Vol. 35
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No.314 No. 314
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December 26, 2021 8 PAGES
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IN MET R MANILAO
HEAD HEAD HEADSenator Manny PacPac-
quiao, who is eyeing the presidency in 2022, is warmly welcomed by hio is eyeing the presidency in 2022, is warmly welcomed by o is eyeing the presidency in 2022, is warmly welcomed by his supporters at Brgy. Payatas, Quezon City during a sortie. Manny is supporters at Brgy. Payatas, Quezon City during a sortie. Manny s supporters at Brgy. Payatas, Quezon City during a sortie. Manny Palmero
‘NAMAMASKO PO.’ Children display
a sign with Christmas greetings as they ask for alms along a highway in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte province on December 25, over a week after Super Typhoon Odette devastated the province and most of Visayas and Mindanao. Ferdinandh CABRERA / AFP
NDRRMC DEATH TOLL NOW AT 367 NEWS / 2A
$12-m Xmas gift from UN P600m from world body’s disaster fund to boost PH ‘Odette’ aid
Church holds Christmas Mass with soaked floor n By RON LOPEZ, AGENCE-FRANCE PRESSE ALEGRIA, Surigao del Norte -- Father Ricardo Virtudazo stands in a pool of water
in his typhoon-hit church in the southern Philippines delivering Christmas Day mass to dozens of devotees whose wishes this year were for new roofs, food and fine weather. More than a week after Typhoon Odette cut a
swathe through the archipelago, killing nearly 400 people and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless, survivors clung to family and faith after their homes—and planned festivities—were wiped out.
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VATICAN CITY— Pope Francis on Saturday urged dialogue on both personal and political levels as he celebrated a second Christmas while billions around the world again labored under the shadow of a coronavirus pandemic that was pushing people into isolation. In his traditional Urbi and Orbi Christmas Day message to the faithful gathered in St.
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Personal, political dialogue must under COVID—Pope
COVID-19 PH A
Peter’s Square at the Vatican, the pontiff also deplored that the “immense tragedies” in Syria, Yemen and Iraq were “being passed over in silence” and cautioned against fresh violence in the simmering conflict in Ukraine. “In this time of pandemic... Our capacity for social relationships is sorely tried; there is a growing tendency to
WORSHIP THE SAVIOR.
Pope Francis kisses a figurine of baby Jesus during the Christmas Eve mass at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, on December 24. AFP
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N A Christmas gift of sorts, the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund has released $12 million (about P600 million) in humanitarian assistance to help the Philippine government-led recovery efforts of communities severely affected by Typhoon Odette.
“I am releasing $12 million from @UNCERF to help deliver urgent humanitarian assistance to support the Government-led response to Super #TyphoonRai (#OdettePH) in the #Philippines,” Martin Griffiths, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said in a Twitter post on Friday.
STILL FAITHFUL. Catholic faithful attend Christmas Mass in their destroyed church in Alegria, Surigao del Norte province on December 25, more than a week after Super Typhoon Odette devastated the province. Ferdinandh Cabrera / AFP
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n By REY E. REQUEJO
4A 1B 3B 4B
‘Allah save them’: 37 dead in Bangladesh ferry blaze WORLD | 3A
200m jabs seen before yearend; case tally up NEWS | 2A
BBM vows to double ‘Odette’ storm relief NEWS | 2A
INBRIEFS
Give more benefits to frontliners—solon
DECEMBER 26, 2021
‘Odette’ death toll at 367; Southern Leyte tally at 27
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n By RONALD O. REYES
HE number of reported human deaths due to Typhoon Odette continues to rise, reaching 367 as of Friday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Saturday.
The latest death toll includes 41 fatalities, raising the previous 326 reported as of December 24. In its latest report, the NDRRMC said only 44 of the fatalities have so far been confirmed, including those reported in Palawan, Negros Occidental, Iloilo, Guimaras, Bohol, Southern Leyte, Bukidnon, and Misamis Oriental. Drowning, falling trees and debris were leading causes of deaths, the anti-disaster agency said. A total of 62 people remain missing, while
732 were reported injured due to the typhoon that blasted through Central Philippines and Mindanao. In Southern Leyte, at least 27 people were killed and thousands more displaced as affected residents appealed for immediate help after the onslaught of Super Typhoon Odette on December 16. In the information released by Police Regional Office-Eastern Visayas, the fatalities in Southern Leyte were from the towns of Malitbog (5),
Tomas Oppus (2), Macrohon (1), Maasin City (1), Saint Bernard (7), Liloan (3), Limasawa (1), Sogod (2), Padre Burgos (1), San Francisco (2), and San Ricardo (1). One also remained missing in Saint Bernard. In Leyte, the lone fatality was from Inopacan. As of Saturday morning, December 25, the number of evacuated individuals reached 59,119 in Southern Leyte, based on the consolidated partial situation report of the police regional command. At least 256 passengers and 200 vehicles were stranded in various seaports in the two affected provinces while commercial flights have already resumed in the region. Police personnel, along with other law enforcement agencies, also conducted 149 rescue operations, 207 clearing operations and 387 relief works.
200m jabs seen before yearend; 433 new COVID cases, tally rising
BALANCING ACT. A lineman
of the Negros Oriental Electric Coop II removes his safety shoes for a better toe grip on the wires as he attempts to connect a power line across a river, one of several structures damaged at the height of Super Typhoon Odette last week. Dave Leprozo
n By JOEL. E. ZURBANO THE Philippines is expecting to receive 200 million vaccine doses before the end of the year since the COVID-19 jabs started arriving in February. This was revealed by National Task Force Against COVID-19 special adviser Dr. Ted Herbosa following the latest arrival of 1,187,550 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The government is confident the country will reach another milestone in its vaccination program by fully inoculating 54 million Filipinos by year end. Meanwhile, the Philippines confirmed 433 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the country’s total to 2,838,381. The Department of Health also reported 369 new recoveries, pushing the total number of Filipinos who recovered from the disease to 2,777,818. The country has a total of 9,376 active cases as of 4 p.m. Saturday. About 137 new deaths from COVID-19 were also reported, bringing the country’s death toll from the disease to 51,187. As of Dec. 20, the government has achieved 57.3 percent of its targeted 77.1 million people, more than 8 months since its vaccine rollout, according to ABS-CBN News’ vaccine tracker.
Bongbong vows to double down on storm relief n By REY E. REQUEJO PRESIDENTIAL candidate and former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has vowed to double down on their relief efforts and continue sending aid to those affected and displaced by Typhoon Odette. He urged the whole nation “to stay strong and unified in the face of the misfortunes that some of our countrymen are experiencing this Christmas.” “My supporters will continue scourscour
ing the remote areas in the provinces that were badly hit by the typhoon to bring the necessary assistance. We will not stop helping them until such time that they will be back on their feet,” said Marcos, standard bearer of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas. In an interview with DZRH over the weekend, Marcos promised to visit the victims in other provinces, “as the reports of the extent of the devastation in their areas came in late because of poor communications.” “It is not possible to go far. When
the news came out in Palawan, it was a bit heavy so we sent a ship with relief goods for Odette’s victims and we will meet it there because I don’t think we can fly yet,” Marcos said. He emphasized that aside from food, electricity, and other basic necessities, water has been a critical problem. “We sent almost 30 tons of water to various places, but what we will do next is the filtration kit. We remember the cholera, the bacteria because of the dirty water,” Marcos said.
A CONGRESSIONAL leader has pushed for the enactment of a bill that provides additional allowances and benefits for health care workers during the coronavirus pandemic. Assistant Majority Leader and Rep. Alfred Vargas of Quezon City, in House Bill 10331, or the Allowances and Benefits for Health Care Workers Act, cited the need for “just compensation” of P1 million in case of a health care worker’s death due to COVID-19 in the line of duty. The bill also sets additional benefits of P100,000 in case of severe COVID-19 sickness, and P15,000 in case of mild or moderate COVID-19 infection. “Amidst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, health care workers have been at the vanguard of protecting the health and welfare of the general public as they risk their lives to serve and provide care especially for COVID-19 infected patients,” Vargas said in the bill’s explanatory note. He said while added benefits are already provided by law, there is a need “to augment and strengthen these efforts and to properly recognize and compensate our heroes.” “It is imperative to increase the benefits and allowances that our health care workers receive during this public health crisis,” he added. The Vargas bill also sets a fixed monthly COVID-19 Special Risk Allowance for every month served during the state of national emergency in addition to the hazard pay granted under Republic Act 7305 or the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers.
