filipinos,” he said in the same statement as Roldan.

CHR lauds sharing of anti-drug records

THE Commission on Human Rights on Thursday welcomed the announcement of Philippine National Police chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar to provide the Department of Justice with records of over 7,000 people supposedly killed in police antidrug operations for scrutiny and investigations. “This is a gesture of openness and cooperation from the PNP necessary in pursuing justice and accountability for the violations committed,” CHR lawyerspokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said. With the new pronouncement, “we equally hope that the PNP ensures cooperation without reservation in the investigations and sharing of relevant case files with the CHR for our own independent probe,” she noted. “We encourage the PNP to sustain this momentum of fostering a positive attitude towards human rights and translate these commitments into actual effects on the ground, such as reduction of violence in communities, toward ushering better trust and confidence in the police force and the government as a whole,” de Guia said. Eleazar, however, said it is up to the DOJ to share the information with the CHR. Rio N. Araja

Immigration signs anti-corruption deal

THOUSANDS HOMELESS. Displaced families guard their belongings as they set up temporary sleeping areas under the

moon and stars at the Anda Circle in Manila early Thursday. Around 1,000 families were left homeless after fire razed houses at the Baseco Compound in Port Area, Manila on Wednesday. Norman Cruz

Prime Media, PCMC sign pact for broadcasting entry PRIME Media Holdings Inc. (PMHI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Philippine Collective Media Corporation (PCMC). The MOU marks Prime Media’s entry into the broadcasting sector. The memorandum states that “PCMC Shareholders will exchange their shares for shares of common stock in PMHI to gain majority ownership and control of PMHI. In turn, PMHI shall acquire

PCMC, which will become the Corporation’s wholly-owned subsidiary.” PMHI, trading under PSE ticker symbol “PRIM” is a holding company which intends to embark in the business of media and broadcasting. It further intends to venture into real estate development, leisure and hospitality, and gaming to expand and diversify its business. PCMC has been operating since 2009 and was recently granted a national fran-

chise. It currently operates a television station (PRTV) in Tacloban and 13 radio stations under the FMR (Favorite Music Radio) network. To date, PCMC has radio stations in Tacloban, Catbalogan, Calbayog, Catarman, Borongan, Ormoc, Iloilo, Camiguin, Zamboanga Sibugay, Butuan, Davao de Oro, Tagum and Iligan. More stations are expected to start operations in the coming months.

Locsin asks ASEAN to aid Palestinians in fighting virus with response funds By Rey E. Requejo

CRIME SCENE. Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) from the Eastern Police District (EPD) gather evidence Thursday after a former Southern Police District officer identified as Nomer Cardines was ambushed, suffering multiple gunshot wounds along C5 Bypass Road in Brgy. Olandes, Marikina City. Manny Palmero

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. has appealed to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on the possibility of using the ASEAN Response Fund to help the Palestinians address a reported spread of coronavirus cases in Gaza. Locsin made the statement following reports that coronavirus cases are on the rise in Gaza, especially among the nearly 80,000 Palestinians who were displaced by the recent 11-day bombardment of Israel. “@ASEAN Can the ASEAN RESPONSE FUND help? They are our Muslim brothers and sisters. Our member states are doing well without the FUND,” Locsin said in a tweet. The ASEAN Response Fund is a

special fund created in April 2020 to augment the regional bloc’s COVID-19 pandemic response and help finance the procurement of necessary medical supplies and the development of vaccines. In January this year, the Philippine government has pledged $100,000 (roughly P4.8 million) to the ASEAN Response Fund. This pledge is on top of the $100,000 Philippine contribution to the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access (COVAX) Facility. Last week, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has also raised concerns about the transmission of COVID-19 between vulnerable people who huddled in crowded shelters and the healthcare system’s inability to cope.

Anya Resort reopens for safe staycations ANYA Resort Tagaytay, one of South Luzon’s most exclusive resort hotels, has reopened to staycationers after Cavite returned to a General Community Quarantine along with the rest of the areas in the so-called NCR Plus Bubble. To ensure the safety of both guests and its associates amid the coronavirus pandemic, the resort redefined customer experience through its “Your Safe Sanctuary” protocols, said Mikel Arriet, Anya Resort general manager. “The project reviewed the resort’s operations and structured lines of action to respond to the needs of the guests in the new social reality prompted by the pandemic,” Arriet said. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), Anya Resort Tagaytay reopened on Monday for guests seeking absolute privacy with its secluded villas and tranquil surroundings.

IN BRIEF

The resort elevates the essentials, with focus on a safe stay, exceptional personal service, great food, and vibrant spaces for guests. “An encapsulating experience is thoughtfully crafted through a designated ‘Anya Experience Assistant’ that asks about guests’ preference and requests before arrival up until departure,” Arriet said. The resort assures stern implementation of health and safety protocols from the arrival through the rooms and restaurants, heightened sanitation and disinfection, and a contactless communication service called “Ask Anya.” This service is for food and beverage orders, restaurant reservations, turn-down amenity, and fitness center appointment, as the resort covers all aspects to guarantee maximum security for guests and associates, the GM added.

HOSPITAL PANTRY. Food items such as rice, vegetables, eggs, and other staples are given away at the Chinese General Hospital’s Employees’ Pantry, a joint project with the CGH Employees Association-UFSW. It is open on Fridays of May, giving out free food items to anyone in need within the CGHMC family.

MORE than 400 Bureau of Immigration personnel have been investigated and sanctioned since 2016 under the current administration’s ‘iron fist’ policy, Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said. Morente, who vowed to weed out corruption in government in pursuit of good governance and public accountability, signed the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission’s (PACC) Anti-Corruption Manifesto in an online event Thursday. The event, led by PACC Commissioner Greco Belgica, had about 150 attendees, including BI personnel assigned in different regions of the country. “This is both as an affirmation of our unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, as well as a means to remind all our personnel that corruption and illegal transactions have no room in the Bureau of Immigration,” said Morente. Morente said the last few years have been a challenge to the bureau, with issues of corruption hounding the agency. “More than 400 employees have been investigated or sanctioned since 2016, following our aggressive fight to weed out corruption. I take an iron fist stance on this evil, as it has no place amongst our ranks,” said Morente.Vito Barcelo

DOJ, SC help stop persons trafficking THE Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking under the Department of Justice and the Supreme Court have signed an agreement for closer collaboration in addressing trafficking in persons (TIP) in the country. Justice Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, the undersecretary-in-charge of IACAT, revealed that on Wednesday, she and Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez signed the memorandum of agreement for the implementation of the Justice Systems Coordination Mechanism (JSCM) Project. Villar said the MOA paves the way for IACAT and SC to have “joint efforts and maintain a close working relationship to achieve their mutual objectives of strengthening policies and programs to address trafficking in persons.” The JSCM Project is under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Australia Counter Trafficking (ASEAN ACT) program, she explained. “The JSCM is a program designed to assist ASEAN Member States (AMS) to have an effective justice system in addressing trafficking in persons, in compliance with each member state’s obligations under the ASEAN Convention Against Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children,” Villar stressed. Rey E. Requejo

Chinese General’s employees’ pantry IN THE spirit of goodwill and the Bayanihan drive, the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC) rolled out its very own “Employees’ Pantry” earlier this month. A joint project with the CGH Employees Association-UFSW, the pantry is open on Fridays of May, giving out free food items to anyone in need within the CGHMC family. This includes all hospital employees, maintenance personnel, janitorial and security services and other contract workers. Food items such as rice, vegetables, eggs, and other staples are given away. “This is for all the hospital workers who need some assistance in their daily needs, particularly in these trying times,” said Dr. James G. Dy, President of CGHMC. “We distribute what we can to everyone as our means of support and camaraderie. That was the goal from the start.” To achieve this goal, the hospital employees’ association, in coordination with Magsasaka Outlet, purchased produce at reasonable prices from farmers in Banaue, Ifugao through the “BuyAnihan” project. The CGHMC Human Resource Department helped setup the pantry, located at the hospital’s service delivery entrance.

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TODAY FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Sri Lanka braces for beach pollution as oil ship burns THREE Indian vessels on Thursday joined the battle to contain a major fire on a container ship off the Sri Lanka coast amid fears that it could break up and spew out hundreds of tonnes of oil. The X-Press Pearl has been blazing out of control for a week and with heavy winds battering the Singapore-registered vessel, authorities fear a new oil disaster on Sri Lanka’s beaches. The Indian coastguard ships have joined a Sri Lankan navy ship and four private tugs spraying water on the X-Press Pearl, which has 25 tonnes of nitric acid in its cargo. A military helicopter was deployed to drop bags of fire retardant chemicals on the ship Wednesday. But the fire has weakened the 186-meter long vessel and it could break up and spill oil, according to Sri Lanka’s Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA). “The fire is covering the length of the vessel. The hull may not be stable for us to tow the ship away from our waters,” MEPA chairman Dharshani Lahandapura told AFP.

