Manila Standard - 2022 February 4 - Friday

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MEDICAL WASTE MOUNTING, 1,000 MT COLLECTED DAILY THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources has painted a giant heap of medical waste collected daily – estimated at 1,000 metric tons – as the Philippines, now under various Alert levels, continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. DENR Undersecretary Jonas Leones said: “That's a lot. That means if our truck is 6-tonner, 166 trucks go out daily to collect this waste.”

The DENR coordinates with local officials to strictly enforce segregation and collection rules under the Solid Waste Management Act, he said in a press briefing. Leones said barangays were responsible for bringing

garbage to temporary transfer stations, where city or town authorities separate the healthcare waste. This is transferred to treatment facilities then to a final

VOL. XXXV • NO. 354 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

GARBAGE STILL POURING IN. Members of the sanitation department of the Quezon Medical Center attend to the overflowing hazardous waste at the facility in Lucena City in Quezon province on Thursday, February 3, 2022. The provincial government commits to the hospital administration that it will act swiftly on the matter to ensure the safety of the surrounding residential area and the patients of the hospital. Danny Pata

Economic Cha-cha ratified

Congress sets bill for Duterte's okay, sees more foreign capital to drive PH By Maricel V. Cruz

ONGRESS has ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the amendments to the Public Service Act (PSA), which will lift foreign investment restrictions on all sectors except the transmission and distribution of electricity, water pipeline and sewerage, seaports, petroleum pipeline, and public utility vehicles.

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The Senate and the House of Representatives ratified the report on House Bill 78 and Senate Bill 2094, which amends the nearly century-old Commonwealth Act 146 and redefines public utilities that remain sealed off to foreign investments. This developed as Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua said that a strong competition policy will help strengthen the Philippines’ foundation to achieve upper-middle-

Solons approve SIM card registration, telcos hail it ALL public telecommunications entities (PTEs) will soon be required to register mobile phone Subscriber Identity Module cards as a prerequisite to their sale and activation. This after Congress ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the proposed SIM Card Registration Act. The measure also provides that all social media networks should require the real name and phone number of users upon the creation of their accounts. All existing SIM card subscribers with active services must register within 180 days from the effectivity of the proposed law. The measure is now awaiting President Rodrigo Duterte's signature into law. The country’s major telecommunications players on Thursday welcomed the ratification of the measure, as they

8,702 54,168

153,335 71

3,377,958 15,290 (As of 4 PM, FEFBRUARY 3)

THE Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) on Thursday slammed the Department of Health (DOH) over its policy to let the Department of Social Welfare and Development act as a substitute parent or parens patriae for children whose parents or guardians refuse to allow their kids get vaccinated against COVID-19. This as the DOH on Thursday moved the start of COVID-19 vaccination for children 5 to 11 years old to Feb. 7, citing logistical challenges. The vaccination drive was supposed to start on Friday, Feb. 4, but the Pfizer vaccines for that age group would only arrive on the evening of that day, the DOH said. To ensure adequate time to prepare and Next page

Commission. Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda, House Ways and Means Committee Chair and one of the movers of the measure, lauded the passage of the bill, which will be transmitted to President Rodrigo Duterte to sign into law. Salceda explained that the measure effectively opens up to 100 percent foreign equity all economic sectors in the country Next page

Rody tests negative but in isolation By Vito Barcelo and Willie Casas PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte is now undergoing quarantine after being exposed to a household staff who tested positive for COVID-19, but he tested negative for the virus, Malacañang said Thursday. Cabinet Secretary and acting presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles issued the statement after reports said the Chief Executive was rushed to a hospital and after skipping his weekly “Talk to the People” public address. Nograles confirmed that Duterte has visited Cardinal Santos Medical Center in San Juan for his “routine medical check-up.” But he did not say Next page when the visit occurred.

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By Rio N. Araja, Willie Casas and Julito G. Rada

3,585,461

PROOF OF HEALTH.

Senator Christopher 'Bong Go' shares a selfie with President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, taken after the commander-in-chief's regular checkup at the Cardinal Santos Medical Center after being exposed to a COVID-19 positive household staff. 'This is proof that he is okay,' Go said.

expressed preparedness to implement it once it becomes a law. “We welcome this development from Congress. We have always maintained our stance that the SIM card registration bill will help quash the proliferation of fraudulent spam messages, smishing cases and fraud, and will boost telecom security efforts to keep subscribers safe,” Smart Communications vice president for regulatory affairs Roy Ibay said in a statement. “It will also spur e-commerce adoption and growth,” Ibay added. Globe Telecom also backed the measure, saying in a statement: “This is part of our commitment to support the government in its fight against fraud, terrorism, and other crimes.”

DOH slammed over policy to overrule parents opposed to vaxxing their kids

income country status, and to sustain growth towards high-income country status in one generation. "By fostering a business-friendly environment and a level playing field that welcomes all players, we can promote more innovation, create more and better jobs, and accelerate our growth," Chua said on Thursday during the 2022 Manila Forum on Competition in Developing Countries of the Philippine Competition

11,790 hopefuls take first-ever online Bar exams By Rey E. Requejo THE Supreme Court on Thursday said some 11,790 law graduates are expected to take the first online and regionalized bar examinations starting today, Feb. 4, and on Sunday, Feb. 6, in 29 testing centers nationwide. The Office of the Bar Confidant has implemented strict measures for admission into the testing centers due to Next page COVID-19 restrictions.

LOOKING BACK. Visitors view a photo exhibit depicting the courage of Filipinos and Americans during World War II inside Fort Santiago during the 77th commemoration of the Battle of Manila. The month-long battle, which began on February 3 to March 4, 1945, resulted in the death of 100,000 civilians. Danny Pata

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

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Expert rejects ‘no booster, no entry’ Dr. Edsel Salvana, of the Department of Health-Technical Advisory Group, gave the response after a suggestion was made by presidential adviser for entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion that Metro Manila establishments should require proof of booster shot by March or April.

We are far from that point where we can administer booster shots to everyone because many have yet to get their primary vaccination against COVID-19,” Salvana said during the Laging Handa briefing. The government’s focus, he said,

should be to administer primary series. "We want to make sure that the focus remains on the people who have to be vaccinated against COVID-19," Salvana said. Around 56.8 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 so far. The government is eyeing to have 77 million Filipinos fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the end of March, and 90 million by the end of June or the end of President Rodrigo Duterte's term. Salvana, meanwhile, warned against underestimating the COVID-19 threat just because the number of cases are decreasing based on the daily reports by the Department of Health. "Just because it has become endem-

Economic...

telecoms sector, the public can also expect faster and more affordable internet services,” her office said in a statement. Quimbo cited that under the 1987 Constitution, public utilities must secure a legislative franchise that is subject to the 60-40 ownership limitation. “This has deterred foreign investment from entering industries that were considered ‘public utility’ in nature. Thus, providing a concrete and narrow definition of public utility shall effectively open up other public services to foreign investment,” she said. Salceda also said the ratified version of the Public Service Act will be “a boon to consumers” “Apart from the fact that more competition means lower prices generally, we also imposed a provision that if public utilities and public services exceed the rates set by the regulators, they have to refund the excess collections from the public, and also pay fines,” he said. “Now we have something squarely and explicitly in the law that will allow us to punish public services that charge excessive rates,” the Albay solon added. “Consumers stand to benefit from the PSA amendments immediately. Of course, in the long run, we are also bound to create more jobs and maybe even be able to send many OFWs home, as we expect new FDI due to the reform to come from capitalstarved public services.” CA 146 was enacted in 1936 when the Philippines was preparing for full independence from the United States. For his part, Chua said that prior to the pandemic, the government had pursued game-changing reforms to improve the country's global competitiveness ranking. These include the enactment of the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act, the Philippine Innovation Act, and the Rice Tariffication Law, and the implementation of the Build Build Build infrastructure program. "As a result, in 2019, our ranking improved to 44th among 141 countries in

