NCR alert status iffy—DOH Health official notes declining cases may not reflect reality on ground
T
HE Department of Health on Saturday said it is still too early to say if Metro Manila could deescalate to a more relaxed Alert Level 2 by February.
The independent monitoring group OCTA Research said Metro Manila’s average daily attack rate (ADAR) has dropped to 93.82 percent yesterday from 111.47 percent on Wednesday, but it remained on a “severe” level. “We are monitoring this every day, but we cannot yet say if we can already deescalate by February here in the National Capital Region,” Health spokesperson Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said. The Department of Health earlier said the peak of the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, likely fueled by the Omicron variant, may happen by the end of January or the middle of February. The Health department also ordered all regions and local governments nationwide to prepare for an increase in COVID-19 cases as four provinces—were escalated to Alert Level 4. CONTINUED ON 3A
300 of daily Pinoy arrivals COVID-positive AT LEAST 10 percent of returning Filipinos arriving daily have tested positive for COVID-19, the Bureau of Quarantine said on Saturday. BOQ deputy director Roberto Salvador Jr. said some 300 of the 3,000 inbound Filipino passengers arriving
daily last week were infected. “Just last Monday, we released some 3,300 people who finished their isolation in their facilities, which was why hotel capacities have eased,” Salvador said. Based on the new guide-
lines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), arriving Filipino passengers who have recently recovered from COVID-19 but still test positive in the required pre-departure test will be CONTINUED ON 3A
Vol. 35 n No. 342
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January 23, 2022 8 PAGES
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IN MET R MANILAO
SOCIALLY-DISTANCED DINAGYANG. Dancers record their choreography for online streaming in celebration of the Dinagyang Festival 2022 in Iloilo City. Arnold Almacen
Leni, Isko, Manny, Ping bare views on issues
LACSON
DOMAGOSO
PACQUIAO
By JOEL ZURBANO, MARICEL CRUZ, AND REY REQUEJO n
FOUR presidential candidates in the May 9 elections identified what they believe are the greatest problems
besetting the country today during a television interview hosted by broadcast journalist Jessica Soho that was aired Saturday evening. For Vice President Leni Robredo, Filipinos not learning from the past and historical revisionism should be addressed. “We don’t learn from our mistakes
Gov’t rolls out Monday P5k ayuda for workers WORKERS affected by Alert Level 3 in Metro Manila and other areas can start filing their applications for a P5,000-cash assistance from the government on Monday, January 24. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) confirmed that it will start accepting the appli-
cations starting next week. DOLE Assistant Secretary for the Employment and General Administration Cluster Dominique Tutay said workers who lost their jobs due to the closure of their companies, and workers who were suspended CONTINUED ON 3A
ROBREDO
in the past. There are a lot of lessons from those mistakes, but we keep on repeating the same mistakes and it seems we are not learning anything from them. That is the number one problem,” she said. “Our educational system should address this so that children will grow up understanding what is right and wrong, so we don’t repeat the same mistakes,” Robredo added. Political dynasty, according to Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, must end to give Filipinos more choices for their future leaders. “I hope that the passing of political powers to their relatives will really stop so that other people will have the opportunity to choose. It is like only two families are fighting,” he said. For Senator Panfilo Lacson, the government is the country’s biggest problem, while the lack of hope for a better government is the Filipinos’ greatest mistake. CONTINUED ON 2A
Marcos skips show, says TV host ‘biased’ vs. family
AT
A
GLANCE
3,387,524 30,552
280,619
53,406
97
New
Death
Active
New
3,053,499 41,471 Recoveries
New
(As of 4 PM, JAN. 22)
Oil firms to hike prices by P1.90/L NEWS | 2A
Makati workers get P10k incentive NEWS | 2A
Ukraine gets aid as war fears grow
By REY REQUEJO AND JOEL ZURBANO n
AFTER presidential candidate Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. declined to attend an interview hosted by television anchor Jessica Soho, his spokesperson on Saturday said the broadcast journalist was “biased” against the Marcoses. “The reason why Bongbong Marcos decided not to join the Jessica Soho show CONTINUED ON 2A
COVID-19 PH
WORLD | 3A MARCOS
I N S I D E
INBRIEFS
Senators urged to ‘bury’ RCEP
JANUARY 23, 2022
Oil prices to increase again in coming week, Unioil says
M
OTORISTS should expect fuel prices to further go up in the coming week, Unioil Petroleum Philippines said.
Unioil said based on its fuel price projections for January 25 to January 31, the price per liter of diesel may increase by P1.80 to P1.90, while gasoline prices are seen to rise by P1.40 to P1.50 per liter. Earlier, oil firms implemented pump price increases of petroleum. The Department of Energy meanwhile said that year-to-date adjustments of prices stand at a net increase of P2.60 per liter for gasoline, P3.50 per liter for diesel, and P2.74 per liter for kerosene as of January 11. On Tuesday, the country’s oil firms raised pump prices by as much as P2.30 per
liter effective 6am to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market. The oil firms raised the price of kerosene by P2.30 per liter, diesel by P1.80 per liter and gasoline by P0.90 per liter as global worries over the Omicron variant eased. This is the third consecutive weekly oil price hike for the month of January. Seaoil, PetroGazz, and Cleanfuel also raised pump prices, while other oil firms are expected to follow suit. Over the weekend, Unioil Petroleum Philippines announced its forecast
AN AGRICULTURE Advocacy party-list group on Saturday asked senators to “permanently bury” the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and closely review all future trade liberalization proposals due to the “grievous harm” such trade pacts inflict on Philippine agriculture, with small farmers bearing the brunt of the whiplash. “We should learn from history, in particular on how the accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995 brutally affected Philippine agriculture. The WTO caused the massive loss of agricultural jobs, the dumping of agricultural goods into the country, the erosion in the gross value added (GVA) of the sector,” former Rep.Cecil Chavez, who was the nominee of Butil party-list group in the previous Congress, said Chavez said the accession proponents promised that the accession would be the version of an agricultural renaissance, a “utopia of sorts.” Maricel V. Cruz
oil price hike of P1.80 per liter for diesel and P0.90 per liter for gasoline “to reflect the changes in the international oil market.” On January 11, the oil companies implemented a price increase in domestic oil products. Gasoline increased by P0.75 per liter, P1 to P1.10 per liter for diesel and kerosene by P0.90 per liter. These resulted in the yearto-date adjustments to stand at a total net increase of P2.60 per liter for gasoline, P3.50 per liter for diesel and P2.75 per liter for kerosene. Crude prices started on a bullish tone this year as the market saw limited impact on demand recovery from the Omicron coronavirus variant, according to the Department of Energy’s monitoring. The gas and diesel market also got a boost from the sudden ban in coal exports by Indonesia, as Asian utility producers could possibly be switching to gas oil to cover the coal-fired power generation shortfall.
Taguig vaccinates 50 in checkpoint THE Taguig City government has vaccinated around 50 individuals who were flagged at a vaccination checkpoint set up at General Santos Avenue in Barangay North Daang Hari, and at C5 Waterfun in Barangay Pinagsama on Friday, January 21. Mayor Lino Edgardo Cayetano said the vaccination checkpoint was in line with the implementation of restrictions for the unvaccinated individuals mandated by the national government. The local government, however, chose to implement a Malasakit Approach to its checkpoints and ensured that residents who want to be vaccinated may have easier access to inoculation. Those who were willing to be vaccinated were brought to vaccination hubs to get their first jab of the COVID-19 vaccine, while those who refused were referred to Taguig Mega Swabbing Facility to get tested and were provided a shuttle going home. Unvaccinated individuals may also present a negative COVID-19 test result at the checkpoint. Joel. E. Zurbano
Makati workers set to receive P10K service cash incentives n
By JOEL E. ZURBANO
THE Makati City government is set to release on Monday P10,000 each to all regular, casual, and contractual city employees as their service recognition incentive (SRI). Mayor Abigail Binay said following President Rodrigo Duterte’s Administrative Order No. 45 authorizing the grant of said incentive, she immediately requested the Sangguniang Panlungsod to enact an appropriation ordinance authorizing the release of SRI for fiscal year 2021. “We are glad that Makati was able to satisfy the criteria and conditions to be eligible for the grant of SRI for 2021. It is a well-deserved reward for the tireless dedication of our employees in rendering public service to our Proud Makatizens, undaunted by these challenging times we live in,” Binay said. The city chief executive said Makati was the only local government unit in Metro Manila that satisfied the eligibility criteria set under DILG-DBM Joint Memorandum Circular 202101. These include being a consistent passer of the Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) from FY 2014 up to the most recent assessment period, as of Nov. 5, 2021 (20 points). The rest of the scoring system used in the assessment of LGUs include Updated Citizen’s Charter (10 points), Sustained Compliance with Audit Findings (10 points), and Performance Rating System Consistent with SPMS (10 points). In a special session held December 29, the Sangguniang Panglungsod approved on final reading City Ordinance No. 2021-289 appropriating the amount of P82.82 million for the grant of SRI of not more than P10,000 each to all regular, casual, and contractual employees of the city government, pursuant to Administrative Order No. 45.
