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‘Common alert’ for Metro Mayors set pilot tests onSept. 16 as death toll breaks 35,000 By Macon Ramos-Araneta

ETRO Manila will have a common alert level quarantine system with granular lockdowns under the government’s new COVID-19 policy that will be pilot tested for two weeks starting Sept. 16, an official said Sunday.

GRANULAR LOCKDOWN GUIDELINES · A granular lockdown may be limited to several houses, a building, street, or a barangay. VOL. XXXV • NO. 210 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 • MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

· Granular lockdowns may run for 2 weeks. · Granular lockdowns will be implemented in Metro Manila and nationwide.

NEW ALERT LEVEL SCHEME

· Local authorities will be given 24 hours to prepare for the granular lockdown. · If two separate households in a street have COVID-19 carriers, the street is to be placed under lockdown. · Barangay officials will report the situation to the municipal health office (MHO), which will recommend to the local chief executive if an area or street should be placed under granular lockdown. · All individuals, including APOR and government officials, will not be allowed to leave an area under a granular lockdown. · Only health workers, allied workers, overseas Filipino workers (OFW) with scheduled flights, and only people with emergency cases will be permitted to go out.

Other pointers: · Alert levels will only be used in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ). · For the pilot implementation of the alert level systems in Metro Manila, cities in NCR would be under a single alert level. · The Department of Health is the authority in announcing an area’s alert level, based on health care utilization rate, average daily attack rate, and number of new COVID-19 cases. · Under Alert Level 4, people aged 18 below and 65 above, those with comorbidity, and pregnant women would not be allowed to leave their homes. · Private companies are allowed to have a minimum onsite capacity under Alert Level 2, but more employees would be permitted to go onsite under the loosest Alert Level 1.

2,227,367 21,411

181,951

35,145

168

2,010,271 25,049 (As of 4 PM, September 12)

With virtual schools, students face more of the same worries By Jimbo Gulle WITH a year of distance and modular learning under their belt, students in public schools return to class today under a still-challenging setup, as the Philippines remains one of only two countries that has not conducted par-

tial or full school reopening since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. As with last year, the Department of Education is counting on pupils’ parents to keep them focused on learning as the Duterte administration ponders

Public school teacher Pauline Marie MarasiganRomero of Rafael Palma Elementary School meets her new students during an online orientation ahead of today’s opening of school year 2021-2022 inside her home in Paco, Manila on Sunday, September 12, 2021. She and her students won’t be having in-person interaction, a mode which is prohibited because of the raging COVID pandemic. Some other schools will remain physically open like the Kapt. Jose Cardones Integrated School to serve as modules distribution venues and the teachers on hand to provide learning tools to students’ parents. Danny Pata, Manny Palmero

Give health workers booster shots—expert By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz

Dr. Rontgene Solante, a member of the Vaccine Expert Panel (VEP), said this can be seen on the ground, AN INFECTIOUS disease expert on Sunday called with health workers catching COVID-19 despite befor COVID-19 booster shots for health care workers, ing fully vaccinated. saying the vaccines they were given at the start of the Although most of these cases were mild, Solante pandemic could become less effective over time. Next page

PRC may be compelled to open its books, Palace says Senators confusing Yang’s two distinct events—lawyer THE Duterte administration could ask the Panelo made his remark as Duterte repeatedly ply with what the law asks them to do,” Panelo courts to compel the Philippine Red Cross demanded that Gordon open the humanitarian said in an interview over DZBB. (PRC) to submit its financial records for scru- organization’s financial records. He said the PRC would have liability if it tiny, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salva“For one, if they won’t voluntarily give the re- failed to submit its financial records and would Next page dor Panelo said Sunday. port, we can go to court to compel them to com-

Pinoy in historic win at Venice filmfest

Fil-Canadian tennis star NY’s darling

V E N IC E — Fi l ipi n o actor John Arcilla was the surprise choice for the best acting award at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday (Sunday in Manila). The 55-year-old took home the prize for his

NEW YORK—Leylah Fernandez hadn’t even been born in 2001 when terrorists attacked New York, but she hopes to show the same resilience and resolve as New Yorkers after her US Open final loss.

THE legal counsel of former presidential economic adviser Michael Yang said Sunday senators were confusing Yang’s meeting at the Palace in 2017 and the government supply procurement in 2020. Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee investigating Yang and others, previously showed a 2017 photo of the former adviser and President Rodrigo Duterte having a meeting with Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. officials linked to the purchase of reportedly overpriced medical equipment for COVID-19 response. But Raymund Fortun, Yang’s lawyer, said the Chinese businessman was meeting up with Pharmally Biological Next page

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Make modules error-free—Bongbong By Rey E. Requejo

S MILLIONS of students will virtually attend the opening of classes in public schools today (Sept. 13), former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. exhorted the Department of Education to make sure that the modules to be used for the blended learning would be error-free.

A combination of online learning and printed materials or self-tutoring modules remained the mode of educational instruction being adopted by the DepEd for SY 2021-2022 as the country continues to grapple with the surge of Covid19 pandemic in the country.

Marcos lamented that students have already complained of learning less last school year when the learning method was first adopted due to the pandemic and having erroneous modules would only contribute more to the deterioration of the country’s educational standards.

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said losing these health workers for 14 quarantine days would hurt the fight against COVID-19. He said the VEP has already submitted its recommendation to the All Experts Group of the Department of Health (DOH). He added that the VEP was considering recommending that those inoculated with the Sinovac vaccine be prioritized for booster shots. Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation will resume providing free rides for medical front liners, essential workers, and authorized persons outside of residence (APORs) on Monday, Sept. 13. The department said the free rides will be expanded to areas outside Metro Manila under the second phase of its service contracting program, which pays public utility vehicle operators and drivers based on the number of trips they make per week, regardless of the number of passengers. Also, Senator Christopher Go welcomed the release of P1.98 billion to enable the government to hire 20,839 more health workers to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Go also expressed support for a proposal to introduce a fixed monthly Special Risk Allowance (SRA) for both public and private health care workers who physically report for duty in hospitals and other health facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Go urged the concerned authorities to provide a certain level of flexibility in the implementation of the provisions of the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, which provides the legal basis for the provision of SRA. At present, only health care workers who are directly catering to or in contact with COVID-19 patients receive an SRA not exceeding P5,000 per month. The allowance is pro-rated based on the number of days that they physically reported for work and is not available to health workers in the same hospital who do not deal with COVID-19 patients. In the House, Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Ray Villafuerte called for a longterm solution to guarantee extra remuneration for medical front-liners. He said Congress needs to pass new legislation providing health care workers with hazard pay, plus substantial increases in the current rates of their overtime pay and other compensation. He said the congressional approval of two pending measures, which he authored, would prevent a repeat of the unrest among medical personnel resulting from the delay in the release of their hazard pay and other pandemic-related benefits. “The growing unrest is alarming, especially given the problems plaguing the country’s health-care infrastructure and the looming shortage of medical front-liners. We need to write these bills into laws soon enough so that the release of such benefits for health care workers will be mandatory without any need for a presidential directive,” Villafuerte said. House Bill No. 7490 provides hazard pay to all health-care front liners equivalent to at least 30 percent of their respective basic salaries for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government also said granular lockdowns would be implemented by surprise, contrary to earlier pronouncements that residents will be informed in advance. “There will be no warning, you will not know. Only the City Health Office has the data. It would defeat the purpose if a warning is given. People would leave the area and cluster with others,” DILG Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya told radio DZBB. Earlier, in an interview on ABSCBN’s TeleRadyo, Interior Undersecretary Epimaco Densing said areas to be placed under a granular lockdown would be advised 24 hours before it is implemented, to give them time to prepare (see table below -- Editors). Densing also said having a common alert level would prevent people from gathering in areas with a lower alert level. The mayors of Metro Manila’s 16 cities and lone municipality all agreed on having a common level, Densing said. “Even if there was a lower alert level in other cities, they are close to each other, and people would just transfer to areas with a lower alert level and gather there,” he said in Filipino. Densing said alert levels are different from granular lockdowns, which are imposed in specific areas under certain conditions. He added that the guidelines would

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fully accounted for the use of such funds in compliance with the donor agencies’ liquidation and reportorial requirements. These government agencies, in turn, are subject to annual audit by the Commission on Audit,” it said in a statement. Panelo said the Red Cross should submit itself to an audit of its finances if they wanted to prove that its business dealings did not “smack of greed and a desire for inordinate profit.” “If it truly has nothing to hide, then the PRC should refrain from coming up with imagined reasons why the Filipino people do not have a right to be informed on the business dealings of an entity upon which they have granted a multitude of benefits and exemptions,” he said in a separate statement.

have a violation if it failed to submit them within five years’ time. Meanwhile, PRC said it had “faithfully accounted for the use” of donations after Duterte threatened to stop the government’s transactions with the humanitarian organization if it refuses to undergo a state audit. “To date, there has not been any adverse finding on any transaction whereby government funds were given to the Philippine Red Cross,” the organization said, adding its records of donations may be obtained directly from donor state agencies. “The Philippine Red Cross has faith-

With virtual... From A1 on allowing pilot face-to-face classes during the year, which is slated for 209 school days and scheduled to end on June 24, 2022. Latest DepEd data showed that nearly 22 million registered in basic education — including both public and private schools — this year, equivalent to only 83.6 percent of the 26.2 million students from the previous academic year, which saw around a million learners miss school. But the DepEd is still expecting the enrollment numbers to go up, said Education Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan, who noted delays in the reporting of figures from schools and that the last day of regular enrollment is today, Monday. With the theme “OBE 2021: Bayanihan para sa Ligtas na Balik Eskwela”, the DepEd will open the school year by highlighting key developments and updates for the safe return to schools.

Pinoy... From A1 starring role in “On the Job: The Missing 8”, a crime thriller that delves into corruption and fake news (see Nickie Wang’s column on Arcilla’s victory on C1 – Editors). “I’m the happiest actor tonight also because I know we come from different countries and we have different lan-

Budget for 2022 lacks measures to curb COVID, Binay points out

“They don’t learn much anymore because of internet connectivity problems and distractions that they may also have to contend with in their homes, if the modules that serve as their textbooks have a lot of errors, our youth certainly will not be able to learn,” Marcos said. An undersecretary of the DepEd has admitted that from October 2020 to June 2021, there were 163 reported errors in the learning materials used during the previous school year. Of these reported errors, 155 were confirmed to have followed validation by the DepEd. Marcos stressed that the DepEd should have created committees tasked to review and edit learning materials to ensure that

they are well-written and prevent a repeat of last school year’s fiasco. The DepEd has received criticisms following numerous complaints that the modules were written without regard to grammar, logic, and consistency. The DepEd has defended, though, that the majority of the errors were in learning materials produced at the regional level. “Even if the learning materials are made in the regions, there should be a committee that reviews them. How will the modules be educational materials if they are wrong? Previously, in textbooks, there was already such an issue, so please don’t do it again because the children are miserable,” Marcos stressed.

be released today, Monday. The Philippines logged 21,411 new COVID-19 cases Sunday, bringing the total number of infections to 2,227,367. There were 168 new deaths, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 35,145. Total recoveries were listed at 25,049, bringing to 2,010,271 the number of COVID-19 patients who recovered from the coronavirus disease. This left 181,951 the number of active cases, 86 percent of which are mild, 9.5 percent of which are asymptomatic, 2.59 percent of which are moderate, and 0.6 percent of which are in critical condition. A Department of Health (DOH) estimate said as many as 43,000 daily cases may be reported by the end of the month. The independent OCTA Research Group, meanwhile, reported that the reproduction rate of COVID-19 in Metro Manila rose slightly to 1.42 as the number of cases grew 19 percent. The reproduction rate indicates the number of infections generated from one infected patient. Also on Sunday, a former adviser to the government’s task force on COVID-19 said the Philippines is at a “critical risk” level. Talking to ABS-CBN’s TeleRadyo. Dr. Anthony Leachon said the nationwide health care utilization rate is at 77 percent, while it is at 76 percent in Metro Manila. Leachon said the country’s health care capacity is considered at “highrisk” when its occupancy reaches more than 70 percent and “critical risk” when it is at 85 percent. But Leachon said reporting has been de-

layed because on the ground, hospitals are full, and the level could already be critical. Leachon said he opposed the government’s plan to ease quarantine restrictions in Metro Manila and to shift to granular lockdowns in a bid to reopen the economy. “It’s really too scary because you recorded the highest-recorded number of cases, then you will enforce a granular lockdown where people still have mobility. Experiments are not done during a crisis, even in medicine,” he said. “The fundamental principle is health is the first wealth. You cannot open the economy if virus transmission is uncontrolled. You have a plan, but you have not prepared the infrastructure,” he added.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is scheduled to give his message today to learners and teachers, while Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones is set to officially open SY 2021-2022 in the virtual National School Opening Day program. But the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines declared that ‘grim’ prospects await millions of students and education workers on the re-opening of school, as 47,000 public schools remain closed and distance learning woes are still unresolved, the militant group said in a statement. Private schools have already started classes, some as early as the first week of August, but face the same hurdles as their public-school brethren – the contagious Delta variant of COVID-19, a lack of reliable Internet connectivity, not enough computers and gadgets for learners to use, and the difficulty of getting and submitting learning modules on time for their school advisers to grade, to name a few. Most public-school students do not have a computer or internet at home,

leaving them unable to access online classes and lessons broadcast over social media. The government has tried to tap television and radio channels for learning, with mixed results. The United Nations Children’s Fund or UNICEF has urged the Duterte administration and governments worldwide to reopen schools for in-person learning as soon as possible, and to provide a comprehensive recovery response for students. The pandemic lockdowns have affected the right to learn of more than 27 million Filipino students, said UNICEF, which is advocating for a phased reopening of schools, beginning in low-risk areas. “This can be done on a voluntary basis with proper safety protocols in place,” UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore said in a statement. “In 2020, schools globally were fully closed for an average of 79 teaching days, while the Philippines has been closed for more than a year, forcing students to enroll in distance learning modalities,” UNICEF Philippines Representative Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov says.

The 19-year-old Canadian’s dream run into her first Grand Slam final ended in defeat Saturday as she fell to British 18-year-old qualifier Emma Raducanu 6-4, 6-3 at Arthur Ashe Stadium. “It definitely stings,” said Fernandez, whose mother Irene is Filipino-Canadian. “But it will just make me want to work harder and stronger, just come back to every tournament with the same hunger I came into this tournament.” After cheering support from Big Apple fans throughout an epic run that saw her upset three of the world’s top five players, Fernandez told the crowd on the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks that she hoped to be as strong and resilient as New York has been. “I remembered watching movies about what happened, then asking my parents what exactly happened that day,” said the daughter of Jorge Fernandez, a former pro football player from Ecuador. “I was just so in shock when they told me. They told me what they were doing when they saw the news. AFP

guages and cultures, yet I can feel the oneness tonight... because of the art of cinema,” he said in a video message. Though presented as a film at the festival, it is due to be cut into a six-part mini-series for HBO. Arcilla stars as a radio host forced to re-think his support for the Philippine government after a series of assassinations. He eventually transforms into a guntoting revolutionary in a role described

by The Hollywood Reporter “as pure fantasy.” But it said Arcilla’s performance was “possessed of a bracingly righteous anger at a debased form of governance that transcends borders.” The film is a sequel to the 2013 film “On the Job” by director Erik Matti, which was a huge success in the Philippines, telling the story of prisoners used by the government as hitmen. Little known internationally, Arcilla

has won multiple awards at home for his work on TV and film. He is perhaps best known for “Heneral Luna,” a 2015 biopic about legendary 19th century military commander Antonio Luna. Meanwhile, a timely film about illegal abortions in 1960s France won the Venice Film Festival’s Golden Lion on Saturday, capping a strong night for women including Penelope Cruz and Jane Campion. AFP

“Yang has been in the Philippines for 22 years. For sure he picked up some Tagalog words. Probably if you went to Iloilo that long, you would be able to understand small words,” Fortun said. He added: “The problem is the Senate is laughing at him which is very disheartening from very intelligent individuals that just because you live in the Philippines, automatically, you can speak their language.” Nevertheless, Fortun said Yang would continue to cooperate in the Senate hearing on the Department of Health’s use of COVID-19 funds, which also includes the government’s purchase of COVID-19 supplies through Pharmally and the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM).

