Manila Standard - 2022 January 4 - Tuesday

METRO MAYORS RESTRICT MOBILITY, ACCESS OF UNVAXXED By Joel E. Zurbano, Rio N. Araja, Vito Barcelo and Darwin Amojelar

STRICT measures will be imposed on unvaccinated people as local government units in Metro Manila note a continuing surge in the number of COVID-19 cases due to the recent increased mobility and relaxed health protocols. Members of Metro Manila Council (MMC), composed of the 17 mayors

in the National Capital Region (NCR), have agreed to restrict the movement of unvaccinated people and implement preventive measures such as restricting entry to some places. “This is just a temporary measure, and this is more for your protection,” said Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chief and concurrent MMC chairman Benjamin Abalos Jr. Next page

VOL. XXXV • NO. 323 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 • TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2021 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PH again high risk for COVID All regions post positivity rate increase likely due to Omicron variant

By Willie Casas and Vito Barcelo

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HE Philippines is now again classified as a “high risk” for COVID-19 following the sharp increase in cases in the past few days, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Monday. In an online briefing, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the increase in the positivity rate was seen in all regions of the country. Meanwhile, the DOH also said they assume that the highly transmissible Omicron variant of COVID-19 is already in the Philippines and being spread locally. “Nationally, we are now at a highrisk case classification from the low risk case class in the previous week, showing a positive two-week growth rate at 222 percent and a moderate risk average daily attack rate at 1.07 cases for every 100,000 individuals,” Vergeire said.

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2,855,819 4,084

17,374

51,586

16

2,779,241

497

(As of 4 PM, JANUARY 3)

CLOSED FOR CLEANSING. Church workers inside the Quiapo Church or the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene conduct cleaning and disinfection in and out of the worship site (inset) on Monday. The church announced it will be temporarily closed from January 3 to 6 due to the sudden spike of COVID-19 cases in the country. Norman Cruz

Hospitals feeling impact of fresh spike in cases; personnel infected THE Philippine General Hospital has seen a steady rise in COVID-19 SEVERAL Metro Manila hospitals are infections, with 60 percent of COVID seeing a fresh spike in COVID-19 cas- admissions saying they had been vaccinated, the hospital’s spokesperson said es, infecting personnel as well.

By Willie Casas

FDA chief quits, says its time for him to move on By Willie Casas

RESTOCKING. Health workers from Justice Jose Abad Santos General Hospital are seen

next to hospital stocks of medical oxygen in Binondo, Manila. The City Government assures its constituents that Manila has enough oxygen for its COVID-19 patients. Norman Cruz

Pandemic pushes over 4m Pinoys deeper into poverty—PSA report THE ongoing pandemic is having polarizing effects on Filipinos’ socioeconomic standing, pushing more than 4 million people deeper into poverty, while lifting some 800,000 out of economic hardship, the Commission on Population and Development (Popcom) said Monday.

Recent Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reports on official poverty statistics and causes of death show that 4,300,000 Filipinos or about 861,300 families sank below the poverty threshold in regions that saw over 90 percent of COVIDNext page

FOOD and Drug Administration (FDA) Director General Dr. Eric Domingo on Monday confirmed his resignation as chief of the agency. FDA deputy director general Oscar Gutierrez will be assigned as officerin-charge of the regulator, the Department of Health (DOH) said. In a report, Domingo told GMA News Online that his resignation is effective January 3. When asked for the reason for his resignation, Domingo said he does not have any specific reason. “Wala naman dahilan (There’s no reason),” he said. “I think I did my part to help during the pandemic. I’m happy with that but now it is time to

Monday, on the same day more than 50 rose from around 30 on Christmas Day to health workers in another Manila hospi- 116 confirmed cases as of January 2. tal tested COVID positive. “We are admitting 10-15 patients a According to PGH Spokesman Jonas del day,” Del Rosario told TeleRadyo. Rosario, COVID admissions in the hospital Next page

Another Pinay skips quarantine, ‘proudly’ posts having massage ANOTHER Filipina who flew in from the United States skipped the government’s mandatory quarantine, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Monday. The announcement coincided with reports some people under quarantine have paid hotel personnel or escaped through fire exits, breaching the health protocols set by the government, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said. Año said he received reports that fam-

ily members and relatives were the ones pressuring people under quarantine. Meanwhile, Gwyneth Anne Chua, the first Filipina who skipped mandatory hotel quarantine after her return from the United States in December, has caused 11 people to contract COVID-19. According to the Department of Health in the National Capital Region, seven out of Chua’s 11 close Next page

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RUSH FOR HOME. Flocks of commuters at the Kidapawan City Overland Terminal try to board a passenger bus going to Davao City. They will find their luck until 8 p.m. the last trip of the bus en route to Davao, while disregarding social distancing protocols amid a resurgence of the coronavirus. Geonarri Solmerano

Gov’t to complete vax goal of 54m this week

THE government is “confident” it would achieve in the first week of 2022 – January 1-7 – its COVID-19 vaccination target for last year, an official said Monday.

Authorities had eyed fully inocu- data from the health department. lating 54 million people by the end of National Task Force Against COV2021. As of Jan. 2, some 49.8 million ID-19 deputy chief implementer Vince of the Philippines’ 109 million people Dizon told a televised public hearing: were fully vaccinated, according to Next page

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2021

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COVID, flu co-infections ‘not unusual’ A

N INFECTION by the influenza virus and coronavirus is not unusual, a health expert said Monday, after Israel reported its first case of the “flurona” infection in a pregnant woman.

“Our very first COVID death in the Philippines back in January 2020, a Chinese national, had both influenza B and coronavirus. And he also had streptococcus pneumonia,” he noted. The first coronavirus-related fatality in the country was also the first death recorded outside China, where the respiratory disease first emerged. Salvana reminded the public to get

vaccinated for flu and pneumonia to obtain maximum protection from severe disease and death from the illness caused by the pathogens. Authorities had eyed fully inoculating 54 million people by the end of 2021. As of Jan. 2, some 49.8 million of the Philippines’ 109 million people were fully vaccinated, according to data from the health department.

COVID-19 cases in the country. The country still has to conduct wide whole genome sequencing to confirm the local transmission of the highly transmissible variant, Vergeire said. The Philippines on Monday registered 4,084 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total tally to 2,855,819, the DOH reported. The positivity rate rose to 20.7 percent with 18,587 total conducted tests. This is much higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) standard of less than 5 percent positivity rate. If the rate is 5 percent or higher, it means there is a high transmission rate of the virus. The top regions with infections in the recent two weeks were Metro Manila (National Capital Region) with 2,831 or 70 percent, followed by Calabarzon (Region 4-A) with 571 or 14 percent and Central Luzon (Region 3) with 273 or 7 percent. The fresh cases also brought the active tally to 24,992 from 21,418 recorded on Jan. 2, 2022. Of the figure, 795 are asymptomatic, 19,252 are mild, 3,051 are moderate, 1,563 are severe and 331 are critical. There were 16 new fatalities due to COVID-19, raising the death toll to 51,586. The DOH also reported total recoveries of 2,779,241, with 497 new ones. Nationwide, 23 percent of intensive care units (ICU) beds, 23 percent of isolation beds, 16 percent of ward beds, and 13 percent of ventilators, were in use. In Metro Manila, 29 percent of ICU beds, 27 percent of isolation beds, 30 percent of ward beds, and 16 percent of ventilators, were in use. The Palace on Monday said the more lethal Delta variant of COVID-19 still exists as cases climb, and that the public should not be complacent about following health protocols. Acting presidential spokesman and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said people are so focused on the Omicron variant but forgetting Delta, which is more deadly. “We’re focusing so much on Omicron, we’re forgetting that Delta is still around. Right now, we are speculating that ‘This is probably Omicron since there are high numbers. We have to remember Delta is still around so don’t forget, don’t say ‘Ah, Omicron okay, it’s okay, this is probably Omicron because they say it’s milder,’” he said in an inter-

view over ABS-CBN News Headstart. “If Omicron’s symptoms prove to be less severe, and Delta is still around with a potential to create more severe symptoms — a false sense of security should be avoided if you test positive for COVID-19, and assume its Omicron and think its mild,” he said. The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) has raised the alert level status in Metro Manila to Alert Level 3 until Jan. 15 due to the sudden surge in COVID-19 cases. Metro Manila mayors have agreed to restrict the mobility of unvaccinated persons. The mayors also said that vaccination cards and other ID must be presented when in public places like restaurants, malls and other establishments. Unvaccinated workers will be required to have an RT-PCR test every two weeks at their own expense. A health expert on Monday said COVID-19 infections in Metro Manila may reach a peak as early as Jan. 15 or as late as the third week of February. “In terms of projections, it’s possible cases would increase, especially if we don’t have interventions,” Prof. Jomar Rabajante of the University of the Philippines (UP) Pandemic Response Team said. He added that the size of reported active cases could range from 20,000 to 40,000 at their peak. Rabajante said cases may peak earlier if COVID-19 health protocols are not properly implemented. “Timelines would depend on the behavior, even if we have an Alert Level 3, and the implementation is not good, and people will still be mobile, the transmission of the Omicron variant will be fast and peak early,” he said. He said if people maintain minimum public health standards, the peak could be delayed and the increases could be smaller. Also on Monday, Health Undersecretary Leopoldo Vega said the Omicron coronavirus variant is not yet dominant in the country, despite the increase in the number of COVID-19 infections in the past days. Vega, also the country’s treatment czar, during a television interview, said Omicron could be dominant in the next three to four weeks, but said the Delta variant is still threatening the country.

He also said the hospital was prioritizing moderate to severe cases. Sixty percent of those admitted for COVID have been vaccinated, del Rosario said, citing preliminary data. There are 10 children admitted in the hospital for COVID-19; 8 out of the 10 are mild with co-morbidities while 2 are moderate to severe. Thirty percent of adult COVID cases in PGH are severe while the rest are mild to moderate, according to del Rosario. The number of COVID-19 patients confined at St. Luke’s Medical Center and at the East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City has increased starting at the turn of the year, officials of the two hospitals said Monday.

Dr. Arturo De La Peña, president and CEO of St. Luke’s Medical Center, described the recent spike in coronavirus hospital admissions and among health workers as a bit concerning. EAMC also saw a 32.62 percent increase in admitted COVID-19 patients during the most recent week, from 117 to 151, according to Lorena Tuico Perdigon, Health Education and Promotion Officer of the government hospital. Among health workers, 23 are currently infected from St. Luke’s Global City, 28 from St. Luke’s Quezon City, and five from EAMC, De La Peña and Perdigon said in an interview on ABSCBN’s TeleRadyo. The Philippines has so far detected 14 Omicron cases, three of which were domestic infections and the rest were from overseas travelers. The Philippines confirmed 4,600 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday. The

positivity rate was also at 19.6 percent, way above the 5 percent recommended rate by the World Health Organization, and the highest level since Sept. 20 last year. In related developments, the Gat Andres Bonifacio Memorial Medical Center in Tondo, Manila has stopped admitting patients at the emergency room after more than 50 of its vaccinated health-care workers were found positive for COVID-19, the hospital director said. GABMMC director Dr. Teodoro Martin said over 50 health-workers, who had received COVID-19 booster shots, were in quarantine. Most of them are showing mild symptoms. “It is currently closed because we have health-care workers who turned positive [for COVID-19]. We are also managing our patients because many are coming in here sick,” Martin said.

and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles reminded inbound travelers and hotels to ensure compliance with all quarantine protocols or face both civil and criminal charges. “In the Notifiable Diseases law it’s not just a penalty, there is also imprisonment,” he said in an interview on ABS-CBN News Channel’s Headstart. In a television interview, Puyat herself said more reports of quarantine breach had been raised with the Department of Tourism after the first reported incident of a returning Filipino woman from the US who attended a party in Poblacion, Makati City while she was supposed to be in isolation. “After this incident, somebody gave the name and even gave pictures on the day she arrived, she also had a body

massage, as in she was even posting it on Instagram stories. Very proud that she was skipping quarantine and her name was given and the person who knows her even gave a sworn affidavit. She was already caught,” she said in a CNN Philippines interview. “I’ve given it already to the [Bureau of Quarantine] and the [Department of the Interior and Local Government] and I will leave it up to them,” she added. According to the Tourism chief, the returning Filipina went straight to her condominium when she arrived in the Philippines. “She didn’t even check in a (sic) hotel. She just said that she checked in this hotel but it showed that she didn’t even check in a hotel. She went straight to her condominium,” Puyat said.

“It’s an unfortunate confluence of events that your are exposed to two pathogens, and of course, it involves more if you have co-morbid conditions,” Department of Health technical

advisory group member Dr. Edsel Salvana told reporters. Salvana said the Philippines has already seen a case where a patient was infected by both viruses.

Metro... From A1

PH... From A1

Abalos said unvaccinated people will not be allowed to go outside their homes unless their activities are essential. “This is like we are imposing ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) for unvaccinated people,” he said. The restriction, according to Abalos, came following last Sunday’s MMC meeting with health experts and concerned government agency officials. The MMC is the governing board and the policy making of the MMDA. The MMDA chief urged owners and operators of restaurants and eateries to require customers practice social distancing and bring proof of vaccination together with identification cards before they will be allowed to enter the establishments. “We will be more strict about requiring vaccination cards on these establishments. I also urge people to always bring their IDs and vaccination cards,” said Abalos. Abalos said Metro Manila mayors also decided to open their respective isolation centers and quarantine facilities amid the continuing increase of COVID-19 cases. “We are also strengthening and enhancing policies on closed areas, crowded places and close contacts,” he added. There will be no curfew, he added. Under alert level 3, intrazonal and interzonal travel will be allowed subject to reasonable restrictions based on age and comorbidities, as may be determined by the local government units. Individual outdoor exercises will also be allowed for all ages regardless of comorbidities or vaccination status. The following establishments or activities characterized as high-risk for transmission will not be allowed to operate, or be undertaken in areas classified under Alert Level 3: * Face-to-face or in-person classes for basic education, except those previously approved by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), or the Office of the President; * Contact sports, except those conducted under a bubble-type setup as provided for under relevant guidelines adopted by the IATF, Games and Amusement Board, and Philippine Sports Commission, and approved by the LGU where such games shall be held; * Funfairs or “peryas” and kid amusement industries such as playgrounds, playroom, and kiddie rides; * Venues with live voice or windinstrument performers and audiences such as in karaoke bars, clubs, concert halls, and theaters; * Casinos, horse racing, cockfighting and operation of cockpits, lottery and betting shops, and other gaming establishments except as may be authorized by the IATF or the Office of the President; and * Gatherings in residences with individuals not belonging to the same household. Some establishments, or activities, shall also be allowed to operate or be undertaken at a maximum of 30 percent indoor venue capacity for fully vaccinated individuals only and 50 percent outdoor venue capacity.