FromtheFRONTPAGE LENI,...“One of the mistakes of the Filipinos is that we stopped dreaming. We have become dreamless, hopeless and helpless. What we need to change is the attitude of our countrymen towards our government. The ones who should lead the changing of the Filipinos’ attitude is the government itself,” Lacson said. Senator Manny Pacquiao, on the other hand, said Filipinos should stop being hard-headed and learn to follow the government. “Our number one problem is that Filipinos are also hard-headed and we do not follow the law. The solution here is to coordinate and cooperate with the government,” Pacquiao said. The candidates were also asked questions depending on the numbers they randomly picked from a fishbowl. Asked who she would vote for if she were not running for president, Robredo said she would choose
Manila cops told to arrest sellers of ‘fake’ meds n By REY E. REQUEJO
Chinese New Year celebration. The Lunar New Year falls on February 1, 2022, marking the beginning of the Year of the Tiger. The Manila City government announced the cancelation of festivities and celebrations related to the Chinese New Year to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Norman Cruz
80-yr-old settles case for ‘stealing’ mangoes LEONARDO Flores, the 80-year-old man who was arrested for allegedly stealing mangoes and Robert Hong, the caretaker of the property in Pangasinan, have agreed to settle their case, presidential aspirant and Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said. on Saturday. Flores’ case got tremendous attention online. He was arrested on January 13 and jailed for allegedly stealing mangoes in Asingan. Lacson said he went to Asingan to talk to Flores and caretaker and the complainant Hong. Lacson said the two “agreed to amicably settle their case in court during the latter’s scheduled arraignment on February 8.”
Flores was arrested by virtue of a December 20, 2021 warrant issued by Sarah Marcos-Martin of the 7th Municipal Circuit Trial Courts of Asingan-San Manuel. Information from the police said Flores harvested some 10 kilos of mangoes from a tree near his property, but which he claimed he planted. The area where the mango tree was planted and Flores’ house have the same owner. The property owner had died while their children were in Manila and abroad. Only the caretaker lived in the house where the mango tree was planted. After a week in jail, Flores was released on Thursday after paying the P6,000 bail with the help of police
personnel and Asingan residents. According to Lacson, Flores was the former caretaker of the property. The senator added that Flores “did steal three (3) sacks of mangoes worth P12,000, not ten (10) kilograms as earlier claimed. He sold the mangoes in the local ‘talipapa’ and had already spent the proceeds.” Reports said Flores wanted was to sell the fruits so he could buy food. Hong, whose complaint led to Flores’ arrest, is in hiding and could not go to work as a truck driver after he received threats from bloggers and netizens - a case of bullying stemming from unintended inaccurate information.
Pacquiao. “I will vote for Manny Pacquiao because I know him and I know he is a very sincere person,” Robredo said. Lacson, for his part, was asked who is the president he admires the most. “The past president that I admire the most is President PNoy. First of all, he led the ‘No Wang-Wang’ policy. It is very simple but very symbolic. He has no entitlement. I admire him because he was not corrupt,” he said. Domagoso said had he not entered show business or politics, he would have become a seaman. Presidential aspirant and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said he would have continued his acting career or become a seaman if he is not a politician at present. “I would be an actor or a seaman because it was my dream to be a captain of the ship, I wanted to become rich when I was a child,” he said. Pacquiao was asked if his view on same-sex marriage and LGBTs, who he once described as being “worse than animals,” has changed. “I am not in favor of that [same-sex marriage]. It’s because of my faith
in God, we should follow what God wants...But I have already apologized [to the LGBT community] and in fact many of my supporters are LGBTs,” the senator said.
to present their visions, plans and platforms freely, unfiltered and unhindered by any biases. News and entertainment network GMA-7 took exception to the claim of the camp of Marcos. “Throughout her career, Ms. Soho has consistently been named the most trusted media personality in the Philippines by both local and foreign organizations, a testament to her embodying the GMA News and Public Affairs ethos: ‘Walang Kinikilingan, Walang Pinoprotektahan, Serbisyong Totoo Lamang,’” the network said in a statement. “In this must-see special, Ms. Soho boldly asks the presidential aspirants the questions that need to be asked – their intentions behind running for the position, the controversies thrown at them, their stand on pressing issues and their concrete plans should they be elected. The questions are tough because the job of the presidency is tough.” Meanwhile, labor leader and presidential aspirant Leody de Guzman and his supporters expressed disappointment that they were not invited to the interview, which only rounded up the top five presidential candidates based on recent surveys.
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MANILA Mayor Frascisco Isko Moreno Domagoso has directed the Manila Police District (MPD) to crack down on those behind the production of fake medicines that endanger the lives of Filipino consumers, especially the poor who rely on cheap drugs like paracetamol. Moreno’s directive came after operatives of the Special Mayor’s Reaction Team (SMaRT) arrested Monique Gamboa, an online seller of fake medicines that are supposedly manufactured by Unilab. SMaRT is under the leadership of Police Lt. Col. Rosalino Ibay Jr. After a test-buy was set up by SMaRT operatives in Sta. Cruz, Manila, Gamboa yielded 18,000 tablets of Bioflu and a box of Neozep tablets amounting to P1.1 million. Criminal charges have been filed against the suspect before the City prosecutor’s office. In a command conference held at Manila City Hall Friday evening, Moreno ordered MPD Director Leo Francisco as well as the police commanders of the 11 city police stations to go after those behind the manufacturing and selling of fake paracetamol drugs in the city.
PREPPING FOR CHINESE NEW YEAR. Workers arrange “tikoy” at a store in Binondo, Manila on Saturday, ahead of the
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MARCOS...is founded on our belief that the hostess of [the] said popular talk show is biased against the Marcoses,” said Vic Rodriguez in a statement. He said the Marcos camp believes that Soho will focus on “negativity” about the former senator. “We believe her questions will just focus on negativity about BBM which the UniTeam dislike and will not subscribe as it hopes that the discourse in any forum about this upcoming elections must focus on how the aspiring presidents will solve our country’s lingering problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and what their plans are for our country to roll up from economic stagnation,” Rodriguez said. “Presidential aspirant Bongbong Marcos’ duty is to the Filipino people and not to a particular TV show or program host. We will continue with our way of communicating directly to the people in so many equally significant shows, platforms and forums where all the attendees are allowed
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
“I was not invited,” said De Guzman, who presented his platform of government via Facebook Live ahead of Soho’s show. For Commission on Elections spokesman James Jimenez, while national candidates are not mandated to participate in debates, it would be better if they do so. “Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates should commit, to the public whose votes they seek, that they will participate in the #PiliPinasDebates2022,” Jimenez said on his Twitter account Saturday. The poll body is set to hold three presidential and vice-presidential debates in February, March, and April. As this developed, Twitter has suspended hundreds of accounts reportedly linked to supporters of Marcos, which the social media giant said had violated its rules on manipulation and spam. More than 300 accounts had been removed “for violating our platform manipulation and spam policy,” Twitter said in a statement sent to AFP Saturday. Filipinos are among the world’s heaviest users of social media and the country has become a key battleground for fake news. AFP
Rolando G. Estabillo Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Managing Editor Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Associate Editors Joyce Pangco Pañares News Editor
Publisher
Jimbo Owen Gulle City Editor Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer
Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board
WORLD
INBRIEFS JANUARY 23, 2022
COSPLAY. A
woman in a traditional costume poses for photos at Shichahai Park on a snowy day in Beijing on January 22, 2022. AFP
Germany to send field hospital to Ukraine as war fears increase
G
ERMANY will send a field hospital to Ukraine, Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht said on Saturday, while once again rejecting Kiev’s calls for weapons delivery as fears of a Russian invasion grow.
Berlin has already delivered respirators to Ukraine and severely injured Ukrainian soldiers are currently being treated in Bundeswehr hospitals, the minister told Welt am Sonntag newspaper.
“In February, a complete field hospital will be handed over, including the necessary training, all co-financed by Germany with 5.3 million euros ($6.0 million),” Lambrecht said. “We are standing on Kiev’s side. We must do everything to de-escalate the situation. “Weapons deliveries would not be helpful at the moment – that is the consensus within the government,” she added. Russia has massed tens of thousands of troops on the Ukrainian border, denying it plans to invade but demanding security guarantees, including a permanent ban on the country joining NATO. Echoing Western allies, Lambrecht said Moscow’s demand to decide which state joins NATO was a “red
line” for the alliance. “There is no Russian veto-right for membership to NATO. Every sovereign nation that shares our values is free to apply for membership. But beyond this red line, there is readiness from the West to speak with Russia and to take its interests into account,” she said. Turning to Mali, another theater of conflict involving Russia, Lambrecht said Moscow will not achieve its aims simply by deploying mercenaries to the West African countries. Mali is the epicentre of a jihadist insurgency that began in the north of the country in 2012 and spread three years later to neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso. Germany has around a thousand troops stationed in Mali as part of the United Nations’ MINUSMA mission.