Yang will also attend the continuation of the Senate probe today, Sept. 13, Fortun added. During the Senate hearing, Senator Risa Hontiveros said Pharmally Biological Inc., was a sister company of Pharmally Pharmaceutical. Hontiveros moved to issue a subpoena against Rose Nono Lin, the incorporator of Pharmally Biological. Her motion was also approved by the Senate committee. Yang’s camp denied allegations it had links to Pharmally. There was no immediately available comment from any of the senators. But in response to Fortun’s claims, Senator Panfilo Lacson said he could not remember senators making fun of Yang. With Rio N. Araja

Senators... From A1 Inc. in 2017, which is different from the 2020 pandemic supply procurement. Fortun said over Dobol B TV, “They are having confusion because they are linking the 2017 incident from the negotiation of pandemic supplies. Those are different events.” He also called as “disheartening” the senators he did not name who allegedly made fun of Yang’s language problem during the Senate investigation into the use of COVID-19 funds. Fortun explained that Yang, a Chinese businessman, could only understand Filipino but could not speak the language.

In other developments: * At least six barangays in Bayugan City in Agusan del Sur were placed under granular lockdown starting Sunday due to a spike in COVID-19 cases. The granular lockdown will remain in force until further notice and may be extended. An executive order from the mayor’s office focused containment, community quarantine, and strict and mandatory quarantine in these areas. * The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it is suspending its consular operations at its offices in Robinsons Galleria Ortigas and Robinsons Place Pangasinan from Sept. 13 to 17 after 12 of its employees tested positive for COVID-19. The agency, in an advisory on Saturday night, said all affected passport appointments during this period will be rescheduled at the soonest possible time. With PNA

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja THE 2022 national budget is not responsive to the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Nancy Binay said Sunday, noting there were no funds set aside for cash assistance or contract tracing in the proposed P5.024 trillion spending plan. “Did somebody ask the DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) why there is no budget for contact tracing?” Binay asked. The senator’s question came as the administration sought to justify spending more than P28 billion on an its flagship anti-communist program. During a hearing of the Senate committee on finance, Binay said the DILG should have given more focus on contact tracing efforts as a means to effectively stop the further spread of COVID-19. “We understand the challenges, but there’s a mounting necessity to scale up our contact tracing capacities,” she said. She said contact tracing is crucial, especially as infections caused by new COVID variants are on the rise. “The 2022 budget itself is not compliant with the COVID response,” she said. “I cannot accept that the DILG and DOH (Department of Health) have no systematic plans or even the slightest effort to kickstart or scale up contract tracing,” Binay said. She said it was no surprise that after more than a year, the country still lags when it comes to contact tracing and testing. Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., defended the P28.1 billion allocated to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NFTELCAC), saying the agency had no control over the budget of the Barangay Development Program, which seeks to develop villages that have been cleared of communist rebels.

Fil-Canadian... From A1

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Plea bargain entails prosecutor’s OK—SC By Rey Requejo

HE Supreme Court has ruled that in illegal drug cases, the courts cannot just allow and grant the guilty plea of an accused to a lesser offense with a lighter penalty without the consent and approval of the public prosecution. The SC made this ruling as it granted the petition of the Office of the Solicitor General and remanded the case of Noel U. Sabater to the Naga City Regional Trial Court, which was ordered to proceed with the criminal case “with utmost dispatch.” “Verily, the consent of the prosecutor is a condition precedent before an accused may validly plead guilty to a lesser offense,” the SC said, in a decision penned by Associate Justice Amy Lazaro Javier. “Where the prosecution withholds its consent, the trial court cannot proceed to approve a plea bargain. There is no meeting of the minds, hence, there can be no plea bargaining ‘agreement’ to speak of,” the high court stressed. Should the trial court nevertheless approve the plea bargain over the prosecution’s objection, the high court said that “it would be doing so in grave abuse of discretion.” “Accordingly, the petition is granted. The Resolutions dated Jan. 28, 2019 and Sept. 17, 2019 in CA-G.R. SP. No. 158342 are reversed and set aside. The Judgment dated Sept. 12, 2018 and the concomitant orders of the Regional Trial Court-Branch 24, Naga City in Criminal Case No. 2016-0935 are void for having been issued in grave abuse of discretion. The trial court is ordered to proceed with the criminal case against respondent Noel Sabater y Ulan with utmost dispatch. So ordered,” the SC ruled. Senior Associate Justice Estela M. Perlas Bernabe and Associate Justices Mario V. Lopez, Ricardo R. Rosario and Jhosep Y. Lopez concurred with the ruling. Court records showed that Sabater was arrested on Nov. 4, 2016 in a buybust operation conducted by the police in Naga City. He sold to a policeman 0.049 grams of shabu. Sabater was charged with violation of Section 5 (on sale of illegal drugs) of Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. When arraigned by the Naga City RTC, he pleaded not guilty. However, five months after the prosecution had formally offered it evidence, Sabater filed a motion for plea bargaining, a process of negotiation between the prosecution and the defense in a criminal case whereby the accused, in return for leniency or a lighter sentence, agrees to plead guilty to a lesser offense.

New law widens scope of BFP’s role, tasks

THE Bureau of Fire Protection stands to benefit from a new modernization law that will enhance its new role as one of the lead agencies in disaster and emergency responses, part from its traditional mandate of firefighting, BFP officer in charge Director Louie Puracan said. This, after President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed into law Republic Act11589 or the BFP Modernization Act on Sept. 10, kicking off a 10year modernization progam that is expected to transform the BFP into a modern and world-class institution. “With this law, the BFP will be funded with the assumption of its new role as the lead agency in disaster and emergency medical responses, apart from its traditional role of firefighting as specified in Executive Order 56, otherwise known as the establishment of the National Emergency Hotline 911 of the current administration,” Puracan said in a statement on Saturday. He said the modernization law is a welcome development that will greatly improve the BFP’s capability in responding to fires and other disasters nationwide. “The signing of Republic Act 11589, or the BFP Modernization Act of 2021 by our President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is a much welcome development as the Bureau of Fire Protection directs its efforts on improving the fire protection and disaster response services of the country,” he added.

Destroy P5.5b worth of shabu —PNP-PDEA

State Prosecutor Peter Ong inspects loose firearms and high-powered weapons to be used as pieces of evidence during an inquest proceeding in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City on Sunday, September 12, 2021. The firearms were seized from warehouses in QC and Bulacan during raids staged by the PNP NCRPO. Ten suspects arrested during the raid are charged with violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulated Act and the Anti-terrorism Act. The suspects are accused of recycling and assembling the old firearms and eventually sell these to private armed groups. Danny Pata

Sara Balabagan’s village gains from BARMM project THE Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s Ministry of Public Works (MPW-BARMM) has turned over 230 core shelter units to poor families in Parang and Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. Engineer Avila Abobakar, head of the First Maguindanao District Engineering Office, said his office undertook the housing project for BARMM’s KAPYANAN Project Management Office under the Office of Chief Minister Ahod Al Hadj Murad B. Ebrahim. Ceremonies were slated on Ashura, meaning the 10th day of Muharram,

first Hijra month, corresponding to August 23, Abobakar said. Abobakar said the BARMM government has provided the 230 housing units each with readily-installed water pipes and electricity connections in all four barangays. He said the construction of the 230 modest housing units marked a series of land development and construction of more housing units of up to 5,000. One of the beneficiary villages, Crossing Simuay is an impoverished community of daily-wage earners and farmers. Written of local poverty is the sensational story of Sarah Balabagan in the 1990s.

Balabagan, now U.S.-based, is a native of Crossing Simuay once forced to seek overseas employment with altered documents to be able to comply with age requirement. Abobakar said KPYANAN forms part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Regional Inclusive Development for Growth and Empowerment (BARMM-BRIDGE). Ceremonies were led by District Engineer Abobakar of MPW Maguindanao First District Engineering Office, Assistant District Engineer Anwar Mokamad, the project endorser and Land Owner Esmael “Teng” Ebrahim, and Deputy Project Manager Engr. Abdulnasser Usman of BARMM KAPYANAN. Nash B. Maulana

4 hospitals in Cebu assured of P3b for upgrading By Rio N. Araja CEBU Rep. Eduardo Gullas on Sunday said four hospitals in Cebu being run by the Department of Health would get a a total of P3.02 billion in new appropriations to sustain their operations in 2022, plus P335 million to further expand and upgrade their facilities. Under the proposed P5.024-trillion General Appropriations Act of 2022, the

Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (will get an operating budget of P2.16 billion; Cebu South Medical Center (CSMC), P496.23 million; St. Anthony Mother and Child Hospital (SAMCH), P192.13 million, and Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital (ECSGH), P176.42 million, he said. “The combined new funding for the operations of the four hospitals in 2022 is P310 million, or 11 percent, higher than

the P2.71 billion that they are getting this year,” he noted. “We expect CSMC in particular to stay at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19 in southern Cebu province,” he cited. On top of their operating budgets, Gullas said the four hospitals would also receive a combined allocation of P335 million from the department’s P19.5-billion Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) in 2022.

THE cops and the “narcs” may be like cats and dogs, quarrelling sometimes, but this time, they are one in calling for the destruction of P5.5 billion worth of shabu captured in separate raids in three provinces last week. Philippine National Police chief Guillermo Eleazar on Sunday said the PNP and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency sought court clearance to destroy the illegal drug, citing President Duterte’s and Supreme Court’s imposition that the illegal drugs must be set on fire or destroyed as soon as possible. Eleazar said he had already tasked the PNP Legal Service to assist the PNP Drug Enforcement Group and other drug enforcement units in preparing the necessary documents to ask all courts concerned for the immediate destruction of not only the shabu seized in Zambales, Bataan and Cavite but also other illegal drugs confiscated in other police-initiated raids. This, Eleazar said, is based on the President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive that these illegal drugs will have to be destroyed the soonest to avoid speculations of drug recycling, even if it is inconceivable that it will happen due to tightened chain of custody rule. The immediate destruction of illegal drugs is stipulated in the Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which provides that “after the filing of the criminal case, the Court shall, within 72 hours, conduct an ocular inspection” of the confiscated, seized illegal drugs or precursor chemicals and “through the PDEA shall within 24 hours thereafter proceed with the destruction or burning of the same”, provided, that a representative sample, duly weighed and recorded is retained. Eleazar also invoked the memorandum circular issued by the Supreme Court last year which reminded the courts nationwide to hasten the destruction of illegal drugs seized in various operations. The SC circular reminds all Regional Trial Courts to “strictly comply” with the requirements of Section 21 (4) of Republic Act 9165 on the immediate destruction of illegal drugs confiscated during police operations.

DOH told: Keep track of long COVID

ANAKALUSUGAN party-list Rep. Mike Defensor on Sunday called on the Department of Health to keep track of “long” 2 million COVID-19 cases whose patients have been tagged as “recoveries” but have continued to suffer from persistent symptoms impairing their quality of life, including their employability. “We would urge the DOH to establish an online registration system wherein Filipinos going through the so-called ‘long Covid’ condition can freely sign up and fill out a web-based survey,” he said. “The DOH has to find ways to collect, investigate and then ascertain the extent of the problem of long Covid cases in the country, for the purpose of possibly recommending additional care programs for them,” he added. A World Health Organization report

acknowledging that a significant number of former Covid patients, including those who were never hospitalized, continue to endure symptoms from their acute illness, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle or joint pain, headache, cough, chest pain, cognitive impairment, memory loss, anxiety and sleep disorders. “Patients with long Covid report prolonged multisystem involvement and significant disability. Most had not returned to previous levels of work by six months. Many patients are not recovered by seven months and continue to experience significant symptom burden,” Defensor said, quoting a patient-led study entitled “Characterizing Long COVID in an International Cohort: 7 Months of Symptoms and Their Impact.” Rio Araja

Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman distributes cash to 60 solo-parents who are the beneficiaries of a 3-day livelihood and skills training program of the DSWD. After completing the program, the trainees received P4, 000 as start-up business capital . Norman Cruz

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

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NEW LAKAS MEMBERS. Lakas-CMD Party President and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez (left) administers the oath to new party members (from right) Mayor Alih Sali, Mayor Nursiya Ismael, Mayor Darussalam Lajid, Mayor Brenda Junaid, and Mayor Lutfurrahman Maturan of Basilan. Taking their oath via Zoom are Lakas-CMD Provincial Chairperson Alfiya Akbar, who is running for governor. and Isabela City Councilor Sarah Sali-Ismael, running for mayor. The ceremony was held at Lakas-CMD Headquarters in Manila. Ver Noveno

SWEARS IN 17 FROM BASILAN

Lakas-CMD boosts ranks anew

By Rio N. Araja

OUSE Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez has administered the oath to 17 new members of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) from Basilan province as the party gears to strengthen its ranks for the 2022 national and local elections. “We welcome our new party members with pride and confidence that they exude the leadership and character that Lakas-CMD advocates for. We are the first party in the Philippines that gave honor and recognition to our Muslim brothers,” the lawyer

from the University of the Philippines said. “Our 17 new members from Basilan will be gunning for various local positions, such as governor, mayor, and councilors in the next election, and we thank them for trusting in the support

and mentorship that Lakas could give them,” Romualdez said. “While we continue to attract new members and consolidate our forces, we will not forget our true priority: to serve the Filipino people,” he added. Romualdez is also president of the Philippine Constitution Association. Lakas-CMD has produced two presidents -- Fidel V. Ramos and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. “We trust that our new members have the integrity, competency and compassion to serve the country. We

know they can be leaders who inspire and give hope during these difficult times,” the Leyte lawmaker said. “The (COVID-19) pandemic will not stop Lakas-CMD from serving the nation and we hope to welcome more leaders and public servants to join us in the coming months,” he vowed. Romualdez was assisted by LakasCMD deputy secretary general and Zamboanga Sibugay Rep. Wilter Wee Palma II in the physical oathtaking of 15 out of 17 new Lakas-CMD members. Two other members took their oath through an online ceremony.

PRO3 cops nab 104 in week of anti-drug raids By Jun David A TOTAL of 104 drug personalities were arrested while four alleged Chinese traffickers were killed in weeklong operations conducted by the Police Regional Office 3 from September 3 to 9. Based on the weekly report submitted to PRO 3 Regional Director, Police Brig. Gen. Valeriano de Leon, a total of 74 police operations were conducted. This resulted in the arrest of 104 drug personalities with a total 262.59 grams of shabu with an estimated value of P1.785 million and 16.49 grams of marijuana confiscated. De Leon said all arrested drug personalities were charged in court. Meanwhile, in a joint operation by the PNP and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Candelaria, Zambales last September 7, four Chinese nationals were killed. The operation also led to seizure of 500 grams of shabu amounting to P3.4 billion.