The national health care utilization rate, however, remained at low risk, with total bed utilization at 18 percent and intensive care units (ICU) utilization at 22 percent, she said. The Philippines had 21,418 active COVID-19 cases as of Jan. 2, 2022 with a seven-day growth rate of 569.86 percent. The National Capital Region (NCR) -- with its 857.94 percent seven-day growth rate and 813 percent two-week growth rate as of Jan. 2 -- is at high risk, Vergeire said. “[It showed] a high risk one-week growth rate and two-week growth rate and moderate risk average daily attack rate of 5.42 cases per 100,000 population,” Vergeire said. The health system capacity in the NCR is under 50 percent utilization, Vergeire added. Based on DOH’s recent COVID-19 tally, 27 percent of the ICU beds and 26 percent of ward beds in the NCR were being used. The NCR has been placed again under Alert Level 3 from Jan. 3 to 15, 2022 amid the increase in COVID-19 infections. Under Alert Level 3, several establishments will be allowed to operate at 30 percent indoor venue capacity only for fully vaccinated guests and 50 percent outdoor venue capacity, provided that all employees are fully vaccinated. Face-to-face classes, contact sports, fairs and casinos are among the activities and establishments that are prohibited under Alert Level 3. Work at government offices, meanwhile, is limited to 60 percent of their onsite capacity. Regions IV-A, III, IX, X, and XI also recorded positive one-week and twoweek growth rates and are at “low to moderate risk” classification. “The rest of the regions showed a positive increase in cases only in the recent one week,” Vergeire said. The DOH has warned of “exponential growth” following the detection of three local cases of the highly transmissible Omicron variant. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III earlier said the Omicron variant may already be responsible for the rise in

Another... From A1 contacts were infected with the coronavirus. Three out of her 26 general contacts, who were staff members of two restaurants, tested positive for COVID-19, as did one of her five second generation contacts. The incident prompted police to conduct random checks at quarantine hotels to prevent travelers from skipping mandatory isolation. Meanwhile, Malacanang said arrivals in the Philippines had been warned they might face imprisonment if they were caught violating COVID-19 quarantine protocols. Acting Presidential Spokesperson

Hospitals... From A1

Pandemic... From A1 19-related deaths as of September 2021, Popcom said. On the other hand, five regions which were least affected by the contagion, or those with 8.1 percent of deaths in 2021, saw 809,500 Filipinos, or some 161,900 families, improve their living conditions, according to the same report. The bulk of families elevated from poverty live in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), as provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao and Basilan raised 121,000 out of economic strain. However, poverty rose for 28,300 families

Oil firms welcome ‘22 with big-time P2/liter price hike MOTORISTS will open the year facing hefty new fuel prices, as local oil firms on Monday announced a bigtime increase. In separate advisories, Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. and Seaoil Philippines Inc. said they will increase prices per liter of gasoline by P1.85, diesel by P2.40, and kerosene by P1.85. Cleanfuel and PetroGazz will make the same changes, excluding kerosene, which they do not carry. The adjustments will take effect at 6 a.m. on Tuesday for all the firms except for Cleanfuel, which will implement the changes at 4:01 p.m. the same day. Latest data available from the Department of Energy show that last year’s adjustments stood at a total net increase of P17.85 per liter for gasoline, P14.95 per liter for diesel, and P12.39 per liter for kerosene as of December 21. Last week, the country’s oil firms rolled back pump prices by as much as P0.70 per liter to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market. Unioil Petroleum Philippines said in its weekly advisory consumers could expect fuel prices to go down starting December 28 to January 3.

Gov’t... From A1 “We know the difficulty that various regions went through, especially Region 7 and 8, and some parts of Mindanao, because of typhoon Odette, so we need to cope with that.” Odette, the 15th storm to hit the country in 2021, struck in mid-December, and was the strongest typhoon and left nearly 400 dead, damaged about half a million homes, and prompted the government to declare a state of calamity over 6 regions. Carlito Galvez, the country’s vaccination chief, noted on Sunday that wealthy nations cornered the bulk of the limited vaccine supply during the early months of 2021. “When we rolled out our National Vaccination Program in March, we could only manage to administer less than 800,000 jabs. Also during that time, we were only receiving less than a million doses monthly,” he said in a statement. “But as our country started to get a steady supply of bigger vaccine shipments, our vaccination throughput also exponentially increased. We are now capable of vaccinating 1 to 2 million Filipinos daily and receiving around 2 million COVID-19 vaccines every day,” he added. Galvez also noted that Metro Manila had vaccinated 100 percent of its target population.

FDA... From A1 move on to other things.” Domingo was named as officer-incharge of the regulatory office in May 2019, the DOH said. He was named as FDA director-general in May 2020. “Yes, effective today. I believe I did my part to help during the pandemic. The FDA is now stronger, more efficient and systems are in place. It’s time for me to move on to other things,” he told ABSCBN News in a separate interview. It was under Domingo’s helm that the FDA granted the emergency use authorization (EUA) of nine COVID-19 vaccines and two drugs used in coronavirus treatment.

in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. In Lanao del Sur, poverty reduction was at 57percent, from 68 percent of families to 11 percent, which vastly improved the quality of living for more than 500,000 Filipinos there from 2018 to 2021. The province transitioned from having the highest number of poor families three years ago, to the ninth with the least number. “The rate of poverty reduction is nothing short of spectacular in Lanao del Sur, as this occurred during a combined national health and economic crisis,” Popcom Executive Director Juan A. Perez III said. “The fact that the province is in a region least affected by COVID-19 contributed greatly to the outcome.”

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

1.25M households still without power By Jenniffer B. Austria

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OME 1.287 million households from 91 municipalities affected by typhoon “Odette” are still without power as of January 2, according to National Electrification Administration (NEA).

NEA in its latest monitoring said it has fully restored power to 2.451 million households from 712 municipalities while power in 134 municipalities has been partially restored. Estimated damage from affected electric cooperatives rose to P2.2 billion from an earlier estimate of P2 billion. The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines also reported that it has fully re-

stored the affected transmission lines in Panay, Mindanao, and Negros islands. Rino Abad, director for the Oil Industry Management Bureau said that has been significant improvement in the delivery of petroleum in areas affected by the typhoon as more and more RORO facilities and vessels become operational. In Dinagat Island, Abad said 12 of the 16 gasoline stations have

resumed operations. The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) meanwhile has sent out its teams of engineers and other experts to come to the aid of residents who were badly hit by the typhoon. LWUA Administrator Guiling “Gene” A. Mamondiong said six teams had been scrambled and fielded out to 181 water districts that bore the brunt of the year’s strongest cyclone. The government has allocated at least P27 billion pesos in the 2022 national budget for assistance to disaster victims. Deputy Speaker Rufus Rodriguez, said government assistance has yet to be felt by disaster victims in various areas in the country.

Rodriguez pointed out that there is a P7-billion contingent or contingency fund in the 2022 budget that the government can use to help Odette victims. The provincial government of Bohol meanwhile will distribute generator sets to water refilling stations in various towns where residents have only been relying on relief assistance for their potable water and food. The latest donations intended for the victims of the typhoon in Bohol as it made landfall in parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. The NGCP has completed energizing the Ubay, Alicia, Garcia Hernandez corridors with 69-kilovolts lines on Dec. 30 and 31. With Maricel V. Cruz

Baguio halts issuance of new tourist travel permits BAGUIO CITY—The city government has temporarily suspended effective January 2 the issuance of quick response travel permits (QTP) for tourists or leisure travelers as the city prepares new guidelines for non-essential travels. Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who is on mandatory quarantine after traveling to the United States to visit his parents during the holidays, said in a phone interview on Monday that he has been holding online meetings with city officials to set the new guidelines that will be covered in an executive order. He said that aside from decreasing the daily arrival ceiling which is currently at 5,000, the city will also require that leisure travelers from Metro Manila who have already been issued QTPs arriving until January 8 will be required to undergo the antigen test for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at their own expense. Engr. Aloysius Mapalo, city tourism officer, in an advisory shared to the media on Sunday evening, said that “for now, we are only not allowing to add more to the current pre-approved travels that already exceeded 5,000 daily until January 8.” “We’re not on lockdown. We also did not stop the entry of tourists, actually, they are here,” he added. The city government requires tourists to register at the online tourist information portal to be issued a quick response travel permit. The QTP is the city’s way of counting and assuring that the daily arrival ceiling of 5,000 individuals will not be exceeded. The same is asked to be presented at the border checkpoint and community quarantine triage manned by the city police office before the tourists are led to the central triage at the Baguio Convention Center where thorough verification of document and possible conduct of an antigen test for those exhibiting symptoms is done. The city information office, in a message to the media, also clarified that the visitors already issued a QTP for January 2-8 will be allowed to enter the city. Information obtained from the city government showed that officials are mulling on canceling the QTPs issued for arriving tourists in January and February as cases of COVID-19 in the city continue to increase. On December 30, the City Health Services Office said it was beginning to see an increase in COVID-19 cases, at it recorded a 1.24-percent rise in two weeks.

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IN BRIEF

3 killed, 14 injured in Bilibid prison riot A heckling incident triggered a free-forall at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa on Sunday night, resulting in the death of three inmates and the wounding of 14 others. In a statement sent to the media on Monday, Bureau of Corrections (Bucor) spokesperson Gabriel Chaglag said the Quick Response Team secured the area at about 7:10 p.m. or one hour after the melee broke out. Clearing operations were conducted until midnight. “Violence started from verbal heckling with adjacent dormitories at the East Quadrant until a gunshot was heard and it started an exchange of gunshots from improvised firearms,” he said. Recovered were a .22 caliber revolver with nine bullets, an improvised .45 caliber pistol with six empty shells, two improvised 12-gauge pipe guns, and 16 bladed weapons. Seven persons deprived of liberty who were believed to have played major parts in the fight were transferred to an isolation area.

International travelers double during New Year INTERNATIONAL travelers during the New Year holiday increased by almost 100 percent compared to last year, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI). BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said that on new year’s eve and new year’s day, the number of arriving passengers increased to 10,140 from only 5,791 last year. On the other hand, the number of departing passengers on the said two days increased from last year’s 3,770 to 6,951. “The trend shows a steady improvement in the number of travelers. While the figures remain low, this is a significant improvement from last year. We’re hoping to see better numbers this 2022,” he added. BI Port Operations Division Chief Atty. Carlos Capulong likewise reported that airport operations were smooth sailing during the holiday season. “We ensured that our manpower was maximized as we anticipated an increase in travelers,” said Capulong. “We also ensured that our e-gates are serviceable to be able to ease lines and ensure social distancing,” he stated. It can be recalled that 99 new immigration officers were also deployed to augment BI’s airport manpower during the holidays. Vito Barcelo

CONFISCATED FIRECRACKERS. Southern Police District Police(SPD) General Jamili Lopez Macaraeg conducted a fire crackers destruction January 3 at the Southern Police District Headquarters in Taguig City. The confiscated fireworks from various stores were submerged in water so that they could no longer be used. Manny Palmero

Ang Probinsyano continues aid to ‘Odette’ victims THE Ang Probinsyano Party-List embarked on the third phase of its week-long relief operations to areas battered by super typhoon ‘Odette’ in the Visayas and Mindanao. From Bohol and Cebu where it handed assistance since Christmas eve, the partylist this time visited the town of Sison in the province of Surigao del Norte, which recently suffered a landslide anew due to heavy and persistent rains, to distribute 500 relief packs. According to Analyn Bacasnot, municipal social welfare and development officer of Sison, 100 percent of their rice fields were destroyed by “Odette,”

which was a big blow since agriculture is the primary source of living in their municipality. The pack of goods that include biscuits, noodles, coffee, canned goods, soap and five kilos of rice, brought cheers to the typhoon victims, including Eufemia Villanueva, president of the senior citizens’ association in Sison. Villanueva said she was traumatized when the super typhoon pummeled their province starting Dec. 16, 2021, with strong winds lifting the roof of their house. From Sison, the Ang Probinsyano Party-List proceeded to Surigao City Port where it turned over another 500 relief

SCHOLARSHIPS FROM RCM-DUALTECH. Rotary

Club of Manila chair Bobby Joseph, RCM president Felix Francisco S. Zaldarriaga,(in coat) Rotary and Dualtech Training Center president Arnolfo S. Mofre signed a memorandum of agreement to launch the “RCM-Dualtech Scholarship Program. Officials of the organization witnessed the contract signing at the Dualtech Center Assembly Hall.

Firms donate more than P1M to ‘Odette’ victims SCG Philippines and Mariwasa Siam Ceramics, Inc. stepped up to the call for urgent help with a cash donation of more than P 1 million coursed through the GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF) last month. The firms said this was a response to the plight of communities in the Visayas and Mindanao affected by super Typhoon Odette. According to PAGASA, “Odette,” internationally known as “Rai” was one of the strongest typhoons to hit the Philippines last year with at least 378 casualties, per the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). The NDRRMC also reported 742 injuries to Filipinos, with 60 missing individuals. The donation from SCG Philippines for the victims of super typhoon Odette is only one of the many initiatives

packs for residents of Del Carmen town in Siargao, and also for Dinagat Islands. The goods were received by officials of the provincial planning office and staff of Dinagat Rep. Alan Ecleo. The party-list’s last stop was Hayanggabon Port in the town of Claver where it likewise turned over relief goods for the municipality of Socorro. Sibonga Mayor Lionel Bacaltos appealed for help, saying they are lacking in funds as most have been spent for pandemic-related concerns. Over 2,000 houses were totally damaged while more than 8,000 were partially damaged in Sibonga.

that show the company’s social responsibility. Last year, SCG Philippines and Mariwasa donated positive and negative mobile isolation rooms to local and major hospitals to support our medical frontliners and help mitigate the spread of the virus in hospital facilities. The turnover ceremony was held in Diliman, Quezon City, and attended by SCG Philippines Asst. Country Director and Mariwasa VP for Finance & Admin, Emilie Maramag. Together with Mariwasa executives, Marvin Sion – AVP for Sales & Marketing, Danilo Bagay – AVP for Manufacturing, Radmar Gonzaga – Corporate HR Manager, and Evelyn Torio – Administrative Manager, the donation was accepted by GMAKF’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Luz Annalee O. Escudero – Catibog.

Party-list seeks councilors’ help against COVID AS COVID-19 cases worldwide hit record high driven by the more transmissible Omicron variant, Anakalusugan nominee Ray Roquero urged local councilors to be the party-list’s partners in pushing health measures in Congress. “This is not the time to rest. Rather, this is the time to consolidate the lessons learned from our continuing battle against COVID-19. In this period of disruption and doubt about what the future holds, this is the time to cement partnerships with those who are your logical and natural allies in the national legislature,” Roquero told members of the Philippine Councilor’s League during its convention in Iloilo City. “Anakalusugan party-list was born before the outbreak of the pandemic but born, it now seems to me, to perform at the right time a task like no other, and that is to help our fellow Filipinos battle through this public health crisis with renewed hope,” he added. Roquero said in the past three years in Congress, Anakalusugan party-list has principally authored at least 15 measures increasing the capacity and upgrading hospitals across the country, 10 measures to improve the welfare of medical and health workers, 16 measures to boost health services across the country, and 16 measures to beef up the country’s pandemic response. “Kalusugan muna bago ang lahat. [Health first above all else.] This is the partnership we offer to you—a commitment to protect the health of our people, the greatest resource of our country,” he said.

DONATIONS FOR ‘ODETTE’ VICTIMS. Business firms

Mariwasa and SCG Philippines donated more than P1 million for victims of typhoon ‘Odette.’ The donation was course through the GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF) last month. In the photo are (feft to right) Marvin Sion, Mariwasa AVP for Sales & Marketing; Evelyn Torio, Mariwasa administrative manager; Emilie Maramag, SCG Philippines assistant country director and Mariwasa VP for Finance and Admin; Luz Annalee O. Escudero– Catibog, GMAKF’s EVP and COO; Danilo Bagay, Mariwasa AVP for Manufacturing; and Radmar Gonzaga, Mariwasa Corporate HR manager.