The West believes that several hundred Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group had been deployed in the centre and north of the country. “Moscow will not succeed in getting the West to carry out a quasi retreat automatically wherever it doesn’t want to see us by sending mercenaries,” said Lambrecht. “We will not give way, we will not make it that easy for the Russians.” The Wagner Group has caused controversy through its involvement in Syria, Libya, the Central African Republic as well as the conflict in eastern Ukraine. Russia denies any government link with the Wagner Group but the unit has been linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a businessman close to President Vladimir Putin. AFP
Samoa, Kiribati to lock down as virus hits islands
KIRIBATI and Samoa entered lockdowns Saturday after overseas arrivals brought Covid to the Pacific island nations that had avoided the worst of the pandemic for two years. Until this month, Kiribati hadn’t reported a single virus case, while Samoa had only recorded two since the pandemic began, according to the World Health Organization. But authorities in both countries have been forced to put in place stay-at-home orders after the virus was detected in international arrivals. Dozens of passengers on a flight to Kiribati from Fiji – the first to arrive in the nation since borders reopened – tested positive for the virus. And in Samoa, the restrictions were triggered after cases linked to a repatriation flight from Brisbane rose to 15, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa said. The restrictions will lift on Monday night and all current cases – believed to be infected with the Omicron variant – are in quarantine, she added. Kiribati’s leader said the capital – home to almost half of the country’s 120,000 population – would be placed under the restrictions after recording its first community cases. AFP
Real lawsuit over virtual Birkin bags FRENCH luxury group Hermes has started legal proceedings against a US artist over virtual versions inspired by its iconic Birkin bags. Mason Rothschild creates digital art that he sells as non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, which can be traded online but ownership cannot be forged. These have transformed digital items ranging from illustrations to memes into virtual collectors’ items. He named the works depicting fanciful furry Birkin bags “MetaBirkins” and sold them on websites dedicated to selling NFTs. Hermes accused Rothschild of trying to profit from its trademarks. “Defendant’s MetaBirkins brand simply rips off Hermes’ famous Birkin trademark by adding the generic prefix ‘meta’ to the famous trademark Birkin,” it said in its complaint filed on January 14 in New York, a copy of which AFP obtained. Rothschild said in an online post that he wasn’t creating or selling fake Birkin bags. AFP
Air strike kills 70 in Yemeni prison AT LEAST 70 people were killed in an air strike on a prison as Yemen’s long-running conflict suffered a dramatic escalation Friday that drew condemnation from UN chief Antonio Guterres. The Huthi rebels released gruesome video footage showing bodies in the rubble and mangled corpses from the attack, which leveled buildings at the prison in their northern heartland of Saada.
The Saudi-led coalition, which has been fighting the rebels since 2015, released a statement on Saturday denying it carried out the strike. Reports of the targeting of the rebel-held facility are “baseless and unfounded,” said coalition spokesman Turki al-Malki, who was quoted by the official Saudi Press Agency. The coalition official said the prison
was not placed on a “No Strike List in accordance with the agreed upon mechanism” with the United Nations’ humanitarian affairs office in Yemen and had “not been reported by the International Committee of the Red Cross.” Al-Malki said the coalition would share with both agencies “the facts and details, as well as the media misinformation” by the Huthis about the facility. AFP
‘Proud’ Tongans determined to rebuild battered homeland TONGANS said they were determined to rebuild their battered homeland in the wake of last week’s devastating eruption and tsunami as a massive clean up continued Saturday in the Pacific kingdom. The powerful eruption of the Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai volcano last Saturday triggered a tsunami that crashed across the Tongan archipelago, affecting more than 80 percent of the population,
according to the United Nations. Tongan journalist Marian Kupu said most locals are adamant on remaining as the huge recovery efforts began. “We want to stay here in our country because this is what identifies us as Tongans. We want to rebuild our country and unite and move on,” Kupu told AFP. Toxic ash polluted drinking water supplies, crops were destroyed and at least two
villages have been completely wiped out. An estimated one cubic kilometer of material blasted from the volcano, and experts expect Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai to remain active “for weeks to months.” “Tonga’s people are going to need sustained support responding to a disaster of this scale,” Sione Hufanga, the United Nations Coordination Specialist in Tonga said. AFP
FromtheFRONTPAGE
severe level at 152.65 percent. Other cities with very high ADAR include Iloilo City (71.62 percent), Cebu City (48.88 percent), Lapu-Lapu (44.20 percent), Tacloban (41.88 percent), Angeles City (37.53 percent), Lucena (31.45 percent), Davao City (30.82 percent), and Cagayan de Oro (27.74 percent). The said cities also had a very high reproduction number, with Davao City being the highest at 4.04, David said. Meanwhile, the government plans to expand its COVID-19 vaccination drive in pharmacies nationwide by mid-February. Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said the government is targeting to expand the vaccination drive to the rest of the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, and Calabarzon under Phase 2. “Phase 3 nationwide may be [held] in the second week of February,” said Cabotaje, also the National Vaccination Operations Center chairperson. She said 1,860 individuals aged 18 years old and above have received their booster shots since the vaccination drive began in seven pharmacies two days ago. Pharmacies are allowed to administer COVID-19 booster shots to adults while clinics can administer both primary and booster doses. The vaccination initially began in five pharmacies and two clinics in the NCR – Mercury Drug Quirino Avenue, Malate, Manila; Southstar Drug Marikina; Watsons at SM Center Pasig; Generika Drugstore in Signal 1, Taguig; The Generics Pharmacy in Barangay Sun Valley, Parañaque; QualiMed Clinic McKinley Road, Makati; and Healthway Manila clinic in Ermita. “Vaccination in pharmacies and clinics will be free for the entire week of the pilot run,” Cabotaje said.
300... allowed entry from abroad,
NCR... Vergeire said while the official active COVID-19 cases were declining, this may not reflect the actual situation on the ground as many cases remain unreported. “Even if we think the cases are on a decline, it’s important to note that there are individuals who are not getting tests anymore, there are also those who take antigen tests but the result is not reported to DOH,” she said. No self-administered antigen test kits have been registered with the Food and Drug Administration yet. Vergeire said DOH is now drafting the guidelines on its proper use while the FDA is in the “final stages” of evaluating 11 applications from test kit manufacturers. “The process starts when the FDA receives all of the documents. Their dossier is initially evaluated and passed on to RITM [Research Institute for Tropical Medicine]. Once it passes the initial screening, then RITM conducts performance evaluation or validation,” Vergeire said. “This takes about four to five days with RITM and it will be returned to the FDA. So, all in all, the process can take up to seven days,” she added. OCTA’s Dr. Guido David, for his part, said NCR had a “high” reproduction number at 1.38. Reproduction rate refers to the number of people infected by one case. A reproduction number that is below 1 indicates that the transmission of the virus is slowing down. As for ADAR, Baguio City also had a
provided they meet certain conditions All inbound Filipinos who test positive will be required to present the following to enter the country: a positive RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours prior to departure from country or port of origin; a medical certificate issued by a licensed physician stating that the passenger has completed the mandatory isolation period and is no longer contagious; and positive RT-PCR test taken not earlier than 10 days but not later than 30 days before departure. Inbound Filipino travelers will need to go to a quarantine facility, but the duration of their stay depends on their vaccination status and the COVID-19 risk classification of the territory they were from. The Worldwhere Bank has approved a $600 Meanwhile, the Department million loan to finance the country’sofreform Health currently a proprogramisdesigned forstudying a competitive and posal to economic ease quarantine resilient recovery.protocols for international visitors, Health UnderThe Philippines Promoting secretary Mariaand Rosario Vergeire said Competitiveness Enhancing Saturday. Resilience to Natural Disasters Sub“We are now studying thisLoan together Program 3 Development Policy with our experts on what would be supports government's reforms, including the appropriate recommendation for amendments to the Retail Liberalization this,” Vergeire said. Act to promote private investment, “If in case this gets recommended, reduction in the cost of doing business, and rest assured that we will prepared expansion of broAFTER fivebe consecutive because already have pump the fourweeks of we oil price rollbacks, prices are door policy. Our first door would be expected to increase by as much as P1.50 our control so there are other per border liter on Tuesday. safeguards or layers In its oil forecast for of theprotection Dec. 14 to 20that we can count on if said we remove trading week, Unioil the pricethis,” per she literadded. of diesel may go up by P1.30 to P1.40. The Four-Door Strategy is a may Gasoline prices, on the other hand, national government-enabled increase by P1.40 to P1.50 per liter.and
FESTIVAL LANTERNS. A man walks past the traditional market on Dihua Street in Taipei before the Lunar New Year holiday on February 1, which this year marks the Year of the Tiger. AFP local government-led response, first implemented during the Delta variant wave. The policy consists of border control; active surveillance, including test and trace; early isolation and treatment of all those who tested positive; and COVID-19 Vaccination Program. Earlier, the government lifted the ban on the entry of foreigners from “Red list” countries, provided that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and subject to additional protocols. Starting February 16, 2022, proof of full vaccination shall be made a requirement for entry of all foreign nationals allowed to enter the Philippines. Travelers from “Red List” countries who were fully vaccinated would be required to do the following: present a negative RT-PCR test 48 hours prior to departure; undergo a facility based quarantine and subjected to an RT-PCR COVID-19 test on the seventh day; and complete the rest of the 14-day quarantine at home if they tested negative in the RT-PCR test.
GOV’T... because their companies
were affected by the said alert level are qualified for cash assistance. The official earlier said around 200,000 formal sector workers who were displaced by the implementation of Alert Level 3 in Metro Manila and other areas in the country will benefit from the COVID-19 Adjustment
tion,” Duterte said in the EO.
Measures Program (CAMP) of the EO... “The power to exercise stepDOLE. in rights and take over the operations clarified that ofShe, ailinghowever, electric cooperatives…to under the CAMP, workers with improve the financial condition of such flexible work arrangements not electric cooperatives, is herebywill transbe included beneficiaries of the ferred to the as Office of the President.” one-time cash incentive. Within 30 days from the issuance of Asorder, of January 15, Tutay there the NEA, through the said Department are over 2,000 employees affected of Energy, should report to the President thetemporary status of ailing cooperatives. by closures under Alert The3.DOE was, meanwhile, ordered to Level identify unviable, underserved Companies orunserved, individual appliand poorly areas within the francants may served file their applications chise areas of DOLE distribution utilities. through the online applicaalso mandated distribution tionHesystem (reports.dole.gov.ph). utilities a Comprehensive Basedto onsubmit its data, DOLE said workElectrification Master Plan ers in the administrative and(CEMP) support that would lead to the “total electrificaservices, manufacturing, construction, tion”and of their covered franchise areas. food accommodation, and other The DOE has the power to reject services were displaced. or modify the CEMP if “it is not in The Employees’ Compensation accordance with the objective of total Commission said it electrification(ECC) or if it meanwhile will not provide isthe appealing for the public’s underhighest quality and least cost of standing ofproviding the apparent delay of the service for electricity.” processing andRegulatory releasing of claims by The Energy Commission workers contracted COVID-19 was alsowho directed to impose fines and while performing their duties. distripenalties against non-compliant ECC utilities executive director Stella bution a PRESIDENT Rodrigo Banawis said: “Weanare askingOrder for Duterte has issued executive the public’s understanding as there are many factors why the applications could not be processed immediately.” Banawis said the ECC’s own workforce has also been affected by the pandemic, and thus its operations have also been affected. Compensation claims related to COVID-19 take two months to process, Banawis said.