the most recent Global Competitiveness Index ranking on business dynamism. We also ranked 52nd – or top 37 percent – on product market efficiency,” the socioeconomic planning chief said. According to Chua, during the pandemic, the Philippine government has continued to pursue reforms to improve competition which formed part of the country’s economic recovery program. Among these are the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises or CREATE Act, which lowered the regular corporate income tax and made the grant of fiscal incentives system more performance-based, targeted, time-bound, and transparent, he said. Apart from this, Chua said that the government is also pursuing three economic liberalization bills. These include the Amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act which has been enacted, the Amendments to the Foreign Investments Act which has been sent to the President for his signature, and the Amendments to the Public Service Act which both Houses of Congress have ratified. "These landmark reforms will relax restrictions on foreign ownership, bring in more innovation, create more and better jobs, lower prices, improve quality of service, and maximize the benefits of CREATE to attract more investments into the country," Chua added. However, progressive lawmakers opposed the ratification, with Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Arlene Brosas saying the PSA amendment opens up the economy for foreigners to take over, including telecommunication and transportation.” “By providing a limited definition of public utility, this measure exploits the loophole in the 1987 Constitution to allow the circumvention of foreign ownership limits for all other types of public services,” Brosas said, adding that it would allow 100% foreign ownership of telecoms, railways, airlines, and logistical facilities. “Ironically, we are ratifying this measure on the anniversary of the 1987 Con-

stitution,” she added. Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate also said the measure removes public protections against excessive charges for public utilities, and totally removes control and authority of the government over them. This would lead to uncontrolled hikes in prices and bills once businesses assume total control of the utilities, Zarate added, noting it was also circumventing the Constitution. Salceda said he is happy that the bicameral panel came up with a more liberal version than the Senate version. “It’s no surprise that we lag our neighbors behind in terms of foreign direct investment. We are the most restrictive economy in ASEAN, bar none. The PSA amendments change things massively. The final version no longer requires burdensome reviews by the entire national security council for socalled critical infrastructure, which the Senate introduced,” he said. “The main economic benefit of the PSA amendments is that it provides local (and oligopolistic) players in key sectors with a credible threat of external competition. Credible threat of competition is seen as a pro-competitive measure that reduces monopoly or oligopoly power (to set prices or provide services at low quality) and encourages local players to improve efficiency,” the lawmaker added. “Empirically, certain sectors appear to be responsive to the threat of new sectors by trying to generate customer loyalty among existing clients through lower prices.” Salceda also maintained that the bill protects consumers. “Apart from the fact that more competition means lower prices generally, we also imposed a provision that if public utilities and public services exceed the rates set by the regulators, they have to refund the excess collections from the public, and also pay fines,” Salceda said. “Now we have something squarely and explicitly in the law that will allow us to punish public services that charge excessive rates,” he said.

• HB 10658 and SB 2449, strengthening the policies on anti-trafficking in persons; • HB 8818 and SB 2365, strengthening the regulatory framework for the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC); and • HB 10701 and SB 2421, granting mandatory continuing benefits to health workers during the Covid-19 pandemic and other future public health emergencies. Deputy Speaker Wes Gatchalian on Thursday said the SIM Card Registration Act could help law enforcement agencies in tracking down delinquents who use mobile phones with SIM cards to pursue nefarious activities. These activities include terrorism, text scams, unsolicited, indecent or obscene messages, bank fraud, libel, anonymous online defamation, trolling, hate speech, the spread of digital disinformation or fake news. "Indeed, we are grateful for the avowed support of the present leadership in fulfilling its legislative mandate to ratify this landmark measure, knowing the timely and vital role of information and

modern communications technology at this time,” Gatchalian said. Under the bill, all existing SIM card subscribers with active services shall register with their respective PTEs within 180 days from the effectivity of this proposal. An extension period of no longer than 120 days shall be allowed upon a valid written request to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). The failure of the subscriber to register shall authorize the PTE to automatically deactivate or retire the SIM card number. It is likewise the responsibility of the SIM card owner to report its loss or of any change in the information after registration. “We change SIM cards as fast as we change our soiled shirts. Alarmingly, this seeming boundless stream of supply has become a magnet for nefarious and illegal activities. By requiring the registration of SIM cards, we promote accountability in its use and provide law enforcement agencies the

tool to resolve crimes which involve its utilization,” Gatchalian said. He said even the telcos themselves, as well as courier and delivery riders, are supportive of the push for mandatory SIM card registration. The registration required under the measure shall be implemented at no cost to the end-users or the third-party resellers. Gatchalian stressed that all data gathered pertinent to the registration shall be kept in compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and any breach or unauthorized disclosure of information shall be imposed the penalties prescribed in the bill. The National Telecommunications Commission, in close consultation with the PTEs, social media providers, the Department of Trade and Industry, DICT, and the National Privacy Commission shall be among the government agencies which shall formulate the necessary guidelines in the proper implementation of the real-name registration program based on the parameters set by the measure.

DOH...

PAO chief Persida Rueda-Acosta, along with the two petitioners, said their petition was filed “not to purposely denigrate President Rodrigo Duterte and his administration’s efforts in trying to control the current global pandemic…” They also said the suit must not be interpreted as being “anti-vaccination.” But Almelor and Samonte said the DOH memorandum was issued in “grave abuse of discretion and unconstitutional, given all the red flags against administration of COVID-19 vaccines to children.” Almelor, who himself is fully vaccinated with Moderna mRNA, rejected the vaccination of his son with waiver of liability in case of a serious illness, permanent disability or death. Samonte previously filed a criminal complaint against Duque, other active and former health officials, and executives of Sanofi Pasteur Inc. and Zuellig Pharma Co. when her son suffered from a series of seizures after getting the Dengvaxia vaccine in 2017. Acosta herself has come under fire for admitting that she has not been vaccinated, saying she was waiting for “a proteinbased” vaccine. The DOH emphasized the importance of vaccinating children to protect them against COVID-19. “The National Vaccination Operations Center (NVOC) of the National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19 remains committed to ensure that all Filipinos, including the children, get vaccinated,” the DOH said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

By Willie Casas and Macon Ramos-Araneta

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GOVERNMENT adviser said Thursday that booster shots should not be made a requirement as yet in establishments in the National Capital Region (NCR) pending significant COVID-19 vaccination coverage.

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and is the closest that the country has been in overcoming the “growth overhang caused by the 1987 Constitution’s foreign equity restrictions.” “It’s a massive reform because it opens us to foreign capital. We need a lot of foreign capital. We have plenty of domestic talent, but they leave for abroad because the capital required to hire them is invested abroad,” he said. For Salceda, the proposal will yield “massive” impacts to job creation and investments. “We expect an increase in FDIs (foreign direct investments) by around P299 billion over the next five years from the final version of thesectors that will be opened up as a result of the PSA amendments. We also expect gross value added (GVA) growth in these areas to cause a GDP growth rate that is 0.47 percentage points higher than the baseline,” he added. Another mover of the bill, Marikina 2nd District Rep. Stella Quimbo, said the passage of these amendments will be a gamechanger in liberalizing the public services market and providing new opportunities for investment and capital to enter the country. "Ultimately, the Filipino wins. This amendatory law is for the Filipino people. Opening up the economy will bring with it advanced technology, more jobs, and a more competitive business environment,” she said. Quimbo explained that telecommunications, airports, railways, expressways, tollways, and shipping were among the industries excluded from the definition of "public utility" in the ratified amendments. "Therefore, these public service sectors shall be open to foreign investment and competition. This development would inevitably result in cheaper airfares and transportation costs, lower shipping costs that would benefit our exporters. With more investment and competition in the