Comelec warns against disruptions in Marcos petitions AN OFFICIAL of the Commission on Elections on Monday warned anyone who causes disruptions or interrupts commissioners during the preliminary conference on the disqualification petition presidential contender Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on January 7 will be cited in contempt. Commissioner Rowena Guanzon reminded all parties to observe proper decorum. “Anyone who will disturb the proceedings on Jan 7. or interrupt me or a commissioner will be declared in contempt and sent to Manila jail for 48 hours,” Guanzon said in a tweet. Guanzon said the conference will be livestreamed by the poll body’s Education and Information Department. Under Rule 29 of the Comelec Rules of Procedure, direct contempt may be meted by the poll body on a person, who, among others, is “guilty of misbehavior in the presence of or so near the commission or any of its divisions as to obstruct or interrupt the proceedings before it or them, including disrespect toward the commission or division.” “Follow rules, court protocol, health protocol. Do not attempt to speak while a commissioner or another lawyer is speaking. Never interrupt me,” Guanzon said. The camp Marcos earlier said he owed no taxes to the government, showing a certification from the Bureau of Internal Revenue. Marcos’ spokesman Vic Rodriguez presented to the media a certificate from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, showing the 64-year-old presidential aspirant already paid his taxes for the years 1982 to 1985 with interest. “Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. owes no taxes or has no tax deficiencies or penalties or interest. It has all been paid long ago. They paid December 27, 2001,” Rodriguez said. Earlier this month, Theodore Te, a lawyer for petitioners from human rights groups, sought the cancellation of Marcos’ certificate of candidacy, presenting a document that showed Marcos “has not satisfied the judgment” or has not paid the penalty in his tax conviction case.

More KFR victims saved by Lacson step up, back his presidential bid MORE victims of kidnap-for-ransom syndicates who were rescued by Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson when he was still a police officer have stepped forward to support the 2022 presidential candidacy of the Partido Reporma chairman and standard-bearer. In a recent video on Lacson’s official “iPing” channel on Facebook and YouTube, Ruiz Saez-Co recounted his ordeal with KFR gangs as he thanked the former anti-kidnapping task force leader for his and his police group’s heroics, which saved many lives during his 30 years as a law enforcer. The scion of a Filipino-Chinese family, Saez-Co recalled being ushered into Lacson’s own car as soon as he was rescued, yet the longtime public servant did not step out of the vehicle to meet the media or grandstand at the scene. “He is a true people person. He does not rush or make hasty decisions. He’s down-to-earth and had no media coverage [when they rescued me]. My father offered [a reward] to them but they declined. He said they were just doing their job. If not for him, I would not be here today,” Saez-Co said. “Where can you find that kind of a person who personally assists you? I’m not the only kidnap victim he saved – you can ask the others he rescued. I just want to say what kind of a person Sir Ping is. You can see his integrity at work. He is truthful, personable, and Godly,” he added. Lacson is now heading into the last six months of his third term in the Senate. Macon Ramos-Araneta

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022 E-mail: mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DISINFECTION. Members of Manila city hall’s Department of Public Service clean the Araullo High School

Quarantine Facility in United Nations Avenue as Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso orders the reactivation of all COVID-19 facilities due to the spike in virus infections. Danny Pata

Political parties wary over Cusi-wing petition By Macon Ramos-Araneta

A

T LEAST two political camps have raised concerns that the petition filed by the PDP-Laban faction led by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi to reopen the filing of the certificates of candidacy may delay the May 9 elections.

Partido Reporma standard bearer Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said while he would not want to think that there is a deliberate intention on the part of the Cusi wing to delay the elections, he said

the Senate will ensure the scenario does not happen. “I would not like to think that the intention of the petition to reopen the filing of the COCs filed by the PDP-Laban is to delay the election on May 9, 2022 – and pave the way for the extension of the term of office of the President beyond June 30, 2022. This is something the 1987 Constitution clearly forbids,” said Lacson. “As I have suggested earlier to Senate President Vicente Sotto III and some of my colleagues, the Senate must not allow this to happen. We can preserve the presidential line of succession as provided under Art. VII Sec. 7 of the 1987 Constitution,” he added. Lacson said if such a no-election scenario becomes imminent, a new Senate President whose term expires on June

30, 2025 can be elected by Congress. “He/she shall act as President until a new President or Vice President shall have been chosen and qualified,” the presidential aspirant said. The Pacquiao wing of the PDP-Laban is also wary of the petition filed by the Cusi faction. In a statement, senatorial aspirant Lutgardo Barbo, who also sits as vice chairman of the PDP-Laban wing led by Pacquiao, said the petition was a “ploy to derail” the upcoming polls. Barbo claimed the Cusi group was attempting “to subvert the will of the people.” “Such a petition was filed by mere usurpers and pretenders designed to mislead the public that they are authorized by the party to do such farcical acts,” said Barbo.

VAX DRIVE.

San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora receives a booster shot at the Fil-Oil Flying V Center. The city government has opened the registration for the city’s pediatric vaccination for children ages 5 to 11 years old. Manny Palmero

IN BRIEF

Isko: Manila ready for Omicron surge

WITH the country experiencing a sudden surge of COVID-19 cases over the weekend, Manila Mayor Franciso “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said the city has heightened its health emergency preparedness as he assured his constituents that all necessary preparations to combat the spread of the virus, including the more contagious Omicron variant, are in place. “There are steps that are being done. Due diligence. It’s better to be early and find out the real situation of our city, and where we are now, and what to do, and what to prepare, and what tools we will need that we have prepared a few months ago, a few weeks ago, which we can use in the coming days and months,” Domagoso said. “Promptness overcomes diligence. While it is true that we are still in a situation that we can still do, but I don’t want you to come to the situation that we are all racing against time,” he added. Domagoso said based on actual inventory as of 5 p.m. Sunday, the City of Manila’s “medicine cabinet” has an ample stockpile of life-saving anti-COVID drugs: 22,758 tablets of Mulnopiravir; 3,935 of Remdesivir; 3520 of Baricitinib; and 732 of Tocilizumab. The 47-year-old Manila chief executive said an additional supply of Mulnopiravir that the city government bought last December is expected to arrive today (January 4). Domagoso said Manila has already placed advance orders for Paxlovid, a novel COVID-19 anti-viral pill touted to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death by 89 percent. “There’s a new product, Paxlovid, we’ve already bought but it’s not yet available in the world. We are still looking forward to being available in the world, but hope that, if by any chance, he is available, we will acquire,” he said. Manila City also has 1,374 tanks of oxygen in reserve, which is on top of the city’s regular usage of oxygen. Rey E. Requejo

Pacquiao suspends all political sorties

BBM-Sara UniTeam temporarily closes headquarters By Rey E. Requejo PUTTING a premium on the safety of the public, his staff and supporters, presidential candidate and former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered the closure of the BBM-Sara UniTeam headquarters starting yesterday. Marcos, standard bearer of Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, also ordered the deferment of all activities of the UniTe-

am until January 15. The move came after more than 20 staff tested positive for COVID-19, prompting the temporary closure of the campaign headquarters. Vic Rodriguez, spokesman of Marcos, said campaign preparations and other administrative functions of the UniTeam will proceed non-stop through work-from-home arrangements and virtual meetings of the concerned staffers

and campaign personnel. “In this regard, all public appearances, sorties and assemblies of the BBMSara UniTeam will be postponed during the said period,” Rodriguez said. “The UniTeam also advises all its supporters nationwide to exercise selfrestraint and avoid holding unilateral campaign/political activities that might result in the further surge of COVID-19 cases in their areas,” he added.

Over 600k families aided by VP Leni

PROTECTING THE ELDERLY. Medical health workers administer the Sinovac COVID-19 booster shot to the elderly population at the Starmall Edsa Shaw vaccination site in Mandaluyong City on January 3, 2022. Joey Razon

ANGAT Buhay, the flagship antipoverty program of Vice President Leni Robredo, has reached 622,000 Filipino families in 223 cities and municipalities with the help of 372 organizations, using more than P520 million in funding from various sources, mostly donations from the private sector, the Office of the Vice President said in its year-end report. The figures are as of December 2021, covering Angat Buhay’s nearly six years of extending assistance to marginalized families by bringing together the public and private sector to work on key advocacy areas: food security and nutrition; universal healthcare; public education; rural development; housing and resettlement; and youth and women empowerment. The program also covered disaster relief and rehabilitation and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Robredo’s vision in helping alleviate the lives of Filipino families through Angat Buhay mirrors her vision for the country in her bid for the presidency in the coming May

2022 elections. “Meron na tayong vision na kapag tayong binigyan ng pagkakataon, ito ‘yung Pilipinas na inaasahan natin: na ‘yung mga naiiwan ay inaakay, ‘yung mga nadadapa, ibinibitbit. ‘Yung mga blessed ay sini-share yung blessing sa iba,” Robredo said. Since 2016, P146.83 million in donations from the private sector and P85.25 million pesos in relief assistance were provided by the OVP for those in calamity areas such as in the Taal explosion, those affected by Typhoon Nina in 2016, and residents of areas hit by Typhoon Odette. Robredo led the OVP’s pandemic response through projects like the Swab Cab which tested 9,757 people in communities with high transmission rates; the Vaccine Express which mobilized frontliners to help local government units in their vaccination programs; and the Bayanihan E-Konsulta which helped ease congestion in hospitals through telemedicine. The office also funded 35,656 extraction and detection kits for help in identifying COVID-19 positive individuals.

PRESIDENTIAL aspirant Senator Manny Pacquiao suspended all political activities of his team amid the rise of COVID-19 cases in the country. “We need to allow the government to take all the appropriate steps to address the rising number of [COVID-19] cases,” Pacquiao said in a statement. “For this, I have advised my team to temporarily suspend all political gatherings and focus more on organizing zoom meetings until this surge is managed by our health authorities,” he added. Despite this, Pacquiao said relief efforts for the victims of Typhoon Odette will continue. “We will not stop helping those who were affected by Odette. We will continue to gather donations and relief goods so we can deliver it to the victims of the typhoon,” he added. Earlier, Pacquiao has called for a 50year masterplan on disaster resiliency. He said the country’s lack of a disaster resiliency masterplan has turned government actions into a hodgepodge of reactionary responses with no real long-term strategy on how to minimize the loss of lives and reduce damage to infrastructure. If elected president, Pacquaio said he will immediately ask Congress to pass a law creating a 50-year infrastructure masterplan which must be funded and implemented by every administration. This infrastructure master plan should not just focus on the construction of roads, bridges, railways, subways, airports, and seaports but should on improving the country’s disaster preparedness and resiliency. “We will employ the best architects, engineers and scientists to create this masterplan. We will ask Congress to pass a law which would compel all administrations to fund and implement as scheduled all projects that were laid down on this masterplan,” he added.

Opinion 2021: The year that was

It will not be missed. The recovery momentum had reached a point, toward year-end, where economists were unsure not about whether the economy would continue to recover but about what the extent of the economy would be. The appearance of a new variant, named Omicron, at year-end, tempered expectations but the consensus among economists was that fourth-quarter GDP growth would be in the vicinity of 5 percent and that the January-to-September average growth of 4.7 percent would become a near-5 percent full-year GDP growth. Beginning mid-2021, the wheels of the nation’s political machines started to rev up in anticipation of the general election that loomed less than a year away; by September, just before the deadline for candidate nominations, the machines were in high gear. Most of the nation’s important work was put to one side as this country’s political leaders jostled and jockeyed for the right to be chosen as the presidential, vice-presidential and senatorial candidates of the political parties. In the end, five men and one woman were standing as candidates for the highest position in the land. Thus did 2021 come and go. It was a bad year not only for the economy but for the nation as a whole. It will not be missed.

Hopes and realities

ONE thing about the Filipino, no matter what adversity he faces, he always hopes for the best. This was confirmed by the recent Social Weather Stations poll survey, conducted in mid-December, on what the Filipino feels about this year 2022. My gulay, nine out of 10 Filipinos, are hoping that this year will be a better year for everybody despite everything that has happened. This means that Filipinos are hopeful that the COVID-19 pandemic will not be as bad as it was last year, which resulted in more than 26 million unemployed and underemployed. Nine out of 10 Filipinos are also hopeful that with the expected economic recovery this year, the rising incidence of poverty and hunger will not be as bad. Nine out of 10 Filipinos are hopeful that the new president will be able to provide jobs for the unemployed. Businesses are also hopeful the economic recovery will begin not later than the first half of this year. Above everything else, Filipinos are hopeful that the COVID-19 pandemic will be over this year. I don’t want to dampen all the hopes of Filipinos that 2022 will be a better year than last year. But Omicron looms large. Even now, there are dire warnings from the World Health Organization. But I think it will be all up to God’s will. With faith and hope, we will pull through despite everything we endured last year. ••• Still, realities on the ground bother me. For instance, the sudden uptick of COVID-19 cases during the Christmas holidays raises the question, is this the precursor of things to come? We are now back to Alert Level 3. So do our hopes match reality? All we can do is just to hope for the best.

They do not seem to match. Why? There is no showdown at all! Bongbong’s lead is so wide that Leni does not stand a chance. I had hoped that she would give a good fight with Bongbong but it does not look that way. ••• With a flick of a finger, we can now watch HBO, Netflix and other streaming services from all over the world. This is why I keep on wondering what the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board is for. We no longer need it! It has become a dumping ground of political proteges like what had just happened with the president naming a Davao City-based lawyer as its new chairman. Take an example – “Game of Thrones.” Full frontal nudity and even actual sex scenes where shown. How could the MTRCB censor it for most of the time those sex scenes are part of the story? The MTRCB was created during the incumbency of the late strongman President Ferdinand E. Marcos, whose mission was to censor movies and television programs. The MTRCB is composed of no less than 30 members with salaries. But, with modern technology, communication has become borderless, and all restrictions have disappeared. In other words, the MTRCB should be abolished. ••• Should we be proud that only 87 were injured during the New Year revelry? I believe it’s all foolishness. Have we not learned lessons in the past? Obviously not.

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

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Another fine mess

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ROM the outside looking in, it seems apparent that President Duterte’s allies in the ruling PDP-Laban have made a mess of things. First, they became embroiled in a power struggle that tore the party into two factions, one supporting the President, and the other, boxing champ and Senator Manny Pacquiao. Multiple expulsions ensued from both sides, leaving the ruling party in shambles. Then the pro-Duterte faction, led by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, put forward a presidential candidate who clearly had no intention of actually running for president, but was widely seen as an unqualified placeholder. That candidate, Senator Ronald dela Rosa, withdrew his candidacy on Nov. 13—two days before the deadline for the substitution of candidates, leaving the ruling party in the embarrassing position of having no presidential standard bearer. In the meantime, eager perhaps to please his boss, Cusi lobbied hard to convince the President to run for the vice presidency and then, when that became untenable with the announcement that Mr. Duterte’s own daughter would seek the same position under a different party, he suggested that the Chief Executive seek a Senate seat instead. But even this dream was dashed, when Mr. Duterte dropped his Senate bid

in December, just hours after his longtime aide and confidante Senator Christopher Go, withdrew his certificate of candidacy for president. Now, this same group in the PDP-Laban wants the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to reopen the filing of candidacies,

Nobody is fooled by these desperate maneuvers. a process that officially ended in October. The Cusi faction also wants the poll body to hold off on printing ballots for the 2022 elections, supposedly because it has yet to resolve cases against several contenders and party-list groups. But nobody is fooled by these desperate maneuvers. The poll watchdog Kontra Daya said the petition was “clearly a mockery of election rules” and offered no compelling reason that the filing of candidacy, which expired three months ago, should suddenly be extended. The PDP faction, the group added, sim-

ply ignores deadlines set by the Comelec, to extend a process that lapsed months ago. The pro-Pacquiao wing of the PDP-Laban, meanwhile, says the petition could be aimed at delaying next year ’s election to enable the President—and those clinging to his coattails—to stay in power. A spokesman for the group said the Cusi faction in effect has “admitted that it was impossible for them to comply with simple deadlines of the Comelec after their much-publicized hubris that they are in control of the party and they are the team to beat.” “It is also an admission that they do not offer anything to the electorate other than their lust for continuous power,” the spokesman said. Senators, meanwhile, say they are ready to throw a wrench in such a scheme by electing a Senate president who can serve as acting president, should there be an attempt to delay the May 2022 polls and extend President Duterte’s term. The chaos that these hacks have created within their own party recalls the catchphrase of Oliver Hardy to his partner in mayhem, Stan Laurel, whenever they were caught in a pickle. But “another fine mess” isn’t all that funny, when it’s applied to our system of elections—and the fate of our democracy.