SM Bulacan malls aid Comelec listup SM Malls in Marilao, San Jose Del Monte, Pulilan, and Baliwag joined the Commission on Elections’ synchronized registration to speed up application and accommodate more voter applicants, days before the September 30 registration deadline. The opening of satellite Comelec Voter Registration centers at the SM Supermalls will not only provide voters with more registration venues, but will also give the public a safer, more convenient option amid the COVID health crisis. To ensure health protocols are observed in satellite registration sites, Comelec will cater to at least 200 voter applicants a day in SM City Marilao and SM Center Pulilan, and 150 applicants a day for SM Malls in Baliwag and San Jose Del Monte. The Comelec is encouraging all qualified voters to register and participate in the upcoming 2022 National and Local Elections. Jun David

AMMO STASH. National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Vicente D. Danao Jr. (center with vest) inspects firearms and ammunition confiscated in the series of anti-criminality and anti-illegal drug campaigns in the region last week. NCRPO PIO

6 arrested, P1.2b in shabu seized in NCRPO-led sting SIX people were arrested and more than P1.2 billion worth of shabu were confiscated in the series of anti-criminality and anti-illegal illegal drug campaigns being spearheaded by National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Police Maj. Gen. Vicente D. Danao Jr. Confiscated during the combined operations conducted by the Regional Intelligence Division (RID), Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB), and Intelligence Service of the Armed

Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) from Cubao, Quezon City that ended in Sta. Maria, Bulacan on September 8 were assorted firearms, ammunition, and parts of firearms. The suspects were identified as Mark Anthony Verona Jumadiao, Paquito Alberto Salvadiro, Benjamin Postrada Sosa, Noel Cuaresma Nicolas, Louie Ocampo Pavia, Nathan Arante Nicolas and Remyna Bianca Palapar Lamorena.

Violations of Republic Act 10591, Sec. 28 (Unlawful Acquisition, or Possession of Firearms and Ammunition) and Sec. 32 (Unlawful Manufacture, Importation, Sale or Disposition of Firearms or Ammunition or Parts) were filed against them. Meanwhile, 181 kilograms of shabu with an estimated street value of P1.2 billion pesos were seized in a buy bust operation on September 9 at about 9:27 p.m. in Molino 3, Bacoor, Cavite.

Malabon dad, gov’t ensure food supply By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Malabon city government has assured its constituents of nutritious food on their table during the extended imposition of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in the National Capital Region. The program ensuring nutritious and sufficient food to Malabon residents was led by Councilor Jose Lorenzo “Enzo” Oreta. Prioritizing the food security program for his fellow Malabonians is under the councilor’s “Kalinga sa Kalusugan” Program. “With the many emerging variants of COVID-19, it is imperative to boost our health, and one way of doing this is eating nutritious foods,” said Oreta. To attain this goal, Oreta has been leading the drive of giving vegetables,

eggs, and other safe and healthy foods to their “kaasenso.” The “Kalinga sa Kalusugan” package contains nutritious foods such as rice, vegetables, and eggs, among the many, which are also sourced out from farmers whose means of living were also affected by the pandemic. Crisanta Lara Junio, a Malabonian beneficiary, expressed her gratitude to the program, noting that it has greatly helped her family. “We are thankful that the City Government through Mayor Lenlen and Councilor Enzo has initiated this program because we don’t have to eat mostly canned goods as with the usual relief goods. Nutritious food like vegetables help in nourishing our children especially in the fight against COVID-19,” she added.

HERO IN ACTION. Quezon City

4th District Councilor Hero Bautista (in black shirt) fist-bumps a police officer during his Health Caravan Para Sa Bayan program, which serves over 7,000 people from 38 villages. The program includes mass feeding for children and indigent residents (inset). Robbie Pangilinan

Oil prices to rise by P0.50 per liter this week—Unioil By Alena Mae S. Flores CONSUMERS can expect another round of oil price hikes this week of as much as P0.50 per liter, reflecting three consecutive weeks of price increases in the world market. Unioil Petroleum Philippines announced over the weekend that fuel prices are expected to go up from September 14 to 20 to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market. “Diesel will increase by P0.30 to P0.40 per liter. Gasoline will increase by P0.40 to P0.50 per liter,” the company said in its weekly advisory. Oil prices went up due to supply tightness owing to Hurricane Ida in the United States. However, China’s announcement it will release its oil reserves to the market, increasing supply, dampened oil prices. On September 7, local oil companies raised prices in domestic oil products by P0.50 per liter for gasoline, P0.95 per liter for diesel, and P0.60 per liter for kerosene. These resulted in year-to-date adjustments at a total net increase of P13.35 per liter for gasoline, P10.90 per liter for diesel, and P8.70 per liter for kerosene, according to the Department of Energy. As this developed, Chevron Philippines Inc., which markets the Caltex brand, announced it is continuing its expansion plans this year. The company has opened 18 new sites to date from more than 600 stations nationwide as of end-December 2020. Chevron opened six new service stations in Cavite, Isabela, Camarines Sur, Pampanga, Quezon City, and Iloilo in the second quarter alone amid the pandemic. “Caltex continues to move forward with expanding to serve the needs of Filipino motorists and the country. As the economy opens up, more vehicles will be filling the roads again. They will need access to safe and quality fuels which Caltex offers in our growing retail network in key urban centers and thoroughfares across the country,” CPI Country Chairman Billy Liu said.

Waive electric rate increases, Meralco told BAYAN Muna party-list Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate on Sunday renewed his call for the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to waive its power rate increase, citing the firm still continues to profit from passon charges. He said the sixth power rate hike in the past months “will certainly add yet another burden to consumers, who are already electrified by rising costs of living due to the pandemic-aggravated crisis.” “What is worse though is that power players, like Meralco, still profit from these miseries. Our call is for Meralco to waive these power rate increases in August and now in September. Certainly, they would still earn profit, but it would not be as large and it would definitely not cause their bankruptcy,” he added. Meralco earlier announced an increase of P0.1055 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in electricity rates in September, bringing its overall rate to P9.1091 per kWh. The power rate hike means a typical household consuming 200 kWh a month will be charged around P21 more in its electric bill. “What Meralco conveniently does not say, when confronted with its expensive electricity pricing, is that it is also the owner, wholly or partially, of several power generation companies (GenCos), some of which even act as self-dealing and favored Meralco electricity suppliers,” Zarate said. “As owner of these GenCos, Meralco profits not only from an increase in power generation cost but from all the revenues, including generation charges, of its GenCos,” he added. Rio N. Araja

Opinion Redefining marriage —and its consequences

A couple could just decide not to stay in a marriage anymore when the temperament or taste that motivated them in the first place is no longer there. The permanence of marriage ensures that children will at least be cared for by their mother and father until they reach maturity. It also provides kinship structure for interaction across generations as elderly parents are cared for by their adult children and as grandparents help to care for their grandchildren. Proponents of divorce assert that it should be provided for those who wish to avail of it, and for those who disagree, not to. But that statement simply misses the point. If the law attempts to distort the true nature of marriage, it would make it harder for people to live out the demands of marriage because without the norms surrounding it, marriage would be reduced to just being an intense emotional feeling. The undeniable sad consequence is that introducing divorce will only make terminating marriages easier and more convenient, without regard for the demands of family life. This means a couple could just decide not to stay in a marriage anymore when the temperament, or taste that motivated them in the first place is no longer there, or that there is no more reason of principle to demand that the married couple continue to do so. Insofar as society weakens the rational foundation for marriage, fewer people would live them out, and fewer people would reap the benefits of marriage as an institution. This would affect not only spouses, but also the well-being of their children and as a whole, the future of society and our nation.

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Battle of the teens

A bridge of understanding and friendship

and revitalize the United Nations.” The realization of the UN’s vision requires all of us at the table. After almost a year of successfully containing the virus, Taiwan experienced a surge of confirmed cases in mid-May this year. Nonetheless, it has stabilized the situation with effective anti-pandemic responses, and emerged as a more reliable partner to work with in the global community on the fight against the COVID-19. Taiwan has also dedicated itself to implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and joins hands in pandemic response with like-

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Challenges in blended learning

LASSES for basic formal education nationwide--for more than 8.5 million enrollees—begin on Monday, with the challenges in blended learning up in many public and private classrooms from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi. Blended learning, an approach to education that combines online educational materials and opportunities for interaction online with traditional place-based classroom methods, requires the physical presence of both teacher and student, with some elements of student control over time, place, path, or place. A week before the opening of classes, National Economic Development Authority director general Karl Kendrick Chua projected during a Senate hearing the limit to students’ learning ability due to the lack of face-to-face classes for a year will result in an P11-trillion loss in productivity over the next 40 years. During the Senate hearing on the proposed P5.024-trillion budget for 2022, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian asked the economic managers if data were already available on the losses incurred due to the one-year closure of educational institutions. Chua said the lack of face-to-face classes would have a permanent effect on the student’s abilities, especially when the students are already working. “What we are seeing is, the lack of face-to-face classes will limit the

Unless successfully planned and executed, blended learning could have disadvantages. learning ability of students and that has a permanent effect over the lifespan of the student while he is in the labor force,” Chua said. “With the best data that we have, we estimate productivity loss, for the next 40 years, is going to be P11 trillion for the one year when we had no face-toface schooling,” Chua said. But are we really ready yet? For a total 209 school days in adherence to Republic Act No. 7797, classes will open on September 13 and end on June 24, 2022 – with Christmas break from December 20 to January 3, 2022. DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones has hoped for the department’s stakeholders’ “continued cooperation and support as we prepare for another challenging yet worthwhile endeavor

of educating our children amid a global health crisis.” The department said face-to-face classes, whether partial or full-scale, are still not allowed “unless permitted by the President.” Predictably, there are some significant challenges to blended learning models, which our teachers and students, and necessarily parents, will face, which include the expense of technology, inadequate training, technological issues, the need to adapt content for blended learning, decreased motivation, and weakened relationships between students and teachers. Unless successfully planned and executed, blended learning could have disadvantages in technical aspects since it has a strong dependence on the technical resources or tools with which the blended learning experience is delivered. Obviously, there are major challenges the students will meet: self-studying, poor internet connection, lack of sleep and time to answer all the modules due to the great number of activities, distractions, and lack of focus. Beyond doubt there are strengths and weaknesses of blended learning, which depends on concretization, coordination, collaboration and communication across the classrooms, the reason why it is not so easy to do. And September 13 is breathing now along the school corridors.

Jobs and resilience amid the pandemic quagmire hazards of the pandemic in their respective spheres of operations. In Philex Mining Corporation’s copper and gold mine in Padcal, Benguet province, all 1,900 employees, mostly residents of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and the 80 employees in the company’s corporate offices continued their work while the region suffered a 25% unemployment rate at the start of the pandemic. Without delay, salaries and benefits were received and there were even salary increases demonstrating their agility in adapting to the pandemic crisis. Free medical benefits are standard to employees as random swab tests were given.

IN THE latest findings of the Social Weather Stations survey conducted from June 23-26, 2021, an estimated 12.2 million Filipinos were jobless as of May 2021, and further increased to 13.5 million in June. To give an idea of the scale of these figures, they are just a little below the estimated population of Metro Manila which, according to Macrotrends, is over 14 million. All industries have been affected by the depressed economy after more than 18 months of on and off lockdowns that have only failed to stop the spread of the pandemic. Millions of breadwinners are out of their regular jobs and many enterprises have closed operations. However, there is one industry that’s demonstrating resilience amid this pandemic quagmire. The Philippine mining industry has remained mostly stable and even growing. According to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the mining and quarrying sectors even increased their employment figures to 184,000 in 2020 compared to 182,000 the previous year. More employment opportunities are expected in the large-scale metallic sector as OceanaGold Phils. Inc. restarts operations in its Didipio project with the government’s renewal of its mining agreement. The large-scale metallic mining industry is a highly regulated sector that must be compliant with very strict safety and environmental regulations in their operations. It takes years of capital-intensive exploration and regulatory hurdles before a mining company is given a mining permit to harness the state owned mineral resources, the whole operation of which results in substantial government revenues and prosperity for the host communities. A wellrun mining project can sustain productivity and development for many decades and in some projects, sustained for generations. The very nature of the large-scale metallic mining industry requires its players to be resilient and at all times have the readiness for market volatility and to quickly respond to any emergency situation that may befall their operations. Thriving in this kind of environment, large scale mining companies in the fold of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (CoMP) were able to mobilize early to effectively mitigate the health

Responsible mining is an engine we need for economic recovery. Also in CAR, Benguet Corporation’s Baguio Gold Operation in Itogon remained open, retaining 475 employees and is now hiring to fill up vacant positions. Jobs of its 1,433 employees in its various projects and head office did not lose a beat. Shuttle services, flexible working hours, regular RTPCR screening tests, vaccines, quarantine facilities, and other safety essentials are being implemented to protect all employees. Subsidiary BenguetCorp Nickel Mines Inc. contracted an additional 794 employees when its operations in Sta. Cruz, Zambales resumed last year. In Toledo City in Cebu, Carmen Copper Corporation’s employees’ salaries were uninterrupted while health protective measures were implemented to reduce infection risks. Work from home, flexible working hours, and free service buses were provided when public transportation was suspended during the lockdowns. Aside from the standard safety protocols, the company implemented the “Test, Trace and Treat” strategy meticulously and provided quarantine areas complete with meals and vitamins to workers who were exposed to the virus.

Lepanto Consolidated Mining Company (LCMC) for its part, continued to operate without reducing its manpower, and aside from implementing measures similar to other CoMP members, gave free medical services to employees and dependents. Massive testing was conducted for all mine site personnel and those who tested positive were given proper quarantine facilities with free meals as well. Vaccination of all their employees was also covered. Sagittarius Mines Inc., though still waiting for government permits to start operations in Tampakan, South Cotabato, activated its crisis management and business continuity plans to sustain their staff and contractors. This and even their environmental program to produce, plant and propagate 120,000 seedlings for community members did not stop. More of these pandemic success stories are being replicated and customized to meet the unique environments other mining communities, such as Berong Nickel Corporation’s “Malasakit” strategy in Quezon, Palawan, as well as TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc’s focus on community development in its Balabag Project in Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur. These are just some exemplary models that are now benefitting millions of mining industry stakeholders despite these very difficult times. These are clear proof of how responsible mining works and provide a strong impetus to remove remaining regulatory barriers that have stifled what should be a major economic asset. Lifting the ideologically motivated open-pit mining ban will unleash the economic potential of our mineral endowments, minerals that the world needs as it rapidly becomes more dependent on digital and battery technologies—an economic engine we need for economic recovery.

A vision of a more inclusive and resilient UN system with Taiwan in it

EvEryman THE 76th anniversary of the United Nations (UN) is arriving when the world is still faced with the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. As highly-contagious variants of the virus continuously affect us, the world needs a more effective UN to help recover from the COVID-19. The UN responds by declaring the theme for this year’s General Assembly, which is to be held in New York on 14-30 September 2021, as “Building resilience through hope – to recover from COVID-19, rebuild sustainability, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people,

EDITORIAL

commitment. If marriage was just a matter of intense emotional regard, the norms surrounding it would make no sense. If marriage was all about the emotional relationship of a man and woman, then there would be no need to make it permanent – or even make it exclusive to two persons. If human taste and temperament would be the measure of a marriage, then would there be a need to link it with family life, or to shape it with the demands of parenthood. In fact, if marriage were all about the intense emotions of two persons, then there might be no need for the State to recognize and regulate marriage at all. But why is there a need for the State to recognize marriage? Because there is no other institution that benefits society in the same way that marriage does. While human procreation may not be limited to a marital relationship, there is no path for children to physical, moral, and cultural maturity – no path to personal responsibility – without the delicate and stable process of ongoing care and supervision brought about by marriage and family life. Marriage therefore is not simply a question of a relationship between two persons, but is defined to a greater extent by the public purpose that it serves. The State has an interest in marriage and the norms surrounding it only because they serve the public good.