Australian logistics giant establishes office in Parañaque
Toll Group Philippines country manager Benjamin Bathan
AUSTRALIAN logistics giant Toll Group opened a local office in the Philippines, expanding its entrenched footprint across Asia. The Manila office enables Toll Group to more effectively support Philippines-based businesses in their supply chain needs, empowering them with a suite of bestin-class supply chain solutions and access to regional growth opportunities. Toll Group has maintained a presence in the Philippines since 2007, working mainly through local partners. This pivot towards a direct presence in-country provides Toll Group with more autonomy and control over operations and service quality, streamlining goods transition and coordination in line with industry best practices. Local businesses stand to gain access to Toll Group’s extensive global freight forwarding network, allowing them to tap new business opportunities that lie beyond the Philippines, such as regional manufacturing value chains. The office is located at 6th Floor, Unit 604, RiRance Corporate Center I, Block 2, Lot 16, Aseana City, Barangay Tambo, Parañaque City near major sea and airports.
Based on market trends, Toll Group expects its Philippines office to achieve high double-digit growth in the next five years, with focus verticals being the industrial, retail, technology and automotive sectors. Benjamin Bathan was appointed Toll Group’s country manager for the Philippines. He will be responsible for driving go-to-market efforts and building the local team’s capabilities for future growth in-country. Bathan brings close to 20 years of supply chain experience, having held positions in sales and operations functions in the shipping and freight forwarding industries. Prior to joining Toll Group, he was previously the ocean general manager for a Japanese logistics firm, where he was responsible for all ocean freight activities. “A key objective of our direct expansion into the Philippines was to enhance access to global opportunities for local businesses. Many freight forwarders in the Philippines operate through a partner-based model and do not personally own a global or regional supply chain network, creating challenges in visibility and quality control. The launch of a local office enables Toll Group to fill this service gap, offering businesses in the Philippines access to our extensive global network and Asia-centric expertise
to strengthen their growth prospects amid the uncertainty arising from the pandemic,” said Bathan. Connecting local businesses to global value chains aligns with ongoing efforts at the national level to tap the Philippines’ unrealized $49-billion export potential via the Philippine Export Development Plan for 2022-2027. Significant progress has been made in the area of trade facilitation, with the Philippines being ranked third in their ability to streamline trade processes and procedures based on a United Nations survey. Rajeev Sood, senior vice president for ASEAN and Indian subcontinent at Toll Global Forwarding, said: “The arrival of COVID-19 has made diversification of supply networks imperative for businesses not just in the Philippines but across the world. Today, uncertainties and supply chain bottlenecks have made a multimodal approach to transport and the ability to access multiple suppliers and markets critical for business continuity and resilience. Having a direct presence in the Philippines reaffirms Toll Group’s commitment to helping businesses across Asia navigate supply chain challenges and contributes to the continued expansion of our regional network and presence.”
Katie Glaser, senior vice president of international operations at PassportUSA
JANUARY 23, 2022
Filipino nurses support US healthcare
sector amid crisis A
LEADING provider of internationallytrained healthcare professionals in the United States considers Filipino nurses as one of the most resilient pillars of the US healthcare system.
“Filipino nurses comprise roughly 150,000 or 4 percent of the total nurses in the United States and account for a larger share in certain states such as California,” says Katie Glaser, senior vice president of international operations of PassportUSA. Through its partnership with Health Carousel LLC, Passport USA serves more than 800 client healthcare facilities across the US. “In terms of population alone, Filipino nurses are critical in ensuring that the US healthcare sector will continue to fulfill its mandate in providing quality medical care for all Americans. Nurses from the Philippines are also appreciated for their character, warm personality, and passion to serve patients to the best of their ability. Indeed, without Filipino nurses, the US healthcare system would have been paralyzed,” Glaser says in an email interview. PassportUSA is a founding member of the American Association of International Healthcare Recruitment and is recognized as a certified ethical recruitment firm by the Alliance for Ethical International Recruitment Practices. “Our services are focused on taking care of the wellbeing of our healthcare professionals who choose to build their careers in the United States in every possible way. We take a holistic
approach in ensuring their well-being – helping them feel both comfortable and happy with what they are doing while advancing their professional development,” says Glaser, a lawyer who received the Cincinnati Business Courier’s 40 under 40 award in recognition of her work in addressing the complex challenges of helping foreign-trained professionals to jumpstart their careers in the US. DIVERSE TALENTS She says the US requires more diverse talents in its healthcare system to address the changing needs of patients who were affected by the coronavirus pandemic. “The healthcare market right now is aggressively looking for new nurses and healthcare professionals to man the frontlines as COVID-19 cases continue to soar. We expect this trend to continue even in a post-pandemic world as more countries look to further invest in their respective healthcare systems through more infrastructure and employment opportunities,” she says. Among the sources of trained healthcare professionals they are looking at is the Philippines. Glaser says Passport USA offers unique programs for Filipino nurses. “In the Philippines, we continue to invest in education efforts to help healthcare professionals work towards their eventual US accreditation. Through our partners in Health Carousel Philippines, we help in providing trainings across our different partner hospitals and our partner review centers,” she says. A recipient of the Health Carousel program is Guadalupe Morales, a Filipino nurse at Monumental Health in South Dakota. Living in the US for more than three years, Morales saw how Filipino nurses play a crucial role in
making sure patients get the care they need especially amid the pandemic. “In South Dakota where I work, the shortage of nurses and healthcare professionals became a cause for concern especially with emerging COVID-19 infections among the most vulnerable. Nurses are not just assistants to doctors as what others easily assume, we help patients, and their families know available treatment options and make sure patients understand their medical decisions,” says Morales. CARING APPROACH She says that in the US, Filipino nurses are known for their warm and empathetic approach to care which helps patients become more confident with their medical decisions. “Filipino nurses bring more heart to the US healthcare system which can empower patients and their families to trust the process and our doctors’ recommendations,” she says. For Filipino nurses who would like to work in the US, Morales advises them to seek a recruitment partner who will prioritize their interests and welfare. “Being an immigrant is not easy especially when we do not know much about the environment and workplace culture in the country where we plan to work. Recruitment agencies are there to help us understand and overcome the complexities and challenges of becoming a nurse in the United States. I am lucky to be a recipient of Health Carousel’s Global Scholarship Program which helped me complete my nursing education and develop the skills needed to be qualified abroad,” she says. “Because of my recruitment agency partner, I was able to practice my profession seamlessly without having to worry too much about the radical adjustments
I needed to adopt,” says Morales. Glaser also mentions three things that Filipino nurses need to consider before deciding to make the big move in the United States. These include preparing for the National Council Licensure Examination, looking for a recruitment agency that is fair and transparent in their terms and conditions, transactions and roadmap and considering their prospects after getting into the United States. ADJUSTMENT SUPPORT “Adjusting to a new country is one of the most difficult transitions every immigrant faces especially when the environment, culture and communities are different from what they were used to. Overall, Filipino nurses need all the help they can get in order to jumpstart their careers in the US, and we ensure we guide them in every step of the process,” says Glaser. She says Health Carousel LLC and PassportUSA are ready to help addressing these three concerns leading to better opportunities for Filipino nurses aspiring to achieve their own version of the American dream. “At Health Carousel LLC, we look at connecting Filipino nurses with our partner hospitals looking for worldclass talent to address the various
Executive sees five trends IKEA PH taps Mober in digital remittance for 2022 to deliver products using electric vehicles
AFTER the resurgence of COVID-19 cases and mobility restrictions in the Philippines, all eyes are now on what 2022 will bring to the millions dependent on remittances each year. WorldRemit country director Earl Melivo shares his market trend predictions for the year. First, remittance growth is expected to continue. WorldRemit processed nearly $10 billion in transactions in 2020 and remittances are expected to continue growing in 2022, perhaps at a slightly consistent rate when economies around the world stabilize, says Melivo. Second, mobile wallets will grow in popularity. The year 2020 saw a $2.4-trillion boom in contactless mobile payments and the industry is forecasted to maintain momentum, according to the WorldRemit executive. Southeast Asia is the fastest-growing mobile wallet region—supercharged by e-commerce, internet and smartphone penetration. According to recent studies, Philippine mobile payment users will triple to 75.5 million by 2025. In 2020, $12.7 billion in cross-border remittances were processed digitally. Electronic payment is a popular alternative to physical banking given the convenience of
lower costs, greater convenience and the ability to send money on the go through mobile applications. Third, safety comes first. Melivo says amid safety concerns surrounding money transfers and sharing personal information online, money transfer companies have prioritized security measures above all else. On the sending side, more companies are integrating additional features to verify customers through identity documents and their phone’s IP address, he says. “On the receiving side—such is the case in the Philippines as one of the top five remittance recipients in 2021—more deposits will be made directly to bank accounts and e-wallets due as an increasing number of people prefer not to handle cash,” he says. “With the support of the BSP, digital payments services will continue to improve,” says Melivo. “All WorldRemit transfers are encrypted through our automated machine learning system for fraud detection. Moreover, consumer education on the benefits and threats of the digital financial space is an ongoing endeavor by both the private and public sector to help protect customers.”