Francis and Taylor on change

••• With all the hype and fanfare that the “Yellows,” now “Pinkos,” for opposition candidate Vice President Leni Robredo to usher in a possible showdown with Bongbong Marcos for the presidential race, I am getting disappointed.

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their operations and consumers beginning to feel confident about venturing out of their homes, economic activity perceptively was on the rise. When IATF was compelled to place the NCR and adjacent areas under ECQ again in late August, the Philippine economy had already made significant progress in the direction of recovery. GDP growth in the third quarter was a surprising 7.1 percent.

IT IS not difficult to describe the year that has just come to an end. That’s because 2021 was dominated by only three events, to wit, the gradual improvement in the COVID-19 situation, the slow but steady turnaround of the Philippine economy, and the build-up of political activity related to the May 2022 national election. The coronavirus-generated lockdowns, which with varying degrees of severity had been in place since March 2020, began to manifest the desired effect during the first weeks of 2021, with the infection, hospitalization and mortality rates beginning to either decline or hold steady. Then the worst fears of the epidemiologists materialized in late March. TThe IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases) placed the NCR (National Capital Region) and the immediately surrounding regions under ECQ (Enhanced Community Quarantine), the most severe quarantine level, again. By the time the ECQ was lifted, the damage had been done: the first signs of economic recovery had been smothered. It was back to Square 1 for the economy. The economy began to display resilience with the return to the more benign GCQ (General Community Quarantine) regimes. With greater public mobility and reduced restrictions on specified productive activities, the economy managed to generate 4.1 percent GDP (gross domestic product) growth in the April-to-June quarter. The slow but steady recovery of the economy was helped much by the start, around April, of the government’s vaccine rollout program. With many manufacturing establishments stepping up

TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022

conditions that can provide everyone of working age with the opportunity, through their work, to contribute to the lives of their families and of society as a whole. This is more urgent than ever to promote, throughout our IN TWO previous columns, I discussed the first two tools to utilize in order to attain world peace which Pope Francis expounded in his message for the 55th World Day of Peace. As we mentioned, the first two elements to peace are “dialogue“ and “education“ and the last element is labor. The latter concretizes the plans to attain peace which is achieved first through dialogue and education. Francis regards labor as a tool to achieve peace, being an indispensable factor in building and keeping peace. It is an expression of ourselves and our gifts, but also of our commitment, self-investment and cooperation with others, since we always work with or for someone. As seen in this social perspective, the workplace enables us to learn to make our contribution towards a more habitable and beautiful world, according to the Pope. The Holy Father observes that the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected the labor market in a catastrophic way. “The pandemic is affecting all social and demographic classes. Young people entering the job market and recently unemployed adults presently face bleak prospects. Its impact on the informal economy, which often involves migrant workers, is particularly devastating. Families are now living in highly precarious conditions, prey to various forms of slavery and with no system of welfare to protect them.” For Pope Francis, the answer to this is an expansion of dignified employment opportunities because labour is “the foundation on which to build justice and solidarity in every community.“ Francis insisted on the need to “combine our ideas and efforts in order to create the solutions and

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

There is simply no place for indifference or apathy. world, decent and dignified working conditions, oriented to the common good and to the safeguarding of creation.“ This pandemic has caused and is causing billions of people tremendous suffering. Untold numbers have been reduced to destitution and utter poverty. In the Philippines for instance, millions are now trapped in the morass of poverty and hunger. It is therefore of great importance that we not only cooperate to improve working conditions and provide work to those who have none but to generously expend our blood, sweat and effort into giving the poor and the suffering hope and relief from the crushing weight of poverty and pain. There is simply no place for indifference or apathy. As Francis said in his Christmas day message, “we must look beyond the lights and remember the poor. For 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,’ He further reminded us that the baby Jesus born in poverty as a reminder that serving others is more important than seeking status or social visibility or spending a lifetime in pursuit of success. Quoting a line from a poem by Emily Dickinson – “Who has found the heaven,“ he then said, in his own words: “Let us not lose sight of heaven; let us care for Jesus now, caressing him in the needy, because in them he makes himself known.” As parting words, Francis hoped that as the world seeks to combine its

efforts in order to emerge from the pandemic, people continue to “work with generosity and responsibility in the areas of education, safety and protection, in supplying medical care, in facilitating meetings between family members and the sick, and in providing economic support to the needy and those who have lost their jobs.“ And to government leaders and to all those charged with political and social responsibilities, to priests and pastoral workers, and to all men and women of goodwill, Pope Francis makes this appeal: “Let us walk together with courage and creativity on the path of intergenerational dialogue, education, and work. May more and more men and women strive daily, with quiet humility and courage, to be artisans of peace. And may they be ever inspired and accompanied by the blessings of the God of peace!“ All of these calls for personal and structural change and is captured in one of my favorite Taylor Swift songs: “Because these things will change, Can you feel it now? These walls that they put up to It’s a revolution, the time will come for us to finally win. And we’ll sing hallelujah, we’ll sing hallelujah. Tonight we’ll stand, get off our knees. Fight for what we’ve worked for all these years And the battle was long, it’s the fight of our lives but we’ll stand up champions tonight. It was the night things changed. Can you see it now? These walls that they put up to hold us back fell down. It’s a revolution, throw your hands up. Cause we never gave in. And we’ll sing hallelujah, we sang halleluja, hallelujah!” In the year of the Lord 2022, let’s go change ourselves and our world! Let’s love each other. Let’s reject social inequality. Let’s protect this planet. Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: deantonylavs Twitter: tonylavs

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3rd Hong Kong news company shutters as media fears grow HONG KONG—Journalists from Hong Kong’s CitizenNews decried plummeting press freedoms as they shut down Monday, saying they no longer felt safe to publish after a rival outlet’s staff were arrested for “sedition”. One of the most popular news websites in Hong Kong with more than 800,000 social media followers, CitizenNews is the third media company to stop publishing as Beijing oversees a sweeping crackdown on dissent. The crowdfunded non-partisan platform, founded in 2017 by a group of veteran journalists, made its shock closure announcement on Sunday evening and said its website would stop updating from midnight Tuesday. On their final day, reporters made clear their decision was fuelled by fears caused by a national security police raid last week on Stand News. “We have been trying our best not to

violate any laws but we can no longer see clearly the lines of law enforcement and we can no longer feel safe to work,” CitizenNews co-founder Chris Yeung, a former president of the Hong Kong Journalists Association, told reporters. “Journalists are also human beings with families and friends,” he added. Yeung said their newsroom had not been contacted by law enforcement but that they decided to close based on what they saw was happening to the media. “Can we work on some ‘safe news’? I don’t even know what is ‘safe news’,” chief editor Daisy Li, also a former HKJA president, told reporters. As they were speaking, lawmakers in Hong Kong’s new “patriots only” legislature were swearing oaths of allegiance following a new selection process that barred the traditional democracy opposition and saw most candidates chosen by pro-Beijing committees. AFP

INDONESIAN FLOODS. This aerial picture shows inundated buildings including a mosque during flooding in Lhoksukon, North Aceh on January 3. AFP

Biden assures Ukraine on Russia action Sudan PM quits; W Crackdown ASHINGTON—US President Joe Biden on Sunday reassured his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky that Washington “will respond decisively” if Russia moves to invade its proWestern neighbor, the White House said in a statement. With a Russian military buildup on Ukraine’s borders, Biden “made clear” to Zelensky during a phone call that the “United States and its allies and partners will respond decisively if Russia further invades Ukraine,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki said. The show of US support for Ukraine comes days after Biden warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of severe consequences if Moscow launches a mili-

tary invasion. In his call with Zelensky, Biden also stressed Washington’s commitment “to the principle of ‘nothing about you without you,’” in an apparent reference to the need to include Ukraine in negotiations about its own future. Zelensky tweeted afterwards that he appreciated the United States’ “unwavering support” and that the call “proves the special nature” of the two countries’

Seoul: Ex-defector crossed border back into Nokor

relationship. High-ranking US and Russian officials are due to sit down on January 9 and 10 in Geneva to discuss the crisis. Earlier this week, Biden spoke to Putin, the two leaders’ second conversation by phone in three weeks as tensions mount over Ukraine. Discussing the call with Putin on Friday, Biden said: “I’m not going to negotiate here in public, but we made it clear he cannot -- I’ll emphasize, cannot -- invade Ukraine.” The US leader added, in remarks to reporters during a holiday stay in Delaware, that he had “made it clear to President Putin that we will have severe sanctions, we will increase our presence in Europe, with NATO allies” if Russia

invades Ukraine. Psaki also said in Sunday’s post-call statement that Biden reaffirmed “the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.” The US leader additionally “expressed support for confidence-building measures to de-escalate tensions in Donbas and active diplomacy to advance the implementation of the Minsk Agreements.” Under the Minsk agreement -- brokered by France and Germany -- Ukraine agreed to carry out political reforms while Russia agreed to end its support for pro-Russian separatist rebels. Washington and its European allies accuse Russia of threatening Ukraine with a new invasion. AFP

MOURNING A GENERAL.

SEOUL—A man who entered North Korea on New Year’s Day by breaching the heavily fortified border from the South is presumed to be a defector from the North, the defense ministry in Seoul said Monday. The man sparked a search operation by the South Korean military on Saturday when surveillance equipment spotted him crossing an eastern section of the border into the North. They failed to find him. South Korean authorities have yet to identify him, but a defense ministry official said he is believed to be someone who came from North Korea in 2020 -- also by breaching the border. “We presume this to be the same man who defected to the South by climbing over the barbed-wire fence in November 2020,” the official told AFP. The man is in his 30s, the official added, without providing further details. Separately, South Korea’s Yonhap news agency quoted a defense ministry official as saying the man “was recognized to be the same as the defector”. No evidence of spying has been discovered so far, the official told Yonhap. The man is believed to have worked as a cleaner in South Korea after defecting, the agency added. The South Korean military notified the North of the crossing at the weekend. North Korea indicated it had received the message but did not respond further, the defence ministry official told AFP. Years of repression and poverty in North Korea have led more than 30,000 people to flee to the South in the decades since the Korean War, but crossings in the other direction are extremely rare. AFP

Mourners, including members of Iraq’s al-Hashed al-Shaabi ex-paramilitary alliance, take part in a symbolic funeral procession towards the tomb of slain Iraqi commander Abu Mahdi alMuhandis (portrait) in the central holy shrine city of Najaf, on January 3 to commemorate the second anniversary of his killing alongside top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in Iraq. AFP

2 Israeli media firms hacked on Soleimani killing anniversary JERUSALEM—Two major Israeli media outlets were hacked early Monday with a threatening message that appeared linked to the killing of a top Iranian general two years ago. The website of the English-language Jerusalem Post and the Twitter account of Hebrew-language Maariv were taken over with a picture of a fist firing a shell out of a ring with a red stone on a finger toward an exploded dome. “We are close to you where you do not think about it”, read text in English and Hebrew below the fist. The hacking came exactly two years after the January 3, 2020 US drone strike in Baghdad that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, who headed the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.

The US said at the time that Soleimani, who was often seen wearing a ring with a red stone, was planning imminent action against US personnel in Iraq. According to The Jerusalem Post, the hack lasted a few hours. Maariv’s Twitter account had deleted the foreign tweet, and had not posted anything new by Monday noon. It was not immediately clear who had hacked the Israeli news outlets. Israel fears Iran’s nuclear programme could be used to acquire weapons to harm the Jewish state, and the two countries regularly issue hints of possible strikes on one another. Meanwhile, Israel targeted Hamas positions in southern Gaza late Saturday after rockets were fired from the Palestinian enclave, security sources

and the army said. “Fighter jets, helicopters and tanks struck a rocket manufacturing site, and military posts belonging to the Hamas terror organisation,” Israel’s army said. Palestinian sources told AFP the army had targeted “a site of the al-Qassam Brigades, west of Khan Yunis” in southern Gaza, referring to the military wing of Hamas, the Islamist movement controlling the territory. The sources also reported Israeli artillery fire on a Hamas observation base in northern Gaza. Hamas condemned the Israeli strike, with a spokesman vowing “to defend our Palestinian people and liberate our land and our holy sites from the occupation and its colonial settlers until achieving the inevitable triumph.” AFP

on protesters stays deadly

KHARTOUM—Sudan’s civilian Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok resigned Sunday, more than two months after a coup and following another deadly crackdown on protesters, with the military now firmly in control. Sudan had been undergoing a fragile journey toward civilian rule since the 2019 ouster of autocrat Omar al-Bashir, but was plunged into turmoil when military leader General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan launched his coup on October 25 and detained Hamdok. Hamdok was reinstated on November 21 under a deal promising elections for mid-2023, but local media had recently reported he had been absent from his office for days, with rumours swirling over his possible resignation. “I have tried my best to stop the country from sliding towards disaster,” Hamdok said Sunday evening, addressing the nation on state television. Sudan “is crossing a dangerous turning point that threatens its whole survival,” he said. Hamdok was the civilian face of the country’s fragile transition, while Burhan has been the country’s de facto leader following Bashir’s ouster. Hamdok cited “the fragmentation of the political forces and conflicts between the (military and civilian) components of the transition” and said that “despite everything that has been done to reach a consensus... it has not happened”. Mass protests against the coup have continued even after Hamdok was reinstated, as demonstrators have distrusted veteran general Burhan and his promise to guide the country toward full democracy. Protesters have also charged that the deal to reinstate Hamdok simply aimed to give a cloak of legitimacy to the generals, whom they accuse of trying to continue the regime built by Bashir. Thousands of demonstrators on Sunday braved tear gas, a heavy troop deployment and a telecommunications blackout to demand a civilian government. AFP

S. Africa parliament blaze under control; suspect charged CAPE TOWN -- A fire that ravaged part of South Africa’s parliament, engulfing the National Assembly and threatening national treasures, has been brought under control, firefighters said on Monday, as police charged a suspect with starting the blaze. Flames broke out early Sunday in the oldest wing of the Cape Town complex, triggering an inferno that crews battled throughout the day. “The fire was brought under control during the night,” spokesman Jermaine Carelse said, adding that teams were still extinguishing flames in the historic wood-panelled part of the building where it had begun. “The most damage is in the National Assembly building,” Carelse said. “That won’t be used for months.”