The vessel, anchored outside Colombo harbor, is carrying 278 tons of bunker oil and 50 tons of marine gasoil, she added. The fire is believed to have started in a container of nitric acid and rapidly spread, Lahandapura said. Authorities are investigating reports that the crew had known about nitric acid leaks before entering Sri Lankan waters. “If the problem was addressed at that time, we wouldn’t be having to deal with this crisis.” Authorities have played down the risk from the acid as it is neutralized by sea water. But Lahandapura said a large quantity of oil could reach the tourist and fishing region of Negombo, 40 kilometers north of the capital. The military would be deployed to clean Negombo beach if needed, the official added. “Given the very rough seas and the heavy monsoon winds, it is not possible to lay booms around the ship to contain a spill. Our best option is to clean the beach and we suspect any clearing operation will take a few weeks, if not months.” AFP

Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF AGRARIAN REFORM ADJUDICATION BOARD Region III OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL ADJUDICATOR Dinalupihan, Bataan -----------------------------------paradbataan03@gmail.com / (047) 240-5205 IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OR ANNULMENT OF DEED OF CONVEYANCE OVER LOT COVERED BY TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE/CERTIFICATE OF LAND OWNERSHIP AWARD NOS.8341/00446476, ALL SITUATED IN BRGY. AGLAMOMA, (NOW BIAAN), MARIVELES, BATAAN GEOVANNI E. ABRIZ, Petitioners, -vs-

R-0301-0029-2021

CANDIDO N. BANTUGAN, JR. PACIENCIANA I. ABELLANOSA AND RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION, Respondents, THE PARPO OF DAR-BATAAN AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF BALANGA CITY, BATAAN, Nominal Parties. x----------------------------------------------------------------------------x

TEA LIGHTS. A Buddhist monk lights candles to commemorate Visakha Bucha Day or Vesak Day, a celebration of the birth, enlightenment and death of the Lord Buddha held on the full moon of the third lunar month in the Buddhist calendar, at Wat Dhammakaya Buddhist temple on the outskirts of Bangkok on May 26, 2021. AFP

Millions in Melbourne ordered into snap lockdown ERRORS & OMISSIONS

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the estate of the late GLENN G. SARNE consisting of a conjugal condominium unit located at Fountain Breeze Condominium Units High Rise Building 7, covered by Condominium Certificate of Title No. 0102018003990, of the Registry of Deeds of Parañaque City, has been Self-Adjudicated by his lone surviving heir, his lawful wife, DONNA MARIE VILLABLANCA, before the Notary Public Atty. Rogelio J. Bolivar as per Doc. No. 94; Page No. 10; Book No. IV; Series of 2021. (MStandard-May 21, 28 & Jun. 4, 2021)

In Classified Ads section must be brought to our attention the very day the advertisement is published. We will not be responsible for any incorrect ads not reported to us immediately.

SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF HEARING

TO : RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION Unit 1403 A, Ritz Towers, Ayala Avenue, Makati City PACIENCIANA I. ABELLANOSA 42-14TH Street New Manila, Quezon City GREETINGS: You are hereby summoned and directed to file your verified answer to the complaint / petition, copy of which is herewith served upon you, within a non-extendible period of fifteen (15) days from receipt hereof pursuant to Section 1, Rule 7 of the 2009 DARAB Rules of Procedure, attaching therewith the affidavits of witness/es and documentary evidence, if, any. Both parties are hereby directed to attend the preliminary conference of the case on July 13, 2021 at 1:30 pm. Dinalupihan, Bataan, May 18, 2121. HON. NOEL L. PAREL Provincial Adjudicator For the Adjudicator EMILY CRYSTAL M. NACIN Clerk to the Adjudicator

(MS-MAY 21, 28, JUNE 4, 2021)

Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF AGRARIAN REFORM ADJUDICATION BOARD Region III OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL ADJUDICATOR Dinalupihan, Bataan -----------------------------------paradbataan03@gmail.com / (047) 240-5205 IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OR ANNULMENT OF DEED OF CONVEYANCE OVER LOT COVERED BY TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE/CERTIFICATE OF LAND OWNERSHIP AWARD NOS.8340/00446475, ALL SITUATED IN BRGY. AGLAMOMA, (NOW BIAAN), MARIVELES, BATAAN

IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OR ANNULMENT OF DEED OF CONVEYANCE OVER LOT COVERED BY TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE/CERTIFICATE OF LAND OWNERSHIP AWARD NOS.8445/00446496, AND 8444/00446495 ALL SITUATED IN BRGY. AGLAMOMA, (NOW BIAAN), MARIVELES, BATAAN LORD BYRON E. ABRIZ AND ROLANDO A. ABRIZ, Petitioners, -vs-

THE PARPO OF DAR-BATAAN AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF BALANGA CITY, BATAAN, Nominal Parties. x----------------------------------------------------------------------------x SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF HEARING TO : JUANCHO T. BORBOR Brgy. Biaan, Mariveles, Bataan ARTURO D. PARAS Brgy. Biaan, Mariveles, Bataan ARTURO D. PARAS Brgy. Biaan, Mariveles, Bataan RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION Unit 1403 A. Ritz Towers, Ayala Avenue, Makati City

GEOVANNI E. ABRIZ, Petitioners, -vs-

R-0301-0028-2021

CANDIDO N. BANTUGAN, SR. MANUEL C. CUBACUB AND RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION, Respondents, THE PARPO OF DAR-BATAAN AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF BALANGA CITY, BATAAN, Nominal Parties. x----------------------------------------------------------------------------x SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF HEARING TO : RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION Unit 1403 A, Ritz Towers, Ayala Avenue, Makati City

GREETINGS: You are hereby summoned and directed to file your verified answer to the complaint / petition, copy of which is herewith served upon you, within a non-extendible period of fifteen (15) days from receipt hereof pursuant to Section 1, Rule 7 of the 2009 DARAB Rules of Procedure, attaching therewith the affidavits of witness/es and documentary evidence, if, any. Both parties are hereby directed to attend the preliminary conference of the case on July 13, 2021 at 1:30 pm. Dinalupihan, Bataan, May 18, 2121. HON. NOEL L. PAREL Provincial Adjudicator

MANUEL C. CUBACUB 502 Mabolo Street, CEMBO, Fort Bonifacio, Makati City

For the Adjudicator

EMILY CRYSTAL M. NACIN Clerk to the Adjudicator (MS-MAY 21, 28, JUNE 4, 2021)

Both parties are hereby directed to attend the preliminary conference of the case on July 13, 2021 at 1:30 pm.

Dinalupihan, Bataan, May 18, 2121. HON. NOEL L. PAREL Provincial Adjudicator For the Adjudicator EMILY CRYSTAL M. NACIN Clerk to the Adjudicator

(MS-MAY 21, 28, JUNE 4, 2021)

Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF AGRARIAN REFORM ADJUDICATION BOARD Region III OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL ADJUDICATOR Dinalupihan, Bataan -----------------------------------paradbataan03@gmail.com / (047) 240-5205 IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OR ANNULMENT OF DEED OF CONVEYANCE OVER LOT COVERED BY TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE/CERTIFICATE OF LAND OWNERSHIP AWARD NOS.8342/00446477, ALL SITUATED IN BRGY. AGLAMOMA, (NOW BIAAN), MARIVELES, BATAAN GEOVANNI E. ABRIZ, Petitioners, -vs-

IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OR ANNULMENT OF DEED OF CONVEYANCE OVER LOT COVERED BY TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE/ CERTIFICATE OF LAND OWNERSHIP AWARD NOS.8314/00 446441,8346/00446481, AND 8348/00446483 ALL SITUATED IN BRGY. AGLAMOMA, (NOW BIAAN), MARIVELES, BATAAN LORD BYRON E. ABRIZ AND ROLANDO A. ABRIZ, Petitioners, -vs-

R-0301-0024-0026-2021

CELSO RAMENTO JR., GUILLERMO MARTINEZ, HELEN CRUZ PIODO AND RANCHO ANA LIZA RESORTS, INC, Respondents, THE PARPO OF DAR-BATAAN AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF BALANGA CITY, BATAAN, Nominal Parties. x----------------------------------------------------------------------------x SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF HEARING

R-0301-0030-2021

TORIBIO P. MENDIGORIN, BERNARDO C. TALAMO AND RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION, Respondents,

TO : CELSO RAMENTO JR. Brgy. Biaan, Mariveles, Bataan GUILLERMO MARTINEZ Brgy. Biaan, Mariveles, Bataan HELEN CRUZ PIODO Brgy. Biaan, Mariveles, Bataan RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION Unit 1403 A. Ritz Towers, Ayala Avenue, Makati City GREETINGS:

BERNARDO C. TALAMO 42-14TH Street, Brgy. Mariana, Quezon City GREETINGS: You are hereby summoned and directed to file your verified answer to the complaint/petition, copy of which is herewith served upon you, within a non-extendible period of fifteen (15) days from receipt hereof pursuant to Section 1, Rule 7 of the 2009 DARAB Rules of Procedure, attaching therewith the affidavits of witness/es and documentary evidence, if, any. Both parties are hereby directed to attend the preliminary conference of the case on July 13, 2021 at 1:30 pm.

You are hereby summoned and directed to file your verified answer to the complaint / petition, copy of which is herewith served upon you, within a non-extendible period of fifteen (15) days from receipt hereof pursuant to Section 1, Rule 7 of the 2009 DARAB Rules of Procedure, attaching therewith the affidavits of witness/es and documentary evidence, if, any. Both parties are hereby directed to attend the preliminary conference of the case on July 13, 2021 at 1:30 pm. Dinalupihan, Bataan, May 18, 2121.

Dinalupihan, Bataan, May 18, 2121.

HON. NOEL L. PAREL Provincial Adjudicator

For the Adjudicator

(MS-MAY 21, 28, JUNE 4, 2021)

R-0301-0022-0023-2021

JUANCHO T. BORBOR, ARTURO D. PARAS, AND RANCHO GUAY RESORTS CORPORATION Respondents,

EMILY CRYSTAL M. NACIN Clerk to the Adjudicator

EMILY CRYSTAL M. NACIN Clerk to the Adjudicator (MS-MAY 21, 28, JUNE 4, 2021)

IVE million people in Melbourne were ordered into a snap week-long lockdown Thursday, with officials blaming Australia’s sluggish vaccine rollout and hotel quarantine failures for yet another virus outbreak in the country’s second-biggest city.