FILIPINO tech-logistics company Mober cemented its commitment to reduce carbon emissions through a partnership with home furnishing retailer IKEA for the latter’s last-mile electric vehicle delivery. IKEA opened its largest store in the world in Pasay City on Nov. 25, 2021, welcoming customers to a new 66,000-square-meter facility in Manila. With online orders now accounting for a significant portion of the company’s sales, IKEA embarked on a mission to achieve 100-percent electric vehicle delivery by 2030. The partnership announcement comes on the heels of Mober’s recent launch of the Philippines’ first electric delivery van. Mober’s electric delivery fleet boasts of a service coverage area of 250 kilometers and serves Metro Manila areas. A pioneer of same day delivery, Mober offers transparent pricing and precise tracking of goods. IKEA Philippines said it is committed to making all its home deliveries through electric vehicles—as soon as possible and no later than 2030. IKEA Philippines manager Georg Platzer said: “We are working with our transport partners to support this goal. With the first electric vehicle from Mober for instance, we lower harmful emissions as we deliver home furnishing solutions from our store to the customers’ homes. This is our small collaborative start to tackle climate change and clean transport.” Corinna Schuler, director of sustainability and corporate
needs of patients. Our partners in Health Carousel Philippines provide opportunities in order to elevate the qualifications of Filipino nurses who aspire to work in the United States. Together with our partner hospitals, we provide a list of potential employment for Filipino nurses who are looking for new career opportunities,” she says. Once they passed the NCLEX, Filipino nurses will be assisted by Health Carousel in their employment prospects, immigration and adjustment in the United States. “Overall, recruitment agencies in the Philippines can help Filipino nurses by opening new opportunities for them to advance their careers and qualifications locally so that they can compete internationally. It is important that recruitment agencies implement ethical and sustainable healthcare staffing practices which will contribute to continued growth and opportunities for Filipino nurses,” says Glaser. Glaser believes that the Philippines has huge potential to be one of the global leaders in nursing education, “if we maximize the right opportunities and recruitment agencies will play a vital role to help address and balance local and international demand for world-class nursing talent.” Roderick T. dela Cruz
Mober supports IKEA’s goal of 100-percent electric vehicle delivery by 2030.
communication for IKEA Southeast Asia, said: “We are excited to be working alongside like-minded suppliers and transport partners like Mober. Together, we can lower harmful emissions while offering IKEA customers the convenience of home delivery. This is a great example of the kind of collaborative action needed to tackle climate change. We are urging authorities in all the markets where we operate to help pave the way to low-carbon economy with positive policies and infrastructure.” Schuler said that “with Mober, we are just getting started on our journey. We are still working toward securing sustainable alternatives to the big trucks we need to deliver large furniture. We hope to see more innovations soon.” Like IKEA, Mober has its own plans to reduce carbon emissions. Plans are afoot to secure a mixed fleet of 100 units of electric vans and trucks by 2030. Mober founder and chief executive Dennis Ng said: “Our goal with our new electric van fleet is to reduce carbon emissions. We are delighted to be collaborating with retail giants like IKEA that are as committed to the reduction of carbon emissions as we are. We look forward to serving the company’s customers with the same level of professionalism and efficiency that we are known for.”
JANUARY 22, 2022
Jun Ferando as a teacher in 2018
Ferando, the trainer, with his wards at Ninzgym Boxing in Leyte
From pro boxer to school teacher
T
n By RANDY CALUAG
Ferando as a boxer in 2010
1B
HERE were stories about a teacher becoming a boxer, most notable of which was that of Australian Jeff Horn, who once battled and beaten Manny Pacquiao for a world boxing title.
Now, get inspired by the story of Alfonso Acero Ferando Jr., a former Filipino professional boxer who strived hard to finish his studies and become a teacher. Jun Ferando, a high-school teacher at Saint Joseph College in Maasin, Leyte, once dreamed of becoming a world boxing champion. He fought 13 times in the professional boxing ring and recorded eight wins, two coming by knockouts, against five losses. Ferando’s pro debut was in June 2001 against Jerome Dansing, winning by unanimous decision. He
won four more bouts, all by decision, before losing to an undefeated fighter Isidro Lorona in May 2002 in Daanbantayan, Cebu. “Doon ko natikman ang unang talo ko sa professional. Kaya natanong ko sa sarili ko, what if, sa susunod na mga laban ko magtatatalo na ako? Kaya naisipan kong huminto at ipagpatuloy ang high school ko,” Ferando told Manila Standard in an exclusive interview. “Noong natapos ko na ang high school ko, bumalik ako ng boxing at pinagsabay ko ang pag.aaral. Okay naman nakalaban ako at nanalo ng dalawang beses.” For two years, Ferando had to wake up early to train in boxing and go home late for his night schooling. “Natiis ko ang dalawang taong iyon dahil sa ginusto ko talagang makikilala sa larangan ng boxing at the same time gusto kong matapos pag aaral ko.” Five years after his loss, he came back strong in his next two bouts, pulling off back-to-back technical knockout victories at the expense of Ian Arcalin and Jimboy Casiple, respectively, before losing also via TKO to Nelson Llanos in Maasin, Leyte. “Noong pangatlo natalo na naman ako, naisip ko itigil ko muna kolehiyo ko at bibigyan ko ng
MUR PRINCE ALAO
Red Cubs skipper making heads turn OVER a decade ago, a very young kid was already a scene stealer in a covered court in between games of a community basketball league in Antipolo City. That young kid was Mur Prince Alao, who would dribble, drive and shoot a ball bigger than his head during the halftime break or after the games of the tournament organized by his commercial basketball player father Ray Alao for the youth in their Antipolo Hills Subdivision in San Luis and nearby barangays. The young Alao then started playing the game of basketball along with friends of his age in a makeshift court inside their backyard, where his father harnessed his shooting touch during daily, one-hour practice sessions. Mur Prince’s love for the game developed when his father took him to the real mahogany hardcourts in modern gyms around Metro Manila for him to witness serious competitive ballgames and actually feel the joy of victory and agony of defeat from contending adult players, including his idol dad.
Slowly but surely, he developed his basketball talent by playing in his school in the city until he was discovered in 2013 by coach Robert dela Rosa, who sent him to San Beda-Rizal under coach VL Sandalo for a tryout. He was an incoming Grade 4 student the time and was handled by Sandalo until he was at 7th grade. Mur Prince’s young career grew even further with another mentor coach in Manu Inigo as he continued playing for San Beda-Taytay under a full athletic scholarship. They won a championship together for the school. In 2017, Alao played for a couple of basketball tournaments -- the SBP Passarelle and adidas Uprising. He then tasted his NCAA championship as a San Beda Red Cub, followed by an NCAA 3X3 title. That was after he captured a prestigious crown as a member of Pinoy Youth Dreamers mentored by coach Beaujing Acot (2015) in Malaysia. He also bagged a 3X3 plum and was an MVP awardee in an age-bracket tourney in Guam The highlight of his young basketball career in the international scene was winning back-to-back titles in the NCAA Pacific Championship in Thailand (2018 and 2019), an accomplishment lauded by President Rodrigo Duterte in a courtesy call in Malacanang Palace. The young 6’2” pointguard Mur Prince also went to Guam, USA and trained under Coach Vincent Askew (former NBA import), before joining the Batang Gilas Under 18 pool. Currently, the 18-year-old Alao is already the team captain of the San Beda University Red Cubs (juniors) basketball team in the NCAA. With his innate talent and hard work, the fast rising Alao is destined to be a star, adored in the sport loved by the Filipinos. “I love this ballgame so much. It’s the biggest part of my life aside from my studies. It’s an ambition and destiny. I thank God, my families, friends, mentors and Davao Occidental Tigers COCOLIFE for helping me grow in pursuit of my goals,” said the young Alao, whose ultimate dream is to play in the PBA and become a national player of GILAS Pilipinas. Make way for the Prince.
dalawang taon ang pagboboxing ko, yung tipong doon lang ako magpo-focus. Kaya ayun boxing nalang talaga inatupag ko, “ Ferando recalled. Ferando did exactly just that as he stopped going to school to focus on his boxing career. Unfortunately, things didn’t go Ferando’s way, winning only once in his last four fights. His farewell bout was in October 2010 which was a split decision loss to Jonathan Ricablanca. He attributed his failure to various factors such as poor management and fear of what lies ahead. “Ang manager ko dati ‘di nagpopromote ng boxing event, singitsingit lang ang mga boxers nya sa mga boxing promotions. ‘Di ako napipili kasi nga come back fighter ako.” It is at this juncture that Ferando had to choose between pursuing his boxing dream or take another path. “Natakot nako sumugal sa pag aantay na umangat boxing career ko since medyo nagkakaedad nako kailangan kona talaga pumili kung anung career tatahakin ko,” admitted Ferando. He decided to go back to college with the support of his father and his wife. “Wala po akong naging trabaho habang tinatapos ko kole-
hiyo, sinuportahan po ako ng papa ko at asawa ko. Passion for boxing Ferando’s passion for boxing was born out of necessity. He claimed that when he was in elementary school, he used to be bullied by his bigger classmates. “Kasi nga maliit ako. Kaya naisip ko pag aralan ang boxing para ng sa ganun sa protektahan ko sarili ko sa mga bullies sa school naming,” explained Ferando although he was quick to point out that it was a childish mindset at that time. “Pag-iisip po ng isang bata.” But much influence came from his father with whom he used to watch boxing shows on TV. “Kaya halos sa lingo-linggong panonood ko ng boxing sa TV parang nakahiligan ko sya at gustong kong matutunan.” He started joining backyard sparring sessions. Then he began competing in barangay competitions. At the age of 15, he turned professional in 2001. He advises young, aspiring boxers to make up their mind and focus on where they will really excel but always make sure to invest time in education. “Sobrang napakahalaga ng pag aaral kaya kung darating ang panahon na kailangan nyong pumili, piliin nyo ang pag aaral. Totoong pwedeng makapagbigay ng kaginhawaan ang pagbo-boxing pero di dapat natin iasa ang ating kinabukasan sa pagbo-boxing lamang dahil hindi lahat nagiging world champion.” Even as he works full-time as a high school teacher, Ferando has not totally abandoned his passion. He devotes his free time to training young boxing prospects at Ninzgym Boxing in Leyte. He does not only teach them about the rudiments of boxing but also lessons in life.