De Lima spends 5th Christmas in jail ON HER fifth year in “unjust” detention, Senator Leila M. de Lima continues to wish for justice and vindication from all the “trumpedup” drug charges filed against her, and to spend time with her loved ones. In a statement, De Lima also said on Christmas Day she hopes for the country’s and her fellow Filipinos’ recovery from the current crisis, “and freedom from this vindictive and corrupt government.” This is the fifth time that De Lima, the most prominent political prisoner under the Duterte regime, would be spending Christmas in detention since Feb. 24, 2017. She will celebrate Christmas with select family members who are expected to visit her at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City. In her message, De Lima also reminded Filipinos that they can survive challenges if they are united and have faith. She thanked those who willingly helped others despite their own problems. Maricel V. Cruz
Lacson eyes future-proof measures vs. pandemic IMPLEMENTING his proposed future-proof strategic measures to lift the entire nation from the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic remains a priority for Partido Reporma chairman and standard-bearer Panfilo “Ping” Lacson should he receive the executive mandate from the electorate. Included in this wide-ranging agenda is the creation of jobs to curb the unemployment rate, overhauling the budget system to cut national debt, providing funds for the universal healthcare coverage of Filipinos, and stamping out unbridled corruption in the bureaucracy, among others. Lacson also mentioned he and running mate Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III would like to get to the bottom of the rampant agricultural smuggling they recently uncovered as well the perennial diplomatic, trade and national security issues involving the West Philippine Sea.
HOLIDAY CHEERS. Punong Baran-
gay Rodolfo Pico and volunteers distribute Bacolod City Mayor Bing Leonardia’s Christmas bags in Barangay Mansilingan. Meanwhile, 65 children from Brgy. San Isidro Labrador in Dasmariñas, Cavite received Christmas gifts from the Dasmarinas City Police via ‘Pamasko Mo, Sagot Ko’ led by the Women and Children’s Protection Desk. Bacolod PIO/JR Josue
“There are so many problems that need to be addressed; sometimes they are connected, sometimes they are independent from each other. For us, in one of our programs, we will keep our focus on addressing the pandemic,” Lacson told reporters in a press conference held in Lingayen, Pangasinan before the Christmas holidays. In his pre-election consultation meetings with various stakeholders around the country, Lacson relentlessly pushed for his Budget Reform Advocacy for Village Empowerment (BRAVE) program, which he believes is an effective solution that could address our most pressing problems at once. By fixing how the national budget should be distributed equitably across the regions, the Universal Health Care Act could be properly funded, thus allowing all Filipinos to get the standard level of care and medical treatment promised to them by the state under the law, Lacson said.
BARMM helps LGU revive mid-highway economy n By NASH B. MAULANA TAMBUNAN, Maguindanao—This village along the old Cotabato national highway is rising from its dark past, even as leaders commit to its development into a potential midway terminal-market hub. In a memorandum of agreement with the local government unit, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will build an integrated terminal here, starting in early 2022 to cater to buses and other public-utility
vehicles serving the route to and from southern Mindanao and this province. A town has since been created out of Tambunan, and is named after then Deputy Governor of Cotabato Empire Province, Datu Mama sa Guindolongan Midtimbang who was assassinated in 1968. BARMM Interior and Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo said the project also formed part of a local development package committed by the Bangsamoro leadership, under Chief Minister Ahod
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Balwag Al-Hadj Murad Ebrahim for the development of the region. Datu Guindolongan Mayor Midpantao Midtimbang Jr. noted that the proposed integrated terminal in his town will be the first to be established in a majority Muslim-populated locality in Central Mindanao. Sinarimbo signed the MOA with Mayor Midtimbang for the construction of the terminal building with diversion lanes and bus bay slots, as well as other designated areas for PUV terminal.
Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida
Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager
SPARED BY ‘ODETTE’. Youngsters take selfies in front of the MacArthur Landing
Memorial National Park in Brgy. Candahug in Palo, Leyte, which was largely untouched by Super Typhoon Odette while the southern part of Tacloban was badly hit. Danny Pata Rolando G. Estabillo Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Managing Editor Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Associate Editors Joyce Pangco Pañares News Editor Emil P. Jurado
Publisher Jimbo Owen Gulle City Editor Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer
Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board
WORLD
DECEMBER 26, 2021
BURNT HUSK. The burnt-out ferry is seen anchored along a coast a day after it caught fire killing at least 37 people in Jhalkathi, 250 km south of Dhaka on December 24. AFP
‘Allah save them’: 37 dead in Bangladesh ferry blaze
J
HALKATHI, Bangladesh -- At least 37 people died in an inferno on an overcrowded night ferry in Bangladesh on Friday, with terrified passengers leaping overboard and dozens including children still unaccounted for.
The latest maritime tragedy to hit the impoverished low-lying nation saw a fire burn through the three-storey vessel in the early hours while passengers slept on board. As light broke, rescue workers
combed through the still-smoking and charred remains of the vessel, removing dead bodies wrapped in white plastic as distraught relatives waited on the muddy riverbank for news. “I have just found the body of my mother-in-law. She jumped in the river and died of drowning. I don’t know what happened to my wife and children,” said Mohammad Russell from the riverbank near Jhalkathi, 250 kilometres (160 miles) south of Dhaka. “I searched the hospital. My wife and children weren’t there. I hope they survived by jumping into the river. Oh, Allah, save them,” he told AFP. Mohammad Ismail, 48, said that he threw his mother overboard into the “very cold” river and dragged her to the shore, but when he returned on a fishing boat his wife and daughter
were nowhere to be seen. “I saw a person burning in flames,” he told AFP by phone. “My other daughter survived after someone threw her in the river.” “My father, me, my six-month-old nephew and my sister were travelling together. When the fire broke, I gave the baby to a man. He was trying to save the baby. But now we cannot find them,” one woman survivor said. Witnesses said the blaze originated in the engine room, which may already have been on fire when the vessel left Dhaka late on Thursday. It had a license to carry 420 people but survivors said it was overcrowded. One official estimated that up to 700 passengers were on board when it left Dhaka. “We were sleeping on a mat on the ground floor deck. All the passengers were sleeping. My nine-year-old
grandson, Nayeem, was with me, he jumped into the river. I don’t know what happened to him,” said an elderly grandmother. Local police chief Moinul Islam told AFP said that with an unknown number of people having jumped overboard, the death toll may rise further. “We have sent some 100 people with burn injuries to hospitals in Barisal,” Islam said. “The fire went on for four or five hours before it was doused. The entire [ferry] has been gutted. But they managed to bring it to the shore,” local district administrator Johar Ali told AFP. “It is a new ship. It was constructed in 2019 and it has its fitness cleared until 2022,” Golam Sadek, head of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority, told AFP. AFP Experts in
Aegean claims 16 in migrant boat accident ATHENS -- At least sixteen people died when a migrant boat sank in the Aegean, Greece’s coastguard said early Saturday, just hours after a similar incident claimed another 11 lives. The latest tragedy -- the third since Wednesday -- came amid high smuggler activity not seen in Greek waters in months. According to Athens News Agency, the coastguard found 16 bodies late Friday, including those of three women and a baby, and rescued 63 people from a boat that overturned and sank near the island of Paros. Hours earlier, 11 bodies were recovered from a boat that ran aground on an islet north of the Greek island of Antikythera on Thursday evening. Ninety people stranded on the islet were rescued, the coastguard said. On Wednesday, a dinghy carrying migrants capsized off the island of Folegandros, killing at least three people. Thirteen people were rescued, while dozens remain missing, Greek authorities said. AFP
Omicron nixes 4.5k flights, rips holiday travel
NEW YORK -- Over 4,500 flights were cancelled around the world by Saturday and thousands more were delayed as the highly infectious Omicron variant disrupted holiday travel, according to tracking website Flightaware. One route, however, was thankfully not affected: Santa was on track delivering presents to children across the globe, air defense officials assured US President Joe Biden. According to Flightaware.com, at least 2,000 flights were cancelled worldwide on Christmas Day, including roughly 700 originating from or headed to US airports, with more than 1,500 delays as of 0720 GMT. On Friday, there were around 2,400 cancellations and almost 11,000 delays. The site also reported over 600 cancellations for Sunday. Pilots, flight attendants and other staff have been calling in sick or having to quarantine after exposure to Covid, forcing Lufthansa, Delta, United Airlines and many other carriers to cancel flights during one of the year’s peak travel periods. AFP