Facing a cluster of 26 cases linked to the “highly infectious” Indian strain of COVID-19, authorities issued stay-at-home orders for Melbourne and surrounding Victoria state from midnight. It is the fourth time Melbourne has been plunged into lockdown since the pandemic began, including nearly four months of harsh restrictions last year. The cluster is believed to have begun with a traveller who returned to Australia from overseas despite a mandatory 14-day quarantine. The latest outbreak has intensified criticism of flawed quarantine facilities and a national vaccine rollout that, according to acting state Premier James Merlino, is “not where it should be.” “If more people were vaccinated, we might be facing a very

different set of circumstances than we are today. But sadly we are not,” he said, pointing blame squarely at the conservative federal government. Some local residents rushed to get jabbed Thursday, as the state opened up mass vaccination hubs to people aged 40-49 for the first time. Jane Oliver-Read, 56, spent more than an hour in a queue that was “snaking around the building” in central Melbourne to receive her first jab. “I’d always planned to come in this week to have it, so the outbreak in Melbourne has confirmed that it’s the right thing to do,” she told AFP. The virus has leaked out of make-shift hotel quarantine facilities across Australia 17 times in six months, according to the opposition Labor party. AFP

US top diplomat heads home after Mideast tour US SECRETARY of State Antony Blinken headed home from Jordan Thursday after a whistlestop Middle East tour on which he called for regional cooperation to consolidate a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza militants. Blinken met both Israeli and Palestinian leaders during two days of talks, throwing Washington’s support behind the Egyptian-brokered truce that ended 11 days of heavy Israeli bombing of Gaza and rocket fire from the impoverished coastal enclave into Israel. “Securing the ceasefire was important, particularly because of the devastating toll violence took on families on both sides,” Blinken told reporters after Wednesday talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah II in Amman, his final stop. “We see the ceasefire not as an end, but as a beginning of something to build on.” Following talks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Blinken vowed to rebuild US relations with the Palestinians by reopening a consulate in Jerusalem, as well as give millions in aid for the war-battered Gaza Strip. AFP

Envoy barred from spy trial AUSTRALIA’S ambassador to China was on Thursday barred from the trial of an academic held on spying charges, in a case that has exacerbated a bitter row between the two nations. The trial of Australian Yang Jun, detained for more than two years on accusations of espionage, was set to be held behind closed doors in Beijing with a heavy security presence outside the courthouse on Thursday morning. Chinese-born Yang, 56, who also goes by the pen name of Yang Hengjun, is one of two high-profile Australians detained in China on charges of spying. Australia’s Foreign Minister Marise Payne on Thursday

voiced deep concerns about China’s handling of the case, as a letter from Yang was released maintaining his innocence and referencing torture while being detained. “We have not seen any explanation or evidence for the charges that have been brought against him,” Payne told ABC radio, adding she had hoped the trial would be “transparent” with consular officials granted access. But Australian ambassador Graham Fletcher was turned away from the courtroom when he arrived on Thursday. “This is deeply regrettable, concerning and unsatisfying,” Fletcher told the media outside the courtroom afterwards. AFP

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FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Ford CEO says 40% of production to be fully electric vehicles by 2030

FOR FAIR WAGES. Activists take part in a protest outside of the Old Ebbitt Grill to call for a full minimum wage with tips for restaurant workers in Washington, DC on May 26, 2021. AFP

NEW YORK—Ford once again is ramping up investment in zero-emission cars and expects 40 percent of volume by 2030 to be comprised of fully electric vehicles, the company announced Wednesday. The US automaker said it will increase investment in electric vehicles, components and infrastructure to more than $30 billion by 2025, boosting the amount from the $22 billion target set in February. The company last week unveiled an all-electric version of its bestselling F-150 truck in an eco-friendly reinvention of a flagship American car brand, and said it has received 70,000 reservations from customers in just one week. “This is our biggest opportunity for growth and value creation since Henry Ford started to scale the Model T, and we’re grabbing it with both hands,” Ford CEO Jim Farley said in a statement. Farley and other executives presented the plans in a virtual meeting with financial analysts and other stakeholders.

Besides the battery-powered F-150, called the Lightning, Ford has begun selling the electric Mustang Mach-E sport utility vehicle and will soon bring the E-Transit cargo van to showrooms. The company also is investing in producing its own batteries, and recently announced a joint venture with South Korea’s SK Innovation. Farley said the goal is to reduce the cost of batteries by 40 percent by 2025. Manufacturers have joined the growing move towards zero-emission vehicles to help address global warming. Ford’s main rival General Motors pledged in January to stop making diesel- or gasoline-powered cars by 2035. German automaker Volkswagen also intends to offer 70 electric models by 2030 and sell 26 million units in 10 years. Industry analyst Karl Brauer of used car site iSeeCars, said Ford’s target “represents a safe balance of aspiration and reality, particularly for a company so heavily reliant on trucks and SUVs.”AFP

Stocks soar again; blue chips lead gainers

TOCKS soared for the second straight day Thursday on bargainbuying after recent hefty losses, with traders hopeful the country’s latest virus flare-up could be easing.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index surged 323.90 points, or 5.1 percent, 6,665.14 on a value turnover of P23.8 billion. Gainers outnumbered losers, 145 to 60, with 39 issues unchanged. Blue chips led gainers, with JG Summit Holdings Inc. of the Gokongwei Group jumping 12.9 percent to P58.70 and unit Universal Robina Corp., the biggest snack food maker, advancing 7.9 percent to P142. SM Investments Corp. of the Sy Group climbed 8 percent to P1,004, while conglomerate Ayala Corp. rose 7.8 percent to P800. The rest of Asian stock markets were mixed Thursday as investors took a breather following a recent run-up, while optimism about the global recovery remains shackled by concerns that a surge in inflation will force central banks to rein in monetary policy earlier than flagged. The rollout of vaccines, reopening of economies, trillions of dollars in stimulus and central bank largesse have combined to fuel a rally in world equities since their pandemic-induced collapse at the start of last year. And while that enormous splurge appears to have paid off, with lives slowly returning to a semblance of normal and businesses

back up and running, traders have in recent months grown increasingly worried about the impact on prices. While most top officials, led by the Federal Reserve, have repeatedly said any inflation spike will be temporary and their ultraeasy monetary policies will be kept in place until the recovery is well on track, investors continue to worry. There are signs of movement, however, in some capitals with the central banks of New Zealand, Canada and Norway suggesting they could start tapering their bond-buying programs or even raise interest rates as soon as next year, while Iceland has already done so. “Investors appear to be giving the Fed the benefit of the doubt with their transitory inflation forecast, but we suspect the window of confidence could close without supporting evidence in coming months,” Craig W. Johnson, strategist at Piper Sandler & Co, said. He added that until dealers have a better handle on the likely course of inflation and banks’ plans, markets would likely continue to be gripped by volatility and economic uncertainty. After another tepid lead from Wall Street, Asia struggled to maintain this week’s advances. Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul, Wellington and Taipei were all lower while Shanghai, Sydney, Singapore, Bangkok, Mumbai and Jakarta rose. Traders are now awaiting the release later in the day of key data on US jobless claims, which will provide a fresh snapshot of the recovery in the world’s top economy, while updated gross domestic product growth data will also be released. With AFP

Manila

Standard

TODAY

Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders You are notified that the Annual Meeting of the Stockholders of GLOBAL FERRONICKEL HOLDINGS, INC. (the “Company”) shall be held on Wednesday, June 30, 2019, 2:00 p.m. via webcast, to consider the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

7. 8. 9.

AGENDA Call to Order; Certification of Notice and the Existence of Quorum; Approval of the Minutes of the Previous Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on February 10, 2021; Annual Report and Approval of the Audited Financial Statements as of December 31, 2020; Election of Directors; Ratification of acts of the Board of Directors and proceedings of the Board of Directors, Board Committees and Management a. Declaration of Cash dividend of P 0.10 per share for stockholders of record as of June 15, 2021; b. Approval of the acquisition of 20% interest in Guangdong Century Tsingshan Nickel Co., Ltd., a material related party transaction. Appointment of External Auditor; Other Matters; and Adjournment.

The Company has, in accordance with the By-Laws, fixed the close of business on June 2, 2021 as the record date for the determination of the stockholders entitled to notice of and to vote at such meeting and on any adjournment thereof (“Stockholders of Record”). In the light of the COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure the welfare and safety of our stockholders, the meeting will be conducted virtually. Stockholders of Record may attend or participate via proxy, remote communication and vote in absentia. Stockholders are encouraged to participate in the meeting. Notice to the attend the meeting, supporting documents, or accomplished ballot form or proxy forms may be sent to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at asm2021registration@gfni.com.ph or via courier delivery at 7th Floor, Corporate Business Center, 151 Paseo de Roxas corner Arnaiz St., Makati City on or before June 18, 2021 . The detailed registration and voting procedures may be accessed at http: //www.gfni.com.ph. Stockholders who have successfully registered may cast their votes and will be provided access to the live streaming of the meeting. For complete information on the ASM, please visit http://www.gfni.com.ph. The Definitive Information Statement along with Notice and other information related to the meeting can be accessed at http://www.gfni.com.ph and the PSE Edge portal. City of Makati, Metro Manila, May 25, 2021.

Fruit supplier Spain races to vaccinate farm workers against virus ‘time bomb’ A day laborer works on a nectarine field in Alcarras, near Lleida, on May 22, 2021. Spain, a key provider of fresh fruit and vegetables to the rest of Europe, is racing to immunize the army of cheap labor that follows the ripening of different crops across the country as the harvest season nears. AFP

By Daniel Bosque ALCARRAS, Spain—Outside an old blue and white school in northeastern Spain dozens of farm workers wait their turn to be vaccinated against the coronavirus by a team of nurses. Spain, a key provider of fresh fruit and vegetables to the rest of Europe, is racing to immunize the army of cheap labor that follows the ripening of different crops across the country as the harvest season nears. The aim is to avoid a repeat of the outbreaks of COVID-19 among farm workers in the northeastern regions of Catalonia and Aragon last year that fueled a spike in infections, leading to localized lockdowns. “We had a really rough time last year. Municipalities were locked down, fruit packing stations were closed due to the COVID cases,” said Jordi Janes, the mayor of Alcarras, a town of around 10,000 people near the city of Lleida. “This gives us peace of mind,” he added, standing outside the vaccination center set up in the town’s school to immunize around 400 workers from area agribusinesses.