dsfd
Magsayo no problem making weight as Russell struggles EVEN if he appeared to be the bigger fighter, Filipino challenger Mark Magsayo had no difficulty making the weight limit for his World Boxing Council featherweight title bout with current champion Gary Russell. The American title holder, meanwhile, had to make a secind trip to the official weigh-in ahead of their scheduled title fight on Sunday( PH time) at the Borgata Arena in Atlantic City New Jersey. The 33-year-old Russell tipped the scale at 126.5 pounds in his first try, which was a half a pound over the limit. He was given 30 minutes to shed his excess weight and he returned with only his underwear to finally make it at 125.5 lbs. Magsayo, under the care of noted sports nutritionist Jeaneth Aro, had no problem making the weight as he tipped the scale at It’s showtime for defending World Boxing Council featherweight champion Garry Russel and Filipino challenger Mark Magsayo
125.5 lbs right on his first try. It was another magnificent handiwork of Aro who was also the dietary consultant of world champion Jerwin Ancajas, the victorious Philippine boxing team and weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, the first Filipino Olympic gold medalist. Russell (31-1, 18 KOs) is making his sixth defense of the title he won in 2015. But his last fight was almost two years ago and ring rust could play a factor in this bout. He also admitted not being 100 percent ready due to an injury which he refused to divulge. Magsayo, 26, is undefeated in 23 fights, 16 of them came via knockout wins. Magsayo is coming off a spectacular tenth round knockout of Mexican Julio Ceja in August last year.
Life Editor: Nickie Wang
JANUARY 23, 2022
nickie.standard@gmail.com
Cartoonist and co-creator of ‘Trese’ Kajo Baldisimo
Filipino NFT artist Luis Buenaventura
'Trese' art by Kajo Baldisimo
P
IECES of the hugely popular Netflixadapted Filipino graphic novel Trese can now be owned through the new form of digital art called, NFT, or NonFungible Token. Cartoonist, Kajo Baldisimo, co-creator of Trese, teams up with Luis Buenaventura, one of the Philippines’ first NFT artists, for a new series of NFT collectibles dubbed as “Trese x Cryptopop.” The series will launch for auction on Jan. 25 at 12:00 nn, Philippine time. Bidding will be open for just 72 hours, ending on Jan. 28 at 12:00 nn. The series will be minted on Opensea, the largest marketplace online for NFT art. The pieces will be sold in exchange for ETH (Ethereum), the de facto cryptocurrency for NFT art. For the upcoming first leg of “Trese
Hit Netflix-adapted ‘Trese’ illustrations up for NFT Auction x Cryptopop” series, Baldissimo and Alexandra Trese, the Kambal, and Buenaventura collaborated on three the Tikbalang. unique motion paintings featuring The musical soundscape for each characters from the Trese universe: piece was created by guitarist and
designer Marco Palinar. The genesis piece, “Alexandra,” will be sold as a single-edition auction, with bidding set to begin at 2.666 ETH. Both the “Kambal”
and “Tikbalang” motion paintings will have 13 editions, with each edition priced at 0.666 ETH. Alexandra, Kambal, and Tikbalang are the first three collectibles in the limited series that Baldisimo and Buenaventura will collaborate on this 2022. There will be a total of 13 unique collectibles in the series. “I’ve always been a fan of the work of Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo, and it’s been amazing to see the growing popularity of the Trese series last year. Like the comics that inspired it, this NFT collection is our way of sharing Filipino mythology with the rest of the world,” said Buenaventura. “I’m so excited to share my first foray into the world of NFTs and digital collectibles. It was great to work with Luis to create these pieces that speak to Trese fans all over the world,” said Baldisimo. “We can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve come up with.” For interested parties, simply visit opensea.io when the auction starts on Jan. 25
Benilde opens Bachelor program in Sign Language Interpretation
Most NFT platforms only accept cryptocurrency from major companies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Tapping into the world of NFTs By Patricia Taculao
not only allows users to view artwork but also the rights to the original copy. NFTs, or non-fungible tokens, are pieces FOR many years, art has remained on the physical plane as artists showcase of digital content linked to a blockchain or their pieces through exhibitions or a digital database that support digital curcompetitions where collectors visit to rencies, like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Apart from giving collectors a chance acquire these creations for their own. Museums also value physical copies to own unique artworks seen online, this of art from notable painters. Yet, as the new platform also allowed artists to earn world continues to evolve, so does art. money remotely and without having Today, we bore witness to different to make a breakthrough in the already kinds of art styles, including the popular competitive art industry. However, NFTs digital art that spread throughout social aren’t limited to paintings. The cryptomedia. This rise in technological advance- currency also accepts memes, music, ments also paved the way for the creation videos, and more into the blockchain. Put simply, NFTs transform digital art of NFTs, a new cryptocurrency trend that and other collectibles into unique, verifiable assets that are traded easily on the blockchain. While others may still get a glimpse of the piece online, only the highest bidder can claim that they have the original copy. This is authenticated through a certificate that contains all the information such as the name of the piece, the name of the artist, number of prints, size, medium, etc. Filipinos welcomed this development warmly. Just last year, out of 20 countries, the Philippines ranked first in NFT ownership, showing an interested community with both creatives and buyers. Some artists have already begun tapping into the new space and are earning significant numbers in cryptocurrency while showing the world what they’re capable of. NFT MILLIONAIRE. Sultan Gustaf Al
Ghozali, an Indonesian computer science student, took a snap of himself almost every day for five years. He turned the photos into memes and had originally priced them at just 0.00001 ETH ($3), however, the price quickly caught fire and they are now selling for more than $12,000.
How can artists create NFTs?
Creating NFTs need more than just a piece of art uploaded onto a selected platform. The first step is to making an NFT is to determine the appropriate NFT platform to create and sell these unique
BACHELOR in Sign Language Interpretation, the newest program of the School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, currently accepts first year level applicants for the first term of Academic Year 2022 to 2023. Motivated by its goals of innovation and inclusion, the institution offers this pioneering program to produce qualified and ethical sign language interpreters to meet the accessibility needs of and advocate for the rights of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people. This program is also the College’s response towards the Philippine government’s legal recognition of Filipino Sign Language (FSL Law or Republic Act 11106) as the national sign language and the language to be used in all areas involving the Deaf. Graduates of the program may pursue fruitful careers as professional sign language interpreters and translators in the medical, mental health, academic, media, and legal fields, as well as work at national and international conferences and meetings, such as in the United Nations. They may likewise enter the academe as trainers of future interpreters and teachers for the Deaf, all who remain focused on their advocacy of inclusion and service with NFTs are pieces of digital content linked to a genuine compassion for the Deaf and blockchain that supports digital currencies. hard-of-hearing communities. Partner institutions such as the Philworks of art. Securing a payment wallet ippine Federation of the Deaf (PFD), to pay fees and receive funds after an Philippine National Association of Sign NFT has been purchased is also required. Language Interpreters (PNASLI), World Association of Sign Language InterpretBefore artists can make their artwork ers (WASLI), and the Rochester Institute of available as NFTs, they need to buy Technology-National Technical Institute cryptocurrencies first. Many NFT platfor the Deaf (RIT-NTID), were all consulted forms only accept popular cryptocurfor a comprehensive curriculum and holisrencies like Ethereum, but once that’s tic approach to interpreting education. been established, they can go ahead The degree emphasizes language deand connect that wallet to their chovelopment with its intensive courses on sen platform before finally uploading Filipino Sign Language (FSL) and sign their artworks as NFTs. linguistics, as well as the acquisition of knowledge and skills on interpreting theoArtists have full creative authority ries and techniques. It likewise includes inover what they want to upload to the depth discussions to foster appreciation platform. Once that’s done, they can of the Deaf history, identity, and culture, auction their works to interested buyers which would contribute towards a more who will try to bid for the highest price ethical practice of interpreting. to claim the piece for their collection. Moreover, students will not only learn However, to fully entice buyers toabout sign language interpreting but also wards the piece, artists need to pracengage in advocating for disability issues, tice a little marketing online. They can policies, and guidelines in accordance with start by using hashtags to help buyers the global standards of inclusion of the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights narrow down the search. Posting on of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD). social media, as many people already The program is open to non-Deaf senior know, is another way to rapidly gain a high school graduates as of this time, but following which could help NFT artists plans are underway to accept Deaf applipromote their pieces. cants in three years’ time. Transferees and Over the years, art has evolved to mirror second degree holders will be accepted the current conditions of the world. Digital for Academic Year 2023 to 24. art and NFTs are all the rage nowadays as BSLI will run for nine terms or three acathey continue to hit artists’ goals by giving demic years. For more information about them a platform to showcase their art and the program and application procedures, visit www.benilde.edu.ph. earn from their talent.