US to lift travel ban on southern Africa next week
WASHINGTON -- The United States will next week lift the travel ban imposed on several southern African nations when the Omicron variant of Covid was first detected, officials said Friday. Countries around the world restricted travel from southern Africa after the variant was detected in South Africa, which reported Omicron to the World Health Organiza-
tion (WHO) on November 24. WHO and the United Nations spoke out against the travel bans and officials in South Africa said they were being punished for identifying the strain and being transparent. White House assistant press secretary Kevin Munoz defended the ban on Twitter, saying, “The restrictions gave us time to understand Omicron
and we know our existing vaccines work against Omicron, (especially) boosted.” He said the travel ban would be lifted on December 31. A senior White House official added that with Omicron present across the United States and globally, international travelers from the eight affected countries would not have a significant impact on US cases. AFP
China files bills vs. women workplace discrimination BEIJING -- Chinese lawmakers are discussing new rules to prevent workplace discrimination and sexual harassment against women amid a string of high-profile cases in recent months. A draft bill published Friday includes a ban on employers stating gender preferences on job ads and quizzing female applicants about
their marital or pregnancy status –- a common practice that has been criticized for decades. Rapid economic growth in the past four decades coupled with the onechild rule has opened up more educational and employment opportunities for Chinese women. But women’s participation in the
workforce has dropped, due to gender-based filtering when hiring and as more women care for families amid a severe shortage of affordable childcare options. A report by Human Rights Watch in June found that one in five civil service job postings in 2019 specified a preference for male applicants. AFP
FromtheFRONTPAGE
to the Philippines to help in its relief operations. The European Union said it would allocate €2.83 million or P160.69 million worth of humanitarian assistance to areas severely battered by Odette. US Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) ad interim Heather Variava has said that the US Agency for International Development, is providing P10 million in immediate assistance to support communities devastated by typhoon Odette. “The United States is providing P10 million in immediate support, including food and shelter for communities affected by typhoon Odette,” Variava said in a statement. According to Variava, USAID is partnering with Action Against Hunger to provide food, water, hygiene supplies, and other relief items to people affected by the typhoon in Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands. China said it will provide US$1 million or approximately P50 million in emergency cash assistance to the Philippines “to help the government and people in the typhoon Odette affected areas overcome the disaster and rebuild their homes at an early date”. This was announced by Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian as he turned over the last batch of 10,000 metric tons of China-aided rice to the Philippine government on Dec. 22. “Donations have echoed President Xi Jinping’s condolences offered yesterday (Dec. 21),” the Chinese ambassador said. Xi has extended to President Duterte his deep mourning for the victims and his sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and injured. He expressed that “China
stood ready to render assistance to the Philippine side to the best of its ability.” For its part, the South Korean government said it will also donate US$2 million worth of humanitarian assistance to the country and an additional US$50,000 worth of in-kind donation in the coming days for relief response. Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Kim Inchul made the announcement during his meeting with Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Teodoro Locsin on Wednesday. Kim stressed the US$50,000 will be used to procure and deliver rice to those affected by the typhoon while the US$2 million cash assistance will boost the recovery efforts to build resilience and restore livelihoods in communities affected by typhoon.
$12-M...This developed as the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Saturday belied reports there were still looting incidents in areas devastated by the super typhoon, but also said relief goods distribution remains hampered. The looting happened only during the “early days” of the aftermath of Odette, but the police have since been deployed in these areas, said NDRRMC Spokesperson Mark Timbol. Supplies of relief goods have also been sent to these areas, he added. However, Timbol also acknowledged that aid distribution to many stormravaged areas remains hampered by lack of personnel. “Because our LGUs, their workers were also victims [of the typhoon] so not all of them are able to report to help in the networks on the ground,” Timbol said in an interview with Teleradyo. Timbol said the main needs of evacuees and storm victims is food, drinking water and shelter materials. The UN Central Emergency Response Fund supports rapid humanitarian response for people affected by natural disasters and armed conflict. Gustavo Gonzales, UN country team coordinator in the Philippines, lauded the relief assistance, saying it will support the recovery efforts of the typhoon victims. Earlier, the United States, China, South Korea and European Union have made pledges of assistance, committing that they each provide cash assistance
CHURCH...“What’s important is all of us are safe,” said Joy Parera, 31, attending Christmas mass with her husband at San Isidro Labrador Parish church in the town of Alegria, on the northern tip of Mindanao Island. A light rain soaked the pews and white tiled floor of the damaged church, which has been left with a gaping hole in the roof after Rai ravaged the area. Devotees wore masks as they gathered inside the church festooned with Christmas decorations and prayed for a better year. “We still have hope,” Virtudazo told AFP. “In spite of the calamities they experience, they still have faith in God.” Christmas is one of the most important events in the Christian calendar and in the Catholic-majority Philippines, families
MERRY ELEPHANTS. Mahouts and their elephants pose for children during Christmas celebrations at the Jirasart Witthaya school in Ayutthaya on December 24. AFP typically gather to share a meal. But the widespread destruction caused by Rai in the southern and central regions of the country has dampened celebrations as many survivors plead for drinking water and food. Mindanao, Siargao, Dinagat and Bohol islands are among the most devastated by the storm, which knocked out electricity, tore off roofs, shredded wooden buildings, felled concrete power poles and uprooted trees. The scale of the damage, lack of mobile phone signal or internet in many areas, and depleted government coffers after the Covid-19 response were hampering efforts to distribute aid. ‘We’ll make do with spaghetti’ Nardel Vicente said his Christmas wish was for someone to help him buy a new roof for his house in Alegria after it was wrecked by Rai, which hit the country on December 16 as a super typhoon. Jobless and with little money to spare, Vicente said his family would not be able to prepare a festive meal this year.
PERSONAL...withdraw, to do it all
by ourselves, to stop making an effort to encounter others and do things together,” he said. “On the international level too, there is the risk of avoiding dialogue, the risk that this complex crisis will lead to takingshortcuts rather than setting out on the longer paths of dialogue.” “Yet only those paths can lead to the resolution of conflicts and to lasting benefits for all.” Around the world, “we continue to
witness a great number of conflicts, crises and disagreements. These never seem to end; by now we hardly even notice them. We have become so used to them that immense tragedies are now being passed over in silence,” he said, mentioning Syria, Iraq and Yemen, among others. “In Ukraine, prevent fresh outbreaks of a long-festering conflict,” he said, as tensions mounted between Russia and the West over the fate of the strategic ex-Soviet country. Pope Francis also called for more solidarity with those living in poverty as he celebrated mass in Rome in front of a masked congregation of around 2,000 people. An explosion in cases driven by the rise of the Omicron variant has meant a Christmas season tainted by the pandemic for a second year running, with Santa’s arrival and longed-for family reunions overshadowed by the prospect of yet more Covid-19 restrictions. In St Peter’s Basilica, the 85-year-old Argentine pontiff urged the faithful to “value the little things in life”. “On this night of love, may we have only one fear: that of offending God’s love, hurting him by despising the poor with our indifference,” said Francis, who later Saturday will give his traditional Urbi et Orbi address and blessing. About 2,000 members of the public and 200 religious figures attended the Christmas Eve mass, wearing face masks and respecting social distancing as part of measures against the coronavirus. AFP
H
E FIRST gained fame as a teen model for the TV commercials of Royal Tru-Orange in the late 1980s, which paved the way for his career as an actor and TV personality. Over the years, Rene “RJ” Ledesma Jr. would wear many hats, including as event host, writer, author, speaker, teacher, real estate executive, honorary consul and serial entrepreneur.