Earlier, parliament spokesman Moloto Mothapo said the roof of the assembly had collapsed and the fire was “so intense” in that part of the building that firefighters had been forced to withdraw. “The entire chamber where the members sit... has burned down,” he said. No casualties were reported. President Cyril Ramaphosa told reporters at the scene on Sunday that a man had been held and that the building’s sprinkler systems had apparently failed. ‘Criminal case’ Police said on Monday that they had charged a 49-year-old man whom they had detained inside parliament a day earlier. The man, who is due to appear in

court on Tuesday, has been accused of “housebreaking, arson” and damaging state property, The Hawks elite police unit said. The parliament’s presiding officers were to meet on Monday with Public Works Minister Patricia de Lille to take stock of the devastation. Jean-Pierre Smith, Cape Town’s mayoral committee member for safety and security, told reporters the entire complex had suffered extensive water and fire damage. “Nothing” was left of the part of the building’s historic section, which was completed in 1884, he said. This is where Parliament keeps treasures including around 4,000 heritage and artworks, some dating back to the 17th century. AFP

PINK POOL. A flamboyance of flamingos gather in a pool of rainwater near the Dubai towers an Bourj Khalifa in the Gulf emirate of Dubai, on January 2, following heavy rain in the United Arab Emirates. AFP

Business

B3

TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market starts 2022 trading with losses PSEi January 3, 2022

TOP GAINERS 1

MACAY

LAST PRICE 6.67

% CHANGE CHANGE 1.25 23.06%

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

BMM CA PRIM MBC DIZ TFC ATN APC

71.85 46 1.3 10.5 5.51 47 0.425 0.235

10.85 4.75 0.13 1 0.49 4 0.035 0.015

17.79% 11.52% 11.11% 10.53% 9.76% 9.30% 8.97% 6.82%

10

LODE

0.67

0.04

6.35%

TOP LOSERS 1

PRC

LAST PRICE 6.63

% CHANGE CHANGE -1.17 -15.00%

2 3 4 5 6 7

BCOR OPMB MA SOC FJPB FAF

6.1 0.01 0.01 0.61 2.6 0.67

-0.9 -0.001 -0.001 -0.05 -0.2 -0.05

-12.86% -9.09% -9.09% -7.58% -7.14% -6.94%

8 9 10

CEU PA DNL

6.51 3 8.88

-0.47 -0.2 -0.57

-6.73% -6.25% -6.03%

MOST ACTIVE 1 2

MBT CNVRG

VOLUME 6,665,790 9,028,500

VALUE (PHP) 358,985,819 281,274,660

3 4 5

SM SPNEC GTCAP

255,750 240,095,370 156,710,000 206,249,520 368,310 195,462,380

6 7 8 9

BDO SMPH ICT ACEN

1,378,440 4,817,400 818,700 15,082,200

166,012,701 162,000,915 161,211,520 161,123,070

10

TEL

79,885

144,357,610

S

TOCKS fell on the first trading day of 2022, as Metro Manila reverted to the more stringent Alert Level 3 status in the face of rising COVID-19 cases.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index, the 30-company benchmark, shed 81 points, or 1.1 percent, to close at 7,041.27 Monday, while the broader all-share index retreated 40 points, or 1.1 percent, to 3,777.90. Trading was thin, with a value turnover of P4.26 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers, 141 to 66, while 40 issues were unchanged. Nine of the 10 most active stocks ended in the red, with only Solar Philippines Nueva Ecija Corp. rising 1.6 percent to P1.30.

In Asia, the new year got off to a broadly upbeat start in holidaythinned trade as most markets rose, with some cheer provided by data suggesting regional economies improved last month. However, investors remain shackled by concerns about a range of issues including the fast-spreading Omicron variant, inflation, the removal of central bank stimulus and geopolitical tensions. While the last few months of 2021 were marked by uncertainty on trading

floors, global stocks enjoyed blockbuster rallies across the year as economies reopened and lives in most countries returned to some semblance of normal, fueling optimism that the recovery would stay on track. And data showing factory activity picked up last month across the region— including in South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia and the Philippines—provided a little optimism to start the year. The readings come after China posted a better-than-forecast figure on Friday thanks to a dip in commodity prices. Singapore enjoyed a positive day thanks to news that the city-state’s economy expanded 7.2 percent last year, having suffered in 2020 its worst performance since independence.

Tesla delivered almost 1m cars globally in 2021

The financial business district is pictured from the Helix Bridge in Singapore on Jan. 3, 2022. AFP

Singapore rebounds from virus-induced recession SINGAPORE–Singapore’s economy grew 7.2 percent last year, rebounding from its worst recession since independence sparked by the coronavirus pandemic, government data showed Monday. The city-state plunged into its worst economic performance in 2020 as businesses and international borders shut down, choking its trade and tourism economic lifeline. Authorities initially imposed tough measures to restrict movement and gatherings but later shifted to a policy of living with the virus as the majority of residents got fully vaccinated. Singapore has logged a total of 280,290 cases with 829 deaths as of Sunday.

The trade ministry released advance estimates Monday showing the economy expanded by 5.9 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter to December. This brought full-year economic growth to 7.2 percent, reversing a 5.4 contraction in 2020, the country’s worst since independence in 1965. Manufacturing, a pillar of the tradereliant economy, surged 12.8 percent year-on-year driven by global demand for semiconductors and semiconductor equipment, the ministry said. Construction, a driver of domestic growth, rose 18.7 percent for the full year. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong however said in his New Year message

that Singapore was not out of the woods yet. “Entering the new year, the fight against Covid-19 is not over. The Omicron variant has brought new uncertainties,” Lee said. He added, however, that Singapore was in a better position to deal with the virus compared to two years ago as booster jabs have been rolled out and vaccination of children under 12 years is underway. “We have also learnt to better manage the public health challenges while minimising the hit on our economy,” he said. “As we brace ourselves for the impact of Omicron, we can be quietly confident that we will cope with whatever lies ahead.” AFP

Indonesia banned coal exports in January over domestic supply worries JAKARTA, Indonesia—Indonesia, the world’s biggest exporter of coal used in electricity generation, on Saturday said it has banned January exports of the fuel in a move aimed at safeguarding its domestic power supply. Rising demand for electricity in the country risks widespread blackouts unless more supplies are diverted to power stations, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources said in a statement. Indonesia exports the majority of its

coal but mandates that producers must set aside minimum amounts to supply the nation’s power plants. The decision comes against a backdrop of surging demand, as post-pandemic economic growth across the world drives electricity needs that cannot be met from less-polluting alternatives. The International Energy Agency last month said global demand for coal, the world’s biggest source of greenhouse gases, hit a record in 2021 and would be

Seoul, Taipei, Mumbai and Jakarta also rose, though Manila dipped. Jun Rong Yeap, of IG Asia, said: “While the rising Omicron spreads may warrant a cautious approach toward reopening, some expectations may be that improved vaccinations will aid to limit the eventual economic impact.” Hong Kong reversed morning gains to end in the red, with tech firms a major drag, while sentiment was also hurt by news that trading in embattled developer China Evergrande had been suspended, providing a reminder of the crisis in China’s vast property sector. Frankfurt and Paris opened higher. London, Tokyo, Shanghai, Sydney, Wellington and Bangkok were closed for holidays. With AFP

sustained into 2022, threatening plans set out at last year’s COP26 climate change conference to cut emissions. Last January, Indonesia exported almost 30 million tons of coal, according to the Central Statistics Bureau. The export ban was imposed after coal miners failed to meet the so-called Domestic Market Obligation, under which they are obliged to supply at least 25 percent of a mine’s approved production plan at a maximum sales price of US$70 per metric ton—less than half the global

benchmark price. The temporary export ban would prevent almost 20 power plants providing a total of 10.9 gigawatts of power from shutting down, a senior official at the ministry, Ridwan Jamaludin, said in a statement Saturday. The government would re-evaluate the policy after January 5, he said. “We can’t let the companies’ disobedience to comply with the DMO disrupt the investment climate and the national economy,” he said. AFP

WASHINGTON, United States— Tesla said Sunday it delivered nearly one million vehicles in 2021, almost twice as many as in the previous year, results that were better than expected despite global supply challenges. The US electric carmaker delivered more than 936,000 cars of all models in 2021, an increase of 87 percent over the previous year, the company said in a statement. Tesla had announced last January that it was aiming to increase deliveries by 50 percent per year over several years, so Sunday’s results far exceeded that goal. The group, which recently moved its headquarters from Palo Alto, California to Austin, Texas, sold 911,208 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles as well as 24,964 vehicles of its luxury S and X models (at a price of $90,000 and $100,000 respectively). In the fourth quarter alone, Tesla delivered 308,600 cars. Tesla has managed to overcome global logistics issues that have plagued the auto industry. Its chief Elon Musk previously said he was able to get around much of the semiconductor shortage by using new chip designs and rewriting software. Tesla got another boost in October when it received an order for 100,000 electric vehicles from the rental company Hertz, to be completed by 2022. This announcement brought the automaker into the very select club of companies worth more than $1 trillion on the stock market. Tesla, however, finds itself under scrutiny from the NHTSA auto regulator, which is probing its autopilot system over safety concerns. The automaker has also agreed to update its software to prevent drivers from playing video games on the car’s system while the vehicle is in motion, following a government safety investigation. AFP

US air travel still messy, with another 2,600 flights scrapped Sunday amid bad weather WASHINGTON, United States— Americans returning home from holiday travel had to battle another day of airport chaos Sunday, with more than 2,600 flights cancelled due to bad weather or airline staffing woes sparked by a surge in COVID-19 cases. Further disruptions are predicted for Monday, as a winter storm blows eastward. As of 10:00pm (0300 GMT Monday), more than 2,650 domestic flights or international ones starting or finishing in the United States had been canceled -- almost as many as the 2,750 scrapped over the course of Saturday, said the flight-tracking service FlightAware. That figure represented well over half of the nearly 4,400 flights canceled around the world. Almost 8,600 US flights were delayed. Southwest Airlines, one of the hardest-hit carriers, had to cancel some 400 flights Sunday morning, a spokesperson said in an email to AFP, adding that it expected further cancellations. Passenger Nick Kagy was beside himself after his Southwest flight was cancelled. “ARE YOU KIDDING ME @ SouthwestAir,” he wrote on Twit-

ter. “We waited on hold for almost 3 hours to rebook because we couldn’t rebook online, and after getting things (not really fully) resolved, you cancelled our second flight to out of another airport.” On Saturday, poor weather, much of it linked to Winter Storm Frida, forced Southwest to cancel 490 flights, most of them in the center-north states south of the Great Lakes and reaching west to the Great Plains. The result: intense frustration for many travelers. Missed connections “This is insane,” tweeted Haley, another Southwest passenger who was trying to fly out of Chicago. “This is the 3rd cancellation and still not home. Was supposed to be home 4 days ago!!!” Airports in Chicago—a major transit hub—were the most affected Saturday, but by Sunday the airports in Atlanta, Denver, Detroit, Houston and Newark were also hard hit. A woman named Kayla described her own ordeal: “I was supposed to get home at 10:30 yesterday morning. and at this point I’ve had 3 flights cancelled and one delayed to the point where I missed my connection.” Around the world, air traffic has suf-

Travelers make their way through Miami International Airport on Dec. 28, 2021 in Miami, Florida. Over the holiday weekend, COVID-19 cases in the US reached their highest level in nearly a year. More than 2,000 flights were canceled over the weekend as airlines dealt with a surge in COVID-19 cases due to the Omicron variant. AFP

fered snarls since Christmas because of airline staffing issues linked to the spread of the highly contagious Omicron coronavirus variant. Many pilots and flight attendants have called in sick after testing positive for the virus or being forced to quarantine due to contact with someone who

has the virus. This has left carriers with staffing shortages and forced them to delay or cancel flights. The latest travel chaos carried echoes of a frustrating Christmas weekend, when around 7,500 flights around the world were scrapped.

And rebooking canceled flights has been a major challenge for many. One traveler, Eric Crawford, described his frustration at trying to call a Delta Airline agent to reschedule. “An estimated wait time of 22+ hours to speak with a rep about a cancelled flight,” he said on Twitter, “is not the best look for starting 2022.” And Kowshick Boddu offered this account, also on Twitter, about his troubles with Alaska Air: “We were supposed to fly out from Fairbanks to San Jose on Dec 30, but our flights got rescheduled to today which is eventually cancelled again??? Long customer call wait hours, no response and flights not been rebooked? Need help!!” Travel woes are expected to continue into Monday, the first working day of 2022. Storm Frida will continue on a disruptive path eastward, meteorologists said, bringing snow to a wide swath from Washington located on the mid-Atlantic coast up to Boston, Massachusetts in the north. Nearly 1,400 Monday flights have already been canceled within, into or out of the United States. AFP

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

B4

TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022

PEZA expects major investment projects to seek registration in Q1 THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority said Monday several big-ticket investment projects are expected to register in the first quarter of 2022. PEZA said these include the expansion projects of Yeonho Electronics Samsung Electronics of the Philippines, the P16-billion expansion of Amkor Technology Philippines and the entry of the MMG Group in manufacturing. PEZA said its officials met with the investors together with the FCIE Investors Association and the Philippine Ecozone Business Club before the holidays. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines and the Taiwanese Business Association also met with PEZA in support of the locators and a group of new investors looking at locating in the Philippines. “Yeonho is [looking at] expansion in production capacity. YFC is a big Taiwanese investor recently approved in Hermosa Ecozone Industrial Park,” a PEZA official said. MMG Group, which is into the logistics space, will venture into PPE manufacturing, drug tolling and IT center development, a source source. He said a Chinese investor was also keen on developing its own economic zone in the Philippines. PEZA approved 215 projects in the first 10 months of 2021 with combined investments of P62.722 billion, down from P72.644 billion registered in the same period in 2020. PEZA director-general Charito Plaza said despite the decline, PEZA exports growth would be sustained, particularly in electronics. Othel V. Campos

Business Alert Level 3 in Metro Manila seen affecting 200,000 workers By Othel V. Campos

T

HE Department of Trade and Industry said Monday as many as 200,000 workers may be affected by the declaration of the more stringent quarantine measures under Alert Level 3 in Metro Manila, which will force some business establishments to cut capacities and limit operations amid the rising COVID-19 cases.

“Basically, what we are losing now was what we gained when we shifted from Alert Level 3 to Alert Level 2, wherein about 100,000 to 200,000 jobs

were opened,” said Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez. Economic losses may hit P200 million for businesses that will be forced to scale down operations, including restaurants, hotels and retail establishments, he said. Lopez supported the decision of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to grant limited access to unvaccinated people. The MMDA, while noting the high vaccination rate of 70 percent in the NCR, dissuaded unvaccinated people from going out of their homes as they are the most vulnerable to contract the virus. “We definitely support that move to limit the movements of the unvaccinated to essential errands or business only, for their own safety,” Lopez said. Lopez reminded business establishments to observe health protocols. “In terms of these reports, we encourage all establishments not to lose their vigi-

lance, rather maintain strict adherence to the protocol to help curb the spread of the virus,” he said. He said checking proof of vaccination is important especially in restaurants and diners to keep operations safe for everybody. Lopez said the DTI is counting on the cooperation of consumers and clients of establishments to report incidents that may affect the gains in pandemic control. He said the new surge in cases could not be blamed on the decision allowing minors to venture outside their homes. “We saw that cases dropped to as low as over 200 cases daily even when kids below 18 were given the freedom to go out with parents’ consent and supervision. With this, I think it’s time to review the protocols and allow these kids to go out even on non-essential trips. More consumer spending will help the economy recover sooner,” he said.