SINCE the beginning of human history, men and women have lived in families, despite the changes in cultural and societal realities. Simply put, marriage exists to bring together for life a man and a woman to be father and mother to any children that their union produces. This is a fact that is true across cultures, religions and time. This anthropological truth about marriage has evolved into the generally accepted norms of marriage – exclusivity and permanence. For this reason, society recognizes marriage as a way of encouraging men and women to take responsibility for the well-being of children. As a result, it becomes incumbent on the State to recognize, protect and promote marriage in order to strengthen society. Therefore, for the State to disregard the exclusivity and permanence of conjugal life would effectively redefine the nature of marriage, and distance marriage from the needs of society. These questions are at the heart of the debate about the introduction of divorce in the Philippines – what is marriage, and why does marriage matter for public policy. It must be underscored that primitive human societies have evolved from the growth of families. Marriage has served as the fundamental building block of human civilization. Since, marriage as a natural institution predates organized governments, its intrinsic nature and ends cannot be arbitrarily altered by simple legislation. In fact, the State recognizes but it does not create marriage. The act of the government to regulate the civil nature of marriage is rooted in the need to ensure that children – and therefore society – will be raised by their parents in one family, where both parents are committed to each other and to their children for life. Upholding the nature of marriage does not in any way limit the rights of adults to make choices about their relationships. However, while everyone has the freedom to live as they choose, this does not include the right to redefine marriage for everyone else. What has muddled the issue about marriage is the growing revisionist view that puts greater importance on the desires and emotions of adults rather than the needs of the children. What people fail to understand is that this reduces marriage to a mere system to recognize emotional bonds or to accord legal privileges devoid of its complementary responsibilities. Introducing divorce would consequently introduce a “way out” of the permanence of marriage, therefore replacing one of its essential requisites with simple emotional intensity. Without permanence, it would difficult to guarantee the stability of family life, and would allow, as a matter of policy, for parents to evade the supposed lifetime conjugal responsibilities of parenthood. Delinking marriage from family life would force the State to intervene more often than needed, thus subjecting marriage to whatever emotional bond the State defines it to be. Permanence, however, is far from being a mere accident of marriage. The marital act between a man and a woman also allows for the procreation of new life, so marriage itself calls for a permanent and exclusive

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

At the very least, stop turning us away at the door. minded countries, including the Philippines. Despite Taiwan’s effective response against the pandemic and the important role it played in the global supply chain, the government and people of Taiwan continuously face difficulties when

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

attempting to take part in the mechanisms, meetings and activities of the UN system. This situation erodes the United Nations principle of universality. Multilateral collaboration requires bilateral cooperation. As close neighbors and maritime nations, Taiwan and the Philippines are enduring partners which uphold the values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. The continued threat posed by the pandemic calls for the spirit of “bayanihan” to bring everyone to the table. We sincerely hope our Filipino brothers and sisters will voice their support for Taiwan’s

PEIYUNG HSU Representative Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher

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

participation in the UN system. The people of Taiwan need the international community to support our aspirations and our right to fair treatment by the UN. At the very least, stop turning us away at the door. Taiwan can do much to help build a more resilient UN system. Let Taiwan be Taiwan and it is the right time to bring Taiwan to the table.

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

Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor

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World

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

US calls for unity as divided nation marks 9/11’s 20th

Pope Francis meets Hungary’s Orban in worldview clash BUDAPEST—Pope Francis arrived in Budapest on Sunday to celebrate a mass, with eyes focused on his meeting with the anti-migration Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The head of 1.3 billion Catholics will have a half-hour meeting with Orban —accompanied by Hungarian President Janos Ader—in Budapest’s grand Fine Arts Museum, in what could be an awkward brief encounter. On the one side, Orban, a self-styled defender of “Christian Europe” from migration. On the other, Pope Francis, who urges help for the marginalized and those of all religions fleeing war and poverty. But the approach, eminently Chris-

EW YORK—America marked the 20th anniversary of 9/11 Saturday with pleas for unity at solemn ceremonies given added resonance by the messy withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan and return to power of the Taliban. At the 9/11 memorial in New York, relatives wiped away tears, their voices breaking as they read out the names of the almost 3,000 people killed in the AlQaeda attacks. “We love you and we miss you,” they said as somber violin music played at the official ceremony, attended by President Joe Biden and former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. The service at Ground Zero where 2,753 people died—some of whom jumped to their deaths from the burning towers—took place under tight security, with Lower Manhattan effectively locked down. The first of six moments of silence was marked at 8:46 am, with a bell ringing to symbolize the time the first hijacked plane crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. At 9:03 am, attendees stood still again to mark the moment the South Tower was struck. At 9:37 am, it was the Pentagon, where the hijacked airliner killed 184 people in the plane and on the ground. At 9:59, the moment the South Tower fell. At 10:03 am, they remembered the fourth plane to crash in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after pas-

tian according to the pope, has often been met with incomprehension among the faithful, particularly within the ranks of traditionalist Catholics. Over the last few years, there has been no love lost between Orban supporters in Hungary and the leader of the Catholic world. Pro-Orban media and political figures have launched barbs at the pontiff calling him “anti-Christian” for his pro-refugee sentiments, and the “Soros Pope”, a reference to the Hungarian-born liberal US billionaire George Soros, a right-wing betenoire. The pope’s plane touched down just before 7.45 a.m. local time (0545

sengers fought the hijackers, and at 10:28 am, the North Tower falling. Mourners clutched photos of their loved ones, their pain still raw despite a whole generation having grown up since the morning of September 11, 2001. “It feels like it was yesterday. Every year (that) we get further away it becomes more important to remember,” said Joanne Pocher-Dzama, whose brother died at the World Trade Center. - Bush’s fear Bruce Springsteen performed “I’ll See You in My Dreams” and smaller ceremonies across New York remembered the 343 firefighters who lost their lives saving others. After nightfall, powerful twin light beams symbolizing the Twin Towers were projected into the sky to commemorate the dead. Heart-wrenching commemorations also took place at the Pentagon and Shanksville, where George W. Bush, president on 9/11, said the unity America showed following the attacks “seems distant” from today. “So much of our politics has become a naked appeal to anger, fear, and resentment. That leaves us worried about our nation and our future together,” he added. AFP

PEACE TO THE FALLEN.

Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris, First Lady Jill Biden, and President Joe Biden participate in a wreathlaying ceremony on September 11 in Arlington, Virginia. The nation is marking the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks when the terrorist group al-Qaeda flew hijacked airplanes into the World Trade Center, Shanksville, and the Pentagon, killing nearly 3,000 people. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Manila

Standard

NEDA-DBM JC No. 2012-01 for NGAs and GCs, and PCW-DILG-DBM-NEDA JMC Nos. 2013-01 and 2016-01 dated July 18, 2013 and January 12, 2016, respectively, for LGUs.

TODAY

CIRCULAR To

Subject

1.0

No. Date

: 2021-008 : September 6, 2021

All Heads of National Government Agencies, including State Universities and Colleges, Government Corporations, including Water Districts, and Local Government Units; Heads of Finance/Comptrollership/Financial Management Services; Chief Accountants/Heads of Accounting Units; Budget Officers/Heads of Budget Units; Assistant Commissioners, Directors, and Auditors of Commission on Audit; and All Others Concerned

Assignment of Responsibility Center for the Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System to Account, Monitor and Report GAD Expenses and Other GAD-Related Financial Transactions

4.2

Government entities shall establish their own responsibility accounting by creating or assigning RCs and RC codes.

4.3

Government entities with existing RCs shall reevaluate the existing RCs in their organizational structure, and segregate the identified expenses and other related financial transactions and expenditures for GAD-related activities.

4.4

A separate RC and RC code for the GFPS assigned by the entity concerned shall serve as the RC for GAD-related expenses.

4.5

The RC for GFPS assigned or created shall be under the office of the agency head for NGAs and GCs, and the office of the local chief executive for LGUs.

4.6

The RC code assigned for GFPS shall be reflected in the enhanced electronic National Government Accounting System (eNGAS) and electronic Budget (eBudget) System or in any computerized or manual accounting system implemented by the government entity concerned.

4.7

Using the assigned RC and RC code for GFPS, the government entity concerned shall prepare the reports for GAD-related expenses and other GAD-related financial transactions prescribed in Item 10.0 of the PCWNEDA-DBM JC No. 2012-01 for NGAs and GCs; and Item 4.1.C.8 and Item 7.0 of PCW-DILG-DBM-NEDA JMC Nos. 2013-01 and 2016-01, respectively, for LGUs.

4.8

The GAD-related reports shall be generated from the eNGAS, eBudget System or any computerized or manual accounting system using the RC code assigned for GFPS.

4.9

Government entities using manual accounting system and impractical to establish separate RC for GAD shall maintain a subsidiary ledger (SL) for GAD for each account and may assign SL code for example 01 (i.e., training expenses 5020201002-01, travelling expenses 5020101000-01) to record all GAD-related expenses/programs/activities/projects, in order to facilitate the monitoring, accounting and preparation of the GAD-related reports.

Rationale In line with Republic Act (RA) No. 9710 or The Magna Carta of Women and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), RA No. 7192 and its IRR, and other rules and regulations on Gender and Development (GAD), the following Joint Circular (JC)/Joint Memorandum Circulars (JMCs) were issued: a)

Philippine Commission on Women (PCW)-National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-Department of Budget and Management (DBM) JC No. 2012-01, prescribing the Guidelines for the Preparation of Annual GAD Plans and Budgets, and Accomplishment Reports to implement The Magna Carta of Women;

PCW-Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-DBMNEDA JMC No. 2013-01 dated July 18, 2013, prescribing the Guidelines on the Localization of The Magna Carta of Women; and

PCW-DILG-DBM-NEDA JMC No. 2016-01 dated January 12, 2016, amending parts of the PCW-DILG-DBM-NEDA JMC No. 2013-01: Guidelines on the Localization of The Magna Carta of Women.

The General Appropriations Act provides that the GAD Plan shall be integrated in the regular activities of the agencies with an allocation of at least five percent (5%) of the agency’s total budget/appropriations. The utilization of the GAD budget shall be evaluated based on the GAD performance indicators identified by the agencies. Hence, agencies are required to prepare and submit their annual GAD Plan and Budget, and the annual GAD Accomplishment Report based on the guidelines issued by the agencies concerned. The Commission on Audit (COA), which is mandated to promulgate accounting and auditing rules and regulations under Section 2(2), Article IX-D of the 1987 Philippine Constitution and Section 25(4), Chapter 2, Title I of Presidential Decree No. 1445, or the Government Auditing Code of the Philippines, issued COA Memorandum No. 2009-020 dated May 15, 2009 prescribing the guidelines in the conduct of the audit of GAD funds and activities in government agencies. This issuance was amended by COA Circular No. 2014-001 dated March 18, 2014, which prescribes the revised guidelines in the audit of GAD funds and activities in government agencies.

5.0

Sample Coding Structure of RC Code for GAD-related Expenses The sample coding structure for the assignment of a separate RC code for GFPS is shown in Annex A.

6.0

Saving Clause Cases not covered in this Circular shall be referred to this Commission, through the Government Accountancy Sector, for resolution.

7.0

Repealing Clause All issuances inconsistent herewith are hereby amended, modified, or revoked accordingly.

8.0

Effectivity This Circular shall take effect 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

MICHAEL G. AGUINALDO Chairperson

This Circular is issued to require all government agencies to create/assign a Responsibility Center (RC) for their GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) to facilitate generation of all reports pertaining to GAD-related expenses and other GAD-related financial transactions, and to monitor and properly account for the GAD funds. 2.0

ROLAND C. PONDOC Commissioner

Coverage This Circular covers all national government agencies (NGAs) including state universities and colleges (SUCs), government corporations (GCs) including water districts (WDs), and local government units (LGUs) which are required to allocate at least five percent (5%) of the agency’s total budgets/appropriations for GAD activities.

3.0

3.2

3.3

ANNEX A

GAD Focal Point System – is an interacting and interdependent group of people in all government instrumentalities tasked to catalyze and accelerate gender mainstreaming. It is a mechanism established to ensure and advocate for, guide, coordinate, and monitor the development, implementation, monitoring, review and updating of their GAD Plans and GAD-related programs, activities and projects (Annex D-Definition of Terms, PCW-NEDADBM JC No. 2012-01); GAD Plan and Budget – A systematically designed set of programs, projects and activities with corresponding budget carried out by all government agencies departments, including their attached agencies, offices, bureaus, SUCs, GCs, LGUs and other government instrumentalities over a given period of time to address the gender issues and concerns in their respective sectors and constituents. It systematizes an agency’s approach to gender mainstreaming, women’s empowerment and gender equality. (Annex D-Definition of Terms, PCW-NEDA-DBM JC No. 2012-01); Gender and Development – refers to the development perspective and process that is participatory and empowering, equitable, sustainable, free from violence, respectful of human rights, and supportive of self-determination and actualization of human potentials. It seeks to achieve gender equality as a fundamental value that should be reflected in development choices and contends that women are active agents of development, not just passive recipients of development. (Annex D-Definition of Terms, PCW-NEDA-DBM JC No. 2012-01);

RC CODE

DESCRIPTION

01-000-00-00000

Central Office

01-000-00-00000-01

Executive Offices

01-000-00-00000-01-01

Office of the Secretary

01-000-00-00000-01-01-01

Office of the Secretary-Proper

01-000-00-00000-01-01-02

Internal Audit Office

01-000-00-00000-01-01-03

Internal Affairs Office

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99

Gender and Development

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-01

Gender and Development-Executive Offices-Office of the Secretary-Office of the Secretary-Proper

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-02

Gender and Development-Executive Offices-Office of the Secretary-Internal Audit Office

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-03

Gender and Development-Executive Offices-Office of the Secretary-Internal Affairs Office

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-04

Gender and Development-Executive Offices-Office of the Undersecretary I

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-05

Gender and Development-Executive Offices-Office of the Undersecretary II

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-06

Gender and Development-General Administrative Services-Administrative Office

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-07

Gender and Development-General Administrative Services-Human Resource and Development Office

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-08

Gender and Development-Financial and Management Services-Accounting Office

Government Entities – refer to all NGAs including SUCs, GCs including WDs, and LGUs;

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-09

Gender and Development-Financial and Management Services-Budget Office

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-10

Gender and Development-Support to Operations Services - Legal and Legislative Liaison Office

Responsibility Accounting – provides access to cost and revenue information under the supervision of a manager having a direct responsibility for its performance. It is a system that measures the plans (by budgets) and actions (by actual results) of each RC;

01-000-00-00000-01-01-99-11

Gender and Development-Support to Operations Services - Information and System Technology Management Office

01-000-00-00000-01-02

Office of the Undersecretary I

01-000-00-00000-01-03

Office of the Undersecretary II

01-000-00-00000-02

General Administrative Services

01-000-00-00000-02-01

Administrative Office

01-000-00-00000-02-02

Human Resource and Development Office

01-000-00-00000-03

Financial and Management Services

01-000-00-00000-03-01

Accounting Office

RC Code – the code assigned by the government entity concerned to its individual RCs. The additional three digit codes for the agency’s major offices/ departments shall be appended to its organization code. Guidelines and Procedures