One of his many ventures is EnterPH, a business consultancy he runs together with lawyer Ricardo Chan. EnterPH helps foreign companies expand to or outsource their businesses to the Philippines. Prior to setting up EnterPH, Ledesma learned the intricacies of businesses and foreign diplomacy as the Honorary Consul of Monaco to the Philippines. He serves together with his mother, Consul General Fortune Aleta-Ledesma. Honorary consul He remembers being approached by several foreign companies asking for assistance in setting up and running their businesses in the country. Among the responsibilities of an honorary consul are to facilitate the development of economic, scientific and cultural relations between countries and to protect the interests of Monaco and their citizens in the Philippines. One of the highlights of his diplomatic career was the State Visit of Prince Albert to the Philippines. He also assisted AMADE Foundation—a charity founded by Princess Grace of Monaco to support the
development, education and health of children worldwide in setting up a day care center with the Virlanie Foundation in the Philippines. Serial entrepreneur As a businessman, Ledesma says he developed his entrepreneurial mindset through “osmosis from my father— Honorary Consul Rene Ledesma of
DECEMBER 26, 2021
How TV host became
serial entrepreneur Bulgaria, while I was growing up”. Ledesma describes his father as the original serial entrepreneur—from shipping to video rental stores to prawn farming to real estate development. “He always encouraged us to put up our own businesses,” Ledesma says of Ledesma Sr. “So, picking up from my dad’s example, I naturally gravitated to putting up my own businesses as well.” The first business Ledesma Jr. established was Mercato Centrale—the largest and premier outdoor night food market in the country, followed by EnterPh and EasyFranchise—an online platform for all things related to franchising. “My philosophy when it comes to putting up my businesses is to apply the ‘the entrepreneurial mindset’. The job of an entrepreneur is to be drawn towards solving ‘pain points’ – turning turn irritations into inspirations for business,” says Ledesma, who studied Applied Economics at the De La Salle University and Masters in Real Estate Development at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “There were pain points I saw in how the outdoor food market was being run in the
RJ Ledesma
Philippines, there were paint points I saw in how foreign SMEs could put up businesses in the Philippines, and there were pain points I saw in how OFWs could invest in franchises in the Philippines. So my job was to turn these pain points into opportunities,” Ledesma says. Meanwhile, Chan, the president and co-founder of EnterPH, has previously helped large business process outsourcing companies establish their operations in the Philippines. Business partnership Together, Ledesma and Chan saw an opportunity to assist foreign small and medium scale enterprises and outsourcing-related companies establish their legal presence in the Philippines in a cost-effective manner, help them make the proper connections and build their business ecosystem to effectively run their operations. Among the services EnterPH offers are business registration, legal and corporate services, tax consulting, visa processing, business matching, bookkeeping and payroll and HR consulting. Recently, EnterPH teamed up with Creative Zone, a leading business setup company based in Dubai. “Our strategic partnership with Creative Zone complements our current line of business, especially since EnterPh’s purpose is to support the growth of the Philippine economy through helping foreign businesses set up shop in the country. With Creative Zone, we continue to support the growth of the economy by helping local businesses and startups expand their footprint into UAE and other Gulf
Cooperation Council markets,” says Ledesma. The partnership aims to help Filipino enterprises expand their operations in the United Arab Emirates and provide a platform and advice to small and medium enterprises and investorseeking startups to enter the UAE and expand their business in other Gulf Cooperation Council markets. “Dubai has always been close to my heart, and educating my fellow entrepreneurs on the overlying opportunities and business potential that can be leveraged whilst within the country is a novel approach,” says Ledesma. “Companies like Creative Zone make it much easier by providing business owners with flexible and cost-effective solutions about how and where to set up and operate their companies locally in the UAE. I look forward to this fruitful partnership encouraging the spirit of entrepreneurship,” he says. Business plans Ledesma hopes to further expand the services of EnterPH. “We are hoping to bring in more knowledge-based and skill-based outsourcing businesses into the country, along with encouraging global startups to outsource their business processes here for cost-saving purposes,” he says. “For our partnership with Creative Zone, we are excited to bring many of our service-oriented businesses to the UAE because Filipinos over there are a well-respected source of talent and hard work. Also, we are looking forward to helping our startups to also expand to UAE where they can get a global footprint and access to investment as well,” he says. Roderick T. dela Cruz
Pandemic drives millennials to invest in homes FOR most millennials, the pandemic is a game-changer. Before the global health crisis hit, the young generation of assertive and ambitious individuals blew their earnings on gadgets, weekend parties and big-ticket items like cars and travel. The lockdowns and quarantine restrictions put a halt on millennials’ lifestyle. Told to shelter in place, millennials gained a new appreciation for what a safe haven should be. One might say that they looked around and realized that the changing living situations were pushing them to buy property as an upgrade from renting or crashing at their parents’ homes. As a result, a growing number of young Filipinos, looking at the pandemic as a wake-up call, are now taking more interest in the real estate market. Responding to this positive trend, Bria Homes, tagged as the ‘home of choice’ of millennials, continues to expand its portfolio of vertical and horizontal properties. With flexible work arrangements and online learning seen as a long-haul set-up, millennials consider cleverly laid-out, well-designed Bria condominium units as value-for-money homes they can invest in because of their expected appreciation over the years. Young potential homeowners will also enjoy the integrated features of Bria’s
Millennials will find in Bria Homes the idyllic setting for remote work and learning. residential projects because these are likely to prove handy and convenient for them, post-lockdown. Meantime, millennials will find in Bria Homes not only the vibrant communities they need for a holistic and sustainable lifestyle, but also the idyllic setting for remote work and learning. With Bria’s transition to the digital space, productivity in both platforms is ensured. Bria’s digital payment options for amortization fees are also after the millennials’ hearts. Bria has partnerships with BDO Unibank, Maybank, Unionbank, PNB, Security Bank, RCBC, Robinsons Bank and Metrobank. It also encourages homeowners to use e-wallet
services like GCash, Paymaya and All Easy. As for the recreational amenities that young Filipinos find essential for worklife balance, Bria boasts of eco-friendly open spaces, play areas, multi-purpose halls, jogging paths and covered courts. “Our community designs meet, and even exceed, Filipino millennials’ new standards of living, post-pandemic. Whether in our horizontal developments or our vertical villages, we have the spaces and features that young Filipino residents need for a truly productive life,” said Red Rosales, president of Bria Homes. For millennials who value access to key lifestyle destinations, all Bria communities are within convenient distance to retail establishments, schools, churches, hospitals, government agencies, offices and banks. For professionals or entrepreneurs who need to commute or drive every day, the projects are also close to major road networks and highways. Aside from strictly following health protocols, Bria developments are equipped with guarded entrances and exits, solar lighting at night, perimeter fences, and 24/7 CCTV coverage. Primed to respond to residents’ concerns is a 24/7 digital customer relations management.
Gardenia beefs up bread supply in typhoon-hit areas By Othel V. Campos BREAD manufacturer Gardenia Bakeries is beefing up bread supply in regions ravaged by Typhoon Odette, particularly the towns in Eastern, Western and Central Visayas and Northern Mindanao to avert food shortage. Gardenia president Simplicio Umali said the company would exert efforts to provide adequate bread through its network of distribution channels. “We are doing our best to ship bread products from our plants in Laguna and Cagayan de Oro to typhoon-hit areas in Visayas and Mindanao. To avert food shortage, we continuously resupply goods using our large feeder trucks through the RORO shipping system. Additional Gardenia stocks are being delivered to Sorsogon, Samar, Leyte, Bohol, Panay, Negros, Cebu and affected parts of Mindanao,” Umali said. He noted the need for ready-to-eat food in times of calamities and the urgency of having adequate stock during dire times. “Food is one of the immediate needs of typhoon-affected families in, especially to those areas with no electricity and enough water supplies. Convenient and ready-to-consume goods like Gardenia bread, which do not require cooking, are essential,” he said. Gardenia remains at the forefront of relief efforts to alleviate the suffering of the victims in the severely affected areas. Gardenia has been donating bakery products during times of calamities, aside from its efforts to stabilize the
Gardenia joins relief efforts to help typhoon victims. bread supply. Gardenia works with the Philippine Red Cross, government agencies, media foundation and socio-civic organizations to extend help to damaged communities. Gardenia plants in Laguna and Cagayan de Oro are operating continuously and set at maximum production capacity to serve bread to consumers and provide bread donations for relief works in the affected areas. Umali said the locations of Gardenia factories in the country are strategically situated to continuously serve the communities especially during crisis periods like floods, typhoons, earthquakes and other natural disasters. “Gardenia currently operates five bakery plants in the Philippines—three in Luzon, one in the Visayas [Cebu],
and one in Mindanao [Cagayan de Oro]. Our facilities are purposefully located not only for commercial operations. All plants also serve as support to other factories and markets. We can also dispatch bread easily to other areas when the need arises, during unforeseen events or major calamities or natural disasters. This way we can ensure continuous food supply, especially when it is needed most,” he said. Umali cited the importance of the company’s unique logistics and distribution systems to ensure the proper delivery of products nationwide. “Our extensive and sophisticated distribution system and large fleet of trucks are indispensable to distribute Gardenia loaves across various distribution channels all over the country,” he said.