SMART Communications Inc. said Monday it is beefing up 5G adoption in the country to serve the rising demand this year. “As we enter 2022, we should not only aim to grow the business through our current lens. We also need to lay down the foundation for a future that is already happening now,” said Jane Basas, senior vice president and head of consumer wireless business at Smart. Smart is scaling its GigaLife

Monday, January 3, 2022

-81.36 PTS. 7,041.27

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP) ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

722,247,584 68,729 4,262,254,175.13 66 141 40

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • MONDAY, JANUARY 3, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

50.9740

Japan

Yen

0.008693

0.4431

UK

Pound

1.354000

69.0188

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128274

6.5386

Switzerland

Franc

1.098660

56.0031

Canada

Dollar

0.791578

40.3499

Singapore

Dollar

0.741290

37.7865

Australia

Dollar

0.725300

36.9714

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652872

135.2275

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266333

13.5761

Brunei

Dollar

0.738552

37.6469

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.029949

1.5266

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.8796

Euro

Euro

1.138000

58.0084

Korea

Won

0.000842

0.0429

China

Yuan

0.156910

7.9983

India

Rupee

0.013429

0.6845

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.240154

12.2416

New Zealand

Dollar

0.681800

34.7541

Taiwan

Dollar

0.036085

1.8394 Source: BSP

IN BRIEF

Corporate bond issuances hit P213b

CORPORATE bond issuances at the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. reached P213.45 billion in 2021, down 45 percent from the record P387.83-billion bond listing in 2020. Data from PDex showed that 23 listings took place in 2021, lower than 36 in 2020. Despite the lower bond offerings in 2021, PDex attracted new issuers including AREIT Inc., the real estate investment trust company of Ayala Land Inc., D&L Industries Inc. and Phinma Corp. Among the biggest corporate bond issuances last year were the P30-billion due 2027 bond offering of San Miguel Corp., the P21-billion two-year bond offering of Development Bank of the Philippines, the P19-billion bond offering of Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. and the P18-billion bond offering of Petron Corp. Total level of tradable corporate debt instruments at PDex stood at P1.3 trillion issued by 54 companies, with 191 securities as of end2021. Jenniffer B. Austria

Malayan topped 2020 list of insurers

BEST BOURSE. The Philippine Stock Exchange Inc. is named as the Best Stock Exchange in Southeast Asia for 2021 at the Marquee Awards of the 15th Annual Best Deal and Solution Awards 2021 by institutional investment magazine, Alpha Southeast Asia. Attending the bell-ringing ceremony to mark the start of 2022 trading are (from left, by row) PSE treasurer Omelita Tiangco and corporate secretary Aissa Encarnacion; PSE general counsel Veronica Del Rosario, chief operating officer Roel Refran, president and chief executive Ramon Monzon and Securities Clearing Corporation of the Philippines chief operating officer Renee Rubio; PSE technology division head Philip Driz, finance division head Roberto Jose Jimenez, Capital Markets Development Division head Mark Frederick Visda and Market Operations Division head Roel Villanueva.

Smart expanding 5G network to serve rising demand for connectivity By Darwin G. Amojelar

PSE INDEX CLOSING

App, which has over 10 million users just a year after its launch and ramping up 5G adoption among subscribers, driving data usage while providing the best experience to customers with Smart 5Gcertified devices. Smart serves the most number of mobile data users in the country at 40 million. “Partnerships with global brands such as Apple and Netflix, as well as enhanced prepaid and postpaid offers and digital innovations, will be key to serving our existing customers better and driving new

customers to prefer our services in 2022,” Basas said. Smart is also set to expand the GigaLife App to serve more customers in 2022, starting with PLDT Home Fiber subscribers, in addition to being the one-stopapp and engagement platform for Smart Prepaid, Signature, Infinity, Bro, TNT, and PLDT and Smart Bro Home WiFi customers. The GigaLife App is enhancing customers’ digital lifestyle with digital payments via GigaPay with PayMaya, which allows users to link their PayMaya wallet for in-

app transactions such as buying load, subscribing to promos and paying bills and innovative services that provide exclusive experiences on the Smart network such as the GigaPlay App. With its integrated rewards platform GigaPoints, subscribers can convert points earned into data offers, products and devices. Through the GigaLife App, Smart Prepaid, Smart Postpaid, Smart Bro, Prepaid WiFi and TNT subscribers can also register to join GigaMania, which runs until Feb. 6, 2022.

MALAYAN Insurance Co. Inc. was the top insurance firm in terms of gross premiums written and net premiums written based on audited 2020 annual statements of 48 non-life insurance companies, according to the Insurance Commission. Insurance Commissioner Dennis Funa announced the top 10 non-life insurance companies in terms of gross premiums written, net premiums written, premiums earned, assets, net worth, paid-up capital, invested assets, and net income. “Notably, 12 non-life insurers have yet to submit their 2020 AS [annual statement]. Thus, the performance indicators will have to be updated once all companies have submitted their AS,” Funa said. Malayan Insurance Company Inc. ranked first with P14.21 billion in terms of gross premiums written, followed by Pioneer Insurance & Surety Corp., with P10.09 billion; BPI/MS Insurance Corp., P5.83 billion; FPG Insurance Co., Inc., P4.14 billion; Charter Ping An Insurance Corp., P3.92 billion; Standard Insurance Co., Inc., P3.40 billion; UCPB General Insurance Co., Inc., P2.88 billion; Mercantile Insurance Co. Inc., P2.414 billion; PGA Sompo Insurance Corp., P2.409 billion; and PNB General Insurers Company Inc., P1.93 billion. “Gross premiums written are computed by taking the sum of an insurance company’s premiums from direct business and assumed premiums before the effect of ceded reinsurance,” Funa said. Julito G. Rada

BDO wins Asia’s top sustainability award

BDO Unibank Inc. was conferred the prestigious Asia’s Top Sustainability Advocates Award at the 2021 Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability Awards, an event that features the finest corporate leaders in Asia. The award is given to companies that show genuine interest in the well-being of stakeholders through corporate social responsibility initiatives that are integrated into policies and operations, with a high level of employee and top management involvement on community engagement, environment, and social empowerment programs. BDO is one of the only five awardees in the region and the only bank to receive the honors. “This recognition is a testament to how much BDO Unibank embodies the values of sustainability and incorporates them in everything the Bank does. This inspires us to further elevate our sustainability efforts and make them more inclusive to benefit our various stakeholders,” said Marla Garin-Alvarez, BDO vice president for its sustainability office. The ACES jury highlighted BDO’s Sustainable Finance program that funds renewable energy projects nationwide and the BDO Foundation’s financial education program embedded in the public school K-12 curriculum as pioneering initiatives to promote positive environmental and social impact in the country.

Consumers, advocates ask President to sign Vape Bill, save millions of lives CONSUMER and harm reduction advocacy groups, representing 16 million Filipino smokers and a million vapers, lauded Congress for the passage of the Vaporized Nicotine Products Bill, which is seen to help save the lives millions of Filipino smokers. The groups also launched the successful viral campaign, “We Vape, We Vote!” as they appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte to sign the Vape Bill into law and protect their right to freedom of choice. Vapers PH, Vaper Ako, Smoke Free Conversation PH, Nicotine Consumers Union of the Philippines, Philippine Ecigarette Industry Association, Quit For Good, Heated Equipment as Alternative to Traditional Smoking Philippines, PROVAPE, Philippine Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates Inc. and Consumer Choice Philippines, said in a letter to the President that, “with the growing positive scientific evidence coupled with our life-changing experiences, our resolve is stronger that vaping saves lives.” “We earnestly hope you would consider our humble plea Mr. President and sign the Vape Bill into law,” the groups said. Advocating the rights of Filipino vapers and smokers “and all our families, relatives and friends who stand to benefit from the

passage of the Vape Bill,” the groups said, “the lives of 16 million Filipino smokers will be saved because legitimate alternative products will be allowed to be sold to smokers who want to stop smoking.” Intended to help adult smokers quit cigarettes, the bill has strong measures intended to protect minors from accessing and consuming the device. “We support the reasonable and science-based regulations mandated by the Vape Bill to ensure that adult smokers stop smoking using a safer alternative. Contrary to the fake news being spread by some sectors, the Vape Bill contains many provisions meant to protect the youth so they will not have access to these products,” the groups said in the letter. The Vape Bill bans the sale to and use by minors of vape products, and the sale, advertising and promotion of vape products within 100 meters of school perimeter and playground. Use of flavor descriptors that unduly appeal to minors in vape products and the display of vape products immediately next to products of particular interest to minors are prohibited. Persons who violate these provisions will be penalized with a fine or imprisonment.

Vallacar Transit Inc. co-founder Olivia Yanson (center) leads the annual stockholders meeting and board election of sister company Ceres Liner Travel and Tours Inc. in her dual capacity as conjugal co-owner and court-appointed special administrator of the estate of her late husband Ricardo Yanson Sr. With her are (from left) Arvin John Villaruel, Charles Dumancas, Ginnette Dumancas, Leo Rey Yanson, Daniel Nicolas Golez and Anita Chua.

Yanson matriarch leads Ceres Liner annual stockholders meeting YANSON Group co-founder Olivia Yanson led the annual stockholders meeting and board election of Ceres Liner Travel and Tours Inc. on Jan. 3 in her dual capacity as conjugal co-owner and court-appointed special administrator of the estate of her late husband Ricardo Yanson Sr. This came a month after Olivia also headed the annual stockholders meeting and board election of Vallacar Transit Inc. on Dec. 4, 2021. A Bacolod court, on Oct. 21, 2021, appointed Olivia as special administrator of the estate of Ricardo. In 1968, the

couple established the Yanson Group of Bus Companies, the parent company of VTI and CLTTI. Olivia, Leo Rey Yanson, Ginnette Dumancas, Charles Dumancas, Anita Chua, Arvin John Villaruel and Daniel Nicolas Golez were re-elected as members of CLTTI’s board of directors during the meeting held at the company’s principal office in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City on Jan. 3. The board held an organizational meeting and re-appointed Leo Rey as chairman of the board and president of CLTTI and Olivia as corporate secre-

tary and treasurer. Stockholders Roy Yanson, Ma. Lourdes Celina Yanson-Lopez and Ricardo Yanson Jr. did not attend the meeting. Leo Rey, the re-elected chairman and president of CLTTI, said that despite the challenges faced in 2021, the Yanson Group remains committed to providing the riding public with the most reliable means of public transportation. The Yanson Group is the largest bus company in the Philippines, which has a fleet of buses operating throughout the country.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022

Brown scores 50 points as Celtics rally to beat Magic

Fifteen-year-old Fil-Am Sydney Heyn with coach Cris Gopez at the Philippines Consulate of Los Angeles office.

Women’s Gilas team scours for prospects in US, Canada By Randy Caluag

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HE Philippine national women’s team is embarking on a more aggressive recruitment of basketball talents in North America, through the Fil-Am Nation Select Basketball program. National team head coach Pat Aquino has designated coach Cris Gopez, founder of the Fil-Am National Select, to lead the recruitment drive and coordinate the 16-under and 18-under women’s program in the U.S. and Canada. “I’m super grateful for the opportunity and I’m looking forward to building this program with coach Pat Aquino, coach Mark, coach Julie Amos

Stricter COVID alert forces PBA to reset games THE reimposition of stricter COVID-19 health protocols in Metro Manila has forced the Philippine Basketball Association to postpone all scheduled games until it gets the go signal from the Games and Amusements Board to resume the tournament. PBA commissioner Willie Marcial was hoping for the league to continue holding the Governors’ Cup games without the fans but the revert to Alert Level 3 in Metro Manila prohibits all contact sports, including basketball. Nevertheless, the PBA, in an official announcement on its website, said it has already sent the GAB a letter, hoping to get a reply on its queries on how to resume under strict health protocols. The league also has to coordinate with the host city or municipality. Metro Manila has been placed under Alert Level 3 from January 3 to 15. It came following the sudden surge of COVID-19 cases just after Christmas. “Besides the GAB, the PBA also needs the approval of Local Government Units (LGUs) allowing it to hold the games. Should the GAB allow the PBA to go ahead, a nod from the LGUs is still needed before it could conduct the games,” said the PBA statement. Before the latest surge of COVID-19 cases, the PBA has already been allowed a 50% percent capacity crowd at the SMART Araneta Coliseum. Its Christmas Day double-header that featured games between NLEX and Phoenix and Ginebra vs. Magnolia drew a crowd of 4,843. In a previous report, Marcial said it will abide by the order of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. But he did not discount running the league again under a semi-bubble setup, possibly at the Ynares Center in Pasig City. Randy Caluag

and the rest of the coaching staff. Excited to bring more medals to our country and bring a winning culture,” said Gopez in his FB post. Fil-Am Select has also announced a series of tryouts for inclusion in the Gilas Pilipinas women’s national team on March 19 and 20 in Chicago and March 26 and 27 in Los Angeles. Registration is until Feb. 19 for the Chicago event and on Feb. 26 for LA.

This early, the Fil-Am Select program is already keeping an eye on several FilAm prospects, including Sydney Heyn, who plays forward for the Westview High School team in San Diego, California. Heyn is only 15 years old and stands 5’11”. She is being compared to Pau Gasol with her soft touch from mid-range. Heyn has recently filed for dual citizenship with the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles. There are other prospects, who play in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1 schools like Kayla Padilla of Penn State U and Vanessa de Jesus of Duke University, although it’s not known if their citizenship status makes them eligible to play for Gilas in FIBA-sanctioned tournaments.

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

Meanwhile, the Gilas women’s squad moved several notches higher in the world rankings following a decent finish in the 2021 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in October last year in Amman, Jordan. The Philippines lost to the US and Australia, but a 74-70 win in the classification match over India put the Philippines at 7th place as it kept its Division A spot. From 51st place, the Philippines is now at 43rd in the world. India was relegated to Division B. Gilas Women is preparing for the pre-qualifying tournament of the 2022 FIBA Women’s World Cup in February, the Vietnam Southeast Asian Games in May and the 2022 Asian Games in September.

LOS ANGELES—Jaylen Brown scored a career-high 50 points and the Boston Celtics needed all of them in a 116-111 NBA overtime victory over the Orlando Magic on Sunday. Brown scored 21 points in the fourth quarter, helping the Celtics rally from 14 down with 4:20 left in regulation. He opened overtime with his fifth three-pointer of the contest, adding 11 rebounds, four assists and a blocked shot. “I was just trying to be aggressive the entire time,” said Brown, whose previous career high was 46 against the New York Knicks on October 20. “My teammates encouraged me to take the shots. I feel like I took some good looks and they went down tonight.” Brown’s layup with 38 seconds left in regulation knotted the score at 98-98. He scored again to put Boston up 10098 with 30 seconds left, but Tim Frazier scored for Orlando to force overtime. Boston had led 45-42 at halftime after leading by as many as 14 before the break. But the Magic surged in the second half, outscoring Boston 35-20 in the third quarter to take a 77-65 lead into the final frame. Marcus Smart added 17 points, seven assists and seven rebounds for Boston and Dennis Schroder scored 21. Both teams were missing their leading scorers. Orlando’s Cole Anthony was sidelined by a sprained right ankle and Boston’s Jayson Tatum missed a fourth straight game because of Covid-19 concerns. Suns sting Hornets The Phoenix Suns, trying to keep pace with the Golden State Warriors atop the Western Conference despite having four players and coach Monty Williams in Covid protocols, thrashed the Hornets in Charlotte 133-99. Devin Booker scored 24 points and Jalen Smith tied his career high with 19 points and 12 rebounds as the Suns improved to 28-8—half a game behind the Warriors for the best record in the league. AFP

POC puts premium on EJ’s welfare THE Philippine Olympic Committee is putting a premium on the welfare of pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena in accepting its Ethics Committee’s recommendation to declare Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association president Philip Ella Juico as persona non grata. “If a president of a member NSA [national sports association] is not in one with the aim and purpose of the POC to protect and take care of the welfare of the athletes, then he or she does not deserve the recognition of POC … as simple as that,” the POC, through its president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, said on Monday. “As far as the POC is concerned, the Ethics Committee acted within its inherent power which is to determine if the conduct of a member of POC, specifically the president of the PATAFA, is ethical, professional and acceptable to the organization which he

belongs to,” the POC added. The Ethics Committee, Tolentino said, is a standing committee of POC as provided for in the bylaws whose sole purpose is about the conduct of its members. “After the Ethics Committee found that Mr. Juico’s conduct is unethical, the [POC] Executive Board merely adopted its recommendation,” Tolentino said. “The Executive Board did not penalize the NSA, in fact, he was not removed, suspended or reprimanded.” Tolentino said it’s the POC’s prerogative to declare anybody a persona non grata—which means an unacceptable person to the POC. “Based on the complaint and evidence presented, his [Juico] conduct towards Obiena, who is a very promising athlete, is unethical and violative of the provisions of the bylaws of POC specifically on

uplifting the level of performance of Filipino athletes,” Tolentino said. The POC’s legal team, Tolentino said, stressed that Juico didn’t answer the accusations against him and “he is defending himself using jurisdictional issue.” “The complaint of Obiena is not an intra NSA dispute, but it’s all about the conduct of Mr. Juico as president of the PATAFA on the way he treated an athlete,” the POC said. “He [Juico] should actually be thankful that he was given the opportunity to clear his side but he opted not to and instead hide on jurisdictional issue.” “Any organization cannot be forced to accept a person who is not acceptable to the organization,” Tolentino, also the president of the cycling NSA, said.