Contact the Benilde Center for Admissions Office via email admissions@benilde. edu.ph or Viber +63945 278 8877, +63949 668 3082 or +63945 278 5612, from Mondays to Fridays, 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Graduates of DLS-CSB’s Bachelor in Sign Language Interpretation can pursue fruitful careers as professional sign language interpreters and translators in diverse industries.
DLS-CSB’s Bachelor in Sign Language aims to produce qualified and ethical sign language interpreters to meet the accessibility needs of and advocate for the rights of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
Graduates of the course may also enter the academe as trainers of future interpreters and teachers for the deaf.
DLS-CSB’s Bachelor in Sign Language aims to produce professional sign language interpreters.
JANUARY 23, 2022
A
By Patricia Taculao
CTRESS and singer Maris Racal treated both fans and OPM lovers to her new single, “Pumila Ka,” which boasts witty lyric and an aesthetic music video to accompany it.
The video starts with Maris recreating her viral video of her typing on a laptop with both eyebrows raised. This particular scene became a popular meme used by netizens locally and overseas. But this time, Maris is seen wearing a pastel purple ensemble in front of a holographic background. As the music video progresses, Maris changes into other outfits that represent her love for K-pop, Lady Gaga, and Ariana Grande. But Maris’s looks are only one part of the video that made it a visual treat to viewers. She also demonstrated effortless dance moves that match the song’s beat to a tee. In its entirety, all the elements of the music video, from the wardrobe to the makeup to the choreography, worked together to create a performance that viewers can’t get enough of. The music video for “Pumila Ka” premiered on Jan. 19. As of writing, the video received more than 110 thousand views and 11,000 likes from Maris’s adoring fans. Besides the visuals of the song, netizens were also proud of Maris for continuing to honor her Bisayan roots by adding parts of the dialect throughout the single. “Pumila Ka” — like Maris’s other singles released in the previous year, “Ate Sandali” and “Asa Naman” — is conceived with the help of her partner, Filipino singer-songwriter Rico Blanco. The pair worked together to create the song’s music while Rico headed its The openproduction. Rico was also the one who ing to the music discovered singer-rapper video of Raven, who worked with Maris in writing the lyric for Maris Racal's latest “Pumila Ka” and also makes single 'Pumila Ka' an appearance in the song’s music video. Raven released Singer-rapper his debut album Lika Na in midRaven November last year. The song itself may also be a nod towards their relationship, which the couple confirmed in May of last year. Before that, Maris received a lot of comments from netizens and fans of the OPM singer, telling her to fall in line when it came to vying for Rico’s affection. However, some netizens are saying that the song talks about the development of her career in the entertainment
Maris Racal jumps the viral queue with ‘Pumila Ka’
Actress and singer Maris Racal industry. “When she auditioned sa PBB, Maris lined up. When she exited PBB, she didn’t rush. She also isn’t her network’s favorite. She had to work hard for her career without stepping on anyone else. She worked hard for what she has now. Truly, she’s a rare gem that anyone should emulate,” one user said in the music video’s comments. In the meantime, other fans commented that the pop era
ktx unveils explosive concert lineup for 2022
Belle Mariano
Angeline Quinto
THE county’s leading digital events platform, ktx.ph, kicks off its spectacular concert series in 2022 with performances by three of the country’s most popular artists, Belle Mariano, Morissette Amon, and Angeline Quinto. To n i g h t , Morissette will celebrate her tenth anniversary in the music industry via the digital concert, Phoenix, It highlights her journey as a performer through the years. Morissette’s fans can still purchase VIP tickets that include a meet and greet with the singer for P1,999 and regular tickets for P999. Angeline Quinto’s 10Q: Ten Years of Angeline Quinto at the Metropolitan Theatre continues this year. Gary Valenciano and teen heartthrob Darren Espanto will join the Queen of Teleserye Theme Songs in her anniversary concert on Jan. 28 (Friday), while she will have Ogie Alcasid as a guest on Jan. 29 (Saturday).
Also on Jan. 30 (Sunday), Angeline will reunite with her co-Divas, Kyla, KZ Tandingan, and Yeng Constantino. Tickets are still available for P499 per concert. Rising teen superstar Belle Mariano makes her first major solo digital concert, Daylight on Jan. 29 (Saturday). After just two minutes, Daylight had sold P300,000 tickets and within 30 minutes, it had sold P500,000. The SVIP and VIP tickets have already been sold out, but regular tickets sold at P195 are still available. For those who cannot make it on Jan. 29, fans can still purchase a ticket to watch it on Jan. 30 (Sunday). Apart from the concerts of these three phenomenal artists, watch out for the re-run of the One Dream: The BINI and BGYO concert version 2022 on Feb. 12 (Saturday) or 13 (Sunday). For P700, they can experience the one-of-a-kind sibling concert once more with exciting surprises for the Blooms and ACEs. To book tickets and get more information on the events, visit www.ktx. ph.
Morissette Amon
suits Maris well, and she should continue to make music that shows her authenticity and pure talent. Regardless of the reason behind the song, Maris served looks, melody, and a whole new vibe with her new single, Maris’s first release for this year. Her last one was the Filipino version of “Simulan,” which was recorded and released in November, and serves as the theme song for Disney’s Princesses campaign in the Philippines. The music video is available for viewing on Maris Racal’s YouTube channel.
Conan Gray gears up for massive year with new single, concert tour
PLATINUM-SELLING, chart-topping, pop singer and songwriter Conan Gray unveils a brand-new song entitled “Jigsaw,” the latest single from his as of yet untitled forthcoming album. Conan shares that he wrote the song originally as a bit of a diary entry rant for himself. “I’d spent my entire life contorting myself and changing everything I used to be in order to make everybody happy. I was so used to trying to please everyone that, when it came to love, I started to do the same. I thought maybe if I dress a certain way, act a certain way, do my hair the way you’ll like, then maybe you’ll finally love me. It didn’t work, obviously,” Conan comments on the new release. Conan, who has always been known for his creative dexterity, also drew the single artwork for “Jigsaw.” Marking his first new music of 2022, “Jigsaw” paves the way for his anxiously awaited second full-length album due out later this year. It also arrives on the heels of his most recent release “Telepath.” The latter has gathered nearly 35 million streams and counting. Next up, Conan will kick off “The Conan Gray World Tour 2022.” Tickets are on sale on his website (www.conangray.com/tour).
Pop singer Conan Gray
Meanwhile, 2021 was a massive year for Conan. His single “People Watching” has amassed nearly 140 million streams to date. Its predecessor “Astronomy” has tallied nearly 100 million-plus streams and counting. Not to mention, Taylor Swift took to her personal Instagram to praise the track saying: “This one is on another level!! Support/stream/buy this ethereal work of art. So much love & respect @conangray.” The pop star also went on to personally select Conan to tease upcoming music with Olivia Rodrigo. Meanwhile, Rodrigo handpicked him to appear in the “Sour Prom” MV.
Christian Bables, Faith Da Silva in ‘Regal Studio Presents’ romcom episode HOW much are you willing to do for someone you love? In today’s episode of Regal Studio Presents, a woman is on a mission to find a new love for her gay partner in “My Boyfriend’s Romance,” headlined by Faith Da Silva as Pia and Christian Bables as John Christopher. Pia and John Christopher have been together for years. Then all of a sudden, John admits that he’s gay. Somehow, being together for so long, Pia believes that she has accepted
John’s sexuality to the extent that she’s helping him find his new match. However, things are not as simple as it seems as the more Pia gets involved in John’s new journey as a gay man, the more it becomes harder for her to accept their situation. In her heart, she’s still madly in love with him. Can the two of them be happy? How will Pia move on from John? Find out in the new episode of Regal Studio Presents: My Boyfriend’s Romance this afternoon after Dear Uge, 4:35 p.m. on GMA-7.
Faith Da Silva (left) and Christian Bables in ‘My Boyfriend’s Romance’
JANUARY 23, 2022
Is Eating Animal Meat OK with God?
By Mariana Burgos
I
WAS brought up in a family that loves all kinds of animals. My husband came from a family that loves animals, too. As you may have expected, we raised our daughter Yumi to love them as well. It did not come as a shock when she told me she wants to be a veterinarian in the future. My husband and I share two more similar things growing up - we both come from a religious family and we all love to cook and eat “good food,” meaning, “meaty” dishes. Both of our families have their traditional special recipes that are really mouth-watering because they are prepared in a “labor of love” kind of way. On my side of the family, for instance, we have this spaghetti sauce that is cooked for eight hours. No Vegetables are healthy food which the author hopes to more, no less. Period. That’s just one of our five eat more in the coming days. traditional recipes. On the side of my in-laws, they have a ham recipe that needs three to four hours them have dominion over the fish of the sea, of preparation, 10-15 hours of curing, and two to and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, three hours of cooking. They have many more reci- and over all the wild animals of the earth, and pes and a lot of them meat dishes. So you may say over every creeping thing that creeps upon the we are all carnivorous clans. earth.”So God created humankind in his image, I grew up in a Roman Catholic family where ev- in the image of God he created them; male and eryday you are woken up at five in the morning to female he created them. God blessed them, and say the morning prayer. At noon and at six in the God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and evening, you are reminded to pray the Angelus. fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion At three in the afternoon, you are told to pray the over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the Divine Mercy. After the Angelus at six in the eve- air and over every living thing that moves upon ning, we would pray the Holy Rosary of the Blessed the earth.” (Genesis 1:26-28) Virgin Mary. Before you sleep, you are reminded to God told them specifically what to have for food. say your evening prayer. We attend Holy Mass ev- The animals may have the greens for food. ery Sunday and try to have our confessions once “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face every week. I have an aunt who was a nun. My hus- of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with band has a priest for an uncle and his own mother seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the is a discalced Carmelite sister. So, as you can see, beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and we have pretty much the same background. I all the creatures that move along the ground—evguess that’s why we clicked. erything that has the breath of life in it—I give evHaving come from such a background, there’s this ery green plant for food.” (Genesis 1:29-30). question that’s been at the back of my mind for a It was plants that He was giving for food. It was long time now: is eating animal meat ok with God? only after they disobeyed Him and they were sent Now we have Google to help us understand bet- out of the Garden of Eden that God mentioned ter. In my opinion, God prefers us to be vegetar- that man would see animals as food. But from my ians. If you go back to the readings in the Holy Bi- understanding, He was simply telling them that all ble about the time before the “fall of man,” before other animals will be fearful of man from then on Adam and Eve first sinned, God did not say He is because man will see most of the animals as food. giving them animals for food. He told them to take “The fear and dread of you will fall on all the care of them, not to eat them. beasts of the earth, and on all the birds in the sky, “Then God said, “Let us make humankind in on every creature that moves along the ground, our image, according to our likeness; and let and on all the fish in the sea; they are given into
Fruits are also good sources of vitamins human bodies need.