ATTY. EVEART GRACE POMARIN-CLARO Corporate Secretary

REGISTRATION AND VOTING PROCEDURES Vote Required a. Each share of the common stock outstanding on the record date will be entitled to one (1) vote on all matters. b. In the election of directors, the ten (10) nominees with the greatest number of votes will be elected directors. If the number of nominees does not exceed the number of directors to be elected, the Secretary of the meeting, upon motion made, is instructed to cast all votes represented at the meeting in favor of the nominees. However, if the number of nominees exceeds the number of directors to be elected, voting shall be done by ballots. Cumulative voting shall be followed. c. Only those stockholders who have notified the Company of their intention to participate in the meeting through remote communication, together with the stockholders who voted in absentia and by proxy, will be included in the determination of quorum at the meeting. By participating remotely and by proxy, a stockholder shall be deemed present for purposes of quorum. The vote of the stockholders representing the majority of the quorum shall be required to approve any action submitted to the stockholders for approval. d. For all proposals or matters submitted to a vote, the affirmative vote of stockholders holdings at least a majority of the Company’s outstanding capital stock present or represented by proxy and entitled to vote shall be necessary. Unless required by law, or the stockholders, in this meeting, the shares will be voted by casting it in the official ballot or proxy form submitted on or before the end of business day of June 18, 2021. e. Counting of votes shall be done by the Corporate Secretary or Assistant Corporate Secretary with the assistance of the independent auditors and the Company’s stock and transfer agent. Voting Method

When they enter the school the farm workers are asked for their ID and the name of the company that employs them. They then go to another room where a nurse gives them a single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot. “They have given us all great joy,” said Kelly Johanna Hurtado Marian, a 22-yearold Colombian, who recalled how many of her colleagues got the virus last year. She worked “a lot” to make up for their absence, she said. Under Spain’s vaccination program, most people her age will still have to wait weeks before they get their jab but farm workers have been given priority. Time bomb’ This fruit-growing region that produces apples, pears and peaches usually draws some 20,000 temporary farm workers from as far afield as Colombia or Senegal for the harvest season. But last year the number who came looking for farm work soared, as a pandemic-induced economic downturn threw people out of work. AFP

Registration All stockholders of record may register until close of business day of June 18, 2021. They are required to provide a valid identification card, an active email address and active contact number. For corporate stockholders, proof of authority of the representative is required (i.e., Secretary’s Certificate of appointment of the authorized representative). A confirmation email will be sent no later than 3 calendar days to the stockholder once registration is complete or lacking requirements need to be provided.

Voting A registered stockholder may vote by: 1. Ballot. A registered stockholder may electronically vote in absentia. After registration, the stockholder may cast votes on the agenda items for approval by accomplishing a ballot. Each stock is entitled to one vote. Hence, the total number of votes the stockholder is allowed to cast shall be based on the number of shares he/she owns. The accomplished ballot should be submitted via email to asm2021@gfni.com.ph before June 18, 2021. A confirmation email will be sent no later than 3 calendar days to the stockholder that is/her vote has been recorded. 2. Proxy. A registered stockholder may vote by proxy. Stockholders may execute the proxy form (available on the website or requested via email) and send a scanned copy to asm2021@gfni.com.ph before the end of business day of June 18, 2021. 3. If a stockholder avails of the option to cast his/her vote electronically in absentia and also issues proxy votes with differing instructions, the duly accomplished ballots sent through email shall be the one counted.

Livestream A link to the meeting will be sent to all registered stockholders to access the meeting. Technical assistance prior and during the meeting is available and may be requested via email to asm2021@gfni.com.ph. After the meeting, a recording of the proceeding will be posted on gfni.com.ph and may also be requested by email to asm2021@gfni.com. ph

Question and Answer Registered stockholders may send their questions and/or comments prior to the ASM through email at asm2021@ gfni.com.ph until close of business day of June 18, 2021. Questions/comments received but not entertained during the open forum due to time constraints will be addressed separately via email response.

For clarifications, please contact the Office of the Corporate Secretary via email at epclaro@gfni.com.ph. (MS-MAY 28 & 29, 2021)

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

B4 FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

Business

PSE INDEX CLOSING Thursday, May 27, 2021

323.90 PTS.

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES

6,665.14

2,287,707,553

TOTAL TRADES

124,072 23,814,801,514.12 145

DECLINES

UNCHANGED

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

48.1380

Japan

Yen

0.009164

0.4411

Pound

1.412500

67.9949

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128833

6.2018

Switzerland

Franc

1.113834

53.6177

Canada

Dollar

0.825083

39.7178

Singapore

Dollar

0.755116

36.3498

Australia

Dollar

0.774100

37.2636

Bahrain

Dinar

2.655831

127.8464

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266681

12.8375

Brunei

Dollar

0.752276

36.2131

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0034

Thailand

Baht

0.031898

1.5355

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.1066

Euro

1.219500

58.7043

Korea

Won

0.000895

0.0431

China

Yuan

0.156458

7.5316

India

Rupee

0.013751

0.6619

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.241546

11.6275

New Zealand

Dollar

0.728100

35.0493

Taiwan

Dollar

0.036009

1.7334 Source: BSP

WESM spot prices increased in May

THE average electricity prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, the trading floor of electricity, surged in May to nearly P8 per kilowatt-hour on increased demand as the economy slowly recovers, officials of the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines said Thursday. “The price in May is significantly high compared to the previous months. The estimated price for May is about P7.65 compared to the previous months, the (previous) highest was registered in March at P4.16,” IEMOP chief operating officer Robinson Descanzo said during the IEMOP Market Participants Update webinar. IEMOP attributed the higher WESM rates to the abrupt increase in demand brought by the dry months and stagnant supply levels at around 13,000 megawatts. “In May, we see the significant increase again in consumption. We reached again about 11,100 MW but if you look at the registered peak demand on May 20 this year is 13,660 MW and this is already all-time peak because the previous peak was registered on June 21, 2019 and the level is only 13,450 MW,” Descando said. Alena Mae S. Flores

CREBA supports real property reforms

CLARK AIRPORT TERMINAL. Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat (third from left) with Bases Conversion and Development Authority president and chief executive Vince Dizon (second from left) and Clark Development Corp. president and chief executive Manuel Gaerlan (right) lead an ocular inspection of the Clark International Airport new terminal building. With them are Luzon International Premier Airport Development Corp. chief executive Bi Yong Chungunco (fourth from left), Department of Tourism Region 3 director Carolina Uy (left) and LIPAD Corp. head of operations Dante Basanta (second from right). The new airport terminal will open its doors to the public on July 2021.

S&P retains PH credit rating at ‘BBB+’

&P Global Ratings on Thursday affirmed the investment-grade ‘BBB+’ long-term and ‘A-2’ shortterm sovereign credit ratings on the Philippines, with a stable outlook.

“We affirmed the ratings because we believe the Philippines will continue to have good economic recovery prospects once the COVID-19 pandemic is contained, and that the government’s fiscal performance will strengthen accordingly,” the debt watcher said. “The stable outlook reflects our expectation that the Philippines economy will recover to healthy rates of growth as the COVID-19 pandemic is better contained, and that the government’s fiscal performance will materially improve,” S&P said in a statement. It said the country’s fiscal defi-

IN BRIEF

cits were expected to decline significantly over the next two to three years. The debt watcher said the Philippine economy was beginning to recover, and growth should accelerate further in 2022 as the pace of COVID-19 vaccinations picks up and the pandemic becomes more contained. It said while the country’s debt and fiscal metrics weakened amid the severe pandemic-driven downturn, “we expect stabilization and improvement on these fronts as the economy recovers.” S&P said it might lower the rating if the Philippines’ nascent economic re-

covery falters over the next 24 months, leading to a significant erosion of the long-term trend growth rate, or an associated deterioration of the government’s fiscal and debt positions beyond our projections. “Indications of downward pressure on the rating would be a sustained annual change in net general government debt higher than 4 percent of GDP and the general government’s net debt stock exceeding 60 percent of GDP, or interest payments exceeding 15 percent of revenues on a sustained basis,” it said. It said the rating might be raised over the next two years if the economy recovers much faster than expected, and the government achieves more rapid fiscal consolidation. “We may also raise the rating if the institutional settings, which have contributed to a significant

enhancement in the Philippines’ prepandemic credit metrics over the past decade, further improve,” it said. S&P said the ratings on the Philippines reflect the country’s above-average economic growth potential, which should drive constructive development outcomes and underpin broader credit metrics. It said that while the government’s fiscal and debt settings deteriorated due to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated extraordinary policy responses, its long track record of fiscal prudence provided a buffer to key metrics. “The ratings also benefit from the economy’s sound external settings. These factors are weighed against the Philippines’ low GDP per capita relative to other investment-grade sovereigns and evolving institutional settings,” it said.

THE Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Associations Inc. expressed support to the proposed Real Property Valuation Reform Bill, or Package 3 of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program, which seeks to introduce reforms in real property valuation and assessment and reorganize the Bureau of Local Government Finance under the Finance Department. CREBA said in a statement that cognizant of land and housing development being catalysts for economic and social progress, the current system of real property valuation in the Philippines should be overhauled to do away with multiple, overlapping and outdated valuations. CREBA national chairman Charlie Gorayeb said the current practice complicates government assessment and taxation and raises discrepancies that result in right-of-way compensation problems and lengthy valuation, both of which hamper the speedy and efficient construction of infrastructure projects. Othel V. Campos

Fruitas buying Balai Pandesal FOOD and beverage kiosk operator Fruitas Holdings Inc. said Thursday it is acquiring a company that operates Balai Pandesal to accelerate its expansion into the bakery business. Fruitas said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it signed an agreement to acquire certain assets of Balai Pandesal Corp., including trademark, recipes and other technical knowhow, certain equipment and inventory. The company did not disclose the acquisition cost. Fruitas aims to have 100 Balai Pandesal stores over the near term, up from the initial five stores with the acquisition. The company said it already identified several strategic locations and would expand the Balai Pandesal store network to at least 20 within the year. “We have proven our ability to successfully integrate relatively small acquisitions and build them into significant revenue and profit contributors like Jamaican Pattie, Sabroso Lechon and Soy & Bean. We are excited about the prospects for ‘Balai’ as pan de sal is another Filipino daily diet staple that we want to supply and increase our market penetration,” Fruitas president and chief executive Lester Yu said. Jenniffer B. Austria

DOTR expects Tutuban-Malolos railway to be completed by 2nd quarter of 2024 By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation said Thursday the construction of the Philippine National Railways Clark Phase 1 Project is on track for completion by the second quarter of 2024. Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said the PNR Clark Phase 1 Project, a 38-kilometer railway connecting Tutuban Station in Manila and Malolos in Bulacan, had a progress rate of 45.82 percent. “This is very historic because there were four attempts to build this project since 1993, and it is only now that construction progressed,” Tugade said. He said the previous administrations attempted to start the project but failed to deliver on its construction. “There were talks about groundbreaking, but there was no construction. Now, construction is ongoing and the trains are coming,” he said. Funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the North-South

Commuter Railway Project (MalolosTutuban), also known as the PNR North 1 Project, was signed in November 2015. PNR North 1 has 10 stations, which will cut across the cities of Manila, Caloocan, Valenzuela and the municipalities and cities of Meycuayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Balagtas, Guiguinto and Malolos in Bulacan. Once completed, the project is expected to serve 300,000 passengers daily and will reduce travel time from Malolos to Manila from an hour and 30 minutes to 35 minutes. At least 7,500 workers were employed during the construction of the project, while 2,000 additional jobs would be made available once the project becomes operational, according to Tugade. He said at least 200 former overseas Filipino workers were employed in the project, while more jobs would be opened to prioritize more OFWs and displaced public utility vehicle drivers and conductors.