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“It also paves the way for greater digital and financial inclusion,” the Ayalaled telco added. During the same plenary session, other bills that were ratified by the House include: • House Bill 78 and Senate Bill 2094, providing for the definition of public utility (see banner story – Editors); • HB 3255 and SB 1241, establishing Timbangan ng Bayan Centers in all markets nationwide; • HB 10610 and SB 1155, fixing the validity period of the license to own and possess, registration, and permit to carry firearms outside of residence or place of business; • HB 9458 and SB 643, granting night shift differential pay to government employees; • HB 10698 and SB 2124, strengthening the Sangguniang Kabataan;

11,790... From A1

Examinees will be required to undergo an antigen test before the exams, and those who are found positive must take a confirmatory RT-PCR test. Those testing positive for COVID-19 will not be allowed to take the test. The bar examinations for 2020 were cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic and the Supreme Court decided to hold the tests simultaneously with the 2021 law graduates. The Court also decided to reduce the coverage and shorten the duration of the 2020-2021 online bar examinations. Instead of four successive Sundays, the Court decided to hold two-day examinations, which will cover four comprehensive sets instead of the traditional eight subjects. The four sets are: 1. The Law Pertaining to the State and Its Relationship with Its Citizens (formerly Political Law, Labor Law, and Taxation Law), 2. Criminal Law, 3. The Law Pertaining to Private Personal and Commercial Relations (formerly Civil Law and Commercial Law), and 4. Procedure and Professional Ethics (formerly Remedial Law, Legal Ethics, and Practical Exercises). The first two sets will be taken up on Feb. 4, while the other two sets will be on Feb. 6. As recommended by Bar Chairperson and Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, the changes in the bar examinations will apply only for the 2020-2021 bar examinations.

The Court has also dropped the announcement of the 10 top-notchers, but will recognize all who get a weighted average score of 85 percent for exemplary performance. The Court said it will have a list of law schools ranked from the most to the least number of passers among first time examinees, and a separate list ranked from those with the most to the least number of examinees recognized for exemplary performance. Leonen said shifting the focus away from how individuals excel to a school’s collective performance would “encourage deep-seated and wide-ranging improvements in legal education.” The 29 testing centers with their maximum available slots are: National Capital Region — Ateneo de Manila University Law School, Ateneo Professional Schools Building, 20 Rockwell Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City (maximum 269 slots); Manila Adventist College, 1975 San Juan Street, Pasay City (maximum 450 slots); University of Makati, J.P. Rizal Extension, West Rembo, Makati City (maximum 1,000 slots); Far Eastern University, Nicanor Reyes, Sampaloc, Manila (maximum 600 slots); and University of Santo Tomas, España Boulevard, Sampaloc, Manila (maximum 500 slots); University of the Philippines in Diliman Quezon City, (maximum 756 slots; University of the Philippines, Bonifacio Global City, (maximum 436 slots); and Dela Salle University, Taft Avenue, Manila, (maximum 794 slots). (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

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distribute the vaccines, the start of the vaccination drive was moved to Monday, Feb. 7. The PAO represents two parents who have petitioned a Quezon City regional trial court to stop Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire and members of the DOH Public Health Services Team from carrying out Department Memorandum No. 2022-0041 issued Jan. 24. “In case the parent/guardian refuses to give consent to the vaccination despite the desire and willingness of the minor child to have himself/herself vaccinated, or there are no persons that may legally exercise parental authority over the child, the state may act as parens patriae and give the necessary consent. Therefore, the proper officer representing the state as parens patriae may sign the consent form. In this regard, the DSWD or its city/municipal counterparts shall serve as the proper office who shall represent the state,” the memorandum reads. Dominic Almelor, a former ABS-CBN news reporter and father of a 7-year-old boy, and Girlie Samonte, mother of two children, aged 7 and 9, are asking the court “to uphold their right to consent (and necessarily, right to refuse consent to COVID-19 vaccination) on behalf of their children, and ultimately, protect the life and health of the latter and other children similarly threatened of exposure to undue risks to their life and health.”

ic, it will not be fatal. We must understand that the idea of COVID-19 being does not mean that it is not harmful anymore," he said. "COVID-19 being endemic just means vaccination, medicines for it are readily available, and this is something we can live with because we have transformed it into something that is a manageable risk that we need not resort to lockdowns," Salvana said. “If we will have an endemic mindset, like what Denmark did, at some point, one would no longer need to present a vaccine card and other things, even wearing a mask,” he said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

19 destinations no longer need swab test for full-vaccinated By Darwin G. Amojelar, Joel Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz CEBU Pacific said Thursday 19 domestic destinations in its network were open for leisure travelers and no longer require swab tests for fully vaccinated individuals. Destinations include Bohol, Boracay, Butuan, Camiguin, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu (Cebu City and Mandaue City), Clark, Maguindanao Province, Davao, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Legazpi, Manila, Naga, Ozamiz, San Jose, Tacloban, and Tuguegarao. Other requirements may include vaccination certificate, vaccination card, government-issued ID, travel permits from S-Pass, confirmed accommodations, and registration to specific contact tracing applications. Butuan and Cagayan de Oro require fully vaccinated travelers to simply upload their vaccination status via S-Pass. Fully vaccinated passengers arriving at Legazpi airport must report to their LGUs for symptoms screening and profiling. The Traze app must also be downloaded. Clark requires travelers to present a valid ID and any travel document required by the local government unit (LGU). (See full story online at manilastandard.net)

Rody... From A1

“While the results of the test came back negative, the President is currently observing mandatory quarantine protocols,” Nograles said in a statement. He assured the public that the 76-yearold President was already tested and was not infected by the virus and will continue his work. “The Chief Executive continues to work while in quarantine, and is in constant communication with the members of the Cabinet in order to ensure that urgent matters are addressed, and to monitor the implementation of his directives, particularly with regard to the government’s COVID-19 response,” he added. Nograles said Duterte was last exposed to the COVID-positive household staff on Sunday, Jan. 30. He has so far received three doses of the China-made Sinopharm vaccine. The Philippines logged 8,702 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, bringing the total case count to 3,585,461, the Department of Health (DOH) reported. The positivity rate was at 25.5 percent, based on 42,446 people tested on Feb.1. The top regions with cases in the recent two weeks were Region 6 (Western Visayas) with 1,039 or 12 percent, Region 7 (Central Visayas) with 799 or 9 percent, and Region 11 (Southern Mindanao) with 785 or 9 percent. There were 71 new fatalities reported, bringing the COVID-19 death toll to 54,168. The DOH also reported 15,290 new recoveries, bringing the total number of recoveries to 3,377,958. There were 153,335 active cases, of which 4,923 were asymptomatic; 143,493 were mild; 3,067 were moderate; 1,528 were severe; and 324 were critical. Nationwide, 44 percent of ICU beds, 43 percent of isolation beds, 43 percent of ward beds, and 24 percent of ventilators, were in use.