01-000-00-00000-03-02

Budget Office

01-000-00-00000-04

Support to Operations Services

01-000-00-00000-04-01

Legal and Legislative Liaison Office

4.1

01-000-00-00000-04-02

Information and System Technology Management Office

3.4 3.5

3.6

Responsibility Center (RC) – is a part, segment, unit or function of a government entity, headed by a manager, who is accountable for a specified set of activities. Except for some, which derive most of their income from collection of taxes and fees, government entities are basically cost centers with primary purpose to render service to the public at the lowest possible cost. Cost centers are established to provide each government entity with accessibility to cost information and to facilitate cost monitoring at any given period; and

3.7 4.0

SAMPLE CODING STRUCTURE OF RESPONSIBILITY CENTER (RC) CODE FOR GAD-RELATED EXPENSES

Definition of Terms 3.1

Government entities shall prepare and submit the annual GAD Plan and Budget, and annual GAD Accomplishment Report as prescribed in PCW-

GMT), according to an AFP reporter travelling with the pontiff. Eyebrows have been raised by the pontiff’s whirlwind visit to close the 52nd International Eucharistic Congress. His seven-hour-long stay in 9.8-million-population Hungary will be followed immediately by an official visit to smaller neighbor Slovakia of more than two days. “Pope Francis wants to humiliate Hungary by only staying a few hours,” said a pro-Orban television pundit. Born Jorge Bergoglio to a family of Italian emigrants to Argentina, the pope regularly reminds “old Europe” of its past, built on waves of new arrivals. AFP

(MS-SEPT. 13, 2021)

IN BRIEF Typhoon wets Taiwan, but no direct hit TAIPEI—Typhoon Chanthu unleashed powerful winds and heavy rain on eastern Taiwan Sunday, disrupting travel links and cutting electricity to some homes but sparing the island a direct hit. Downgraded from a super typhoon since its rapid formation last week, the outer edges of Chanthu pounded the eastern coastline. But the centre of the storm remained out to sea as it moved north, the central weather bureau said. The eastern regions of Hualien and Taitung have received some 200 millimetres—8 inches) of rain so far, the bureau added. Waves of up to seven metres were recorded on Orchid Island off Taiwan’s eastern coast. A total of 159 domestic and international flights have been cancelled due to the typhoon, the central emergency operation centre said. All ferry services to offshore islands were also suspended, along with some train routes. Around 26,000 households have lost power, authorities added. “The typhoon is pretty solid and its impact is most obvious today bringing strong winds, rains and waves before it gradually moves away tomorrow,” said forecaster Hsu Chung-yi. At 0200 GMT, Chanthu was 90 kilometres (56 miles) northeast of Hualien, packing gusts of up to 198 kilometres an hour, the bureau said. Most businesses and public venues were closed in eastern and parts of northern Taiwan, including the capital Taipei where heavy rains started on Sunday. AFP

Israel retakes Palestinian jail breakers JERUSALEM—Israel has recaptured four of the six Palestinian militants who escaped from a high-security prison earlier this week in one of the most daring breakouts in the country’s history, police said Saturday. Since Monday’s jail break from Gilboa prison in northern Israel, the army has poured troops into the occupied West Bank for a massive manhunt. Manila The latest two fugitives to be recaptured, who include a prominent Standard TODAY former militant leader, were found hiding in a NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC lorry park just outside NOTICE is hereby given that the estate of the late SANTIAGO MICHAEL VALERO ROTEA consisting of Two (2) Condominium Units 105 & 106 Nazareth in northern Issituated in Quezon City covered by CCT No. 004-2018094437 and CCT No. 004-2018094438 and real properties with improvements covered rael, police said. by TCT No. 004-2016011015 located in Quezon City, TCT No. 010Zakaria Zubeidi, 46, 2018000101 located in Paranaque City, TCT No. 163-2019001607 located in Antipolo City and TCT No. M-154108 located in Tanay, Rizal headed the armed wing has been extra-judicially settled among the heirs before the Notary of the Fatah movement Public JOSHUA LAPUZ as per Doc. No. 418; Page No. 85; Book No. 228; Series of 2021. of Palestinian presi(MStandard-Aug. 30, Sep. 6 & 13, 2021) dent Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank town of Jenin. Mohammad Ardah, 39, was sentenced to life in prison in 2002 for his role in Islamic Jihad’s armed wing. Police said they were “hiding in a parking lot for trucks”. “The hunt for the other two fugitives continues.” On Friday evening, police recaptured Islamic Jihad members Yaqub Qadri, 48, and Mahmud Abdullah Ardah, 45. The latter was the alleged mastermind of the escape. “Police located (the two fugitives) and chased them in a helicopter,” the police statement said. “They offered no resistance when they were arrested in the south of Nazareth.” Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett praised the “determined and persistent” operation that led to the recapture of the four con(MS-SEPT. 10 & 13, 2021) victs. AFP

Business PSEi September 10, 2021

TOP GAINERS LAST PRICE

% CHANGE CHANGE

MACAY

7.3

0.9

14.06%

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

BCB DELM MJC PRIM FNI IMP ORE WLCON EVER

5.25 14.5 2.1 2.29 2.38 1.65 0.93 27.75 0.51

0.51 1.08 0.15 0.16 0.15 0.09 0.05 1.45 0.03

10.76% 8.05% 7.69% 7.51% 6.73% 5.77% 5.68% 5.51% 5.15%

TOP LOSERS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

MAHB LRW VVT ALHI NRCP MWP2A PRF3A BCOR ACEX PA

LAST PRICE 1.72 0.5 15 6.98 0.65 100.1 1065 5.45 15.1 3.02

CHANGE -0.28 -0.07 -1 -0.46 -0.04 -5.3 -50 -0.23 -0.58 -0.11

% CHANGE -14.00% -12.28% -6.25% -6.18% -5.80% -5.03% -4.48% -4.05% -3.70% -3.51%

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market to test 7,000-point mark this week—analysts By Jenniffer B. Austria

HARES prices are expected to test the crucial 7,000-point level over the near term period on expectations the government will impose more relaxed quarantine measures.

Analysts said the implementation of localized lockdowns is expected to help improve overall business activity, which in return could fuel the growth of the domestic economy. The government last week said it was finalizing a new system of granular lockdowns, with Metro Manila serving as pilot experiment from

September 16 to 30. “The week’s close at 6,924.02 signals the market still has some gas to try the 6,900/7,000 levels in the near-term. Failure to test said levels could trigger some profit taking,” BDO Unibank Inc. chief investment strategist Jonathan Ravelas said. Analysts said investors are also starting to ignore the spike in COVID-19 cases in the country and focusing on the long-term prospects of the economy. Despite heavy foreign selling, the Philippine Stock Exchange Index eked out a 1.1-percent gain last week to close at 6,970.51, while the board All Shares Index rose 1 percent to 4,302.79. Except for the financial index which dipped 0.2 percent, all sectoral indices posted week-on-week gains, led by mining and oil which jumped 3.4 percent, and services climbed by 2.9 percent.

Foreign investors were net sellers by P2.1 billion, while the average daily value traded declined to P5.1 billion from the previous week’s average of P9.2 billion. Weekly top gainers were International Container Terminal Services Inc., which rose 7.2 percent to P190; Globe Telecom, which advanced 5.9 percent to P2,862; and Megaworld Corp., which advanced 5.6 percent to P3. Weekly top losers were Global Estate Resorts Inc., which declined 13.5 percent to P1.15; ACE Enexor Inc., which decreased 4.9 percent to P15.10; and Holcim Philippines Inc., which dipped 3.8 percent to P6.54. Meanwhile, US stocks dropped for the fourth straight day on Friday and European stocks mostly fell amid renewed fears about inflation and ebbing growth. With AFP

MOST ACTIVE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

ACEN SMPH ICT MONDE GLO PGOLD CNVRG ALI TEL BDO

VOLUME 45,825,600 11,332,100 1,532,770 11,987,400 73,395 3,504,300 4,615,600 3,903,800 91,105 1,097,890

VALUE (PHP) 464,892,740 380,807,345 290,887,853 209,217,146 208,086,250 152,513,220 149,668,530 134,066,835 131,423,230 125,141,627

ANTI-MOTOR SHOW. Greenpeace activists protest against the International Motor Show at the Theresienwiese in Munich, southern Germany, on September 11, 2021. AFP

The Challenges: Compensation during Pandemic Reflecting on this crisis, WHEN the pandemic hit I have realized that a the country, companies company should not dwell and businesses struggled RYAN GIL on compensation alone to ensure their survival. G. MORENO but rather improve the Among these challenges, welfare of its employees. the biggest one is how to I’ve seen and personally compensate its employees. Experts have perfected a roadmap for a witnessed that in times of great crisis, it’s the compensation strategy and have recovered from employees who we rely on most. It changes my many challenges since the 18th century. We have approach and understanding of compensation. seen the best approach adopted by companies, but Beyond monetary value, companies must create none expected this pandemic. Medium to small- an employee-centric environment. While no one scale enterprise companies had to decide between can deny the significance of financial incentives, keeping the company or keeping the employees. more employees are more concerned about Managing uncertainty is difficult. For some their welfare, work-life balance and corporate companies, keeping their employees would environment. I have worked in a company, which I owed mean reducing their salary and adjusting their compensation based on the capability of the everything for making me what I am now, that business to earn. The past year and a half took despite the low compensation, I have never felt employees from a tight and competitive labor undervalued. While high salaries may attract us to work for a particular company, I have realized market to massive employee retrenchment. While industries like travel and tours, that no matter how the company pays us, it is restaurants, entertainment, leasing and hospitality more important how it treats us. Based on my have been hit hard, their employees felt the personal experience, we tend to stay longer burden and pain. They started thinking of how in a company that offers an employee-centric they will cope and survive this pandemic when environment rather than a high-paying job. I am also reaching out to the management, they mainly relied on their salary. But despite the challenges, there have been most especially to the human resource (HR) employers and employees who worked to benefit department, to revisit its strategy, give more both worlds. They gave their best effort to be importance to other benefits, and promote flexible in pay and compensation, implement employee welfare first. HR should develop programs, encourage training and development, programs and compensation packages that and even seek organizational restructuring to would influence the way we work. Some benefits include medical keep the business and its employees as financially non-financial stable as possible while the world is in a pandemic assistance programs covering immediate family, educational programs that provide and economic crisis. The question is, was it enough? Some opportunities to employees who seek to companies have committed to supporting their improve themselves, and corporate housing employees and families by giving options, loan incentives. It would also be good to offer financial support, and flexible compensation extended family assistance, grocery and gas programs to keep their employees motivated and incentives, and a pandemic assistance program endure these difficult times. It’s not a matter of (which is timely) during these difficult times. Being a seasoned professional, who rose from how much is enough, but what matters is keeping within the organization’s ranks, I advocate these what is essential and “Being Safe.” The COVID-19 pandemic has become a global compensation benefits to encourage people to crisis, affecting all industries. Even the most work with passion and loyalty. A value-based successful companies were not spared, putting compensation package results in solid growth for all at risk, including jobs, life and people. While both the employees and the company. I always there have been rise and fall cycles, we have believe that when people grow, so does the not seen the world collapse in just a matter of company. days since the Great Depression. Although there The author is an MBA student at the Ramon might be future crises, this crisis has taught us to create models tailored to the current demand and V. del Rosario College of Business, DLSU. He can be reached at ryan_moreno@dlsu.edu.ph. workforce. Addressing compensation and benefits reduce The views expressed above are the author’s a significant risk. If not addressed, the chance of losing your reliable employee is inevitable. Some and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators. may look for better opportunities elsewhere.

Green LiGht

Chinese real estate tycoon battles to save conglomerate BEIJING, China—From rural poverty to real estate billions, the fortunes of Xu Jiayin tracked China’s runaway growth for much of the past two decades—but now he is battling to save his Evergrande conglomerate from a quagmire of debt. The 62-year-old—also known as Hui Ka Yan in Cantonese—was at one point China’s richest man, with a taste for luxury labels, exclusive yachts and a nose for praising the Communist Party that steered the economy to a home ownership boom. But Evergrande is sagging under hundreds of billions of dollars of debt as fears mount of an imminent collapse that could ricochet across the world’s second-biggest economy. “China’s property developers-–and their creditors–-appear to be approaching a reckoning,” said analysts at Capital Economics in a note. They warned Evergrande is “close to collapse” with large losses looming for banks, bondholders and home buyers. Total liabilities had swelled to 1.97 trillion yuan (US$305 billion), the embattled group said last week, warning of the risk of default. Evergrande started to falter under the new “three red lines” imposed on developers in a state crackdown in August 2020—forcing the group to offload properties at increasingly steep discounts. Xu’s ascent mirrored China, rocketing from a largely rural and impoverished society to the gargantuan economy it is today. The now-billionaire, whose mother died when he was a year old, recalled in a 2017 speech how he ate just sweet potato and steamed bread throughout his school years. “The sheets I laid, the quilts I covered, and the clothes I wore were all covered with piles of patches,” Xu said. “At that time, my greatest wish was to go out of the countryside, find a job and be able to eat better food.” After leaving school in 1976—the end of the decade-long Cultural Revolution—he struggled to find work. AFP

Domestic tourism boom gives UK’s seaside new lease of life By Imran Marashli BLACKPOOL, United Kingdom—Children clutching glow sticks shrieked with delight and onlookers gazed awestruck as Blackpool’s Illuminations lights festival launched to a spectacular volley of fireworks from its 158-meter Victorian tower. The northwest English town’s lights display crowns an extended tourist season as Britain’s traditional seaside resorts benefit from a domestic tourism boom during the coronavirus pandemic. Expensive COVID tests, vaccine certification, quarantines and the UK government’s ever-changing traffic-light system for international travel have made overseas trips less attractive and even inaccessible for British holidaymakers. But the lifting of restrictions has helped domestic tourism, providing a boon to seaside resorts that were once Britons’ favorite destinations before the advent of cheap overseas package holidays to warmer and sunnier climes. Rise, fall, revival? Blackpool, on the Irish Sea north of Liverpool and Manchester, embodies the rise and fall of the quintessential British seaside resort. After the arrival of the railways, it became Britain’s premier mass tourist destination in the 19th and 20th centuries for city dwellers to escape smog and enjoy bracing sea air and cheap entertainment. But affordable air travel and holidays from the 1960s lured Britons overseas and knocked Blackpool off its perch. By 2008, it offered 40 percent fewer bed spaces than in 1987. Once synonymous with leisure and pleasure, Blackpool became a byword for decline and poverty. A 2019 UK government study found Blackpool had

eight of England’s 10 most deprived neighborhoods. And its historic dependence on tourism and hospitality meant the coronavirus pandemic dealt a devastating blow to the town’s economy and vulnerable social groups. But Blackpool and seaside towns like it have seen soaring domestic visitor numbers while international travel remains unpredictable. Tourists thronged its promenade on Illuminations switch-on day earlier this month, to explore its tower, piers, theme park, beach, amusement arcades and shops selling fish and chips, ice cream and local sweet treat Blackpool rock. Owen Wells, 23, a flamboyantly dressed welder, plumped for Blackpool instead of the hard-partying Spanish resort of Magaluf to celebrate his bachelor party. “With COVID, it’s been awkward. A lot of my friends haven’t been vaccinated. It’s where we can go where we don’t have to isolate for two weeks,” he told AFP. Administrator Michelle Potter, 55, said she was a seasoned visitor to Spain, Turkey and Cyprus but this year opted to take her nine-year-old daughter to Blackpool. “I couldn’t be bothered with the hassle of going abroad and having to stick to restrictions. The UK is just as good,” she added. Back on the map Surveys by Britain’s tourism board have indicated that domestic holidaymakers have preferred traditional coastal towns this summer. Rail and coach companies have recorded strong demand for other classic destinations such as Brighton and Bournemouth in southern England, and Scarborough in the north. AFP