Lots’a Pizza president Tess Ngan Tian (left) and chairman and chief executive Ed Ngan Tian
Still hot: Lots’A Pizza turns 35
HUSBAND and wife Ed and Tess Ngan Tian—the founders of Lots’a Pizza—are celebrating a significant milestone this year. The Filipino pizza brand is marking its 35th anniversary. Ed started the business by opening the snack food stall R&W Foods at Virra Mall Greenhills in 1980. In 1986, he told Tess he wanted to open food stalls at San Beda College in Mendiola. Tess, who worked as a finance and administrative director for San Beda-Alabang, didn’t immediately get on board with his idea. “I was hesitant at first because I didn’t have any academic preparation and experience to be in the food business,” she said. Despite Tess’s apprehensions, Ed was able to convince her that it would be a good venture. He pointed out that the odds were in their favor as there was high foot traffic in the location he picked out. Tess said: “Our plan was to put up and sublease 12 stalls. We operated three of these stalls under the R&W Foods foodprints.” However, their plan didn’t really work out at first. “There were no takers,” she recalled. “So, we ended up taking over three more stalls. Tenants later occupied the rest of the stalls.” The couple stayed in the SBC location for eight profitable years. They only moved out because the school started constructing the College of Law building there. Pinoy pizza Aside from serving lunch fare and the usual snack items, Ed and Tess thought about serving “Pinoy style” pizza. To make sure that they did everything right, Tess took up a course in pizza technology at the prestigious American Institute of Baking (now known as AIB International) in Kansas City. When she was done with the course, Tess was able to develop Lots’a Pizza’s signature parbaked crust and sauce. The couple’s investment in crafting
the perfect Pinoy pizza paid off. Customers loved Lots’a Pizza. Soon after the brand took off, Tess resigned from her day job and focused on the business. Ed and Tess have been overseeing the pizza-making process since then. Lots’A Pizza’s operates commissaries in Las Pinas, Pampanga and Cavite. Lots’a Pizza is among the top five pizza companies in the Philippines and foremost in the takeout and quick serve category. Franchise-friendly In 2000, Lots’a Pizza started expanding. Ed presented the idea of franchising to Tess. Once again, she didn’t immediately agree with him. “There were no franchising schools at that time,” she said. Eventually, Ed was able to convince Tess to give franchising a try. The decision proved to be another win for Lots’a Pizza. In fact, its success has been recognized through several awards as Best Franchising Support, Best in Local Franchise, Best in Homegrown Franchise, Most Promising Franchise, Fastest Growing Franchise and finally in The Hall of Fame for franchise awards by Entrepreneur Magazine. It received the Best Business Award from BPI-Family Savings Bank and was in the bank’s best list of franchisors. Thriving amid pandemic In 2020, many businesses had to shut down over Covid-related restrictions. It is worth noting that almost all Lots’a Pizza outlets managed to stay open. Tess revealed, “The pandemic didn’t really stop us. We were only restricted due to the curfew imposed during lockdowns. But we were able to continue our operations. We have a number of outlets that are located in supermarkets. So, when supermarkets opened, they were also allowed to operate.” Our take-out and delivery options sustained us during these trying times.
DECEMBER 26, 2021
Diaz in a courtesy call to Dr. Haji Mohd Alin Bin Mohd Rustam, governor of Malacca in Malaysia
H
IDILYN Diaz may have to move up in weight if she has to take another shot at glory in the next Olympics set in Paris, France in 2024.
Will Diaz move up in weight for Paris 2024?
This after the International Weightlifting Federation came out with changes to the Olympic weightlifting classes, retaining only four weight categories that were played in the Tokyo 2020 held last July. Among those that were not removed was the women’s -55kg class where Diaz bagged the gold medal delivered in dramatic fashion. It was the country’s first gold medal since participating for the first time in the 924 Paris Games. Diaz’s final lift of 124 in the clean and jerk brought her total to 224 kilograms, just a kilogram ahead of eventual silver medalist Liao Qiuyun of the People’s Republic of China. The Zamboanga lass rejected retirement even after winning her second Olympic medal and vowed to go for slots in Paris. She bagged a silver medal in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In an article at Olympics.com, the proposed weight classes for the Paris 2024 Games are 61kg, 73kg, 89kg, 102kg, and +102kg for men, and 49kg, 59kg, 71kg, 81kg, and +81kg for women.
Will Hidilyn Diaz try to go for more glory in Paris 2024 Olympics? (Photo courtesy of Cultural Center of the Philippines)
Diaz with her Team HD
The 49kg and 59kg for women and 61kg and 73kg for men will be the holdover events from the Tokyo edition. There were also changes in the super-heavyweight categories for both men and women with the +109kg class being reduced to have been reduced to +102kg and the +87kg becoming +81kg class, respectively. The same report said it was still a draft that needed “approval from the IWF’s (International Weightlifting Federation) general council. Once approved, it will be sent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for clearance. A final decision is expected by the end of February 2022.” In a report by insidethegames.biz. com, however, the 10 weight categories “has already been agreed upon by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF)...and the “decision has the support of the IWF Athletes’ Commission.” Since winning the Olympic gold medal, Diaz’s life took a huge turn-
around. Millions of pesos in government and private sector cash incentives and what followed were a deluge of marketing collaborations with various businesses like Jollibee and Smart. She also went back to the place that has been her home and quarantine training at the height of the pandemic—Malacca, Malaysia where she was adopted as their own. Even the governor of Malacca, Dr. Haji Mohd Alin Bin Mohd Rustam, recognized Diaz for her triumph. Esquire, one of the country’s premier lifestyle magazines, has put her on its most recent cover as “Esquire Philippines’ Athlete of the Year.” “I will not only win for myself. I win for weightlifting. I win because of Team HD. I win for the Philippines, and I win for all the athletes,” she was quoted by the magazine’s article. If she’s not done yet, the Paris Olympics in 2024 will be a lot tougher.
PH Rugby Union elects new officers
Manalang nails P2M trey for Basilan
THE 2021 Annual General Meeting for the nation’s rugby association saw two new members elected into the Board of Trustees. Rose Mae Lanticse of Davao and Ric Bellen of Albay step into their first term. Maxwell Stewart has been reelected and is on his 4th year serving as PRFU’s Board of Trustee. After almost ten years of managing Philippine Rugby’s finances, William “Bill” Bailey has stepped down as Treasurer for the union. The experienced Charted Accountant joined the Board in 2012 and has played one of the most important roles the National Sports Association requires. “Bill has been tremendous, as a volunteer, to oversee all financial policies and processes for Philippine Rugby. It’s no easy task and our association is lucky we had his expertise for close to a decade. Bill implemented a financial policy that has benefited the union for not only the past but years to come” shared Jake Letts, CEO of Philippine Rugby. Bailey first served as the International Cricket Council (ICC) representative for the Philippines before transitioning across to help the Manila 10s International Rugby Tournament and later found himself joining the PRFU Board after a string of successful Manila 10s Festivals. Another long-standing member Jaime Urquijo has also officially stepped down after serving six years, the former national team member of the Volcanoes has also played an instrumental role focusing on business strategy, national teams, sponsorship, and development. “Jaime’s business acumen has been amazing, although he steps down officially we know he’s not too far away, we will continue to look to his counsel as a close member of our rugby community. He’s passionate about the game, he knows a number of people in the community want to assist the Union and he aims to be present in this development also” Letts added. “It has been a pleasure to serve on the PRFU board over the last six years. Under the leadership of Jake Letts, the union has done an outstanding job in building a strong development program and has successfully cemented the Philippines’ place amongst the top unions in Asia rugby in both the woman’s and men’s categories. I thoroughly enjoyed working closely with my fellow board members and I look forward to seeing how the union will continue to build out the presence and impact of the sport in the country” Urquijo added. Philippine Rugby will move ahead and set a new pathway, now having two female representatives at the Board level along with a wider representation of members across Philippine Rugby clubs, a first for the Union.