Ernest John Obiena

Spain shrugs off Nadal absence to beat Norway at ATP Cup

Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal hits a return during a training session in Melbourne, as top players from around the world arrive ahead of the Australian Open.

SYDNEY—Veteran Roberto Bautista Agut upset world number eight Casper Ruud on Monday to give Spain their second straight win at the ATP Cup, a record matched by Hubert Hurkacz’s Poland. The 33-year-old Bautista Agut is the lead singles player for his country in the absence of 20-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal and has stepped up in style. After crushing Chile’s world number 17 Cristian Garin in Sydney on Saturday, he backed it up with a battling 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) victory over Ruud, the first Norwegian to win an ATP Tour title. “I played very good with very few unforced errors,” said 19th-ranked Bautista Agut. “It’s a good start (to the season) and I’m feeling good.” It ensured Spain won the tie with an unassailable 2-0 ahead of a dead doubles rubber after Pablo Carreno Busta made a quick start when he dismissed Norway’s 345th-ranked Viktor Durasovic 6-3, 6-3 in just 69 minutes. Former top-10 star Carreno Busta is now 4-1 in singles in his ATP Cup career, having beaten Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo on Saturday. “It’s always important to win the first match. Today I felt more and more comfortable than the first day,” he said. “We need to get the rhythm, we need to get the confidence.” Norway have lost both their opening ties in Group A, which also features 2020 champions Serbia and Chile,

who play Monday evening. Serbia are led by Dusan Lajovic in the absence of Novak Djokovic and he faces Garin. In the other evening clash, Stefanos Tsitsipas’s Greece take on Diego Schwartzman’s Argentina. World number four Tsitsipas pulled out of his top-10 showdown with Hurkacz on Saturday, not wanting to risk his right elbow yet after surgery in November. However, he did play doubles that night and is listed to meet Schwartzman in a must-win clash for Greece after losing their opening tie. Argentina are 1-0 after beating Georgia on day one. Like Spain, Hurkacz ensured Poland also went 2-0. But the world number nine was forced to dig deep against Georgian Aleksandre Metreveli, ranked just 570, who stepped in after Nikoloz Basilashvili pulled out before the match. But once he found his groove, last year’s Miami Open champion raced to a 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 6-1 victory. “He played well in the first set and things were not going my way. But I got better with each set and am happy to get the win,” Hurkacz said. Kamil Majchrzak gave Poland a strong start when he dropped just two games against Aleksandre Bakshi, winning 6-1, 6-1 in 53 minutes. Poland can book a place in the semi-finals if they defeat Argentina on Wednesday, with only the top nation from each of the four groups making the knockouts. AFP

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Parks helps Dolphins get 18th win in B.League By Peter Atencio FILIPINO import Bobby Ray Parks Jr. and four other teammates gave the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins a good start for the year 2022. With Parks firing 15 points, the Diamond Dolphins held off Shimane Susanoo Magic, 91-76, recently at the Matsue City Gymnasium. Scott Eatherton led with 21 for the Diamond Dolphins, who held on tight to no. 2 spot in the West District standings of the 2021-2022 B.League in Japan. Takumi Saito and Coty Clarke added 14 apiece for the Diamond Dolphins, who earned their ninth straight win and 18th overall in 25 outings. The Diamond Dolphins, with Shayne Whittington making 11 points, are behind the solo leading Ryukyu, which has a 21-3 card in the solo lead. The Magic, with Reid Travis shooting 21 points, now have a 17-8 slate, and already in the quarterfinal round with Ryukyu and Nagoya. The trio of Parks, Saito and Eatherton struck hardest in the last 4:48, leading a 13-5 blast which gave Nagoya control with their 78-68 advantage. Last Wednesday, Nagoya blasted Osaka, 108-84.

Bobby Ray Parks

Children skate in front of the Bird’s Nest stadium, the venue for opening and closing ceremonies for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics will be spread over three distinct zones and merge new venues with existing ones from the 2008 Games, including the “Bird’s Nest” stadium. AFP

Boycotts, COVID, controversy as Olympics starts countdown

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EIJING—The Beijing Winter Olympics begin one month on Tuesday with diplomatic boycotts, the coronavirus and the fate of Peng Shuai all hanging heavy over the Games. The Chinese capital on February 4-20 will become the first host of a Winter and Summer Olympics, having staged the Games in 2008, seen then as a comingout party for what has since become the world’s second-largest economy. This time, China’s communist rulers hope the Games will inspire 300 million winter sports enthusiasts and help unite the world in the face of the pandemic. With the Games taking place inside a “bubble” cocooning the nearly 3,000 athletes together with non-competitors, it looks being the most restricted mass sporting event since COVID-19. Organizers have pledged to make the Games “green, inclusive, open and clean”, but environmentalists question that claim and smog remains a frequent hazard in China, especially in winter. Hinting at the controversies which have surrounded the Games, Foreign Minister Wang Yi told state media: “The political manipulation of a few

Western politicians will not damage the excitement of the Olympics, but will only expose their own ugliness.” ‘We’re worried’ Rights groups have long called for a boycott over China’s human rights record, especially its treatment of Uyghur Muslims in the northwest region of Xinjiang. Last month the Biden administration said it would not send US diplomatic or official representation to the Games over China’s “ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and other human rights abuses”. Beijing warned that the United States “will pay the price” but that did not stop Australia, Britain and Canada joining the diplomatic boycott. Athletes of those countries will still compete. China is also facing demands to guarantee the safety of tennis player Peng. The 35-year-old, a two-time Grand Slam doubles champion, was not heard from for nearly three weeks after accusing former

vice-premier Zhang Gaoli of sexual assault. Peng has since reappeared in public in China but doubts remain about how free and safe she is. She will loom large over the Games. Then there is the coronavirus. China, where the virus emerged in late 2019, has pursued a zero-Covid strategy with tight border restrictions, lengthy quarantines and targeted lockdowns. Xi’an, a city of 13 million people, has been locked down for nearly two weeks. Omicron is not thought to have driven what is a small outbreak by the standards of other countries, but the highly contagious variant presents a fresh challenge to authorities and the Games. Omicron has already impacted the Olympics with NHL players no longer coming. David Shoemaker, chief executive and secretary general of the Canadian Olympic Committee, admitted that “we’re worried”. “We’re confident that these Games can still be scheduled safely, but we’re taking it day-by-day,” he told local media. The Olympics, which take place just six months after the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games, will be held in a “closed-loop” bubble where all athletes must be vaccinated, have daily Covid tests and nobody in the bubble will be allowed to leave. AFP

Chinese superfan spends thousands on Olympic Games souvenir obsession BEIJING—Crammed on every available surface in Zhang Wenquan’s crowded Beijing home is Olympic memorabilia— from mascots and torches to flags, banners, clothes and cuddly toys. The Chinese superfan scours the internet for rare souvenirs and snaps selfies several times a week by the countdown clock to the 2022 Winter Games in the capital. Beijing will become the first city to host both the Summer and Winter Olympics when the event kicks off in February -- a dream come true for the construction firm worker. Zhang’s interest was first piqued when he became glued to the 2000 Sydney Olympics as a high-school student. “I saw China win many gold medals and felt inspired,” the 35-year-old told AFP.

When the Games came to Beijing in 2008, he worked as an official volunteer—a life-changing experience that sparked his passion for collecting souvenirs. Wearing a 2022 Winter Olympics scarf and sweatshirt emblazoned with its mascot—plus a headband reading “Come on, Winter Olympics!”— Zhang shows off the array of merchandise covering his home. The house is so full of piles of boxes that he has been forced to sleep elsewhere. He estimates spending at least 400,000 yuan ($62,800) on 5,000 souvenirs so far. Zhang scours eBay daily for new listings, with the most expensive find being a $1,900 torch from the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics.

He has row upon row of the mascot “Bing Dwen Dwen” for the coming Winter Games—a panda wearing a shell made of ice—in various colours and sizes. He also receives donations of merchandise from Olympic volunteers. “Some of these people I’ve never even met but they still send things to me, so I feel extremely moved,” he said. His collection is now being displayed in local schools and universities in the run-up to the Games. He proudly showed off to AFP one of his favourites, a first-edition mascot for the 1972 Munich Games that was later redesigned. “I hear that there are only 10 of the original, so it is extremely rare,” he said, carefully turning the small brown dachshund figurine over in his hands.

Chinese pride In 2008, Zhang helped with scoring at Beijing’s Wukesong Baseball Stadium—a photo from the time shows a scrawny, bespectacled young man in a sky-blue Olympic jersey proudly holding a baseball bat aloft in an empty arena. In his cluttered house, a framed certificate of participation hangs on the wall. The mega-fan said he often skipped meals during the Games to collect the food and drink tokens given to volunteers rather than exchanging them for supplies—despite catching a cold. “I suffered not a small amount back then!” he chuckled. But Zhang was intoxicated by the atmosphere in 2008 at a time of extraordinary national pride. AFP

Virus surge postpones National Stroke Play THE National Golf Association of the Philippines today decided to postpone the holding of the National Stroke Play Championship that was supposed to start Tuesday at Manila Southwoods’ Legends course due to the alarming spike in Covid cases in the National Capital Region and other parts of the country. On New Year’s eve, the IATF upgraded the NCR’s health status to Alert Level 3 because of increasing cases of infections that started on Christmas weekend, a development that the NGAP felt can affect the welfare of the 116 confirmed participants. With the concurrence of Manila Southwoods, the NGAP made the call to move the event to a later date. While the NGAP regrets the postponement of an event that they have been looking forward to as a way to re-start their activities long stalled by the pandemic, local golf’s governing body said it was “the most responsible action to take at this time.” “We would rather err on the side of caution and not contribute to any risk of transmission at our event,” the NGAP said in a statement signed by secretary general Bones Floro. “The NGAP board has therefore determined that the most responsible course of action to take at this time is to defer the tournament until the situation has improved.” Before the IATF’s decision on the NCR status came, there was much anticipation to the event which was supposed to end the long lull on elite tournament play since January 2020. There were 116 confirmed entries, including 24 in the women’s event, when registration ended with so many more on the wait-list. “NGAP shares everyone’s hope that, with increased vigilance and cooperation, we can do our share to defeat this pandemic. We will post updates on our tournament schedule as details become available,” said Floro.

Bengals back in NFL playoffs; Packers clinch first-round bye LOS ANGELES—Rookie Evan McPherson kicked the game-winning field goal as time expired on Sunday and the Cincinnati Bengals clinched the NFL’s AFC North division title with a 3431 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. The Bengals, Tennessee Titans, Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles all secured playoff spots on Sunday, while the Green Bay Packers locked up the NFC top seed and a first-round bye with a 37-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. The Patriots manhandled the Jacksonville Jaguars 50-10 to post their 10th win of the season. Rookie quarterback Mac Jones completed 22 of 30 passes for 227 yards and three touchdowns and the Pats were assured of their first post-season berth since Tom Brady departed for Tampa

Bay after the 2019 campaign when Miami fell 34-3 to Tennessee. That victory saw the Titans secure the AFC South division title for the second successive season. Buffalo punched their playoff ticket with a 29-15 victory over Atlanta coupled with the Indianapolis Colts’ 23-20 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. The penultimate Sunday of the regular season offered plenty of drama. Super Bowl champions Tampa Bay rallied from a 24-10 third-quarter deficit to beat the New York Jets 28-24. Brady threw three touchdown passes, connecting with Cyril Grayson on a 33-yard TD pass with 15 seconds remaining to cap the comeback. But the 93-yard winning drive was overshadowed by Antonio Brown’s sideline meltdown that saw the receiver

strip off much of his jersey and pads and depart, waving to fans. Brown’s latest antics came less than two weeks after he served a threegame suspension for using a fraudulent Covid-19 vaccination card. Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians said after the game that Brown’s tenure with the team was over. “He is no longer a Buc,” Arians told reporters in his only comment on the incident. “That’s the end of the story.” Brady urged compassion for Brown. “We all love him,” Brady said. “We care about him deeply. We want to see him be at his best. Unfortunately he won’t be with our team, but we have a lot of friendships that will last... I think everyone should be very compassionate and empathetic toward some very difficult things that are happening.” AFP

Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals runs with the ball against the Kansas City Chiefs at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. AFP

Entertainment Spider-Man clings on top of box office SPIDER-MAN: No Way Home again dominated in North American theaters with an estimated $52.7 million weekend take, while topping the $600 million mark domestically in its third week out, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations said Sunday. The strong results for Sony’s superhero sequel — last weekend it surpassed the $1 billion mark globally — have breathed welcome life into the movie industry

as it battles to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. British actor Tom Holland stars as the Marvel webslinger. With families starting to return to theaters, Sing 2, Universal’s animated musical sequel, took in a respectable $19.6 million, again placing second for the Fridaythrough-Sunday period. Its huge voice cast includes Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, and U2 front-

man Bono. But there was a considerable drop-off after that, with the third top-earning film, 20th Century’s The King’s Man, taking in just $4.5 million. A prequel to the Kingsman spy films, it stars Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton, Rhys Ifans, and Matthew Goode. In fourth spot, American Underdog grossed $4.1 million. The Lionsgate film stars Zachary Levi in

Benjamin Alves ends year on high note

the true story of Kurt Warner,, who went from stocking grocery store shelves to being a National Football League MVP. And in fifth was sci-fi prequel The Matrix: Resurrections, from Warner Bros., at $3.8 million. Variety called its performance “disastrous,” given the film’s $190 million production budget. AFP

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022

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‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ again crushed the competition at the North American box office.

MVP Group aids OdettePH affected communities through benefit concert

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CREEN actor Benjamin Alves considers his recent contract renewal with GMA Artist Center as a wonderful Christmas gift and a better way to end 2021.