People relax on benches set out on the Central Pier in Blackpool, north west England on September 4, 2021. Blackpool’s Illuminations lights festival crowns an extended tourist season as Britain’s traditional seaside resorts benefit from a domestic tourism boom during the coronavirus pandemic. AFP

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

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

IN BRIEF

Business

BOC raises P11.7b from rice imports THE Bureau of Customs said over the weekend it collected P11.69 billion in tariffs from 1.74 million metric tons of rice imports from January to August, or 17 percent more than the minimum funding requirement for the annual Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund for the following year. Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said in a report to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III revenues from rice imports as of Aug. 29 came from shipments worth a combined P35.07 billion. He said the Customs’ improved valuation system raised the average value of rice imports by 4.1 percent to P20,188 per metric ton this year, from P19,386 per metric ton a year ago. Guerrero said even with a 7.6-percent drop in volume from 1.88 million MT in 2020 to 1.74 million MT this year, the revenue collected by the Customs dipped only slightly by 4.4 percent from P12.22 billion to P11.69 billion. All import duties collected from rice imports beginning March 5, 2019 go to the annual P10-billion RCEF as provided under Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law. Julito G. Rada

Air traffic fell 73.8% to 2.95m passengers in 1st six months AIR passenger traffic in the Philippines fell by 73.8 percent in the first half from a year ago, because of travel restrictions imposed globally to contain the spread of COVID-19. Data from the Civil Aeronautics Board showed that the country’s total passenger volume reached 2.95 million passengers from January to June, down from 11.3 million passengers registered in the same period last year. The CAB said of the total, domestic passengers traffic recorded 2 million in the first half, down 66 percent from 5.3 million in the same period last year. Cebu Pacific carried the most number of domestic passengers with 921,297, followed by PAL Express with 527,566; AirAsia Philippines, 274,809; Philippine Airlines, 175,399; and Cebgo, 92,059 passengers. International passenger traffic also decreased to 957,573 from last year’s 5.3 million. Philippine Airlines flew 320,284 international passengers in the six-month period, followed by Cebu Pacific with 57,136 international passengers; Air Asia Philippines, with 4,792; and Royal Air Charter Service with 3,711. Foreign carriers flew 566,613 international passengers in the first half. Data showed that in terms of cargo, domestic airlines carried a total of 58.62 million kilograms in the first half. Of the total, Cebu Pacific carried 28.3 million kg.; PAL, 18.19 million kg.; PAL Express, 16.8 million kg.; AirAsia Philippines, 4.05 million kg.; Astro Air International, 5.9 million kg.; Alphaland Aviation, 3.42 million kg; and SEAIR-I Inc., 1.51 million kg. The International Air Transport Association earlier said it was expecting the airline industry to post $47.7-billion losses in 2021, an improvement on the estimated net industry loss of $126.4 billion in 2020. Darwin G. Amojelar

AgriNuture honored for green practices

MRT-7 TRAIN. San Miguel Corp. unloads and installs the first train set for the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 project in Quezon City. The train set, which San Miguel ordered from South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem, arrived recently at the Manila Port. It is the first of six sets the company expects to arrive by end of the year. The set, consisting of three cars each, was shipped from Masan Port towards the end of August and dispatched to the MRT-7 tracks between University Ave. and Tandang Sora, after clearing customs at the Port of Manila.

Gov’t asking ‘bankrupt’ PAL to pay P570m in obligations Tugade said PAL had an obligation of P373 million and PAL Express P197 million. He said the amounts were INANCE Secretary known “upon verification with our fiCarlos Dominguez III nance... as of 31 August 2021.” Dominguez said he asked Tugade “to said over the weekend intensify collection efforts.” the government will collect Tugade also told Dominguez that moving forward, “PAL and PAL Express around P570 million from committed to make current all their obflag-carrier Philippine ligations to CAAP, incurred from July Airlines and wholly2021 onwards.” “All obligations prior to July 2021 owned subsidiary PAL shall be subject to reconciliation and Express, representing their immediate payment, the terms of which outstanding obligations as to be agreed between CAAP and PAL [subject to final board approval],” of Aug. 31, 2021. Dominguez said he received a mes- Tugade said. Philippine Airlines Inc. said Friday it sage from Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade about the financial obliga- secured an approval from the US Bankruptcy Court in New York to access the tions of PAL and PAL Express.

By Julito G. Rada

first $20 million from a $505-million loan facility to support operations. The Lucio Tan-led airline said the US Chapter 11 court approved all “First Day” motions on an interim or final basis for PAL’s voluntary restructuring following petitions filed on Sept. 3, 2021. It said the approvals marked an important step forward in PAL’s recovery plan, which would reduce the company’s debt by $2 billion and help the airline recover from the impact of the global pandemic. The orders granted by the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York allow PAL to operate in the normal course, ensuring that the company can continue to serve customers as a full-service airline and the flag carrier of the Philippines.

FARM produce wholesaler AgriNurture Inc. was recognized by Oslo-based climate research institute CICERO for adopting green and sustainable practices. ANI was one of only two agriculture companies that showcased sustainable practices in its business operations, among global green bond issuers, according to the 2021 Cicero Shades of Green Best Practices. “AgriNurture is a Philippine agro-commercial business focusing on sustainable environmental practices. The most significant investments are expected in the environmentally sustainable management of living natural resources category by investing in organic/ sustainable plantations, using a combination of proven organic technologies and methods and without the use of new agricultural land. AgriNurture recently received a CICERO Medium Green shading with a governance score of Good,” Cicero said in the report. Cicero considered the company’s certified organic agriculture practices aimed at improving land fertility, reducing and eliminating chemical fertilizers and integrating climate resilience and adaptation strategies to climate risks. Jenniffer B. Austria

Gov’t asked to allow more fish shipments PRIVATE sector-led Fisheries and Aquaculture Board of the Philippines called on the government to allow the importation of more roundscad fish (galunggong) to bring down the retail price in the wet markets and supermarkets. “We recently revived FAB in 2020 in response to the over-regulation of BFAR [Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources] in fish trade,” said FAB chairperson Chingling Tanco. The group sought government approval to increase the importation limit to 200,000 metric tons of small pelagic fishes, mostly galunggong and extend the importation authority beyond the commercial fishers who were the sole entity allowed to bring in imported fish. “There were too many import requirements and regulations which were directed towards protecting the local catch of galunggong. Bringing imported galunggong ang selling them in the wet market was the sole domain of 17 fishing boat operators,” Tanco said. Othel V. Campos

Meralco to build new substation in Paco lot By Alena Mae S. Flores MANILA Electric Co., the biggest electricity retailer, said over the weekend it plans to construct a new modern substation facility to serve the increasing demand of Manila and replace the 66year old Tegen substation after winning the bid for the Paco-Manila property of Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. Meralco senior vice president and head of networks Ronnie Aperocho said part of the property would be used for office/lab/testing facility of Meralco operations. “The Tegen substation is long overdue for replacement...We are very happy with the win,” Aperocho said. PSALM, in a statement announced over the weekend that Meralco submitted the highest

bid amounting to P632,162,185 and was thus declared the winning party for the Paco-Manila property. The lot consists of eight separate non-contiguous vacant lots, located at Isla de Provisor, Paco, Manila. It has an indicative area of 20,975 square meters near the Meralco Tegen Substation, which houses various electrification equipment. PSALM said the offer of Meralco surpassed the PSALM board-approved minimum offer price of P527,087,552. “We are very happy that after several attempts to privatize this Paco-Manila property, we finally completed today the privatization process with a financial bid that is significantly above the minimum offer price set by the PSALM board,” PSALM president and chief executive Irene Besido Garcia said.

WORKERS’ VACCINATION.

Employers Confederation of the Philippines president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. announces the start of vaccination program for workers. More than 1,000 Metro Manilabased workers in the manufacturing and construction sectors receive their first jabs as part of the ‘Reform. Rebound. Recover: 1M Jobs Project’. It is a joint initiative of ECOP, with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc., Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines, Philippine Constructors Association, Philippine Hotel Owners Association Inc. and Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines.

DOE endorses 6 power projects with 672.35 MW SIX power projects with a combined capacity of 672.35 megawatts received in August an endorsement from the Department of Energy to conduct a grid impact study. The department endorsed the 500-MW Dalupiri Island Wind Power in Calayan, Cagayan of Itbayat Island UPC Asia Corp. to grid operator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines for the conduct of a study on the impact of the project. Other approved projects were PH Renewables Inc.’s 80-MW Pinugay Solar Power Project in Barangay Pinugay, Baras, Rizal and Gritstone Lead Power Corp.’s 40-MW battery storage project in Barangay Mabalas-balas, San Rafael, Bulacan. San Miguel Consolidated Power Corp.’s 41MW Sangali diesel project in Barangay Sangali, Zamboanga City, SPC Island Power Corp.’s Pan-

ay diesel power plant projects with a combined capacity of 9.35 MW in Tabugon, Iloilo and SPC Power Corp.’s 2-MW battery energy storage for Power Barge 104 at Tapal Wharf in Ubay, Bohol also received the go-signal to conduct the grid impact study. The DOE approved in July the conduct of the study for the 143.9-MW liquefied natural gas power plant of Converge Power Generation Corp. in Poblacion, Lapu-Lapu City, Totalpower Inc.’s 151-MW solar plant in San Isidro and Calubian, Leyte, PV Sinag Power Inc.’s 129.2-MW Laoag solar power project in Aguilar, Pangasinan, Belgrove Power Corp.’s 650-MW Malaya Thermal Power Plant in Pililla, Rizal and Universal Power Solutions Inc.’s 20-MW battery project in Mexico, Pampanga. Alena Mae S. Flores

Sports

Ramos 8th Pinoy to sign up for Japan B. League TOP Gilas cager Dwight Ramos won’t be suiting up for the Ateneo Blue Eagles on his final year in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines. Instead, the 6’4” Ramos made a decision to turn professional and has signed up with B.League Division I team Toyama Grouses. Ramos said the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has somehow influenced his decision. “I would have loved to officially play for the Blue Eagles and wear that blue and white and get the whole Ateneo experience especially playing for the UAAP. However, due to the circumstances surrounding the pandemic presently and in the foreseeable future, I have decided to take my next step in growth as a person and as an athlete,” said Ramos to his fans on Instragram. This makes Ramos the eighth Filipino to join the B.League. The others are Thirdy Ravena (San-En NeoPhoenix), Kiefer Ravena (Shiga Lakestars), Juan Gomez de Liaño (Earthfriends Tokyo Z), Bobby Ray Parks Jr. (Nagoya Diamond Dolphins), Javi Gomez de Liaño (Ibaraki Robots), Kemark Carino (Aomori Wat’s) and Kobe Paras (Niigata Albirex BB). The team is coached by Honoo Hamaguchi and with former Philippine Basketball Association import Joshua Smith as one of its reinforcements. Toyama’s second import is Julian Mavunga, a Zimbabwean-American, who averaged 20.7 points, 7.4 assists and 7.3 rebounds in the B.League. Toyama finished fourth in the East District with a 43-16 record in the previous season, losing to Ryukyu in the quarterfinals. Peter Atencio

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

Ernest John Obiena: New Asian pole vault record holder

No celebration for Obiena as Germany meet beckons By Peter Atencio

RNEST John Obiena practically didn’t have time to savor and celebrate his triumph at the 2021 Golden Roof Challenge in Innsbruck Austria on Saturday as he was slated to compete at the ISTAF (International Stadionfest) in Berlin, Germany Sunday evening (2 a.m. in Manila). “We are hoping for another outstanding performance (from Obiena),” said Philip Juico, president of the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association on Sunday, after the Filipino pole vaulter finally overcame technical challenges in reaching a higher height. Wielding a new 5.1-meter pole, Obiena set a new personal best and Philippine record for the fourth time in two years, while eclipsing a 29-year-old Asian record as well. In doing so, Obiena breached the

5.9-meter barrier againn as he cleared 5.93 meters at the Austrian tourney, which he ruled. In the process, Obiena smashed the Asian record of 5.92 meters set by Igor Potapovich of Kazakhstan in June 1992 in France. It marked the second time that the 25-year-old Obiena has gone past the 5.9-meter range with his rigid pole. Adjustments on the number of strides that he was to take when reaching his takeoff point is now working well for the

6’2” Obiena, who is taking to heart the instructions from his coach Vitaly Petrov and advice from his dad Emerson. “The outstanding improvement in Obiena’s performance is certainly due also to the technical adjustments made by coach Vitaly and executed by Obiena. Even minor and subtle adjustments, unnoticed by ordinary laymen like us, can become a game changer and turning point at the highest level of a very technical and dangerous event like pole vault,” said Juico. Obiena last went past past 5.9 meters when he made 5.91 meters during the Paris leg of the Diamond League on August 28. “These changes make a big difference in an individual event like pole vault. You can only depend on yourself and on no one else’s execution of that person’s role as is the case in team sports. We believe Obiena is working towards consistency in his performance and a more robust

Nambatac hits game-winner for Painters VETERAN cager Rey Nambatac completed a well-executed play by drilling in the game-winning shot with two seconds left, lifting Rain or Shine past the San Miguel Beermen, 95-93, Sunday in the 2021 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Don Honorio Ventura State University Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga. The 5’9” Nambatac only tallied nine points for the Elastopainters, but his game-winner carried the Elasto Painters nearer to the quarterfinals with their sixth win in 10 games in fifth place. Nambatac knocked in his left-handed shot after CJ Perez stole the ball and sank a driving layup with 12 seconds left to level the count at 93-all. Elasto Painters’ coach Chris Gavina said Nambatac did exactly as they planned the play. “I designed a play where he’ll gets it at the top of the key, or he’ll get it from the post, and it will be a handoff to him. I got him the ball, and he’s the one who

was able go with his instincts and win that game with that basket for us,” said Gavina. Nambatac quickly drove in after getting a pass from Beau Belga and avoiding Mo Tautuaa, leaving two seconds on the shotclock for the Beermen to either tie to win. But defense worked well for the Elasto Painters after that when Leonard Santillan forced Terrence Romeo to hand over the ball to Marcio Lassiter, whose hurried triple missed its mark as time expired. Santillan knocked in a career-high 21 points, including a layup and triple in the last four seconds of the third period, putting the Elasto Painters ahead, 72-69. Perez top-scored with 28 points for the Beermen, who now have a 5-3 card. Romeo backed up Perez with 20 points, while Arwind Santos added 18. Javee Mocon contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds for ROS, while Anton Asistio scored 11. Peter Atencio

Ronaldo rolls back years, lifts Man Utd to 4-1 victory Rey Nambatac scores the game winner for Rain or Shine.

Romero: Olympic heroes deserve their rewards

Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero of 1Pacman Partylist (center) is shown with Tokyo Games heroes (from left) Eumir Marcial, Hidilyn Diaz, Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam.