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disposal site, he said. Meanwhile, the Department of Health told laboratories and hospitals to dispose of their medical wastes properly amid reports that seven children caught coronavirus disease 2019 after playing with garbage dumped by a diagnostic center in Catanduanes. "First of all, we want to remind laboratories and facilities that there are laws that cover this kind of violation as well as policies) to guide you on what you're supposed to do regarding these medical wastes," Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a media briefing. A media report on Monday revealed that a village in the province's capital town Virac had found on January 24 garbage containing over 1,900 syringes and 2,000 blood sample tubes for COVID-19 tests and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) test kits, some of which were scattered on the shoreline. "We are not going to tolerate this kind of irresponsible behavior," she added. Globally, the World Health Organization said tons of medical waste from the Covid-19 response expose the urgent need to improve health care waste management practices in countries. In the Philippines, Vergeire said DOH continued to closely coordinate with other agencies, including health care facilities and local governments in providing guidelines on the disposal of COVID-19 wastes. She said facilities were required to have a proper waste management system or else they cannot operate.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

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‘Adopt-A-Park’ project starts in Valenzuela

16th Tanghal U Theater Festival to unfold online

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority on Thursday opened its first park under its “I Love Metro Manila” Adopt-A-Park Project in Valenzuela City as part of the celebration of its 24th cityhood anniversary. The “I Love MM (Metro Manila)” project is aimed at showcasing the National Capital Region’s growth and development. MMDA Chairman Benjamin Abalos Jr. and Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian led the inauguration of the MMDA-Valenzuela Friendship Park located at Disiplina Village in Barangay Bignay. It has four areas designed by the city government and funded and constructed by MMDA. The park shall cater to different age NEW PARK. MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos (right) and Valenzuela Rex Gatchalian lead the inauguration and blessing of the first MMDA groups from toddlers with its safe and Adopt-a-Park Project, the MMDA-Valenzuela City friendship park at Disiplina Village-Bignay, Gulod Street in Valenzuela City. Manny Palmero spacious playsets, teens and adults with its shaded benches, fountains, and multi-function space. There is also an area with exercise equipment for the elderly and health buffs. The MMDA-Valenzuela Friendship Park is one of the 17 open spaces to be built across Metro Manila as part of the urban re-greening and renewal initiatives to address urban decay, raise environmental awareness and encourage inclusiveness. According to Abalos, the purpose lusan said the illegal goods were disBy Joel E. Zurbano of this project, which is his brainchild, covered during physical examination is to develop under-utilized parks by at the CMEC window witnessed by RUG syndicates continue using the country’s postal system improving their usability especially in the claimant. to smuggle illegal drugs despite the government’s all-out this time of pandemic. “Inside the EMS package, along war against narcotics. “The pandemic made us realize the with chocolates, cosmetics, and clothimportance of ventilation, open, and ing, undeclared 20 pouches Cannabis Customs agents assigned at the Ninoy with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Infused Gummy and 49 THC Vape green spaces. With these parks being Aquino International Airport on Thurs- Agency, and NAIA Interagency Drug Cartridges were found,” she said. improved and open to the public, we day intercepted at the Central Mail Ex- Interdiction Task Group. can provide an area for family events PDEA officials reminded the public change Center (CMEC) in Pasay City a The package arrived at CMEC on Jan. that cannabis, THC, or any derivatives and wellness activities which are both package of cannabis in vape and gum- 31 and was misdeclared as “personal in any form containing the substance equally necessary for physical and my candies from Canada. gifts and clothing” containing gummies are classified as a dangerous drug under mental health,” he said. The authorities also arrested the infused with cannabis and THC (Tet- Republic Act No. 9165 or the CompreHe also said it is a way of giving shipment’s claimant, identified as El- rahydrocannabinol) Vape Cartridges hensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. back to the local government units vira Vicente. worth P85,299.12. It was consigned to a The unauthorized importation, sale, of Metro Manila for their share of inThe Customs-Port of NAIA con- certain Vincent Castillo. ternal revenue allotment as source of possession, cultivation, and use thereof ducted the operation in coordination NAIA district collector Carmelita Ta- remain punishable under the law. funds and budget of the agency.

THE National Committee on Dramatic Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is launching the 16th Tanghal University and Community-based Theatre Festival from February 14 to 26 online in time for the National Arts Month celebration. Collaboration has always been the nature of theatre works in the Philippines especially before the outbreak of the pandemic. However, the pandemic has created an atmosphere were face-to-face encounter with co-actors and crew and audiences had to be contained and stopped for almost two years. Engaging themselves in the use of digital platforms, theater artists are also challenged to launch and heighten into new realities the conduct of more collaborative works. With this, 72 theatre organizations are rendering performances that aim to showcase creative ways of responding to the current pandemic, natural calamities and other social challenges. In line with this year’s theme “Sining ng Pag-asa: Theatre Beyond Borders Amidst All Social and Environmental Challenges,” the performances are clustered into three sub-themes: Essential of Theatre in Community Life on February 14 and 18; Making Theatre for Climate Justice on February 18 and 21; and Culture and Human Rights on February 23 and 25. On February 26, the festival culminates with collaborative theatre performances among the regional networks. The 16th Tanghal is hosted by Lusong Arts and Culture Network together with the Arts Research and Training Institute in Southern Tagalog Incorporated (ARTIST Inc.), with the help of their regional partner organizations, namely Pasundayag Theater Company of Mindanao, YATTA of Visayas, Linang Arts and Culture Network Inc. in Luzon and Guro ng Sining, Inc. of the National Capitol region.

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UNITEAM HQ IN TACLOBAN. LAKAS-CMD vice presidential aspirant and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte led the inauguration of the BBM-Sara UniTeam Headquarters located at the Tingog party-list Community Center in Tacloban City.

BBM to skip KBP prexy forum today THE Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) has organized a presidential forum which will be aired Friday morning The KBP said five presidential aspirants have confirmed their participation in the forum. These include: Vice President Leni Robredo, Senators Panfilo Lacson and Manny Pacquiao, Manila Mayor Francicso “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, and labor leader Leody de Guzman. The KBP said the presidential forum will air on over 300 KBP stations nationwide. KBP president Herman Basbaño said in a statement said it ”will be the first time for the five presidential candidates to appear together in a live nationwide radio and television broadcast to present their qualifications and platforms of government to the people.” The KBP said the presidential forum will be moderated by Rico Hizon of CNN Philippines) and Karen Davila of ABS-CBN. The panelists are Bombo Elmar of Bombo Radyo Philippines), Roby Alampay of OnePH), Dan Andrew Cura of FEBC, the and Ed Lingao of TV5. Basbaño said the KBP is conducting the forum as a “public service.” Presidential aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will not join the presidential forum. In a statement, Marcos Jr.’s chief of staff Atty. Vic Rodriguez said scheduling issues prevent him from participating in the event. Rodriguez said Marcos Jr.’s camp has been looking forward to participating in the event. “We look forward to engaging with similar KBP initiatives in the future,” Rodriguez said.

Inday Sara honors Yolanda victims in Tacloban City By Maricel V. Cruz LAKAS-CMD vice presidential aspirant and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte on Thursday paid tribute to Yolanda victims early evening Thursday at the Yolanda Commemorative Memorial inside the Tacloban Convention Center in Tacloban City. Duterte vowed to work on improving the country’s disaster response as she offered prayers and flowers to the Yolanda victims. Joining Duterte were House of Representatives Majority Leader and Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin G. Romualdez, Mayor Alfred Romualdez, vice mayoralty aspirant Raymund Romualdez, former Sen. Jose Estrada, and other key leaders of parallel groups supporting Duterte and Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) presidential hopeful Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. Duterte also led the inauguration of the BBM-Sara UniTeam Headquarters located at the Tingog party-list Community Center in Tacloban City.