PHILIP Manalang proved that it’s not how you start, it’s how points and 11 rebounds in a losing effort for the Rice you finish. Vanguards. Manalang drained the P2-million overtime buzzer-beatJustin Gutang added 13 points, seven boards, and er, lifting Basilan-Jumbo Plastic Medical Depot to an three assists. Renz Palma had 11 points and seven 83-80 win over fancied Nueva Ecija in the Chooks-to-Go rebounds while Villarias ended with 10 points and four Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powboards. ered by TM final, Thursday night at the SM Mall of Asia Nueva Ecija lost a crucial piece in Chris Bitoon, who got Arena. injured during the 3:43 in the third quarter. The product of the University of the East, who was 0-of-8 Basilan topped Pool B with a perfect 4-0 record. Then, the prior, pulled the trigger from rainbow country with 1.9 secteam took out Mindoro-EOG Burlington in the quarterfinals onds left to help Basilan claim the first-ever professional title before escaping Pasig in the semis. of the MPBL. The team bagged a total of P2,000,000 from Chooks-toManalang, who was named the Finals MVP, also had six Go. Jumbo Plastic added P1,000,000 while Medical Depot assists and two rebounds in 35 minutes and 59 seconds of chipped in P100,000 to the pot. action. “For me, the win tonight is God-given,” said Basilan head coach Jerson Cabiltes, who also won the Ato Badolato Coach of the Tournament award. “So talagang gusto naming makuha ‘to dahil yun nga, nine months ago we were in this situation and hindi kami napagbigyan and then ito pala yung balik na biyaya samin ng Panginoon,” he added. Byron Villarias hit a huge triple in regulation to put the Rice Vanguards ahead, 74-73, with 26 seconds left. Michael Juico then earned a split on the line to send the game to an extension. Encho Serrano finished with 15 points and nine rebounds while Juico and Jonathan Uyloan both had 15 markers as well. Jay Collado scattered 15 points, seven assists, five rebounds, and two blocks while JR Taganas was a force inside the paint with 17 big rebounds to go along with nine points. Basilan team members celebrate with Philip Manalang, who was still lying on the On the other hand, tournament floor, after hitting the title-clinching trey MVP Michael Mabulac collected 24
Life Editor: Nickie WaNg
DECEMBER 26, 2021
nickie.standard@gmail.com
Be the light this
Yuletide season
By Jay Christopher Alfonso P. Dacuycuy
W
ITH parols, Santa Claus images, and kids singing their favorite Jose Mari Chan song emanating throughout the cold nights, it’s a hint that it’s the start of our favorite season of the year—Christmas. With colorfully wrapped presents in the house, Christmas trees glimmering with lights and ornaments, and the aroma of freshly cooked Puto Bumbong everywhere, we can truly feel the warmth and joy that this season gives us. Not to mention, Noche Buena. Nothing beats a feast with the whole family sharing laughter and smiles. But, with everything going on right now—COVID-19 lingering and Typhoon Odette’s effects destroying the hopes of many—it is difficult to truly feel Christmas. Highlighted by our Monitos and Monitas, shopping malls cloaked with decorations, and houses flooded with gifts under the tree, the spark in our hearts when December hits dies down as we try to provide these for the family. With
money to some are on the brink of extinction, we are blinded by material things that we forget the true meaning of Christmas—love, generosity, kindness, and celebrating Christ’s birth. These four essential things embody Christmas. Even without Santa Claus and his elves rocking our home. We must not spend money on a lot of star-shaped lanterns to give light to the streets. We must be our stars that do not only light up the house or the road, but also lights up others. A smile—this simple act can shed some kindness to others. Apart from a virus and a yawn, grinning from ear to ear is something that is very contagious. Yes, smiling is no stranger to the Filipinos. In fact, we are known to have a sunny dispo-
sition. Welcoming people to our homes with open arms is something we do while smiling. This simple act of love and kindness is something we need to emphasize especially during these trying times. We must let people experience the spirit of Christmas. Christmas isn’t only about getting. It is also about giving. A vital symbol to Christians, The Nativity depicts the simple birth of Jesus Christ—the reason for the holiday. In the manger, we see Baby Jesus surrounded by His parents, a few animals, and the three kings. This shows that God, being the generous father He is, let His Son step foot on Earth to save us. We must be as giving as the Lord. By sharing blessings, imparting love, and helping the underprivileged, we can be open-handed and let everybody feel the core meaning of this season. Though we won’t save them, we’ll let them feel that there is somebody who loves and values them. Let us try to give that precious smile to our co-Filipinos. The true meaning of Christmas is to partake
Christmas isn’t only a season for receiving but also for giving to others.
in the birth of Jesus Christ, and live accordingly to His image and likeness. Let us be the shining light, the parol, and be the illuminating light of the hearts and souls of all our Filipino countrymen.
Jay Christopher Alfonso P. Dacuycuy is a 16-year-old Grade 10 student at Harrell Home Integrated School. In this school year, he has the highest academic standing while being the president of Central Student Government.
to the ones who 0917 Lifestyle drops exclusive EXO Cheers ‘keep walking’ ‘Don’t fight the feeling’ collection GLOBE’S 0917 Lifestyle launched an exclusive line of merchandise that features EXO, one of the biggest K-pop boy groups under the music label SM Entertainment. Inspired by the group’s latest album, Don’t fight the feeling, the collection follows EXO’s highly-anticipated and thoroughly successful comeback album, which sold over a million copies worldwide. You and your chingu (friend in Korean) can get your hands on official EXO merch that’s definitely a must-have for all Filipino EXO-Ls. You can choose from EXO collectible shirts, jackets, caps, bucket hats, bags, lanyards, face masks, speakers, and earbuds featuring six of the group’s nine members - Baekhyun, D.O., Xiumin, Chanyeol, Kai, and Sehun. As a special treat, customers can also get a random exclusive Don’t fight the feeling photocard with a digital signature at the back with every purchase of the 0917 | EXO shirt. Try your luck and collect all 12 photocards, featuring two versions per member. The merchandise also includes an exclusive envelope sleeve pouch as its packaging. SM Entertainment has been hailed for its work in bringing the Hallyu wave to a worldwide audience for over 25 years now. The label’s artists like H.O.T., BoA, TVXQ!, Super Junior, Girls’ Generation, SHINee, EXO, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, and aespa have fandoms from all generations, with new drops expected for release in the coming year. “We are so excited to partner with SM Entertainment and bring official merchandise to K-pop fans here in the Philippines. Our EXO collaboration won’t be the last. We have more exciting collaborations in line for everyone to look forward to,” said Beng Ochoa, Globe Head of 0917 Lifestyle. 0917 Lifestyle is Globe’s progressive urban brand for apparel, gadgets, and accessories. The brand has long established itself as a stan account by working with other fandom-driven brands like Disney, Marvel, and even MTV. This is in line with its main goal of enabling the market’s self-expression and enjoyment.
The inspiring short film starring James Reid is part of Johnnie Walker’s campaign to celebrate the festive season.
Fans can choose from EXO collectible shirts, jackets, caps, bucket hats, bags, lanyards, face masks, speakers, and earbuds.
James Reid highlights the important people who have been instrumental to his success in the short video by gifting them with a bottle of Johnnie Walker.
Globe’s 0917 Lifestyle was inspired by the group’s latest album, ‘Don’t fight the feeling.’ A cap and shirt from the collection that features six out of the nine members of the K-Pop boy group.
Fans can also get a random exclusive ‘Don’t fight the feeling photocard’ with a digital signature at the back with every purchase of the 0917 | EXO shirt.
THIS holiday season, Johnnie Walker invites you to raise a glass to those who have played a part in your progress with its emotive film featuring actor, artist, and music producer James Reid. In the quick flick released early in the month of Christmas, the actorturned-musician celebrates those who have been present throughout his milestones by gifting them with a bottle of Johnnie Walker. In the short video, James talks about how he chose to defy expectations as he pursued his passion for music with his singing career and label Careless Music. In this endeavor, he highlights the importance of the people around him who have been instrumental to his success. He dramatically ends the 30-seconder film by brandishing Johnnie Walker’s famous tagline: Keep Walking. “I resonate with the message of the video so much because it’s what my story has been about and I have many, many people to thank,”
shares James Reid. “I hope this Christmas season, and even beyond that, this video encourages people to remember, celebrate, and raise a glass to those who have stood by them and to those who continue to keep walking with them.” The inspiring short film is part of the 200-year old liquor brand’s campaign to celebrate the festive season. A global campaign being done in other parts of the world, the video is in line with Johnnie Walker’s ethos to promote progress in all its forms. The Film is just one in a slew of exciting products and activities lined up for the holiday season. On Dec. 17, the Scotch brand premiered a special 45-minute YouTube live performance featuring James Reid, She’s Only Sixteen, and Loner. Viewers may watch this concert exclusively at the Johnnie Walker Philippines YouTube channel. Check out the Johnnie Walker film featuring James Reid on Johnnie Walker’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
DECEMBER 26, 2021
John Lloyd Cruz
marks TV comeback in ‘Happy ToGetHer’
A
By Nickie Wang
MERRIER and laughter-filled Christmas awaits viewers here and abroad as the highly-anticipated GMA comedy sitcom Happy ToGetHer premieres tonight. The sitcom also marks the much-awaited television comeback of John Lloyd Cruz.
In Happy ToGetHer, Lloydie is Julian, a handsome mechanic and single dad who aspires to give his son a better future and find his one true love. ‘The big challenge in doing this project is that I’m in a different network, I’m working with a new group of people. Kaya napakaswerte namin dahil iyong assis-
tance, paggabay, at pagtulong ng GMA sa amin ay talagang hindi matatawaran,” the 39-year-old seasoned actor said during the sitcom’s virtual conference. The multitalented actor also admitted that this new opportunity challenged him. “This opportunity from GMA executives, araw-araw namin ipinagpapasala-
mat. Sa bawat araw na nasa loob kami ng bubble, mayroon kaming opportunity na makapagtrabaho and we can all move forward from the current situation of our nation. In return, and gusto lang naman namin ay maibalik sa audience ‘yung favor na ibinibigay sa atin dito sa Kapuso Network,” Lloydie, who is also a creative consultant for Happy ToGetHer, said. Director Edgar “Bobot” Mortiz, who helms the sitcom, has nothing but good words for its lead star. “He’s very involved not just in the creatives. When most of us lost our jobs, I went to Lloydie and aked if we could do a show to help out some of our friends. He immediately sai, ‘Sige,
Direk. Kung makakatulong ako, babalik ako.’ ‘Yan ang unang-una naming ipagpapasalamat kay Lloydie,” the director narrated. Joining John Lloyd in the cast of Happy ToGetHer are Miles Ocampo as Liz, Jayson Gainza as Mike, Ashley Rivera as Pam, Jenzel Angeles as Rocky, Eric Nicolas as Anton, Janus del Prado as TG, Kleggy Abaya as Kanor, Vito Quizon as Joey, Leo Bruno as Boss Oca, Wally Waley as Andy, and Carmi Martin as Nanay Pining. Happy ToGetHer premieres tonight before Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho on GMA.