Ginebra eyes three new plants on strong sales By Jenniffer B. Austria GINEBRA San Miguel Inc., the liquor subsidiary of conglomerate San Miguel Corp., said Thursday it plans to build three new facilities as sales remain strong despite the pandemic. GSMI president Ramon Ang said during the annual stockholders’ meeting plans were underway for the construction of three plants in Ilocos Region, Bicol Region and Pagadian City. Ang did not provide more details on the new facilities including capital spending, production capacity and timetable for the completion. Aside from new manufacturing facilities, GSMI would also invest in logistics to improve its capability and expand its reach, according to Ang. The liquor firm operates five bottling facilities in Cabuyao, Laguna; Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan; Cauayan City, Isabela; Ligao City, Albay; and Mandaue City, Cebu.

GSMI posted a 120-percent increase in net income in the first quarter to P1.04 billion from P474 million in the same period last year. Operating income increased by 88 percent to P1.3 billion. GSMI said the first-quarter performance was driven by programs to sustain the brand equity of core brands Ginebra San Miguel and Vino Kulafu and further increase awareness on GSM Blue. “Our continuous efforts to invest in strengthening Ginebra San Miguel’s brand equity and build a deeper connection with consumers carried us through these uncertain times,” Ang said. Despite the lockdown in 2020 and imposition of liquor bans, GSMI managed to delivery strong results with full-year net income increasing by 65 percent to a record P2.76 billion. Consolidated revenues in 2020 also reached P36.2 billion, an increase of 25 percent from 2019 while operating income rose 32 percent to P3.8 billion.

Sports

PH surfers arrive early in El Salvador for world tilt MEMBERS of the the Philippine national surfing team have arrived early in El Salvador for the 2021 Surf City El Salvador-International Surfing Association World Surfing Games. Since their arrival last week, the 6-member national squad has been familiarizing themselves with the big waves along two beaches. Filipino surfers went to this Central American country last week to find out if any of them can make the cut for the Tokyo Olympics. The weeklong meet runs from May 29 to June 6 and will see the world’s best national surfing teams going after their dreams of becoming part of the sport’s first wave of Olympians. Participants, including Filipino competitors, have been trying out La Bocana, a cobble-stone bottomed river mouth, which features multiple peaks. The waves in this area break left and right and provide powerful, steep sections for high-performance surfing, according to organizers. On the other hand, El Sunzal beach has a long, right hand point break due west of La Bocana, running for hundreds of yards along the coast. “They went there early and they are trying out the waves,” said United Philippine Surfing Association president Dr. Raul Canlas in an interview with the Manila Standard. The men’s team is led by Southeast Asian Games silver medalist and La Union native Jay-R Esquivel. SEA Games bronze medalist John Mark ‘Marama’ Tokong, who trained in Australia, will be around with veteran Edito ‘Piso’ Alcala Jr. and teenage surfer Vea Estrellado, who recently turned 18 and is the youngest member to join. The country’s top-ranked women’s surfers will be there, too, with SEA Games gold medalist Nilbie Blancada and SEA Games bronze medalist Daisy Valdez teaming up. The surfers are accompanied by coach Ian Saguan, who revealed that the team didn’t have difficulty adhering to COVID-19 protocols, which organizers have imposed on them. This is because the nationals have already completed their requirements while still in Manila and before they arrived in El Salvador last May 17. More than 250 athletes from 51 countries have converged in El Salvador and will fight for national pride and medals, aside from Olympic qualif ication. Peter Atencio

Diaz: No promises to win gold, I just want to do it

ASIN, Malaysia—Filipina weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz grunts with the effort of hoisting a barbell over her head in an outdoor makeshift gym ringed by banana and rambutan trees as trucks thunder past—an unlikely training base for a shot at Olympic gold in Tokyo. Diaz, 30, who took silver at Rio 2016, has been stuck in Malaysia since February last year because of the coronavirus pandemic but has remained determined to realize her dream of becoming the first Olympic gold medal winner from the Philippines. “I’m ready. I can’t say at what percent, but I’m there—my mind is there, my heart is there, physically it’s there,” Diaz told AFP during a break from her long hours of final preparation in energy-sapping heat and humidity for her fourth, and probably last, Olympics. “The pressure is high because of course... everyone’s expecting me to win the gold medal in Tokyo,” she said. “I have embraced it. I just tell myself to focus on the technique, focus

on the work ahead. “I don’t want to promise to win gold, I just want to do it.” Diaz is already assured a place in her country’s sporting folklore, alongside the likes of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, as the only woman from the sprawling archipelago ever to win an Olympic medal —her surprise silver in Rio breaking a 20-year medal drought for the Philippines. Her stature grew two years later when she struck gold at the Asian Games in Indonesia and repeated the feat at the South East Asian Games on home soil in December 2019. Diaz had then been firmly on course to take her chance at Olympic glory just a few months later, but the coronavirus

By Peter Atencio TOKYO Olympics-bound Eumir Marcial and three other Filipino fighters assured themselves of bronze-medal finishes in the ongoing Asian Boxing Confederation Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships in Dubai. The 25-year-old Marcial won by default over no-show Mongolia’s Byamba-Erdene Otgonbaatar, who suffered an injury in the opening round Monday. Marcial, who recently turned professional, advanced to the semifinals of the middleweight (75 kgs) division against Uzbekistan’s Said Jamshid Jafarov, who earlier blanked Kyrgyzstan’s Omurbek Bekzhigit Uulu, 5-0. Twenty-year-old Mark Lester Durens (49kg), who is from Misamis Oriental, and Junmilardo Ogayre (56kg), also made it to the semis, along with five-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Josie Gabuco. Durens used his aggressive attacks to stun Kuwait’s Mansour Khalefah, and prevail via a referee-stopped con-

changed everything as the Games were tainty of whether the Games would be postponed by a year. held at all. ‘Anxiety, fears, worries’ “At first there was a lot of anxiety, “It’s difficult to have a goal and have it fears, worries because we’re in Malayextended by how many months and at the sia—we didn’t know where to stay, we same time you know you have plans after didn’t know where to train,” said Diaz. the Olympics,” said Diaz, who serves in For months Diaz and her coaches— the Philippines Air Force and will com- “Team HD”—were stuck in an apartment pete in the 55kg class in Tokyo. block in the capital Kuala Lumpur where The daughter of a tricycle driver in a they had to be careful not to crack the poor village near the port of Zamboan- tiled floor while training with weights. ga on the southern island of Mindanao, But the tireless Diaz still managed to Diaz has not seen her family since De- find time to raise money through oncember 2019. line training sessions to distribute food “I have to sacrifice time with my packages to poor families back home family, sacrifice time with my friends, who were suffering during coronavirus sacrifice time with studying... my work lockdowns. at the Philippines Air Force.” In October, Diaz and her team reShe initially went to train in Malaysia located to a rural area in the southern in February 2020 because her Chinese coastal state of Malacca where they have coach, Gao Kaiwen, thought it would be been living in the house owned by a Mabetter for her as she focused on qualify- laysian weightlifting official. ing for Tokyo. She began using a nearby gym But within weeks came Covid-19 re- but restrictions were tightened again strictions leaving Diaz to battle gym forcing her to work out in the house’s closures, lack of access to weightlift- car port, sweating profusely in the ing equipment and the grinding uncer- tropical heat. AFP

test decision in Round 1. Ogayre dominated his fight with Rukmal Prassana of Sri Lanka, 5-0, the other day, to reach the bantamweight semis. Gabuco assured herself of a podium finish after getting a bye in the quarterfinals of the women’s light-flyweight division. In another featured 75kg encounter, Kazakhstan’s AIBA World Boxing Championship silver medallist Abilkhan Amankul had a difficult time with India’s Ashish Kumar but still won a close contest, 3-2. Amankul is set to meet Iran’s Seyed Shahin Mousavi, who eliminated Tajikistan’s 20-year-old Abdumalik Boltayev, 5-0. Earlier, lightweight Jere dela Cruz bowed out of contention after losing to India’s Varinder Singh in the quarterfinals, 5-0. Dela Cruz was the fourth Filipino boxer to be eliminated, following his loss in the preliminaries of the 60kg (lightweight) class last Monday.

Olympics a go, Japan says after US virus travel warning TOKYO—A new US travel warning for Japan over virus risks will not affect this summer’s pandemic-postponed Olympic Games, the Japanese government and Tokyo 2020 organizers said Tuesday. The US State Department advisory released Monday urges citizens to avoid travel to Japan, where the borders are already closed to almost all foreigners. It cites government health advice, as well as “secondary factors such as commercial flight availability, restrictions on US citizen entry, and impediments to obtaining Covid test results within three calendar days”. The advisory comes with less than two months until the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics, which were postponed last year as the pandemic took hold. Japan’s government said the measure would not affect the Games. “It is our understanding that there is no change to the US position to support Japan’s effort to hold the Olympic and Paralympic Games,” government spokesman Katsunobu Kato told a regular briefing.

FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

Olympic weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz of the Philippines takes part in a training session in Jasin in the Malaysian city of Malacca. Diaz, who took silver at Rio 2016, has been stuck in Malaysia since February last year because of the coronavirus pandemic but has remained determined to realize her dream of becoming the first Olympic gold medal winner from the Philippines. AFP

4 PH boxers assured of bronze in Asian slugfest

Eumir Marcial

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

He added that Japan had been told the decision was “not related” to the plans of the US Olympic delegation. Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto said she “didn’t think it would impact the Games”, adding the organisers would “do their best to prepare for the Olympics whose priority is safety and security”. The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee also said it remained confident that safety measures and frequent testing for athletes and staff “will allow for safe participation of Team USA athletes this summer”. A State Department spokesman said Washington understood “the careful considerations that the Japanese government and the International Olympic Committee are weighing as they prepare for the Tokyo Olympics this summer”. “President Biden proudly supports the US athletes who have trained for these Games and will be competing in the best traditions of the Olympic spirit,” he said. Japan has seen a relatively small coronavirus outbreak, with around 12,000 deaths overall. But the country has been battling a

A pedestrian walks past a Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games decoration board bearing illustrations of Games logo and mascot in Tokyo. AFP

fourth wave of infections that prompted the government to impose states of emergency in several places including Tokyo. The measures largely involve closing restaurants early and banning the sale of alcohol at eateries and bars. Infection numbers are now declining

in Tokyo and hard-hit Osaka, but reports suggest the emergency restrictions may still be extended for several weeks past their current May 31 expiry. Japan’s inoculation programme has rolled out slowly, with just two percent of its population fully vaccinated so far. AFP

National Academy of Sports offers scholarships to student-athletes SET for its inaugural school year, the National Academy of Sports will offer full scholarships in secondary education to talented Filipino student-athletes. Created through Republic Act No. 11470, the NAS was institutionalized to recognize and develop exceptionally talented students from all sectors, including indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups. Pursuant to the law, the NAS System is an attached institution of the DepEd, in close coordination with the Philippine Sports Commission. “We are having a National Academy of Sports for those who want to take up sports not only as something they do as they are growing up, but also as a profession, as a way of learning more about the science of the body. The virtues of honesty and sportsmanship will also be developed at the NAS,” Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones said. During the pilot episode of Usapang DepEd Sports Season 2, NAS Executive Director Josephine Joy Reyes gave an overview of the institution’s enhanced secondary program in sports. “NAS will provide full scholarship upon entry at Grade 7 or in Junior High Schools up to Grade 12. They will also be given reasonable monthly stipend, free board and lodging, as well as school and training uniforms,” ED Reyes shared. “NAS will also provide them exposure to compete internationally and represent the country in qualified sports competitions. With their athletic performance during their stay in the school system, pwede rin silang maging exchange students so their talents will be honed even more,” she added. Moreover, the newly-established sports institution will also prioritize the academic performance of the young athletes as NAS will implement a holistic, enhanced sports curriculum.

Sports

FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

UFC vs. ONE Championship? Chatri says ‘bring it on!’

Kelly ready to take on debuting Faress

IT IS very rare that two global mixed martial arts promotions would work together to co-promote a mega event pitting fighters from both sides against each other. In fact, it has only happened a handful of times in the sport’s history, despite massive interest from hardcore and casual fans alike. But ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong has long campaigned for the idea, and wants to put his martial arts heroes up against the UFC’s best fighters. ONE Championship’s official Twitter account recently shared a quote from Sityodtong that had fans buzzing. Sityodtong said: “I would definitely welcome a ONE vs UFC mega event.” In a follow-up tweet later on, ONE C h a m pio n s h i p would then tag UFC President Dana White, issuing the challenge. The tweet read: “Who wants it? Trophy @ yodchatri @danawhite @ufc # We A r e O N E ONE Championship # ON EC h a mpiChairman and CEO onship #ONEVChatri Sityodtong sUFC.” The UFC is the largest mixed martial arts promotion in North America, while ONE Championship is its equivalent in Asia, so it checks off all the boxes both from a competition and business standpoint. Sityodtong has said for years that a clash between the two largest martial arts organizations from both sides of the world makes absolute sense. In fact, he believes ONE Championship athletes would not only give UFC fighters a run for their money, but that they would dominate and win. “I would definitely like to see the best of the East vs. the best of the West,” Sityodtong told media through a Facebook live Q&A in 2020. “UFC vs. ONE Championship I think would be phenomenal. I think the whole entire world would watch it. And I’d love to see world champions vs. world champions. So definitely, for sure, I’m open to it.”

IT’S all systems go for Team Lakay’s Edward “The Ferocious” Kelly, as he hopes to once again become relevant in the ONE Championship featherweight division. Kelly marks his return to the Circle against debuting Ahmed “The Prince” Faress at the previously recorded ONE: FULL BLAST this Friday, May 28. It’s a match that “The Ferocious” needs to win if he wants to start his climb back up the loaded division, especially as he’s coming off an uninspiring decision loss against Tang Kai. “This is a very big match for me because I’m coming off a decision loss, a very close one. That’s why I regret that loss. I was that close to getting that win,” Kelly said. “A win here would be huge for me. It would further add to my desire to return among the ranks of the best fighters in the featherweight division —and it starts with Ahmed.” It will be easier said than done for Kelly. Faress comes in with a 16-3 record, but his sturdy stats aren’t the most impressive thing about him heading into this clash. None of his 16 wins reached the final bell, with 13 of those victories coming via submissions. Luckily, Kelly has been working on his ground game since his loss to Tang. “Our training for Ahmed went well. It had its challenges because I had to prepare for a different opponent at first, and [my opponent] got changed because of the pandemic, but I just focused and continued to train hard,” he said. “I really worked double-time on my ground game. I know that’s where I’m lacking and that’s what I need to improve on. It also just so happened that Ahmed is a very strong ground fighter, so it all fits.” In the main event, top-ranked Muay Thai bantamweight contender Saemapetch Fairtex takes on #3-ranked “Left Meteorite” Kulabdam Sor. Jor. Piek Uthai in an explosive ONE Super Series clash. Watch ONE: FULL BLAST on ONE Sports or ONE Sports+ at 8:30 p.m. Philippine Standard Time (PHT) this Friday, May 28. It will also air simultaneously at the ONE Super App. TV5 will have an encore presentation at 12 a.m. PHT on Sunday, May 30.

Rui Hachimura of the Washington Wizards and Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers fight for the ball during the Eastern Conference Playoffs at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. AFP

76ers rout Wiz to seize control; Jazz rebound L

OS ANGELES—Ben Simmons silenced the critics with a 22 point, nine rebound, eight assist performance as the Philadelphia 76ers routed the Washington Wizards 12095 to grab a 2-0 playoff series lead on Wednesday. Joel Embiid also scored 22 points and grabbed seven rebounds as the heavilyfavoured Sixers got contributions from a number of players including starting power forward Tobias Harris, who had 19 points and nine rebounds. Simmons scored 12 of his 22 in the first quarter, delivering a breakout playoff performance after being criticized for scoring just six points in Sunday’s game one of the series. “I’m here to win and I’m doing what I need to do to help my team win, whatever it is. I’m not trying to prove anybody wrong or anything like that. I’m trying to do my job to win,” Simmons said. The top-seeded 76ers now have a firm lead in the best-of-seven East series with game three scheduled for Saturday in Washington. “I told him, ‘You’ve got all the space and all the time in the world. Just attack,’”

said Embiid of Simmons. “He’s physical and he’s athletic and he can make plays.” The Wizards weaved their way into the postseason by grabbing the eighth and final seed, but it hasn’t been an easy road. Their frustrations mounted on Wednesday when Russell Westbrook left the game with an injury and then had a run-in with a Philadelphia fan as he was walking down the tunnel. Less than two minutes into the fourth, Westbrook appeared to injure his right ankle and headed to the locker room. A Philadelphia fan dropped popcorn on Westbrook, who then had to be restrained. “It is very disrespectful,” said Wizards coach Scott Brooks of the fan who, was escorted out by security. “Philadelphia is better than that ... hopefully that fan is banned from games. They wouldn’t do that down the street.”

Final 4 The Apprentice candidates get their toughest business challenge ever THE Final Four candidates of The Apprentice:ONE Championship Edition candidates did not have to deal with back-breaking physical challenges in Episode 11. They were immediately whisked off instead into arguably the toughest business challenge of the entire season. In the business challenge, the candidates worked in pairs to help non-prof it organizations with their communication strategies, aided by special guest Jeff Lawson, CEO of Twilio, the leading cloud communication platform that engages customers across various channels (SMS, voice, video, email, WhatsApp and more). Pinoy bet Louie Sanagalang was paired with Venezuelan Jessica Ramella while American Monica Millington had Russian Irina Chadsey as partner.

Bradley Beal scored a team-high 33 points and Rui Hachimura chipped in 11 points for the Wizards, who have been unable to slow down the 76ers’ highpowered offence that boasts plenty of playoff experience. Westbrook scored 10 points and handed out 11 assists. But the all-star point guard struggled Wednesday, shooting just two-of-10 from the floor and missing all three of his attempts from beyond the arc. “They were attacking in high efficiency shots and we couldn’t make a bucket,” said Brooks. Elsewhere, Donovan Mitchell returned from an injury to score 25 points as the Utah Jazz withstood a 47-point performance from Ja Morant to beat the Memphis Grizzlies 141-129 and level their series at one game apiece. Mitchell made his much-anticipated return from a sprained ankle to drain five threes in 26 minutes of playing time. Rudy Gobert had 21 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks for the top-seeded Jazz, which rebounded after losing game one to eighth-seeded Memphis. AFP

The Final 4 candidates

To reward the brightest and toughest of the lot, ONE Championship chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong treated the four to a shopping spree at Hugo Boss, a fancy dinner feast, and a one-of-a-kind experience at a live ONE Championship event in Singapore. Sityodtong, who has an estimated net worth of $350 million, is the founder of the world’s largest martial arts organization and host of the reality series touted to be “the toughest The Apprentice in history”. One of the four candidates will earn a $250,000 job offer to work directly as Sityodtong’s business protege and become ONE’s new Chief of Staff. At this point in the competition, it’s anybody’s game to win as Jessica Ramella, Louie Sangalang, Monica Millington and Irina Chadsey battle it out to become Sityodtong’s “Apprentice.”