The 32-year-old actor, known for his roles in the series Owe My Love, Kapag Nahati Ang Puso, and Pinulot Ka Lang Sa Lupa, to name a few is celebrating his ninth year in GMA and 15th year in the business. “Everytime I would sign up with them, they let me feel my importance in the network. I’m very grateful. Actually, it’s surreal. There are moments in an actor’s career that you wake up and there’s a contract for you to sign. You need to sign it right away and allow the ink to dry up,” he told Manila Standard Entertainment in an interview. In the passing of times, the actor always feels e x c i t e d whenever he inks a contract with the Kapuso Network considering having a home net-

work a dream come true. “It still is every day. When I get on the set of a show I’m doing like Artikulo 247, which I’m currently taping, it’s the same feeling I had during my younger days when I wanted to be in front of a camera and play a part,”

Benjamin said. “I don’t think it will go away. It’s the reason why I’m still here, that’s the reason why I love it. I love to act. I’m glad that I can still call GMA my home. I want to give something different—surprise the management and viewers alike. I just prayed and wished. I’m a product of everyone else believing in me and good timing. I can say that I’m very blessed to be in a good position,” he added. Interestingly, with everything that he has gone through just to reach his present stature in the ‘biz, what tips can he give to those who are just starting out a career as an actor? “They really have to be ready for all the challenges awaiting them here. If you have this showbiz dream, try to make it happen. For one, you have to be prepared both physically and mentally. You should also stay hungry all the time and never stop learning,” he said. Meanwhile, because he is in the lock-in taping of GMA’s upcoming soap Artikulo 247 where he shares stellar billing with Rhian Ramos, Kris Bernal, and Mark Herras, he postponed his supposedly vacation in Guam last Christmas to be with his mother. “Yes, that was one thing I had to sacrifice. Our lock-in taping will end by February. It hurts that I couldn’t go home to spend time with my mom whom I haven’t seen personally for two years now. But I will ask for a one-month vacation on March which is also my birth month so I can fly to Guam and see my mom,” ended Benjamin. Actor Benjamin Alves once again renewed his ties with his home network.

The stars who lend their talent in MVP Group’s digital benefit concert for the communities affected by Typhoon Odette.

THE Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP) Group of Companies continues to augment its support for the communities affected by Typhoon Odette amid the holiday season. Beyond the initiatives that its companies mobilized throughout the past week, the group organized “Gabay sa Pagbangon,” an online concert for the benefit of the calamitystricken areas in Visayas and Mindanao, on Dec. 29. Spearheaded by Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), and the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), and with the support of the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity (ACB), “Gabay sa Pagbangon” brought together a premiere roster of local talents, performing for the purpose of generating more aid and assistance for the affected communities. The proceeds will augment the funds and appropriations raised by the group to mobilize manpower assistance, food, water, shelter materials, and mercy missions of around P80M to date. The digital concert was hosted by Pops Fernandez and with the special participation of Derek Ramsey, Iza Calzado, and Dominic Roque, the performance line-up included Sharon Cuneta, Gary Valenciano, Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, Martin Nievera, Ogie Alcasid, Basil Valdez, Kuh Ledesma, Jose Mari Chan, Erik Santos, Christian Bautista, Jed Madela, Ben&Ben, Vina Morales, Jona, Klarisse, Jason Dy, and The Company. These artists selflessly dedicated their talent and time with only the fulfillment of helping in return - most of whom have supported Gabay Guro for over 15 years in their own personal capacity. Streamed free via the Gabay Advocacies, Gabay Guro, and DepEd Facebook pages, the Gabay sa Pagbangon Concert is the

Kapuso Network dominates 43rd Catholic Mass Media Awards GMA Network continues to be the Earning the Best TV Special award leader in value-laden programs and as well for GMA was Fiesta: Ang initiatives, earning 14 recognitions in Makulay na Pananampalatayang total at the 43rd Catholic Mass Media Pilipino produced by Jesuit CommuAwards (CMMA) held virtually on nications and aired on GTV as part of Dec. 26. its Holy Week lineup. Late night newscast Saksi was conGMA Network further extends its ferred the Best News Program award. wins in the Radio category with its flagAnchored by Arnold Clavio and Pia ship AM and FM stations Super Radyo Arcangel, Saksi recently marked its DZBB 594 and Barangay LS 97.1 For25th year. ever! taking home various awards. For Making it a double victory for Ar- DZBB, the tandem of Susan Enriquez cangel was docu-reality program Tu- and Mark Salazar in Usap Tayo: Super nay na Buhay,” which won as Best Kuwentuhan with Mark and Susan was News Magazine Program. Now on its named Best Educational Program while 10th year, Tunay na Buhay tells the W Dobol Team won Best News Comstories of people from all walks of life mentary. – from celebrities to prominent perWinning for Barangay LS 97.1 Forsonalities and ordinary individuals. ever!, on the other hand, was Talk to Drama anthology Magpakailanman Papa which was cited as Best Counwas cited by CMMA as the Best Dra- seling Program. ma/Series Program. Hosted by Mel Various Kapuso programs and proTiangco, the weekly program features jects were also conferred with Special relevant and real-life inspirational Citations. stories that have touched the lives of many Filipinos and promoted good family values to its viewers. For the second year in a row, Balitanghali took home the award for Best Special Event Coverage. Airing on GTV, the midday newscast anchored by Raffy Docu program Tima and Connie Sison ‘The Atom Araullo was recognized for its Specials’ receives unparalleled coverage a Special Citation of Typhoon Ulysses that as Best TV Special struck Luzon in Novem- in this year’s CMMA. ber 2020.

Kapuso Mo Jessica, Soho was given Special Citation in the Best Adult Education/Cultural Program category. Hosted by Jessica Soho, KMJS was elevated last year to the Hall of Fame in the “Best News Magazine” category. Meanwhile, docu program The Atom Araullo Specials also received a Special Citation as Best TV Special. GTV public affairs shows I Juander and Brigada likewise earned Special Citations as Best News Magazine and Best Public Service Program, respectively. GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak, GMA Regional TV’s flagship newscast in Eastern and Central Visayas, took home the Special Citation for Best Special Event Coverage for its “500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines.” GMA Network was also given a Special Citation in the Best Digital Advertisement-Public Service category for its “Nasa Puso ang Pag-asa” campaign produced by GMA Public Affairs. Singer and theater actor Markki Stroem plays a tranny in Cignal Play’s latest series ‘My Delivery Gurl.’

group’s secondary effort towards drumming up more financial and in-kind help. In line with Gabay Komunidad and the Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko movement, the concert’s entertainment value falls second to its two main objectives: to reach a wider audience with the aim of receiving more donations; and to be a source of hope, love, and holiday cheer for all amid the difficult situation. “You cannot have donor fatigue during times like this, because they just need help,” said Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan in an interview. “Whatever we can do – from the smallest to the biggest of help that we can render will be greatly appreciated by our people.” Part of the proceeds from the online concert will be utilized for the purchase of necessities, primarily clean drinking water, ready-to-eat or shelf-stable meals, and building materials for reconstructing damaged shelters. “Our group has always been at the forefront of environmental protection because we believe that it is our collective responsibility to heed the call for climate action and take care of our environment and natural ecosystems in light of our importance to our planet’s health,” said MPIC Chief Finance, Risk and Sustainability Officer Chaye A. Cabal-Revilla. “This is why, for years now, we have been actively pursuing environmental protection programs such as reforestation, urban biodiversity, mangroves preservation, marine protection, and wetlands conservation.” In line with the MVP Gabay Advocacies for a Sustainable Philippines, Gabay Komunidad focuses on building a more resilient and disaster-prepared country. Guided by this advocacy, the entire group is taking significant strides towards providing as much assistance to the victims as possible, as soon as possible.

Welcoming the New Year with pride CIGNAL Play, the linear streaming platform and video-on-demand service of Cignal TV, welcomes 2022 with pride as it premieres its first drag-themed drama comedy, My Delivery Gurl. Produced by Cignal Entertainment and Epic Media, under the direction of Carlo Enciso Catu, My Delivery Gurl follows the lives of a ragtag family of misfits forced to relocate from Manila to the countryside after an economic recession. Cignal Play’s newest series also depicts a spirited individual, leader, mother, and founder known as Bianca D., who nurtured a drag family

out of youth members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Portrayed by theater actor Markki Stroem, Bianca D. ushers the group through a tough yet uproarious journey as they add color and glitz for a “pak na pak” delivery service. As she becomes the town’s most glamorous “delivery gurl,” she unexpectedly delivers hope to the lives of the people she encounters, too. Starring alongside Markki Stroem are Victor Basa as Boss Sam and Rocky Salumbides as Jakoy, Bianca D’s love interests in the series, with the support of Madeleine Nicolas, Pipay Kipay, Iyah Mina, Lui Manansala, Sky Teotico, EJ Panganiban, Allison Piñeda, Brian Black, Andre Miguel, Carlos Dala, Liya Sarmiento, Kakki Teodoro, Juliana Parizcova Segovia, EJ Jallorina, Lady Gagita, and Maria Christina. My Delivery Gurl, which premiered on Jan. 1, streams every Saturday on Cignal Play. Register on www.cignalplay.com and download the app for free via App Store or Google Play.

Life

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2021

Icons of hope and heroism By Tet Defensor MALLGOERS are welcoming 2022 with a selfie photo featuring “Bayani” and “PagAsa,” two iconic towering steel figures at Double Dragon Meridian Park in Pasay City. Bayani can hardly be missed as it stands right at the entrance while Pag-Asia is leaning from the building top, waving at passersby along Edsa. Standing at 64 feet tall, or about six storeys high, the sculptures were launched in a zoom event barely 48 hours before 2021 came to an end. Hosted by Gretchen Ho, the celebration featured the Valencianos Gary, Gabriel, and Kianna. The three performed several musical numbers from their home gym which was transformed into a film studio for the launch. The segment was directed by Gary’s eldest son - Paulo. A modern-day tribute to the Filipino youth, the stainless steel sculptures were designed by globally renowned FilipinoAmerican public artist Jefrë Figueras Manuel. Born and raised in Chicago Jefre’s parents hails from Ilocos Sur and Laguna. He studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and completed his degree in Landscape Architecture from Ohio State University.

For years, Jefri has been “creating icons for cities” and for his latest work, the artist was inspired by Double Dragon’s sprawling property and the youthful vibe in the area. “It’s all about ‘Bayani’ and ‘Pag-Asa,’ hero and hope. The idea of a hero wouldn’t exist without hope and with hope, you can become a hero. It’s how the youth inspires the idea of purism, and the hope in terms of how we change our image and be recognized as global Filipinos,” he said. “I believe that the Filipino youth has the potential to be recognized as active participants in worldwide activities, hence the globe for the head. They’re both composed of very hard metal that is polished and brushed to perfection - very much like the story of the Filipino youth,” he added. Passers-by will immediately be caught in amazement at the larger-than-life figures almost touching the clear skies. ‘Bayani’ proudly stands tall with crossed arms, radiating a sense of pride, while ‘Pag-asa’ leans over the building, like a giant superhero greeting everyone in Edsa. Both structures flash the popular peace sign, which according to the artist represents “the journey to find love for country and a sense of peace.” Equally symbolic are the headphones on the mesh heads, representing the global youth and technology.

Towering at 64 feet, ‘Bayani’ is a refreshing new installation of public art depicting a figure of a young person. Not far down the road is another installation of public art waving at passersby along Edsa named ‘Pag-asa.’ (top photo)

The Filipino American artist has been creating modern public sculptures worldwide. He is responsible for the 12 meter Time Sculpture at SM Megamall, he also created the cultural installations at SM Aura and SM Ecom. No doubt ‘Bayani’ and ‘Pag-asa’ are the latest selfie subjects in the area. But more than the spectacle and grandeur Double Dragon hopes that the public art honoring the Filipino youth will instill a strong sense

of identity to the public. “We hope that this tribute to the Filipino youth, ‘Bayani’ and ‘Pag-asa,’ will in some way or another spark inspiration in our hearts and minds to remind all of us that the Philippines has what it takes to become a highly prosperous first world country,” said Double Dragon and DDMP REIT Inc. Chairman Edgar “Injap” Sia II, in his statement during the media launch. The Philippine economy is forecasted to

Tagaytay Highlands’ 2022

become one of the world’s largest economies by 2050 and the deep sense of heroism and hope from the young population is expected to fuel the country’s impressive growth. The iconic structure is housed at the 4.8 hectare DD Meridian Park complex. Now a distinguishing part of the landscape, the sustainable and eco-friendly figures are blending well with the business and lifestyle community.

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outlook bullish, buoyed by DHSUD award

Amid an economic downturn, HPI posted substantial gains as evidenced by homebuyers’ rapid uptake of its properties at the height of the 2020-2021 pandemic and despite the 2020 Taal Volcano explosion.

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AGAYTAY Highlands ushers in the New Year with a special recognition from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) hailing its developer Highlands Prime, Inc. (HPI), a subsidiary of SM Prime Holdings, as one of CALABARZON’s 2021 Outstanding Developers for Open Market Projects. The award, “Gawad Husay sa Pagpapaunlad ng Real Estate,” was presented by DHSUD Region 4A – CALABARZON executives to HPI Senior Vice President Lennie Mendoza during the DHSUD 2021 Gawad Parangal held at Hotel Marciano in Calamba City, Laguna on Dec. 10, 2021. DHSUD has cited HPI for its remarkable accomplishments in developing well-planned, climate-resilient, vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable communities in CALABARZON. The recognition also expressed appreciation for HPI for supporting various projects of DHSUD through its SIKAT and BALAI programs amid the COVID-19 pandemic. HPI currently dominates the Metro Tagaytay market with the most active inventory at a time of peak market interest. Amid an economic downturn, HPI posted substantial gains as evidenced by homebuyers’ rapid uptake of its properties at the height of the 2020-2021 pandemic and despite the 2020 Taal Volcano explosion. “This only goes to show the high level of confidence the market continues to have on HPI’s products, which is a testament not only to the improved customer satisfaction From left: Engr. Emmanuel Glipo (Head of Housing and Real Estate Development Regulation Division – Region 4A), Atty. Marilyn M. Pintor (DHSUD Undersecretary), Ms. Lennie Mendoza (HPI SVP), and Atty. Jann Roby R. Otero (Regional Director – DHSUD Region 4A).

we enjoy from the buying public but also to the heightened degree of resiliency the Tagaytay Highlands team has demonstrated in handling these twin crises,” says Mendoza. The recognition gives credence to HPI as a proven reliable and dependable developer who has committed and delivered quality products through the years. It also remains consistent in its compliance with DHSUD’s existing laws, rules, and regulations. Buoyed by this welcome recognition, Tagaytay Highlands remains optimistic that the same positive scenario will play out throughout the New Year. It has started laying the groundwork for an unprecedented lineup of top-level, high-margin products to set the Highlands experience up for another game change. With their breakthrough residential concepts building up Tagaytay Highlands’ impressive portfolio of leisure developments, these 2022 key launches will be consistent with Tagaytay Highlands’ support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Social and environmental considerations are at the heart of its products and services, introducing environmentally sound innovations to protect and nurture its communities as well as its future developments. At Tagaytay Highlands, world-class amenities and provisions including sports facilities and specialty restaurants offering various cuisines and gourmet delights are within reach. All facilities and personnel ensure strict adherence to sanitation procedures and

safety protocols including disinfection, hand sanitation, wearing of face mask, and physical distancing. Tagaytay Highlands’ property management has proven to be efficient from compliance with health and safety precautionary measures to delivering quick crisis response during adverse natural and high-risk events. In recognition of its steadfast commitment to continuously provide safe and secure facilities for its members, residents, and their guests, Tagaytay Highlands has been awarded the Safety Seal of the City Government of Tagaytay. As the world slowly recovers from the pandemic and enters a brand new hopeful year, Tagaytay Highlands is confident that there will be continued strong interest in its premium themed residential communities. Its commitment to its vision to be the exclusive property of choice continues as demand rises for alternative primary homes with the health, wellbeing, and safety of future residents naturally embedded in every Tagaytay Highlands master plan. Tagaytay Highlands is a private resort of themed residential communities where access to top-notch sports facilities and recreation amenities is part of the privilege and exclusive benefits of a TH member/homeowner, their families, and their guests. For more information on how to own a Highlands home, please call +632 75052422 and +63917 5150158, or visit www.tagaytayhighlands.com. Follow us on Facebook, Tagaytay Highlands, and Instagram @tagaytayhighlandsofficial.

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