John Lloyd (center) will also be working alongside (from left) Vito Quizon, Miles Ocampo, Carmi Martin, Jenzel Angeles, and Ashley Rivera.
(From left) Janus Del Prado, Kleggy Abaya, Eric Nicolas, and Jenzel Angeles
Mr. & Ms. Iconic Kababayan 2021 crowned in Macau THE inaugural Mr. and Miss Iconic Kababayan 2021 (A Ramp and Dance for a Cause) pageant, presented by La Fashionista de Macau, showcasing Philippine Regional Costume and promoting beauty and diversity, was held successfully held at the Brito Theater Macau early this month. Nirvie Rica Amandy Padrigon was crowned the first Ms. Iconic 2021 while Arsenio Misa, Jr. was named Mr. Iconic 2021. Padrigon also won the special awards Ms. Iconic Model, Ms. Captivating Smile, and Best in Urban Trend Wear. Lester Fernando Casuga and Diana Rose Arnaiz were named first runners up, while Melvin Alilio and Romela Rose Mangulabnan finished as 2nd runners up. Jerald Catulin and Jacquelyn Tundag were 3rd runners up, and Roy Jason Olinares and Rocell Dichoso were named 4th runners up. Nineteen female and fourteen male contestants competed in Philippine native costumes, in casual wear, sexy dress, and elegant coat. Mr. and Ms. Iconic 2021 marked the first time that a male pageant for Filipino workers was held in the former Portuguese colony. Maricel Maglente, president of La Fashionista de Macau, said the participants, mostly members of the overseas Filipino community in Macau, took the occasion as a celebration of unity and camaraderie among fellow OFWs, gathered together with the motto, “Let us be fueled with inspiration to share, because sharing is inspiring.”
Lloydie plays a single dad who aspires to give his son a better future and find his one true love.
Robi Domingo, Bernadette Sembrano, and Bianca Gonzales hosted the benefit concert for victims of super typhoon Odette.
Bpeepz Dance Crew won the grand prize besting five other dance groups. Tropang tiktokers Vibes, and Danger Master won first and second runners up,
respectively. Hosted by Michelle Jiz and Ronnie Ric Ramos, the event featured guest performers including Bisdak, Indonesian Association, Vietnamese Association, Makatang Manggagawa, Lokalside, Team90’s IBU (Ilongga & Bisaya United), and Analiza Manalo. Beneficiaries include 55-year-old Rosalie Araja (Macau), six-month-old baby Gabriel Garcia (with congenital hydrocephalus), and Edwin Saribong, both from Camarines Sur, and Scaly and Friends. Success of the event would not have been possible without the help of these generous major sponsors, who also served as judges, namely, for the pageant, Maria Carmelita FaustinoMartins, Atty. João Encarnacão, Paula Rich Bartolome, Lea Marie Hernandez Capuchino, Janet Guillermo Dolores, Bella Horner, Precious Princess Capuyan, Alinadel Fong, Regie Mich Ramos Cariaso, and Chef Ronald Lagrosa. For the dance competition, sponsors were Kenneth Donovan Rulloda, Arnaldo Ribeiro Ferreira Monteiro, Mark Jhapet M. Ilano, Raymond Herman, and Rodrigo Mordido. Other sponsors were Precious Angel Dream Care, Venjie Cabunias, Racs, Nathaniel Palma, Lea Nicholas, Arlyn Lita, Zumbaberkz, Anna All, Footstep, MED, Kababayan, and BDO. Ms. Iconic 2021 Nirvie Rica Amandy Padrigon and Mr. Iconic 2021 Arsenio Misa, Jr.
Kapamilya stars share talent, raise funds for typhoon Odette victims A NIGHT filled with songs of hope and stories of survival was shared by Filipinos all over the world in ABS-CBN’s Tulong Tulong sa PagAhon: Andito Tayo Para Sa Bawat Pamilya benefit concert for victims of super typhoon Odette. In the concert held Thursday night, Kapamilya stars dedicated uplifting performances to typhoon survivors. It went live on the ABSCBN Entertainment and ABS-CBN News YouTube and Facebook accounts, iWantTFC, cable TV channel TeleRadyo, and TFC IPTV. Donations from kindhearted people also came pouring in in the form of cash donations, Facebook stars, and YouTube Super Sticker, and Super Chat. Proving again that Filipinos will not leave anyone behind as they help each other rise from tragedy, the benefit concert jumpstarted the “Tulong-Tulong sa Pag-Ahon” online fund drive of ABS-CBN Foundation for its ongoing relief efforts and subsequent initiatives to help the families from heavily-hit areas start anew. Among those who offered their talents last night were Robi Domingo, Bianca Gonzalez, and Bernadette Sembrano, who served as hosts, and singers Jona, Jed Madela, Nyoy Volante, Angeline Quinto, Jeremy Glinoga, Sheena Belarmino, Kyle Echarri, Angela Ken, Gigi de Lana and GG Vibes, and Gary Valenciano, who closed the more than threehour event. Angeline Quinto was among those who offered their talent during the event.
PBB Kumunity Season 10 celebrity housemates Alexa Ilacad, Alyssa Valdez, Anji Salvacion, Brenda Mage, KD Estrada, Madam Inutz, and Samantha Bernardo also performed their original compositions, with Brenda, Sam, Anji offering encouraging words to their kababayans who were among those affected by the super typhoon as well. Other ABS-CBN stars, meanwhile, explained to viewers the different ways they can help, whether through cash donations sent via bank transfer or payment merchants, or through in-kind donations of items like canned goods, rice, water, hygiene kits, and blankets. They include Coco Martin, Gerald Anderson, Belle Mariano, Alvin Elchico, Doris Bigornia, Seth Fedelin, Andrea Brillantes, Julia Montes, and Piolo Pascual. ABS-CBN Foundation is still accepting donations through their BDO (0039302-14711), BPI (4221-0000-27), PNB (1263-7000-4128), GCash, PayMaya, and PayPal accounts. International donations may be coursed through abscbnfoundation.org. More details are available on ABS-CBN Foundation’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. Donors can also download social media badges that they can use as their profile photos, twibbons, Facebook frames, Instagram filters, or to express their love and support for the families affected by the typhoon. Other Kapamilya stars who offered their talent during the benefit concert were Angela Ken and Kyle Echarri
DECEMBER 26, 2021
Pets and fireworks: Do’s and Don’ts By Mariana Burgos
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trained by the police and hunters are used to the sound of gunfire and other explosions. These are ordinary sounds for them. I also know of a few pet owners who claim that their pets are not stressed out with fireworks during the New Year celebrations.
Loud natural noises like thunder and loud sounds from a falling tree or from a branch that hit the ground naturally cause any living thing, both human and animal, to be afraid and cautious. It is very normal for any living thing to “save” one’s self by hiding when one hears a loud sound. But it is easier for us humans to handle these situations because we adapt better than pet dogs or cats to such loud sounds. We will always be cautious of course. There are dogs however who are not afraid of loud sounds. Dogs who are
So, why is it that some pets can endure such noise? Some vets say that how the dog was brought up plays a big part in this. According to the article, Why Fireworks Scare Some Dogs And Not Others in the Smithsonian Magazine, “... early life conditioning can make the difference in their sensitivity to sound. Like human infants, puppies undergo critical stages of development when their brains form associations that can influence behavior for the rest of their lives.” And this goes for cats as well. The article noted that we, their “fur”-parents, are responsible for their behavior on certain things and situations. You cannot take away from any pet the instinct to protect one’s self from what they perceive as a threat to them. Explosions are clearly
ET again, responsible pet owners are hoping that there will be less use of fireworks this New Year’s Eve because fireworks and other loud noises are so stressful for most pets.