THE rewards—monetary or in kind— came in great abundance for weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz and three other Tokyo Games heroes, but Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero (1Pacman Partylist) said they fully deserved those blessings. “The rewards they have received and to be received were for their blood, sweat and tears during their Spartan-like training up to the tournament proper in Tokyo so it’s right and just for them to receive such abundance,” said Romero during a recent Congressional ceremony where Diaz and boxers Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam, and Eumir Marcial were honored. “For almost a month, the Tokyo Games heroes and other members of Team Philippines made us extremely proud to be Filipinos. Time and again, they displayed the indomitable Filipino spirit,” added Romero. Apart from the additional P3 million

mental toughness plan of action,” added Juico. American Matt Ludwig placed second at 5.60 meters, while Turkey’s Ersu Sasma settled for third, after reaching the same height, but in two tries. Juico also thanked the Philippine Sports Commission for its continuous support to Obiena. “I would also like to cite the continuing substantial financial and administrative and moral support, of the Philippine Sports Commission and Chairman Butch Ramirez and the PSC Commissioners. The PSC has been readily extending over the past five years all these assistance despite being confronted by its own challenges and by uninformed critics,” said Juico. Encouraged by fans watching him, Obiena took long and fast strides as he ran and placed the pole at a perfect angle. And with a smooth takeoff into the air, he cleared the bar for the neat landing.

cash incentive she received from the “pass the hat” drive initiated by Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, Romero and other key leaders of the House, Diaz was conferred the inaugural Congressional Medal of Excellence – an award given solely for Filipino athletes who have won a gold medal in the Olympics. On other hand, silver medalists Petecio and Paalam and bronze winner Marcial were conferred with the Congressional Medal of Distinction. “I am immensely humbled to have received the Congressional Medal of Distinction, an award that would represent our achievements in the field of sports. I greatly appreciate this honorable gesture from our House of Representatives, specifically Speaker Lord Allan Velasco and Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero. I hope this will serve as an inspiration to all the youths of our country,” said Marcial in his Facebook post.

MANCHESTER—Cristiano Ronaldo enjoyed a dream return as a Manchester United player by scoring twice as the Red Devils beat Newcastle 4-1 in front of a rocking Old Trafford on Saturday. Ronaldo now has 120 United goals to his name, but scored his first since leaving for Real Madrid 12 years ago to take Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men top of the Premier League table. “He’s still a ruthless and clinical goalscorer,” said Solskjaer. “He smells the big moments when there is a goal in there.” United were made to work harder than expected for the three points, but were able to rely on Ronaldo’s predatory instincts to strike twice either side of Javier Manquillo’s well-worked equaliser for the Magpies. Bruno Fernandes then sealed a day where Portuguese stars shone with a stunning long-range effort 10 minutes from time before Jesse Lingard rounded off the scoring in stoppage time. United’s fortunes on the field have declined dramatically since Ronaldo’s departure with no Premier League or Champions League success since Alex Ferguson retired as manager in 2013. His return was enough to generate a feverish atmosphere among 74,000 in attendance not seen at Old Trafford for many years. The 36-year-old was serenaded with songs in his honour long before kick-off and even received celebrations of the goals he scored in a shooting drill in the warm-up. “The atmosphere has been electric around the club,” added Solskjaer. “The supporters have really enjoyed the last 10 days or so. There was loads of expectation on him and the team and he’s delivered.” AFP

Sports

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

Belfort stuns Holyfield with 1st round TKO

Women wrestlers take spotlight in web series THE Philippine Sports Commission stays true to its commitment to supporting women in sports through its weekly web series of Rise Up Shape Up. In its latest webisode aired last September 11, the PSC-RUSU featured 15 women wrestlers who prevailed in the recently concluded 7th Women’s Martial Arts Festival. They showcased their best winning moves and anecdotes of their athletic journey. The web series also featured two national lady grapplers Minalyn Foy-os and Jiah Pingot, who both bagged silver medals in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. The two national team stalwarts shed light and inspiration to young wrestlers as they shared their humble beginnings in the sport. “I thank chairman Butch Ramirez for his continuous support to women in sports program. This project empowers all the women as a strong ally to achieve sports excellence,” said PSC commissioner and Women in Sports oversight Celia Kiram. The commissioner also assured to continue the women’s martial arts festival which caters to different sports and is also a way for the agency to discover new and promising talents to strengthen the national pool. “The Women’s Martial Arts Festival bolsters women’s rights to equal participation in sports.” added the lady commissioner, who also talked about the history of wrestling in her regular K-Isport segment.

Emma Raducanu of Great Britain poses with the championship trophy after defeating Leylah Annie Fernandez of Canada during their Women’s Singles final of the 2021 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. AFP

Raducanu lives US Open dream: ‘Reality can wait’ N

EW YORK— Emma Raducanu fell asleep as a little girl to visions of running through the stands to celebrate a Grand Slam title and lived the moment Saturday after capturing the US Open title. The British 18-year-old beat 19-yearold Canadian Leylah Fernandez 6-4, 6-3 to become the first qualifier to win a Slam title, rolling through 20 sets without loss to hoist the trophy. “It’s an absolute dream. You just have visions of yourself going up to the box, hugging everyone, celebrating,” she said. “For that moment to actually happen, I’m just so grateful.” Her childhood visions returned as her epic run pushed her to becoming the youngest Grand Slam champion in 17 years and the

youngest US Open winner since 17-year-old Serena Williams in 1999. “Going to celebrate with your team, trying to find your way up to the box, just seeing them after the match, that has been playing in my head a couple nights. I’ve fallen asleep to that,” she said. “To have the belief I did and actually executing, winning a Grand Slam, I can’t believe it.” Raducanu has adopted a nothing-to-lose attitude and Slam success ensures it won’t change any time soon.

“I don’t feel absolutely any pressure,” Raducanu said. “I’m still only 18 years old. I’m just having a free swing as anything that comes my way. That’s how I faced every match here in the States. “It got me this trophy so I don’t think I should change anything.” Raducanu never dropped more than five games in any set and that happened only one, in qualifying, although she insisted every win had its challenges. “I faced a lot of adversity in every single one of my matches,” she said. “What I did very well this tournament was press in the moments that I really needed to.” While she may have faced adversity, she has not faced reality, setting aside her cell phone and the world outside to focus upon the US Open. AFP

Queen leads explosion of British joy at Emma’s stunning Slam win LONDON— Emma Raducanu’s extraordinary US Open triumph on Saturday led to an explosion of joy in Britain, with Queen Elizabeth II leading the celebrations as the 18-year-old qualifier made tennis history in New York. Raducanu beat 19-year-old Canadian Leylah Fernandez 6-4 6-3 to become Britain’s first women’s Grand Slam singles champion since Virginia Wade at Wimbledon in 1977, and the first player to win a major after coming through a qualifying tournament. “I send my congratulations to you on your success,” the Queen said. “It is a remarkable achievement at such a young age, and is testament to your hard work and dedication.” Raducanu’s win even managed to knock football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s two-goal return to Manchester United off Sunday morning’s UK newspaper front pages. The Express called it “Absolutely Emm-ense!” while the Telegraph proclaimed: “She did it!” Social media caught fire after Raducanu sealed the win with an ace. Former England footballer Gary Lineker broke off from presenting the English Premier League highlights pro-

Emma Raducanu of Great Britain celebrates winning the championship point to defeat Leylah Annie Fernandez of Canada during the second set of their Women’s Singles final of the 2021 US Open. AFP

gramme “Match of the Day” on BBC TV to post: “First time in my life I’ve ever tweeted whilst on air but my goodness what a performance, what a triumph, what an amazing young woman.” Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted: “What a sensational match! Huge congratulations to Emma Raducanu. You

showed extraordinary skill, poise and guts and we are all hugely proud of you.” Raducanu’s only previous Slam appearance, at Wimbledon in July, ended when she pulled out of her fourth-round match after an anxiety attack. “Look at that bounce back @EmmaRaducanu US Open champion, amazing. Congratulations,” tweet-

ed England and Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford, who had offered support to Raducanu after her Wimbledon exit. Raducanu was born in Canada to a Chinese mother and Romanian father, but grew up in Bromley in suburban south London after moving to England at the age of two. ‘It’s mind boggling’ At her former tennis club, Parklangley, members gathered in front of TVs Saturday night to roar her to victory. “I’m speechless. I’m sore and hoarse from screaming,” said her former coach Suzanne Williams. Former British number one Tim Henman, who was courtside, said: “She will win more of these, she is that good. This is not some flash in the pan or fairytale. She is playing top-five tennis.” Australian Grand Slam winner Pat Cash told BBC radio that a qualifier winning a major is “something I never could have believed would happen. It’s mind boggling.” And tennis great Martina Navratilova tweeted: “A star is born -- Emma Raducanu makes history... and she is just getting started. And will never have to qualify again:)” AFP

MIAMI—Former heavyweight world champion Evander Holyfield looked all of his 58 years in a first-round technical knockout loss to mixed martial arts star Vitor Belfort on Saturday. With former US President Donald Trump providing ringside commentary for the spectacle at Seminole Hard Rock casino in Hollywood, Florida, Brazil’s Belfort unleashed an early flurry that ended with Holyfield slipping through the ropes. The American ring great regained his feet only to be sent to the canvas by a combination from Belfort. He beat the count, but after he absorbed another flurry of blows without throwing any the referee stopped the fight despite Holyfield’s objections. “I wasn’t hurt,” insisted Holyfield, who called the decision to stop the fight “kind of sad.” “It is what it is,” he said. “I think it’s a bad call.” Holyfield was fighting for the first time since he defeated Brian Nielsen in 2011 to cap a glorious ring career. Holyfield won 1984 Olympic gold as a light heavyweight and went on to dominate the professional cruiserweight division before entering prize fighting lore as a heavyweight. He’s best known for a championship heavyweight run that included two wins over Mike Tyson, one of them the infamous “Bite Fight,” a win over George Foreman, and one win over Riddick Bowe in their punishing trilogy. Holyfield (44-10 with two drawn and 29 knockouts, accepted the Belfort fight on eight days’ notice after Oscar De La Hoya tested positive for Covid-19. Holyfield said he was ready, having been preparing for a proposed comeback bout against Kevin McBride that didn’t come off. Asked after the fight if he was still interested in making a rematch with his old nemesis Tyson, Holyfield said, “Of course.” ‘Not the same’ But even Trump, who tirelessly boosted Holyfield throughout his undercard commentary, seemed taken aback by the ex-champ’s performance. “No, he’s not the same,” Trump said. “Right from the beginning he was not the same fighter. He lost a lot. It was not Evander Holyfield.” Trump received a rapturous welcome from fans at the Florida venue, where he arrived after visiting New York on the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. He got in a dig at President Joe Biden and a plug for his friend Dana White, promoter of mixed martial arts brand Ultimate Fighting Championship, in low key commentary alongside his son Donald Trump Jr. The former president is no stranger to boxing, his hosting of major fights at his hotels and casinos having earned him a place in New Jersey’s boxing Hall of Fame. Trump’s commentary for the card put together by Triller, the music video app that is trying to break into boxing with its Triller Fight Club streaming platform, included remembrances of fights and fighters past along with random observations on the sport. “It’s like elections, it could be rigged, too,” Trump noted of some questionable fight results he’s seen in the past. On the undercard, Britain’s former cruiserweight and heavyweight world champion David Haye carried his buddy Joe Fourier, a business magnate turned mid-life boxer, over eight easy-going two-minute rounds on the way to a unanimous decision victory. AFP

Under Armour PH casts spotlight on mental toughness UNDER Armour Philippines gathered the country’s leading athletes and sports science experts for #UnderTheArmour, a webinar on the key roles of mental toughness in sports. The event is in line with the brand’s global campaign #TheOnlyWayIsThrough, emphasizing how mental toughness allows one to constantly improve, push beyond limits, and overcome challenges. With conversations around mental health and wellness becoming more open, prevalent, and relevant, #UnderTheArmour presented an opportunity for the public to learn more about reaching tough goals, taking failures in stride, and working toward success from those who know these experiences best. The Gold Standard Setting the tone for the event and providing a concise discussion on mental toughness was Lyn Hazel Calawod, OTRP, a dialectical behavioral therapist,

certified clinical anxiety treatment professional, and the founder & director of Neurobalance Occupational Therapy. She presented basic working definitions and components for mental toughness and outlines various methods for strengthening one’s willpower. Headlining the webinar was the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist, weightlifting champion Hidilyn Diaz. Together with her sports psychologist, Dr. Karen Trinidad, Diaz shared the long, arduous, yet fulfilling journey toward the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the mental preparations that they had to do alongside physical conditioning. There’s No “I” In Team Training, falling down, and coming back strong with a team—if there are people who know these experiences the best, they’re the likes of Jia Morado and Sean Anthony. These top athletes talked how it’s like to

develop and strengthen mental toughness in a group setting, sharing how it’s like to steel one’s willpower and courage in the face of team challenges, setbacks, and victories. The Last One Standing Combat sport veterans know that countless hours of training, sparring, and conditioning all get put to the test in just mere minutes. They get everyone’s help and support before the big match, but once they set foot on that mat or inside the ring, it’s all up to them. It’s a familiar feeling for Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion Meggie Ochoa and professional MMA fighter Mark Striegl. Both athletes have also won gold medals at the South East Asian Games—a testament to how their minds are just as tough and conditioned as their bodies. Meggie and Mark discussed what takes place in their minds as they face their opponents, how they deal with setbacks and bouncing back, and how they

balance self-improvement and working with others to secure that hard-earned win on the battlefield. #TheOnlyWayIsThrough “Under the Armour” runs in line with the brand’s global thrust for #TheOnlyWayIsThrough, which represents the next exciting frontier for Under Armour. The campaign brings to life the real value of momentum—how momentum through work helps athletes push themselves to be better than what they thought possible, and how Under Armour technology—with groundbreaking product innovations like UA HOVR™, UA RUSH™, and UA Recover—is supporting those athletes constantly in search of incremental change in an effort to get better. #TheOnlyWayIsThrough becomes a rallying cry for the brand in an effort to motivate and inspire athletes around the world to put in the work, overcome challenges, and become stronger than ever.

Under Armour ambassador Hidilyn Diaz

Entertainment

Gary V’s prayer

GARY VALENCIANO’S pure energy is being channeled towards a new endeavor. Pray.com, the world’s No. 1 app for daily prayer and Bible-based audio content, has chosen the country’s top singer/songwriter and ultimate performer, to be Pray.com’s Philippine ambassador, focusing light on one of Gary’s most enduring passions: connecting to the power of God through prayer. Known for his unwavering Christian faith and devotion, Valenciano is the ideal choice for this prayer app co-founded by Steve Gatena five years ago. “Gary V is an inspiration to Pray.com and the world. The way he talks about his faith, his willingness to reach out to people directly and encouraging them to pray, it’s

Gary Valenciano is introduced as the first Filipino ambassador of leading Bible app pray.com.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

nickie.standard@gmail.com

special. With so many out there struggling with mental and spiritual health because of the pandemic, Gary has chosen to share his voice with all of us. Now you can pray with Gary V anytime on Pray.com,” Gatena explains the company’s decision to partner with the beloved Filipino artist. For his part, Valenciano, a living miracle, reveals he was honored to join Pray. com and introduce the empowering prayer app to Filipinos. “I want to encourage everyone to pray. I have survived so many health challenges. I am here with you today only by the grace of God. I am unashamed to share my faith in my Lord Jesus Christ. I am grateful, first of all to God, and to Pray.com for giving me a platform

John Arcilla makes history at Venice Film Fest

to help others draw closer to the Almighty God who gave His only Son to save us,” says Valenciano. Launched in 2017 with a mission to grow faith and cultivate a community, Pray.com now reaches more than 10 million people globally through its mobile app and website. It is the simplest way to incorporate prayer into one’s daily life. Pray.com provides encouragement and inspiration through daily prayers, pastor podcasts, and Bedtime Bible Stories. In this new venture, Valenciano becomes the voice behind bible stories like Joseph as well as meditation prayers that will inspire his millions of fans. Read full story on manilastandard.net

Camille Prats hosts ‘Knorr Nutri-Sarap Kitchen.’