Allianz PNB Life partners with Manila for Bike Rack Art installation ALLIANZ PNB Life has partnered with Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso to install bike racks designed to evoke memories of growing up in Manila. Crafted to encourage a culture of cycling among Filipinos and to stir local tourism, each bike rack was creatively designed to reflect the place for which it will be installed. “As someone who grew up in Manila and continues to live and serve its residents today, it makes me proud that Allianz PNB Life has chosen our city to bring its sustainability campaign and take inspiration from our beautiful and historic sites,” said Domagoso. The bike rack art installation will be launched during the country’s commemoration of the “Araw ng Watawat” (Flag Day), which will be held on May 28, Friday, at the Kartilya ng Katipunan, where one of the bike racks is located. The event will also mark the beginning of the celebration of the 450th Founding Anniversary of the City of Manila. Domagoso, along with Manila City Vice Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan, MD, FPDS; Alexan-

Final rendered art

der Grenz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Allianz PNB Life; and Gino Riola, Chief Marketing Officer, Allianz PNB Life will lead the launch and celebration. They will be joined by Laura Oexle, German Embassy Deputy Head of Mission; Bernie Punsalan, Group Head for Luzon, Philippine National Bank; Carlos Leytte, Region Head, North Metro Manila, PNB;

Atty. Guiller Asido, Administrator, Intramuros Administration; Charlie Duñgo, Director, Department of Tourism, Culture, and Arts of Manila; Engr. Armando Andres, Director of the Department of Engineering and Public Works; Giovanni Evangelista, Director of the Parks and Development Office; and Kenneth Amurao, Director of the Department of Public Services.

Simultaneous inaugurations will also be held in other locations of the bike racks. Kenneth Yu, Digital Brand Management Head, Allianz PNB Life, will lead the launch at the Rajah Sulayman Park, Roxas Boulevard of the Alon bike rack. Bernadette Jalandoni-Pantoja, Bancassurance Distribution Partner Head, Allianz PNB Life, will cut the ribbon at Plaza Roma, Intramuros for the Kalesa bike rack, while Carol Bernas, VP and Head for PNB Bancassurance, Allianz PNB Life, will be at the Liwasang Bonifacio, Ermita for Maya bike rack. “In bringing our Ride Safe campaign to Manila, we wanted our bike racks not only to provide an area for bikers to stop for rest or have their bikes parked, we also wanted them to contribute to the city’s tourism efforts,” said Grenz. “We hope that these initiatives will encourage more people to consider biking not just as an alternative but a major transport option for getting around the city.” Inspiration Behind the Bike Rack Designs The bike racks and art installation in Manila were designed by Mark Wesley

Pahate—a Manileño himself. Pahate was born and raised in Tondo and finished Advertising Arts at the University of Santo Tomas in España, Manila. An advocate of street art, Pahate was an associate creative director at McCann World Group and Harrison Communications prior to starting his own boutique agency, Eggshell. Tabak bike rack at the Kartilya ng Katipunan commemorates the bravery of the Katipuneros. It was placed strategically near the monument of hero Andres Bonifacio holding a tabak. The Maya bike rack, meanwhile, is inspired by the little bird that once flew in abundance over the city’s parks and churches. At Rajah Sulayman Park, where one can see Manila Bay from across Roxas Boulevard, the Alon bike rack will stand as a remembrance of the city’s historic bay and beautiful sunset. The Kalesa bike rack at Plaza Roma in front of the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros is a reminder of how the horsedrawn carriage used to rule the streets during earlier times.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

Tentative ruling grants Brad Pitt more custody of children with Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt—given the celebrity moniker ‘Brangelina’—wed in France in 2014, but had been a couple since 2004 after starring as married assassins in ‘Mr and Mrs Smith.’

A CALIFORNIA judge ruled that a custody order concerning Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's children must be modified in his favor, according to court documents filed by the Fight Club actor's lawyers. Superstars Pitt and Jolie, who have six children and were once Hollywood's highest-profile couple, formally divorced two years ago but have remained locked in a private court battle since. The pair announced in 2018 they had reached an amicable settlement over the children -- three biological and three adopted -- which appears to have unraveled. Documents filed by Pitt's attorneys at a California appeals court seen by AFP claim a privately appointed judge made a "tentative ruling" in which he found "the existing custody order between the parties

must be modified, per Mr. Pitt's request." The papers also claim that the judge found Jolie's "testimony lacked credibility in many important areas" and that her bid to challenge the new custody proceedings would "work grave harm upon the children, who will be further denied permanence and stability." Jolie, 45, is attempting to have the judge dismissed from the divorce case. The terms of the pair's original childcare agreement were never publicly revealed, but US entertainment media has widely reported that Pitt has been seeking equal custody, while Jolie sought sole custody. A source told AFP on Wednesday that the judge's recent ruling "modified the customary order to significantly increase his time with the kids," although that could not be verified as the order—which is not

final—is under seal. Pitt, now 57, was accused of striking one of his children during a flight from France to Los Angeles shortly before Jolie filed for divorce but was later cleared by the FBI and social workers. "The recent decision in the custody matter is a tentative one...we are a long way from a final resolution of anything," a source close to the issue told AFP. "Angelina believes that she and the children have been denied a fair trial and will continue to seek the best solution for the children and their well-being," the source said. The A-listers—given the celebrity moniker "Brangelina"—wed in France in 2014, but had been a couple since 2004 after starring as married assassins in Mr and Mrs Smith. AFP

Ebe drops first single as label exec W i d e s c o p e HARDLY can you find a Entertainment, a top record label’s A&R (Artist advertising agency for and Repertoire) manager years, emerged as among record his own song for the aggressive record official release, unless the YUGEL outfits amidst the new guy’s name is Ebe Dancel. LOSORATA normal set-up. Thanks That’s exactly the to the strong leadership scenario behind the arrival and corporate experience of “Manatili” in digital stores today, May 28. It’s Ebe’s first single after signing up as artist of of its president Vic de Vera and music and Widescope Entertainment where he currently entertainment director Neil Gregorio. Significantly, being A&R is likewise Ebe handles the position often associated with personnel discovering highly potential acts. giving back to the scene that had been kind to him and helping younger In his case, he’d been an musicians he feels established one himself, with deserving of the breaks he numerous hits to his name, himself has enjoyed since before he took the job. Sugarfree’s breakout. The single, the first Ebe’s job description at of many with “certain Widescope Entertainment concepts in mind,” is a couldn’t be more fit, turning point in Ebe’s especially with his solo career. For one, it’s fascination for the skills produced by his equally of today's generation of legendary manager Rico musicians. He shared, “I Blanco. Ebe stressed, think they’re amazing. “We’re great friends and Some songs that 20-yearI trust him. Trust is very olds write these days important in this business.” make me feel like they’ve The ex-Rivermaya already experienced vocalist and chief songwriter everything about life. co-produced Sugarfree’s The technique and skill debut album that produced are there, and technology “Burnout,” “Mariposa,” and works to their advantage “Telepono.” because they keep Musicians involved for discovering new tools “Manatili” included Dino As the pandemic continues, and styles to integrate into Decena, Jaschia Obieta, Ebe Dancel took the job of their songwriting.” Giancarlo Gonzales, Artist & Repertoire manager at He added, “The Mico Villena, and John Widescope Entertainment and artists of Widescope Apura. Arranger Gino was duly signed as an artist for Entertainment are pretty Cruz and noted mixing the multiplatform media and amazing. I hope to keep engineer Angee Rozul entertainment company. discovering new talent.” valuably guided the On his songwriting recording process. Asked about his A&R work, Ebe noted, embraced by fans and critics alike, the “There was an adjustment from my end hitmaker has this to say: “What matters is the as I integrated myself into the system. But expectations and goals you set for yourself. honestly, I’m loving it. All day, music is all I Pressure comes with the job and I’ve come to do and I can’t ask for anything more. Being embrace it and look forward to new challenges. A&R has given me the chance to learn more I’m still learning new things about my craft 20 plus years later.” about the music industry.”

Showcasing Manila ‘Noon at Ngayon’ THIS month, The Art District Gallery presents MAYNILA: Noon at Ngayon, an exhibition featuring premier Filipino Contemporary Sculptors whose works narrate Manila’s legacy of being one of the centers of arts and culture in the country. Gathering eight of the most respected Filipino visual artists in the country, the exhibition, through space, form, and physically illustrates images that hint at the city’s opulent history that remain vibrant amidst modernity. The show was launched on May 15. Works on display are by Ral Arrogante, Wilson William Montes Baldemor, Richard Buxani, Frederic Caedo, Joe Datuin, Chris Magbuhos, Sam Penaso, and Jun Rodrigo Vicaldo. The part of the exhibition’s proceeds will benefit youth scholars of TAD’s learning programs where youth aged 16 and up, and based in barangays in Manila, are taught about art free of charge. The Art District Gallery History

The Art District (TAD) is a new contemporary gallery inside Calvo Building, an old 1938 structure along Escolta Street Binondo, Manila. Escolta Street, which is known for its row of elegant art-deco buildings designed by notable architects, has a long history of being the business and cultural hub of the Philippines. TAD’s mission is to help in the existing effort to restore Escolta’s rightful place as the distinguished cultural foundation of Manila. By providing a venue for contemporary art that is accessible and inspirational, TAD helps recapture Manila’s legacy for being the center of Arts and Culture in the Philippines. MAYNILA: Noon at Ngayon runs until June 10. The gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday (closed on Mondays) from 12:00 nn to 9:00 p.m.. For more information, contact Donato Nesperos through Mobile: 0927-793-7441 Email: tadgalleryph@gmail.com.

Actor-politician Yul Servo (2nd from right) graces the opening of ‘Manila: Noon at Ngayon,’ an exhibit that narrates the city’s legacy of being one of the centers of arts and culture in the country.

A scene from the sitcom with Michael, Manilyn, and young actor Jake Vargas.

Pepito Manaloto

Winning the audiences’ hearts for 11 years and counting VERY WANG

‘Pepito Manaloto’ lead stars Michael V and Manilyn Reynes

NICKIE WANG

N WHAT can be viewed as Pepito Manaloto’s biggest success, since the earliest days of the family sitcom, it has been winning the hearts of its viewers, striking the right chord with its audience by giving them a dose of comedy and some right amount of life lessons, too.