Arroyo says accusations against Lacson were false By Macon Ramos-Araneta FORMER President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said she was duped into believing the false accusations leveled against Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson by whistleblower Antonio Luis Marquez a.k.a Angelo ‘Ador’ Mawanay. In her recently launched memoir titled “Deus Ex Machina,” Arroyo looked back to that episode of her tumultuous ascent to the presidency seemingly touched with regret over the breakdown of her “political reconciliation” talks with Lacson because she chose to believe the lies fed by Mawanay to her top intelligence officer Brigadier General Victor Corpus. “That EDSA weekend, I confirmed to media that I might retain Ping Lacson as Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, but civil society was appalled at the thought. I offered an ambassadorship to Lacson but he would have none of it. During the 2001 elections, Lacson won the 10th out of 12 Senate seats, and we discussed a political reconciliation,” Arroyo revealed on page 121 of her memoir. “But our talks collapsed due to the incident involving whistleblower ‘Ador Mawanay’—later revealed as Antonio Luis Marquez—who fed AFP intelligence chief Victor Navarro Corpus information on foreign bank accounts allegedly owned by Ping Lacson. The

information that was made public could not be substantiated. I was told that years later, Corpus apologized for the incident,” she added. Arroyo blamed her failure in judgment, which led to her persecution of Lacson, to toxic politics—something that the Partido Reporma chairman already knew a long time ago, as confirmed to him by a former ally of the expresident, who told him it was because he was perceived as a political threat. “During those toxic times of intrigue, allegations in affidavits and counter-allegations in counter-affidavits, dirty tricks, cellphone monitoring, and spying and whatnot, the principal players on both sides of the political war, whether administration or opposition, often had in their possession raw or outright fake information, and as a result truth often fell by the wayside,” Arroyo explained. “I can only say that there was no deliberate attempt to use Mawanay to spread fake information about Lacson. If Victor Corpus felt compelled to apologize to Lacson, it may diminish Vic’s reputation as an intelligence chief, but it enhances the luster of his reputation for being a man of integrity, an officer and a gentleman. Sadly, the result of the whole affair is that Ping Lacson became an enemy instead of an ally,” the former president added.

Comelec warns: Giving ‘ayuda,’ raffle illegal acts like vote-buying

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HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday said giving money as a form of ‘ayuda’ (assistance) by candidates is prohibited once the campaign period for the polls starts.

“That’s prohibited, that is vote-buying. Can’t give anything of value to supporters to encourage them to vote. You might say that is for another reason but none of us are born yesterday. We all know that it’s going to be for vote-buying purposes,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said in a virtual press briefing. Jimenez appealed to those who will witness such an illegal act to file a complaint and pursue it. “It’s very important. For those who see

such things being done, you feel are votebuying activities, please file a complaint. And please stay with the complaint so we can prosecute to the finish,” he said. The 90-day campaign period for national posts such as president, vicepresident, senator, and party-list groups will begin on February 8, while the 45day campaign period for local aspirants will start on March 25. Meanwhile, he said candidates would have to take down their illegally placed

posters once the campaign period starts. He said the Comelec campaign committee will release the guidelines soon. Jimenez also warned that illegally placed campaign materials will be taken down. The Comelec meanwhile assured that its preparations for the May polls will not be hampered by the retirement of three senior officials. Jimenez said these preparations have long been in place and have already been tackled in the past months. Jimenez also expressed confidence that the remaining officials -- acting chair Socorro Inting and Commissioners Marlon Casquejo, Aimee Ferolino, and Rey Bulay -- will be able to cope with challenges.

MASS WEDDING IN QC.

A mass wedding for residents of Quezon City takes place at an open tent in Barangay Batasan Hills on February 2. The wedding was officiated by QC Mayor Joy Belmonte. Manny Palmero

US govt gives an additional $1 m for typhoon Odette survivors THE United States, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), has provided an additional $1 million (more than P50 million) in assistance to victims of Typhoon Odette. Currently, the US government’s support for the Philippines on disaster response has reached $21 million (about P1 billion.) In Central Visayas and Mindanao,

the US earlier provided an additional $19 million (about P950 million in relief aid to communities devastated by the super typhoon. Part of the financial aid will be used for the provision of food aid, water, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as shelter assistance for communities. The United Nations earlier increased

its fundraising target for victims of typhoon Odette to $169 million as the Philippines struggles to recover from the devastating storm. More than 400 people were killed and hundreds of thousands left homeless after super typhoon hit the country in December, ripping off roofs, shredding wooden houses and wiping out crops.

Robredo wows netizens in live radio interview THE hashtag #LeniWalangAatrasan” became the country’s top trending topic on Twitter as netizens were impressed by Vice President Leni Robredo’s showing during DZRH radio’s “Bakit Ikaw?” presidential interview. “#LeniWalangAatrasan” trended on Twitter as the No. 1 topic in the Philippines as of Thursday morning with more than 66,000 tweets. “Leni entered the tiger’s den this afternoon. They forgot she’s a Lioness,” said user @dclnviv_. “This is the most straightforward Leni interview so far. She’s killing it left and right,” said user @jeclemente1. “She’s very detailed and has Consistent answers to all the questions thrown at her!” tweeted @JFabGeek. “The DZRH interview is live. VP Leni is getting better and better in forums and interviews after stints with Boy Abunda, Jessica Soho,” @ DeusXMachina14 said. During the course of the interview, actor Jake Ejercito said he successfully converted three people to switch allegiance to Robredo. During Robredo’s DZBB interview, some netizens shared that some of their relatives have shifted allegiance from other candidates to Robredo after presenting her clear and concrete plans for the country. The camp of Robredo meanwhile said it is looking forward to an online and a traditional launch of her campaign. Ibarra Gutierrez, Robredo’s spokesperson, said they are now preparing for at least two possible scenarios once the official campaign for aspirants for national elective posts starts on Feb. 8 and ends on May 7. With Rio N. Araja

New school in Caloocan gets Senate nod By Jun David THE Senate has approved on third reading the establishment of the Polytechnic University of the PhilippinesCaloocan City-North Campus. House Bill No. 5739 or “An Act Establish a Campus of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Caloocan City-North, to be known as Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Caloocan City-North Campus, and Appropriating Funds Therefor” was proposed by Caloocan First District Congressman Along Malapitan, The institution is the first leading state university to be established in the CAMANAVA area which aims to increase the number of free colleges in the city, as well as the courses that students in Caloocan may pursue and

those who want to take higher education because there will be a provision for graduate school. The new university will have short-term vocational programs, undergraduate, and graduate courses. The conduct of research and extension services including open distance learning will also be considered. According to Malapitan, the new university “is part of his endeavor to provide quality education to every child in Caloocan.” “My promise is that no child will be left behind when it comes to education in Caloocan City. We hope our proposal becomes a law,” Malapitan said. Malapitan also proposed a free tuition ordinance for students of the University of Caloocan City and also continued his programs such as educational assistance for students most in need.

NEW WATER SOURCE. The joint venture of PrimeWater Silang and Silang Water District breaks ground in Pooc 2 Pumping Station 3 at Brgy. Pooc 2 in Silang, Cavite. The proposed water source will benefit 600 service connections in Brgy. Pooc 2 and Sitio Calaca in Silang. The event was graced by Silang Municipal Mayor Corie Poblete (4th from left) and was led by (from L-R) PrimeWater Engr. Alberto Resurreccion; PrimeWater Cavite Operations Head Engr. Niel Bautista; PrimeWater Silang Branch Manager Abigail Mojica; Brgy. Pooc 2 Chairman Teodulo Belamide Jr.; SWD Board Directors Josefina Jimenez; PrimeWater Technical Head Engr. Mark Balog; SWD staff Oliver Castro and other barangay representatives.