ETERAN screen actor John Arcilla has joined the ranks of Brad Pitt, Ben Affleck, Adam Driver, and Joaquin Phoenix as Volpi Cup winners at the Venice International Film Festival. Arcilla, who plays the character of Sisoy Salas in HBO Asia’s On The Job: The Missing 8, has won Best Actor at the prestigious event, becoming the first Filipino to win the coveted award. In a video clip sent to Manila Standard Entertainment by Arcilla’s management Star Magic, the 55-year-old thespian expressed his elation winning the acting plum. “This Volpi Cup is such a symbol of a milestone in my work as an actor. Just like my cup of life which is so full of blessings outpouring from the heavens and I wish I can share this with all my loved ones who left us in this lifetime,” he started. “This most prestigious award I received

Producer Quark Henares, Asian Cultural Council Philippines Foundation chairman Ernest Escaler, producer Dondon Monteverde, Dennis Trillo, and director Erik Matti on the red carpet at Venice fest.

today lift up my spirit to the heavens and I am transforming this Joy, achievement or victory or honor into love so that the loved ones I am missing can feel my heart which is outpouring with gratitude to all who love me and inspire me to get to where I am today and I’m thanking God for putting them into my life,” he carried on. Part of the video clip was shown at the Venice Film Festival awards night where On The Job director Erik Matti accepted the recognition on his behalf. “We come from different countries with different languages and cultures, and yet I can feel oneness tonight…that you understand me and we understand each other – all because of the arts and cinema. Thank you so much,” he ended.

Highlighting strong Filipino pride

On The Job: The Missing 8, premiered at 2021 Venice International Film Festival on Sept. 10. Matti’s latest opus centers on the crime syndicates that temporarily release prison inmates to carry out assassinations for the benefit of powerful clients. The sequel of the 2013 critically-acclaimed film is the only Ph i l i p -

Ending in a five-minute standing ovation during its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, ‘On The Job: The Missing 8’ by Erik Matti, the sole Southeast Asian film in the main competition, bagged the Volpi Cup for Best Actor for John Arcilla’s performance in the film.

pine entry to compete alongside 20 of some of the world cinema’s heavyweights. Arcilla as Sisoy is a crusading and idealistic small town radio journalist caught in the web of crime and political intrigue. For the seasoned actor who has headlined the equally-successful film Heneral Luna and Halaw and who is no stranger to international film festivals, there remains more to be proud of in the series’ maiden feat. “Yes, as an actor it is such a pride to be part of a project that will represent our country to the world’s oldest and most prestigious international film festival,” Arcilla said, who sadly wasn’t able to physically attend the festival due to prior commitments and tapings. In the Star Magic hosted press junket for the series, Arcilla recalled how he was equal parts in awe and awakened by the project and its stark message. “I think it is one of the bravest, most powerful and best Filipino films produced and mounted this year. That this film is not an advocacy project, I hope it opens the eyes of a lot of world citizens about the realities most societies are collectively experiencing from” he said. Stressing that the series speaks volumes of the plight of countries, not just the Philippines, John pointed out, “World citizens should talk and do something about it. There are a lot of Sisoys in this world, only with different names.” Following On The Job: The Missing 8’s world premiere, the Filipino-created series was released on HBO Go on Sunday with the first three episodes available to stream and download. New episodes will be premiering every subsequent Saturday. On The Job also stars Andrea Brillantes, Joel Torre, Gerald Anderson, Joey Marquez, Piolo Pascual, Dennis Trillo, and Christopher de Leon.

Smart launches streaming app for concerts, virtual events SMART Communications is rolling out the red carpet when it comes to exclusive video content with the launch of GigaPlay, a streaming app especially developed for Smart subscribers so they may enjoy an entire suite of live and on-demand sport events, virtual concerts, and so much more with absolutely no subscription fee. Now downloadable on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, GigaPlay gives Smart customers free access to content curated for Filipinos’ passion for sports and entertainment. All they have to do is connect to the Smart mobile network and play the GigaPlay content they want anytime and anywhere. “We Filipinos know what we want when it comes to streaming and through GigaPlay, we want to make it simple and easy for Filipinos to access and watch what they love, powered by the country’s fastest mobile network. GigaPlay builds on our efforts to enable our subscribers to live the GigaLife, with all their digital needs and the latest technology right at their fingertips,” said Jane J. Basas, SVP and Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart. The launch of GigaPlay coincides with GigaFest, Smart’s monthlong thanksgiving celebration for subscribers marked by awesome freebies, concerts, and other surprises. Catch iHeartRadio Music Festival 2021, KCON:TACT HI 5, NBA and PBA games, and more. Using GigaPlay, Smart users can catch the Philippine-exclusive stream of the annual iHeartRadio Music Festival 2021 featuring performances by Billie Eilish, Coldplay, Dua Lipa, J Cole, Khalid, Maroon 5, and other top artists on Sept. 18 and 19, from 10:30 a.m. onwards on both days. GigaPlay will also house another Philippine-exclusive stream in KCON:TACT HI 5 virtual concert happening on Sept. 18 to 26, which includes performances by today’s biggest K-Pop artists, including MAMAMOO, AB6IX, PARK JIHOON, ATEEZ, and many more, as well as the weekly Korean music show M Countdown every Thursday at 5:00 p.m.. Smart subscribers can also catch the ongoing 46th season of PBA Philippine Cup and the forthcoming NBA season via NBA TV live on GigaPlay to cater to avid Filipino basketball fans. The streaming app will also be the new digital online home of the

Dua Lipa is one of the headliners of ‘iHeartRadio Music Festival 2021’ streaming exclusively on Smart’s GigaPlay (inset). UAAP games and the PVL starting next season. Aside from live concerts and sports, Smart subscribers may also stream on-demand content like the Hallyu Hangouts featuring Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin, reruns of key events from the recent Tokyo Olympics, FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers and Olympic Qualifying Tournament, and the recently concluded PVL Open Conference. Subscribers can also catch NBA content 24/7 with access to NBA TV Philippines inside GigaPlay. To download GigaPlay, click http://smrt.ph/gigaplay.

Camille Prats whips up nutritious, delicious meals in ‘Knorr Nutri-Sarap Kitchen’ BE INSPIRED to take a step forward to a better future as GMA Network and Knorr team up to showcase success stories of Filipinos who grew up eating nutritious and delicious meals in the newest cooking show Knorr Nutri-Sarap Kitchen. Hosted by Kapuso TV hostactress Camille Prats-Yambao, Knorr Nutri-Sarap Kitchen features these «malusog na bukas” success stories and pays tribute to Filipinos who have worked hard to achieve their dreams despite the challenges they experienced growing up. Part of their success is attributed to eating simple and nutri-sarap meals prepared by their mothers. The cooking show puts a spot-

light on popular personalities and ordinary people with inspiring stories like basketball star Marc Pingris who spent his childhood days helping his mom sell vegetables at the Pozorrubio public market in Pangasinan; Doc Joeffrey ‘Otit’ Mambucon, the first from the Tigwahanon-Manobo Tribe who graduated with a double degree in Nursing and Medicine; Teacher Fe Matullano Lustañas, a public school teacher-turned-philanthropist who started the Education Under the Bridge program; and comedienne and entrepreneur Marietta “Pokwang” Subong. Knorr Nutri-Sarap Kitchen airs every Sunday at 10:05 a.m., on GMA Network

Rising star Kych Minemoto

THERE is nothing exploit gave us the kitschy about Kych many charots and Minemoto. their subtexts, Kych In the plays probeing the fabulous duced by Gantimfemme Achilles De pala Theater and Dios who experiTangahaang Pilipienced unrequited no, Kych learned the love courtesy of the importance of units and objectives, straight-acting Terrence Carreon porcharacter and script analysis, the trayed Kyle Velino. value of the In the movie play w r ight’s incarnation of narrative, the the phenomdictatorial enal Philiptendencies of pine boys love stage direcdrama, Kych tors, respect showed the for co-actors, other facets the value of of Achilles -– verbal cues feisty, acting and physical more emoprops, and tionally mathe discipline, ture than his respect, and digits of twenlove for the ty summers craft. taking note of That is why the fact how it a no brainer he gave Terfor the theaterrence a piece trained Kych of his mind to traipse the and with Wesmagical and ley (played mystery world by Miggy that is show Jiminez), the business. In war he waged Young actor Kych Minemoto movies whereleft us wantin he only had ing for more. walk-on and C u r r e nt ly, no lines whatsoever parts or as part of his Sine Halaga film billed as Masalthe teen posse, the Filipino-Japanese’s imuot Ya Tiyagew Ed Dayat (Summer X factor and that it boy vibe cannot Blues), a coming-of-age short film be denied. about two teenaged best friends FedHis biggest career break, we erico (Kych) and Luis (Z Mejia) and all know of course, was to be in the one summer they will never forget the Gameboys 13.5 special episode gets all the love from short film afidirected by Perci Intalan of The Idea cionados. Read full story on manilaFirst Company. The one time, big time standard.net

Life

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

FOOD

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

YOU’RE SO CHEESY

Why does cheese

make meals better By Steph Llarena

ON-CHEESE lovers would argue it does not, so this is for those who love cheese or are unaware of its ability to make things taste better.

Cheese is considered nature’s flavor enhancer. The fat and salt (added as preservative) give it umami or savoriness. Richard Cornish, in an article on Good Food, wrote, “When we eat meat or other foods high in amino acid such as mushroom, tomato, asparagus, or cheese, they taste extra good.” It’s like salt but better.

Some even compare cheese to bacon, “it improves almost anything,” they say. No wonder there’s an added premium to meals with cheese: cheeseburger, cheese fries, baked oysters with cheese, dynamite lumpia with cheese, and, yes, lumpia with cheese. It is also the not-so-secret ingredient of many dishes, such as caldereta.

When melted and added to hot meals, cheese can truly make some magic. The smoothness, gooeyness, and creaminess of melted cheese is a treat for many. Researchers say it is about the mouthfeel, the texture of melted cheese offers a unique source of pleasure. One of the most popular melting cheese brands on the market is Eden Cheese’s Melt Sarap. It offers the creaminess and cheesiness of Eden (sharp but with the right balance of saltiness and creaminess almost similar to white American cheese) with the added melt-in-your-mouth goodness suitable for dishes like baked

CHEESE ANYTHING. Cheese is considered nature’s flavor enhancer, giving food added umami or savoriness. In photo is Baked Macaroni made with melting cheese Eden Melt Sarap. macaroni, cheesy lasagna, and grilled cheese sandwich. The best way to enjoy the oozing Eden Melt Sarap is by baking the dishes at 220-230 degrees Celsius or 430-450 degrees Fahrenheit in a conventional oven in about 2.5 to 3 minutes. To encourage home cooks to ‘f lex’ their meals made with cheese, Eden

Melt Sarap holds the Melt Sarap Namnamin Challenge that is giving away gift certificates and a feature on the brand’s Facebook page to winning recipes. The brand also offers recipes using the melting cheese at cheeseanything. com. These are some of the easy-to-do dishes to make at home:

RECIPES

Ingredients: 12 pcs. 50g 50g 15g

Cheesy Baked Mussels mussels (tahong) Eden Melt Sarap, grated bacon bits, cooked chopped garlic parsley (optional)

Ingredients: 2 slices 2 slices 3 pcs. 1 tbsp.

Procedure: 1. Place half shelled mussels in a baking tray, top with garlic and Eden Melt Sarap. 2. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until brown. Transfer to a plate and garnish with parsley.

Grilled Cheese with Bacon bread Eden Melt Sarap bacon, fried butter

Procedure: 1. Make the sandwich with bacon and cheese. 2. In a pan, heat butter until melted. Grill the sandwich in the pan until golden brown.

Fast food chain unveils new store features for quick ordering, convenient dining FAST food just got faster as McDonald’s Philippines opens new store innovation for drive-thru and outdoor dining. In August, the chain’s branch in Anabu, Cavite launched the first dual lane drive-thru, enabling two simultaneous transactions to cut

down waiting time. The ride-thru dual lane is part of the NXTGEN upgrades made to elevate customer experience. McDonald’s NXTGEN stores include self-ordering kiosks, cashless payments, split counters for ordering and claiming, Guest

Bike and Dine area (left) and the first dual-lane drive-thru at McDonald’s Anabu.

Experience Leaders, and more. “With the opening of our very first ride-thru dual lane branch and the introduction of more modern global store innovations in the Philippines, we are able to elevate the ordering and dining experiences of Filipino consumers, bringing them more ‘love ko ‘to’ moments for years to come,” said McDonald’s Philippines assistant vice president Oliver Rabatan. The next ride-thru dual lane will soon open at McDonald’s SLEx-Mamplasan branch. In addition to faster ordering features, the chain also rolled out Bike and Dine areas in several branches. It has bike racks with dining ledges that allow cyclists to enjoy their meals close to their bikes outdoors.

BITES Buko pandan in Cadbury

Roller Coaster’s new look and new barbecue flavor.

Roller Coaster’s new flavor

If you like it, then you should have put a barbecue ring on it. Jack ‘n Jill’s Roller Coaster, sporting a new look, is now available in barbecue. It features a balance of sweet, savory, and smokey barbecue flavors and comes in solo and buddy packs. Roller Coaster Cheddar Cheese debuted its brand new look in lighter blue. Both cheese and barbecue flavors are available in leading supermarkets and on Universal Robina Corporation’s Shopee store.

Ingredients: 1 pc. ½ cup 3 tbsp. ½ 9 pcs. 2 tbsp. 2 cups 1 tsp.

Mondelez’s Cadbury takes on favorite Filipino flavors to create a new and unique chocolate variant. Cadbury Dairy Milk Pandan Choconut combines creamy milk chocolate with yummy coconut and sweet pandan. “It’s definitely a unique and delicious experience as Cadbury goes Pinoy for a limited time only,” it says. The new flavor is available in 90g bars and sold in leading supermarkets and convenience stores. Cadbury Dairy Milk Pandan Choconut

Cheesy Pizza ready-made pizza dough ground pork chopped onions red bell pepper, sliced olives, sliced tomato sauce shredded Eden Melt Sarap Italian seasoning

Procedure: 1. In a pan, sauté ground pork with Italian seasoning. Set aside. 2. Spread the tomato sauce evenly on the pizza dough and top with shredded cheese, ground pork, onion, bell pepper, and olives. 3. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the sides of the pizza are crisp and golden brown.

10-seater fine dining restaurant Helm in BGC is included in the prestigious 50 Best Discovery List of expert-approved restaurants and bars worldwide.

BGC restaurant joins prestigious 50 Best list A 10-SEATER restaurant at Arya Res- The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, The idences in BGC, Taguig lands on the World’s 50 Best Bars, Asia’s 50 Best prestigious list of expert- a p p r o v e d Restaurants, Asia’s 50 Best Bars, and dining and drinking Latin America’s 50 Best destinations worldwide. Restaurants. Chef Josh BoutThe library provides a wood’s fine dining resrecommended list for its taurant Helm is now over 2 million followers part of the over 2,000 to explore in their travels restaurants and bars to across Asia, Europe, and be part of 50 Best Disthe Americas. covery List. At the helm of Helm, Chef Josh Bo utwood “I am ecstatic to Filipino-British chef Bout Boutshare @helmmnl inwood has worked with clusion in @50bestdiscovsome of the best restaurants ery. These are challenging times but in Europe. He joined The Bistro Group we shall continue to press on. It’s nice in 2012 as executive corporate chef. to have some good news for a change,” Boutwood is optimistic the latest Boutwood said. recognition will give a boost to the resLaunched in 2019, the 50 Best Dis- taurant industry “when our economy covery List curates its selection based opens up and our guests can once again on responses from a global voting indulge in gastronomic experiences”. academy that names the best restau“It will be a significant boost to rants and bars as part of the lists for Helm,” he said.