Through its well-rounded and valueladen plot and characters with whom viewers can easily resonate, the show has earned the nods of various award-winning bodies during its decade-long run. Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, Michael V and Manilyn Reynes, who play the lead roles Pepito and Elsa, shared that for almost a decade, they could no longer keep track with the awards and accolades received by the show. “We’ve been on air for 11 years now and we’re happy that we, the people behind and in front of the camera are

being recognized. Every award matters kasi bunga yun ng pinaghirapan namin,” Manilyn said. “Whenever I win the heart of another viewer, for me that’s the best award that we could get. We owe it to our audience that’s why we are thankful to them. They are the reason why we are still here,” Michael V, who also acts as the creative director of the sitcom, said. “Our objective really ay tapatan ang John En Marsha, mataas ang pangarap di ba? But the show was really inspired by Dolphy’s epic sitcom, that’s really our dream. We’re happy to last this long. Sa amin sulit na ‘to,” the comedian added. After several months of fun-filled and heartwarming stories, GMA Network's well-loved family sitcom Pepito Manaloto: Kuwento, Kuwento is airing its season finale this Saturday.

Michael V. shares the greatest value that the show wishes for the viewers to reflect on, "The core of Pepito Manaloto, 'yung personality niya at ng pamilya niya, hindi nagbago. Kumbaga pusong mahirap pa rin sila. Marunong silang mag-value ng mga tao at bagay and at the same time, alam nila 'yung meaning ng totoong pamilya.” In its season finale, while Elsa (Manilyn), who has been invited as a feature baker at the Central Luzon Food Trade Expo in Pampanga, and Pepito (Michael V.), who has been invited by the Philippine Embassy in Korea to speak at a business conference, both prepare for their respective events the whole household is encountering a problem. Under the helm of esteemed director Bert de Leon, watch Pepito Manaloto’s season-ender at 6:15 pm, on GMA-7.

Fixing Jake Zyrus SINGER Jake Zyrus has released the music video for “Fix Me”—a song that speaks about wanting to ‘fix’ his own anxiety issues—now streaming on Apple Music and Star Music YouTUbe channel. “’Fix Me’ is very personal to me, there are times that I would be asking my partner, ‘do I deserve love?’ I still feel that especially when I’m triggered and every time I sing or hear it, nakaka-relate talaga ako,” he said. The project also allowed him to go back to his pop R&B roots and showcase his falsetto voice anew. “I started as a pop R&B singer so I thought it’d be nice to release something like that, something that people are familiar with,” Jake shared, revealing that he was excited to sing in falsetto for the song, which he has not done in a long time after his transition.

The “Fix Me” MV features the Kapamilya artist in an entrancing setting that gives a peek into his choreographed moves amidst a fresh tune. Edrex Clyde Sanchez directed the video under the production of ECS Films. ABS-CBN Music International released the “Fix Me” single early this May, which has been featured in Spotify’s New Music Friday Philippines and Apple Music’s Absolute OPM and New in POP playlists. Jake’s latest song is a joint composition of Grammy-winning composer Kenneth Mackey,, Swedish singer-songwriter Andreas Moss,, and American record producer Joshua Bronleewe. It was produced by Filipino-American musical director Troy Laureta,, who Jake recently nominated for Good Morning America’s Inspiration List in celebration of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Jake Zyrus releases a new single titled ‘Fix Me,’ which speaks about the singer’s desire to ‘fix’ his own anxiety issues.

Life

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

TRAVEL & LEISURE

FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

Luzon is back and ready

The Tayid Lighthouse on Batanes Island is the perfect background for a souvenir photo. (Photo courtesy of Cielo Fernando/zenrooms.com)

The Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga, Albay completes the breathtaking scenery of the majestic Mayon Volcano. (Photo from Wikimedia Commons)

The refreshing and beautiful gardens of The Manor at Camp John Hay is always a favorite of ‘lowlanders’ like us who treasure its cool environs. (Photo from @themanoratcjh/Instagram)

COUPLE of weeks ago, the Tourism Congress of the Philippines (TCP) gathered together all its member establishments from Luzon to update them on the latest offerings of the area. With the theme “Luzon Tourism Is Back And Ready”, the virtual meeting featured presentations from the tourism directors of the Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR), and Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, and V. The forum was co-sponsored by the Department of Tourism and AirAsia, with the latter commendable for its generosity of transporting vaccines to many parts of the country for free. The airline, which has a website with more than 21 million contactable members, a Facebook account with 12.6 million followers, and an Instagram account with 169,000 followers, offered TCP access to its social media platforms for maximum exposure of the organization’s activities. Regional Director Jovita Ganongan of CAR (Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province) highlighted the region’s nature tourism attractions, inviting everyone cooped up in their homes to “breathe in nature”. The region also offers faithbased tourism through its Christian

Jubilee Pilgrimage, celebrating the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the country. For those who feel lost, CAR puts across a heartwarming invitation with the tagline, “Find Yourself In The Cordilleras”. Region 1 (Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan) expects to initiate the revival of its tourism industry through the Ridge and Reef Travel Corridor which allows neighboring provinces access to its tourist attractions, as explained by Regional Director Joseph Francisco Ortega. Ortega also introduced VISITA, or Visitor Information and Travel Assistance App, which monitors visitor influx and provides faster and more efficient contact tracing. I’m sure the region’s current tagline, “Find The One In Region One”, will easily put some sparkle in the eyes of hopeless romantics. Region 2 (Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino), represented by its director Fanibeth Domingo, describes itself as “Islands and Valley of Fun” and Quirino province as

Seasoned divers enjoy the treasure trove of colorful sea creatures in the dive sites in Bicol Region. (Photo from Bicol Dive Center/Facebook)

a “Basket of Happiness”, offering visitors nature, adventure, sports, and cultural attractions. It looks forward to more visitors as it creates cultural thematic circuits, and tourism corridors with North Luzon provinces through the newly opened Cagayan North International Airport. The “Never-Ending Escapades” of Region 3 or Central Luzon (Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Zambales) are expected

to draw in the tourists, especially with its “Slow Food, Slow Travel” promo. According to Regional Director Carolina Uy, the promo is a series of gastronomy-centric familiarization trips for established and emerging culinary destinations in Pampanga and Bulacan. Uy is also looking forward to the success of their “Soul Circuit” Manila Bay cruise that takes passengers to tourist attractions in Cavite, Corregidor, and Bataan’s Las Casas de Acuzar.

CALABARZON or Region IV-A (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) offers a wide variety of exciting destinations for sports and adventure, culture and the arts, faith and pilgrimage, farm and ecotourism, sun and beach. Regional Director Michael Palispis emphasizes that the region’s main strength is its location – closest to the National Capital Region – making it easily accessible to residents of the metropolis. The region is also proud of its REINA Tourism Cluster Circuit, composed of the towns of Real, Infanta, and General Nakar in Quezon, which has become a favorite of nature trippers, adrenaline junkies, and history buffs. Regional Director Christopher Morales of MIMAROPA, the Southwestern Tagalog Region or Region IV-B (Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) announced the re-opening of their popular tourist magnets. The region’s tourism gems include El Nido, Coron Calamianes Islands, Puerto Galera, Puerto Princesa City, and San Vicente in Palawan where the 14-kilometer Long Beach, the longest white beach in the country, is located. Region V or the Bicol Region (Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, Masbate), through its Regional Director Fe Buela, proudly announced that 80 percent of their attractions are now open to domestic tourists while 95 percent are open to its residents. She bannered their premier sightseeing tour, “Center of F.U.N. (Farm, Faith, and Food Under The New Normal)”, which takes participants to interesting attractions in Camarines Sur and Albay. The region also offers a Drive and Dive Tour in Legazpi City, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy the dive sites in Ticao Island, Tagdugan Reef, Manta Bowl, and San Miguel Island, all rated “A” by divers from here and abroad. With all these attractive and exciting destinations ready to take in our domestic tourists, our industry is certainly ready to bounce back, and will soon be on its way to recover lost ground. I’m glad Luzon is back and ready! YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE Which branch of the military accepts babies? The INFANTry. For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com.

Online activities bring adventures indoors WHO says you cannot explore and meet new people while staying safe at home? Airbnb’s Online Experiences, launched last year to enable the platform’s hosts to earn income amid the pandemic, offers various activities guests can enjoy through their computer screens. According to a survey Airbnb conducted last year, 63 percent of guests booked Online Experiences to be entertained and 56 percent booked to learn about other cultures and lifestyles. Food and Drink has been the most popular category globally and across the Asia Pacific region, accounting for nearly 40 percent of seats booked. The Online Experiences available vary from exploring the street and famous attractions in cities around the world to learning new skills.

Explore from home

Anto, Peter, Herbert, and Tais host “A Fabulous Day in Paris with Parisians” that brings guests to famous sites in the City of Lights, including the Louvre and the Royal Palace. Meanwhile, Yuki the Otaku can take anyone from anywhere in the world on a tour around Akihabara, the Otaku capital of Japan to learn more about “Tokyo Anime and its Subcultures”. On “Rio’s Carnival Backstage Live Experience”, host Cinthia talks about the rich history of the Afro-Brazilian culture and how to play Brazilian drums using items guests can find at Explore famous sites in Paris with hosts home. Anto, Peter, Herbert, and Tais.

Level up gardening skills

Sit back and relax

Rejuvenating Online Experiences include the 60-minute “Meditate with Japanese Buddhist Monk” hosted by Kuniatsu, who has resided for over 20 years at Shitennoji Temple. This experience walks guests through different types of meditation practices. Host and holistic coach Ana demonstrates how chocolate can help bring about inner peace, gratitude, and lots of happiness on “Happiness Meditation with Chocolate”. The “Cello Meditation Concert” hosted by Janice, meanwhile, encourages guests to experience healing and deep relaxation through music. Go to www.airbnb.com/experiences to check out these and more Online Experiences.

Those who want to learn more about indoor gardening can take part in “Plant Care Basics with Hilton Carter”, or know more “Easy Gardening Tips” from garden designer Kevin. Taking the love of plants to the next level, host Wynnie, on “Traditional Healing and Houseplants”, shares with guests the natural healing properties of plants.

Cook with experts

Culinary experiences on Airbnb likewise vary. For instance, guests can learn how to make authentic and delicious Portuguese sangria on “Sangria and Secrets with Drag Taste” experience, while being entertained with live performances by fabulous drag queens. The “Make Mexican Street Tacos with a Pro Chef” experience, hosted by Graciela, teaches guests how to prepare street tacos from scratch, while the “Healthy Asian Fusion Recipes” allows participants to learn how to prepare tasty Asian dishes with the help of Parisian cook Chris.

Janice encourages guests to experience deep relaxation with music