Opinion Who is a solo parent? MANY believe that a solo parent is someone whose marriage is nullified, and who decides to have a child without a spouse or a partner; or someone who, being single, decides to adopt a child. It is unfortunate that some people look at solo parents condescendingly when they should be given support by their families and the society. For the longest time, families had quietly borne the fate of having a daughter giving birth outside of wedlock. Some of the more affluent ones would bring their daughters abroad to give birth and later return to the Philippines, to be as a newborn child and the sister of their daughter. Other parents have legally adopted their illegitimate grandchildren. Times may have changed and people became bolder, but society has not completely changed their outlook towards solo parents. It is interesting to know that the Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000 (SPWA) provided solo parents with provisions against work discrimination, parental leave, educational benefits, housing benefits, and medical assistance (Republic Act 8972). Further benefits may be added if the law is eventually amended. Under the SPWA, the term “solo parent” refers to the following: (a) woman who gives birth as a result of rape and other crimes against chastity even without a final conviction of the offender; or (b) those left solo or alone due to the death of his or her spouse, while the spouse is detained or is serving a sentence for a criminal conviction for at least one (1) year, or due to the physical and/or mental incapacity of the spouse as certified by a public medical practitioner (Section 3(a)1 to 4). It also includes those who were left solo or alone due to the following: (a) legal separation or de facto separation from a spouse for at least one (1) year; (b) declaration of nullity or annulment of marriage as decreed by a court or by a church, as long as he/she is entrusted with the custody of the children; or (c) abandonment of a spouse for at least one (1) year (Section 3(a) 5 to 7). Solo parents may also fall under the following categories: (a) an unmarried mother or father who has preferred to keep and rear her or his child/children instead of having others care for them; (b) any other person who provides the sole parental care and support to a child or children; or (c) a family member who assumes the responsibility of being the head of family as a result of the death, abandonment, disappearance or prolonged absence of the parents or solo parent of the child (Section 3(a)8 to 10). Solo parents shall have the rights and duties of the parents under Article 220 of the Family Code. They shall keep their children in their company; they shall support, educate and instruct them by right precept and good example, and provide for their upbringing in keeping with their means. They also have to give them love and affection, advice and counsel, and companionship and understanding. It is their duty to provide their children with moral and spiritual guidance, to inculcate in them honesty, integrity, self-discipline, self-reliance, industry, and thrift; they must stimulate their interest in civic affairs, and inspire in them compliance with the duties of citizenship (Article 220, Family Code). They must furnish them with good and wholesome educational materials, supervise their activities, recreation, and association with others, and protect them from bad company. Their duty extends to representing their children in all matters affecting their interests; and to demand from them respect and obedience; and to impose discipline on them as may be required under the circumstances (Article 220, Family Code). It is the duty of the employer to provide a flexible working schedule for solo parents, as long as the employer’s productivity is not

affected (Section 6). This is to allow a solo parent employee to vary his or her arrival and departure time without affecting the core work hours as required by the employer (Section 3[e]). However, the employer may be exempted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on meritorious grounds (Section 6). The employer shall not discriminate against any solo parent employee on account of his or her status (Section 7). Examples include not getting hired, receiving inappropriate comments, denying statutory employee benefits, terminating an employee, withholding favorable schedules, or striking down a promotion, all because the employee is a solo parent.

We must remember that it is not our choices that make us who we are. Our responses to their consequences do. The solo parent who has rendered service of at least one (1) year of service, in addition to having leave privileges under existing laws, shall be given parental leave of not more than seven (7) working days every year (Section 8). The leave benefits are granted to enable the solo parent to perform his or her parental duties and responsibilities where physical presence is required (Section 3[d]). A solo parent whose income is above the poverty threshold set by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) shall enjoy the flexible working schedule, protection from discrimination in the workplace and parental leave. Additionally, solo parents whose income falls below the poverty threshold, shall be eligible for educational, housing and medical assistance, subject to the assessment of the DSWD worker in the area (Section 4). Qualified solo parents and their children shall be provided with educational benefits by the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), in the form of scholarships and nonformal education programs (Section 9). They shall be given allocations in government low-cost housing projects and shall be provided with liberal terms of payment in accordance with housing law provisions, prioritizing applicants below the poverty line (Section 10). The Department of Health (DOH) is mandated to develop a comprehensive health care program for solo parents and their children (Section 11). A comprehensive package of social development and welfare services for solo parents and their families shall be developed by the various government agencies, to be coordinated by the DSWD with local government units and nongovernmental organizations with proven track records in providing services to solo parents (Section 5). The package includes livelihood development services, counseling services, parent effectiveness services, and critical incidence stress debriefing. The stress debriefing is intended to assist solo parents in coping with crisis situations and cases of abuse. It will also include providing temporary shelter, counseling, legal assistance, medical care, and ego-building, crisis management, and spiritual enrichment programs (Section 5[e]). While these benefits and programs for solo parents and their children address some of their essential needs, it is more important for Philippine society to accept that solo parents strengthen the concept of Filipino family life as much as a “complete” family does, and therefore contribute to nation building. We must remember that it is not our choices that make us who we are, but our responses to their consequences.

election results showed Duterte winning by a comfortable margin over his nearest political rival, or even before he took his oath of office on June 30, 2016. It now appears that early on, following Duterte’s orders, the police leadership imposed quotas on regional, provincial and city/municipal police offices to get rid of 30 drug suspects daily, with the province of Bulacan and several Metro Manila cities racking up the highest scores under Oplan Tokhang and Oplan Double Barrel. In effect, Duterte transformed the entire country into a killing field reminiscent of the “howling wilderness” that a town in Samar island had become during the American occupation, when the American commanding general in the town ordered his men to kill every male over the age of ten after an attack by Filipino insurrectos on a garrison of American soldiers left no survivors. The Duterte administration’s war on drugs has resulted in nearly 7,000 deaths of suspected drug users and traffickers, according to official police reports that said the victims purportedly fought back (“nanlaban”) when they accosted them. But this official narrative is contradicted by human rights groups here and abroad who claim that in fact between 20,000 to 30,000 have died in the hands of vigilante groups in what they say are summary

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EDITORIAL

Does the end justify the means?

DO YOU still remember what President Duterte said about the drug problem in the country early on in his term? What he said early on was that there were no less than 3 million Filipinos hooked on illegal drugs, particularly methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu—and selling them to boot out in the streets—and these people were mainly responsible for murder, rape, robbery, and other crimes punishable under our statutes. The solution? “I would be happy to slaughter all of them,” he said on television. Was this a hyperbole? Or perhaps a joke, as his mouthpiece often claimed when his boss was caught with one foot in his mouth? Not by any means, it turns out. During the 2016 election campaign, some 16 million Filipinos believed in Duterte’s promise to rid the country of illegal drugs in three to six months, and gave him the mandate to sit in Malacañang for six years until 2022. In fact, the bloodbath started soon after

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

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Pandemic exit

HE Philippines, like the rest of the world, will exit from the current pandemic nature of COVID-19 to an endemic stage, where the virus becomes a regular fixture in a particular region or area, and one that will not go away.

The government this early is drawing up an exit strategy from the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraged by declining daily COVID-19 cases, an increasing vaccination rate across the Philippines and the milder effect of the Omicron strain on infected persons, especially those who have been inoculated. The exit plan means lifting the many restrictions imposed by the government to contain the virus infection. Denmark early this week announced it was scrapping most of its pandemic restrictions, including the mandatory wearing

of face masks. The European nation has declared that COVID-19 is no longer “a socially critical disease.” Denmark went ahead with the decision after fully vaccinating over 80 percent of its population and administering boosters shots to more than 60 percent of its people. As in the Philippines, Denmark’s health care system was not overwhelmed despite the increase in Omicron cases.

The Philippines will eventually overcome COVID-19 and fully reopen the economy in the very near future. France is following in the footsteps of Denmark. Face masks in France are no longer mandatory outdoors, while working from home is now just

a recommendation. The Philippines may follow a similar track, but keeping the alert level system here may be the prudent option. The Philippines still lags in the vaccination rollout, especially in the countryside, compared with the advanced countries. Downgrading the COVID-19 situation to Alert Level 1, instead of doing away with the system, will keep Filipinos on their toes. The World Health Organization has warned that it is too early for some nations to declare victory over COVID-19. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged “all countries to protect their populations using all available tools, not just vaccines.” The Philippines will eventually overcome COVID-19 and fully reopen the economy in the very near future. Keeping some of the restrictions in the meantime, like the wearing of face masks, will make sure that the virus is effectively contained.