Train them young
threatening even for humans. But you can train your pet to adjust to the sound of fireworks once they hear it
Inherited anxiety
Some scientists say genetics has also something to do with it. There are studies done on both pregnant humans and animals that whatever the moms experienced and felt during their pregnancies, they tend to pass it on to their offspring. “Humans and animals show that mothers who experience high levels of stress during pregnancy can pass on a propensity for anxiety to their young via the stress hormone cortisol. When signaled by a stress-inducing event, the brain’s hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal axis (HPA) becomes active and produces cortisol, which then travels throughout the body keeping an individual on ‘high alert.’ High cortisol levels in the mother’s bloodstream have subsequent negative effects on the developing baby,” the article noted. Cortisol, with pets, are also found in their fur. Scientists have studied cortisol
Krauss, now around 7.5 years old, was saved from euthanasia or being put to sleep due to alleged aggression six years ago by Save Animals of Love and Light (Save ALL Inc.) . This sweet, loving boy is now battling cancer. He is afraid of thunderstorm, thus, the vet prescribed an anti-anxiety pill created and manufactured specifically for dogs.
levels in dog hair and they found out that “cortisol levels from dogs who had listened to the recording of a thunderstorm were higher than those who listened to regular dog sounds and barks. The dogs with higher cortisol levels in their hair also showed high rates of hiding, running away and seeking attention from humans when exposed to the storm sounds,” the article noted. Although, this has been proven to be true in many studies, there have been findings in recent experiments that this is not always the case. There was a group of dogs that showed a low level of cortisol in their hair but were extremely stressed out and showed great signs of fear and anxiety. Why is this so? The team in charge of that particular study, hypothesized that “these dogs may have become dysregulated following chronic exposure, leading to a state of HPA hypoactivity, or ‘vital exhaustion’.” It only means that the dogs felt constant anxiety that their internal system go haywire and nothing works for them anymore. They have become constantly fearful of anything. Now, that is a sad thing.
Tips to help pets during the festivities
Inna, a mama dog who just gave birth to three pups was rescued from the Pasig pound in 2015 by Save ALL Inc. She was a stray dog who was used to the different sounds, even loud sounds. She is not afraid of thunderstorms or the sound of fireworks.
Mags, white poodle-terrier mixx, was rescued by Save ALL while walking along the busy Magsaysay avenue in Olongapo City in 2017. His adopter plays soothing music n New Year's eve to calm her dogs Mags and Pepper, and puts on clothes on them. To pets, clothes warm them, and feel like a human is hugging them.
So, what can we do to help our furbabies deal with sound of fireworks this holiday season? Taking the dog away from his home, his comfort zone, and bringing him to a place that you think he will feel safe and be safe from the fireworks is not the solution. This will only add stress because it is not a familiar place to him. You will also be training him to hate this season because you send him away every time this season comes. You are creating the anxiety in him in this way. My favorite dog whisperer, Ceasar Millan, said: “If it’s an unfamiliar place for your dog, take him over there a few times in the days before the holiday so that it won’t be a surprise when you take him there on the Fourth.”
He also said that if we can not take our pets away from the fireworks, and then we put them in kennels but we are not there with them, they will also get stressed. If this is the situation, our pets must have somebody with them to keep them company and take them for a stroll time and again. Ceasar said the best way to prepare your dogs or other pets for fireworks is to “make sure they are comfortable with the sounds in advance”. It only means, we have to give time to train them to be familiar with the sounds for them to know well enough that whenever they hear these types of noises during the holiday season, they need not feel fearful and stressed. Ceasar added that “while humans communicate with words, dogs (I think this may also be true for cats) communicate with energy, and will look to their pack leader for clues on how they should behave. If you are not making a big deal or showing excitement about the fireworks, then he will learn to be less concerned as well. Most importantly, don’t think of this in terms of your dog as your child who is missing out on a great fun time. That’s human guilt. Your dog won’t know what she’s missing. You’re being a good pack leader by not exposing her to a situation that will trigger her flight instinct in a negative way.” Although we call our pets “babies,” they are not human babies and thus, they have different needs to help them learn to adapt to human celebrations. Just a friendly reminder from a co-furparent. Merry Christmas everyone and may you all have a prosperous New Year! About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist. She is a solo parent for 14 years now because she is wife to a desaparacido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.
Orange is safe for dogs but... THIS holiday season, there are many fruits and food on our dining table that we are often tempted to give to our dogs. Please, please, please. Be careful what you give to your dogs. Here are some TOXIC OR BAD FOOD for your doggo: avocado, chocolates (accumulated amounts will lead to illnesses), nuts, grapes, fruitcake (the alcohol is bad for dogs), smoked ham (this has preservatives), anything with garlic and onions (accumulation in the body will cause illnesses), food with coloring and artificial flavor, and anything with salt (please remember dogs’ kidneys are much smaller than human’s kidneys). Apples, mangoes, pears, dragon fruit and watermelon are good for dogs but remove the skin and seeds first before giving the fruit to your dog. Romaine lettuce and other kinds of lettuces are good for dogs, so are the cucumber and carrots in your salad. But do not give the salad dressing please. Oranges are not bad for dogs but… Oranges are not poisonous or toxic to dogs. But you can give only a small amount to your dog because oranges have a high sugar content. Their seeds and peel should not be given to dogs too because these are hard to digest. “So if you share oranges with your pup, keep quantities small and prepare them carefully, “ said Lucy Easton in “Can Dogs Eat Oranges: Are Oranges Good For Dogs?” in the Labrador Site. Easton added: “..there is little benefit to feeding your dog oranges, apart from some possible but unlikely benefits to liver health. But as long as your dog is healthy and without any dietary restrictions, it should be fine to give
him or her a little taste of orange. Overall, oranges for dogs are perfectly safe.” Oranges contain ascorbic acid (vitamin C), an antioxidant that “helps heal wounds and protects the body from disease, making it an essential nutrient for humans,” Easton said. However, a 2008 study by the Laboratory of Animal Nutrition showed dogs do not need additional foodsourced vitamin C. “That is, they don’t need vitamin C supplements to be healthy,” Easton said.
too many oranges. “However, this does not mean that you need to be concerned. More often than not, these symptoms will pass on their own. Ensure your dog gets plenty of hydration and stop feeding them oranges straight away. If these symptoms worsen over time or your dog has other underlying health issues, contact your vet right away,” Easton said. “As with any food, if you notice your dog behaving strangely after eating an orange, stop feeding him oranges immediately,” Easton said.
Orange juice is not good for dogs
Raw orange is best if you really want
Dogs don’t really need oranges to give a citrus fruit to your dog.
A healthy dog fed with a normal, balanced diet does not need more vitamins. “Oranges do not contain any harmful chemicals or nutrients that negatively affect dogs,” Easton said, but be careful when feeding orange to your dog as “any food can be a choking hazard for young dogs.” Peels and seeds are also not good for dogs with GI issues or diabetes due to the acid and sugar because it can lead to upset stomachs, vomiting, or diarrhea. The high sugar content can also cause long-term health issues in dogs. These health issues include obesity, dental problems and diabetes.
Orange juice contains added sugars. “Your dog may love to lap it up, but too much can lead to health problems like obesity or dental problems. Therefore, it’s best to provide your dog with plenty of water and save orange juice just for your breakfast,” Easton said.
Health benefits of oranges
Yes, there are certain benefits your dog can get from oranges. 1. For the liver. Easton said “…additional ascorbic acid can help prevent damage to the liver and improve the stability of other nutrients. This is particularly true when dogs exert themselves through strenuous exercise, which may halt the liver’s ability to produce vitamin C. However, there is no evidence to support that giving Signs your dog ate your dog oranges has any significant too much orange Diarrhea, vomiting, bloated belly, health benefits. They’re more a nice loss of appetite, and lethargy are all treat that your dog may enjoy.” 2. Anti-inflammatory but for humans signs that your dog may have eaten
Peel oranges and remove the seeds before giving to your dog. Give only a little amount as orange has too much sugar.
only. No sufficient research on treating canine inflammation. Oranges, Easton said, also have antiinflammatory properties that can help treat inflammation in humans and reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases. “But can they do the same for dogs? Although some people believe that vitamins and antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and help older pets with arthritis, there is not enough research to support the theory that oranges can treat canine inflammation,” she said. 3. Oranges are rich in fiber, and so it’s no wonder some people will look to them to relieve their doggy friend from uncomfortable constipation. However,
Oranges in your salad on New Year's eve, as well as the romaine lettuce, cucumber and carrots, can be given to dogs. But remove the seeds and skin of any fruit you will give to your dogs. Please check first if the fruit is not toxic to dog
there is no major research to support this theory. In addition, if your dog has a sensitive digestive system, it might not be best to introduce new foods such as oranges or other citrus fruits.
Ideal serving
The amount of orange to give depends also on the size of your dog. “Large dogs can eat two or three pieces with no issues, but tiny dogs may get sick with that amount. Generally, veterinarians recommend that treats should not make up more than 10% of your pet’s daily calories. And remember, make sure to remove peel and seeds as these can cause an upset stomach,” Easton said.