your hands. Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you.” (Genesis 9:2-3). This is the reason why I have resolved to lessen my consumption of animal meat until I can finally come to the point where I no longer have the slightest craving for it. I try to instill this same belief on my daughter. I was nearly successful when she was in her elementary years. There was a time, I think around three years, that we rarely had meat with our meals. I intentionally cooked meat only twice a week. And I made sure that one of them was fish. It was easy to do this at that time because we were living in our own apartment. We only get to eat more meat when we are at somebody else’s house. Nowadays, it’s hard to keep this up because we no longer have our own place. We are staying with my mother-inlaw. We eat the same food as her. Most of the time, we have meat. If we do get the chance to have our own place again, we will surely go back to trying to lessen our meat cravings. For us, this is how we get to give more honor to God and all his creations. We hope more people will share our view. When most of mankind have this view of the world, I think we will get to see the Garden of Eden once again. About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist. She is a solo parent for 14 years now because she is wife to a desaparacido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.
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g o my n i v Lo nks t
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(Last of 2 parts)
By Yumi Burgos WHEN I saw my Kuya Migs’ hamsters, I kept telling Mama I wish I had one too. Then she told me the story of “Piklet”, my Tita Betsy’s guinea pig when she was still in college. Tita Betsy would have been a veterinarian if she had finished her degree. Mama said Tita Betsy decided to stop studying veterinary medicine when she learned they would have to operate on a lot of animals. She could not bear open them up because she loves animals. She does not want to hurt them. I think this was the time that I decided I wanted to be a vet. Mama explained that being a Vet, in principle, is no different from being a doctor for humans. You must always remind yourself that it is not just a job but a way to save lives of God’s other creatures in this world. She said with that in mind, I should not be concerned with asking for money first before treating an animal because if I do that, many might die. I have heard this happened to patients who were not treated by doctors in hospitals because they did not have money for the required deposit. I hate those kinds of doctors. They should not be doctors at all. I was in grade 4 when I got my fourth pet. My first three pets been gone a long time at this point. It was a guinea pig. My cousin Kuya Migs gave it to me as a birthday present. He said it was already a year old but it did not matter to me. Mama reminded me again how I should treat it. I named her Flippy. When Kuya Migs bought a new and bigger cage for his pets, we borrowed the small cage of his hamsters for Flippy. When we got back to our apartment, Mama said Flippy needed a bigger space so she could run around. So I made her a box with tunnels in it and a little cave. She loved it. I could tell
Yumi with one of her kittens.
Tagpi, one of Yumi's adopted dogs.
by how she ran around in it, exploring the tunnels and the cave. I loved it when she called out to us for more grass. We gave her grass because that is what she preferred. She did not like pellets much. Mama and I would go out in some vacant lot nearby to get a lot of grass for her. We would put some in her box and the rest, we would put in the fridge to keep it fresh. I enjoyed playing with her in our living room. I would bring her out of her box, then make a lot of tunnels for her and I would call for her and she would run around the place. She was still so cute even if she was already old. The next year, in March,we went to spend summer in Quezon City. We needed to be there for our activities for our search for Tati. While Mama and I were looking into our Facebook accounts, we saw a post of dogs that need adopters. It was a Save All post and it was Tita Desiree’s shelter for dogs and cats. Tita Des, as we call her, is a close friend of our family. We contacted her and inquired how to go
about on adopting a dog. She offered us two pups to adopt but Mama said we could only take one because we do not have enough income for such many pets. I have always wanted a dog like my cousins who have their own dogs. But we could not afford it. And Mama said that if we were to have a dog, she would not want it to be caged or tied to a post because she does not want to treat it like a property or a thing. She pities dogs she sees that are tied or caged all their lives. I agree with her on that. That is why I understood when she said we could not adopt the pups. I was about to lose all hope when one morning, Mama went out not telling me where she was going. She just said she would be back in a jiffy. And she did come back quickly and, to my surprise, she was holding a puppy in her arms! And she had Tita Des with her too. We were going to adopt a puppy after all! I could not believe it! I was so overjoyed
Val, rescued by Save Animals of Love and Light -Save ALL, grew up eating lots of wet food and cooked fish. But he also loves carrots as long as it is mashed.
Carrots are safe
treats for cats
YES, carrots are safe for cats. But they have to be cooked before you give carrots to your cat. “Some human foods are outright toxic to cats, but carrots are among the vegetables that cats can eat without fear of being poisoned. The real danger carrots present to cats is that they can be a choking hazard,” Feline Living said in From Can Cats Eat Carrots? Is it Safe and Healthy for Felines?: To make carrots safe for cats, wash them well, then cook them until they are soft and easy to chew. It is best to mash or puree them to the consistency of wet cat food, said Feline Living. Please do not put any seasoning or flavorings like garlic and onion which can be deadly to felines, Feline Living added. “If you are planning to add carrots to your cat's diet, do it in small amounts. Hyunmin Kim, DVM explains that ‘Carrots contain carbohydrates and almost half of the total carbohydrates are from sugar. The sugar in carrots does not have a big impact on blood sugar, but cats being obligate How to prepare carrots for your pets: carnivores do Wash well, remove the skin, cut into pieces, shred or grate or use a food not require processor, boil, then mash. Mashed carbohycarrots will prevent choking in cats. drates,’” said Grated and mashed veggies are Feline Living. easier to digest too. Please remember that cats are carnivores, thus they need protein. Carrots should be given in small amounts only, specially since they contain sugar also. “Carrots can be safe for cats to eat, but whether they're actively healthy for cats is a separate question. Unlike humans, who are omnivores, cats are obligate carnivores. A cat's diet needs to be primarily made up of meat in order for them to get the nutrients they need,” Feline Living said. Cats can not live on vegetables alone. They need taurine from animal-based proteins. “Other important nutrients can be found in plantbased foods, but cats have difficulty digesting them. The beta-carotene found in carrots is a great example, as cats' digestive systems don't seem to be good enough at converting it into Vitamin A for it to meet their nutritional needs without other sources of that vitamin in their diet,” Feline Living explained. “That said, while you should not try to replace your cat's meat-based diet with plant-based foods, carrots may have health benefits for cats when given occasionally as treats. While cats are not as good as humans are at getting vitamins out of vegetables, they do still get some. Additionally, carrots have a lot of both water and fiber in them, which can help with a cat's digestion,” Feline Living said. Desiree Carlos
that I quickly took the puppy and held it in my arms. I remember telling Mama, “Thank you! Thank you!” over and over again. Then they told me that her name is “Milky” but I could change it if I wanted to. But I told them, “Nope. I won’t change it anymore. I like Milky.” And how I loved her! She kept licking my face and she looked just as happy as well being there with me at that moment. I am 17 years old now and a lot has happened in my life when it comes to my pets. After Milky, I had my first rescue: Whisky. She was a week-old kitten on a highway that nearly got hit by a jeep. We were able to raise Whisky to be such a beautiful cat. After Whisky, we had wo more rescue cats named Socks and Suki. Then, there was our rescued dog named Bogart. Then, our three more adopted dogs named Coco, Puti, and Tagpi. Right now, we have 4 dogs, 4 puppies, 7 cats and 12 kittens. I have lost a number of my pets through the years. Flippy was the first. Then, I lost Whisky just before the pandemic. Then, Bogart died. I lost some newborn pups when one of our dogs gave birth. Then I lost 3 puppies just before the New Year’s eve celebration. I also lost my Snow, my biggest, white puppy weighing 9 kilos at 4 months old. He got sick. We took him to the vet but still he was not able to fight off the sickness. That was the hardest loss. I cried for I don’t know how long. I know my mom tried her best to save each and every one of them because she loves them too. We buried them after a day of mourning. Yes, we bury our own pets. As much as possible, Mama said we must be the one to bury our own dead because that is what a family does. She tried to comfort me the best way she could with each loss, reminding me of how we must lose well with our pets. After all the joyful events and the sad ones, this new year, when I look back on everything that had happened, I can still say I am glad I had each and every one of my pets for some time. It is because I learned a great deal about life with each one. With the help of my pets, I’ve learned to love life more each day. About the author: Yumi Burgos is the only child of Mariana and Jonas Burgos. Now 17 years old, she is an artist who has won a number of national and international art competitions. She is an active advocate of both human rights and animal rights.