How to deal with Rowena Guanzon AS OF today, Atty. Rowena Guanzon is a retired commissioner of the Commission on Elections. Last week, Guanzon prematurely announced to the media her vote in three disqualification cases against presidential candidate Bongbong Marcos filed before the Comelec’s First Division, which Guanzon heads. Guanzon revealed she voted to disqualify BBM. What Guanzon did is illegal because the decision of the First Division was not yet officially out when she spoke to the media. Section 3(k) of the anti-graft law prohibits a government official from releasing confidential information to the public in advance of its authorized release date. Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code penalizes a government official who releases, without proper authorization, a decision of a government agency before it is officially released. Guanzon also announced that the ponente of the BBM cases, Commissioner Aimee Ferolino, was delaying the release of the First Division’s final decision, long enough to overtake Guanzon’s compulsory retirement on February 2, 2022. According to Guanzon, Ferolino is waiting for Guanzon to retire so that Guanzon’s separate anti-BBM vote in the disqualification cases will be meaningless. executions or extra-judicial killings. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) that is now on top of the war of drugs has reported that between July 1, 2016 and April 30, 2021, they conducted 200,632 anti-illegal drug operations that resulted in the arrest of 289, 622 persons and the death of 6,117 drug suspects; dismantled a total of 784 drug dens and clandestine laboratories; cleared 21,891 barangays out of the total 42,045 barangays; arrested a total of 12,069 high-value targets; arrested a total of 971 government workers in anti-drug operations (478 government employees, 381 elected officials, and 112 uniformed personnel); seized drugs and laboratory equipment worth a total of P59.14 billion, with shabu alone worth P48.70 billion and the rest consisting of cocaine, ecstasy and marijuana.

The war on drugs should be conducted within the limits imposed by law. As 2022 unfolded, and with his term due to end on June 30 this year, Duterte said recently that he would never apologize for the killings in his bloody war on drugs. The subtext of that intransigence or obstinate refusal to admit any wrongdoing in the conduct of his campaign promise to rid the country of the scourge of illegal drugs is that up until the last day of Duterte’s six-year term, law enforcers are likely to continue without letup in running after small-time drug traffickers and users—leaving the big fish scot-free to continue with their merry ways and that the war on illegal drugs will not wind down until the middle of this year. That likelihood is not going to be good news for the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) that has indicated in no uncertain

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The law provides that a vote cast by a commissioner in a given election case is valid as long as the decision is released to the public before that commissioner retires from service. Ferolino denies Guanzon’s accusation. According to Ferolino, Guanzon had been trying to influence Ferolino to vote against BBM. Having had enough of Guanzon’s anomalous overtures, Ferolino had been avoiding Guanzon’s overtures.

Now she is no longer with the Comelec. I have gone through the pertinent laws and I found nothing which requires Ferolino to release the decision of the First Division before Guanzon’s compulsory retirement. When the disqualification cases were filed against BBM and raffled off to the First Division of the Comelec, Guanzon was fully aware of the possibility that her compulsory retirement may overtake the final resolution of those cases. Guanzon, therefore, cannot complain that Ferolino is taking so long to release the decision of the First Division. It is also not Ferolino’s fault that Guanzon must retire on February 2, 2022. It seems to me that Guanzon wants the First Division to work within the time frame circumscribed by the date of her compulsory retirement. The egotistical Guanzon probably thinks she is the Comelec. Guanzon also announced that a certain senator has been trying to influence her to rule in favor of BBM. Although Guanzon did terms that it is determined to conduct a fullblown probe of the Duterte administration’s violent anti-war crusade after he leaves office. Duterte has chosen to ignore allegations of massive human rights violations in the conduct of his war on drugs from various quarters, including then US President Barack Obama, the US State Department, various UN Rapporteurs on Human Rights, and the European Community. He has likewise attacked our own Commission on Human Rights (CHR), local human rights groups as well as international human rights watchdogs such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch for raising a furor over the bloodbath. At issue here is whether the end justifies the means. If the goal is to wipe out the problem of illegal drugs, the state is justified in going hammer and tongs against big-time as well as street -level drug traffickers with all the resources at its command. We believe, however, that the war on drugs should be conducted within the limits imposed by law. In other words, it should uphold due process and the rule of law at all times. This does not mean that law enforcers cannot use deadly force when circumstances warrant it. But if the nanlaban narrative is used to justify plain and simple murder most foul, then that is not something that can be blithely ignored, nor swept under the rug. The promised outcome—a country free from illegal drugs—does not excuse any wrong committed to attain it. What is clear is that the Duterte administration’s war on illegal drugs and by extension, against political dissent and activism, has metamorphosed instead into a war on human rights, due process and the rule of law. This is what makes a full-dress investigation by the ICC of the excesses in the war on drugs not only a matter of justice, but more important, a moral imperative.

not identify the senator, she stressed that it isn’t Senator Imee Marcos. Adding fuel to the controversy, Guanzon said that if Ferolino does not officially release the decision of the First Division before Guanzon’s retirement on February 2, Guanzon will reveal the identity of the meddling senator. That threat is puzzling. Assuming that Guanzon’s story about the meddling senator is true, why didn’t Guanzon expose that senator when the latter was starting to influence her vote in the disqualification cases? Any attempt to influence a Comelec commissioner’s vote in an election case is illegal. As a Comelec commissioner, Guanzon had the legal obligation to report the meddling senator to the authorities, or at least expose the senator to the public. Why was Guanzon secretive about it to begin with? What took Guanzon so long before telling the public about this meddlesome senator? From the way Guanzon phrased her threat, Guanzon will not reveal the senator’s name if Ferolino yields to Guanzon’s bullying and releases the decision of the First Division before February 2. Why should Guanzon’s legal duty to expose the senator’s name be dependent on whether or not Ferolino releases the decision of the First Division before February 2? Guanzon should name the senator regardless of whether or not Ferolino releases the decision before February 2. Atty. George Briones, a lawyer of the BBM camp, asked the Comelec to investigate Guanzon for the irregularity she committed. Briones also said Guanzon should be disbarred. In reply, Guanzon challenged Briones to a debate. She also flaunted her academic credentials, and said that she reads a lot. Guanzon also argued that the Comelec has no jurisdiction to investigate her because she can only ousted from office through impeachment proceedings. Briones agreed to debate with Guanzon, but he changed his mind after Guanzon threatened to report him to ex-Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, Briones’ fraternity brother in the University of the Philippines. Guanzon also challenged Briones to the boxing ring, an act no respectable government official, especially one who is a lawyer, should be doing. Now that Guanzon is no longer with the Comelec, criminal and administrative cases can be pursued against her. As I said earlier, Guanzon can be charged under Section 3(k) of the anti-graft law, and under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code. Disbarment charges can also be filed against Guanzon for behaving in a manner unbecoming of a member of the legal profession.

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Myanmar exec barred from ASEAN meet M

LIKE A ROLLING STONE. Hindu

devotees offer prayers by rolling on the ground as a part of a ritual during Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur on the outskirts of Kathmandu on February 3, 2022. AFP

YANMAR’s junta suffered a fresh diplomatic blow Thursday as regional bloc ASEAN barred its top diplomat from attending an upcoming meeting of foreign ministers.

Cambodia, which currently holds the bloc’s rotating chairmanship, said there had been too little progress on a “five-point consensus” agreed by leaders last year to try to defuse the crisis gripping Myanmar. The country has been in turmoil since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government a year ago, with more than 1,500 civilians since killed in crackdowns on anti-junta protests, according to a local monitoring group. “Since there has been little progress in carrying out ASEAN’s FivePoint Consensus, the ASEAN member states did not reach a consensus to invite Myanmar SAC’s foreign minister [Wunna Maung Lwin] to participate in the upcoming foreign ministers’ retreat,” Cambodia foreign ministry spokesman Chum Sounry told AFP. Myanmar’s military government calls itself the State Administration Council, or SAC. “We have asked Myanmar to send a non-political representative instead,” Chum Sounry said. The snub comes after the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) took the unprecedented step of barring junta leader Min Aung Hlaing from a summit in October. It represented a rare rebuke from ASEAN, long seen as a toothless talking shop, but which has sought to lead diplomatic efforts to tackle the Myanmar crisis. Myanmar is increasingly isolated on the international stage, with Cambodian strongman ruler Hun Sen’s January visit the first by any foreign leader since the generals seized power. But violence has continued, with anti-junta groups clashing regularly with the military, and the World Bank has warned Myanmar’s economy likely contracted by almost a fifth last year. In a statement on Wednesday, ASEAN called for an immediate end to violence and for its special envoy to be allowed to visit the country soon. AFP

New Zealand to start easing tough COVID border restrictions this month NEW Zealand will start easing some of the world’s toughest pandemic border restrictions this month but will not fully reopen until October, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Thursday. Ardern announced a five-step plan to reconnect New Zealand to the rest of the world, beginning with waiving hotel quarantine requirements for its nationals stranded overseas by the pandemic. “It’s time to move again,” said Ardern, who has been under pressure recently to relax border policies that have been largely unchanged since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis almost two years ago. “Families and friends need to reunite,

our businesses need skills to grow, exporters need to travel to make new connections.” Ardern said New Zealanders in Australia could return home and self-isolate, rather than going into quarantine, from February 27, followed two weeks later by Kiwis elsewhere in the world. The option will then be progressively made available to other groups such as skilled migrants, international students, Australians, and eventually all vaccinated foreign nationals. It will involve international arrivals self-isolating for 10 days instead of undergoing a 10-day hotel quarantine monitored by New Zealand military

personnel. Only 800 rooms per month are available under the current system, with demand regularly exceeding supply tenfold. Many New Zealanders have criticized it as too harsh on international arrivals, with business groups saying it was contributing to a labor shortage and crippling the tourism industry. There have been numerous stories of fully vaccinated overseas-based New Zealanders unable to get home to see dying loved ones or give birth, such as pregnant journalist Charlotte Bellis. Bellis prompted a rare about-face from officials this week when she said

her initial failure to secure a quarantine spot left her no choice but to deliver her baby in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime. Ardern said the quarantine system – known locally as MIQ – had been a key part of New Zealand’s success containing the coronavirus, with only 53 deaths recorded in a population of five million. “The anguish of MIQ has been real and heartbreaking but the choice to use it undeniably saved lives,” she said. New Zealand initially planned to start easing border controls last month and fully reopen in April but delayed the move as the Omicron variant emerged. AFP

Travel groups call to stop pre-flight virus tests for vaccinated passengers AN INTERNATIONAL coalition of travel-related organizations called on the US government Wednesday to stop requiring vaccinated passengers to present a negative Covid test before boarding US-bound flights. “Travel and aviation’s recovery is dependent on the government taking steps to remove travel restrictions that are no longer justified by current circumstances,” the group argued in a letter addressed to White House coronavirus response coordinator Jeffrey Zients. Among the 29 signatories were the main advocacy organizations representing Asian, European and US airlines, as well as the US Chamber of Commerce and the US Travel Association. The leader of the group, Airlines for America – which represents major US carriers including American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines – posted the letter to its website.

The three companies recently noted that the Omicron variant would delay their recovery by one to two months. “Clearly COVID is widespread throughout the US and attempts to control its importation via air travel under today’s circumstances are unlikely to change that fact,” they argued in the letter. The coalition also pointed to the European Union, which recommended member countries lift restrictions for travel between European countries, as well as the United Kingdom, which has decided to lift pre-departure testing requirements for vaccinated passengers. “Surveys of air passengers indicate that pre-departure testing is a leading factor in the decision not to travel internationally,” they noted, adding that people do not want to risk getting stuck abroad if they test positive. AFP

MODERN ART.

Manila

Standard NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC TODAY

Please be informed that d’ AMICO SHIP ISHIMA PHILIPPINES, INC. located at 4th Floor, DOHLE House Manila, 30-38 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Brgy. San Isidro, Makati City has officially changed its corporate name into CREWORLD MARINE SERVICES INC. effective 17 December 2021 with new office address at Unit 501 Sage House Bldg. 110 V.A. Rufino Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City effective 01 February 2022. (MS-FEB. 4, 2022)

S. Africa uncovers $1.8b gold scam SOUTH Africa’s tax authority has uncovered a $1.8-billion gold scam, in which coins and jewelry were illegally smelted into gold bars for sale overseas, a watchdog said Thursday. Between 2012 and 2020, the scammers bilked the government for 24.4 billion rand (1.8 billion dollars, 1.4 billion euros) by defrauding the tax system, the amaBhungane Center for Investigative Journalism said. In the scam, companies illegally smelted gold coins, old jewelry, and nuggets from small-scale miners into gold bars for export, amaBhungane said. Sale of gold within South Africa carries a tax, but gold exports do not. So the companies created fake invoices to claim that they had paid tax, the report said. When the gold was exported at zero tax, they submitted the invoices to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to claim billions of rand in fraudulent refunds, the investigators said. A total of 65 companies are implicated, but two of them claimed tax refunds of more than eight billion rand in 2019 alone. “In that year, the scheme allegedly involved amounts of gold equal to an astonishing 70 percent of all gold legally mined in South Africa in 2019 – again only counting the activities of these two players,” the report said. The revenue authority has not publicly discussed the cases, but investigators pieced together the story from court records and other documents. AFP

20 dead in Buenos Aires from cocaine

AT LEAST 20 people died and 74 more were hospitalized in a Buenos Aires suburb after consuming cocaine cut with a toxic substance, possibly opioids, Argentine au1UP. A person stands next to the characters of different Nintendo games at a store thorities said Wednesday. for Japanese games giant Nintendo in Tokyo. Nintendo raised its full-year net profit Officials said they were working quickly forecast to 400 billion yen ($3.5 billion) on Thursday, predicting strong software sales to determine what the cocaine was mixed for its blockbuster Switch console. AFP with, but warned those who bought the drug over the last 24 hours to dispose of it. Sergio Berni, the security chief for Buenos Aires province, told the television channel Telefe that authorities were trying to locate the toxic substance “to remove it MARCEL Duchamp scandalized the art world Chainalysis. from circulation.” in 1917 by submitting a urinal as his entry to Like Duchamp’s urinal, Robness’s piece “There is a key ingredient that is ata prestigious competition. A century later, an gained value as it gained notoriety – NFT martacking the central nervous system,” American artist known as Robness sparked his ketplace SuperRare removed the image shortly Berni said. own controversy by selling an NFT of a rub- after he created it. About 10 people were arrested after pobish bin for $252,000. “It was kind of like rage art, I was angry lice raided a house in the poor Tres de Fe“I can’t even remember where the image about some things,” he said. “So I put thatCYAN up, MAGENTA brero neighborhood where they believe the YELLOW BLACK came from, I think it was a Google image and it was removed. They thought I was taking cocaine was sold. search,” the 38-year-old Los Angeles native Home Depot’s picture and breaking copyright. Packets of cocaine similar to those described by the victims’ families were tells AFP. “They threatened me legally,” he added with seized. The drugs were taken to a laboraNFTs are unique pieces of computer code a laugh. tory in La Plata, the capital of Buenos Aires stored on a longer chain of code known as a But then, out of the blue, the platform reinprovince, for analysis. blockchain, with a link to an artwork or other stated his work. Authorities issued an urgent warning item. SuperRare told AFP in an email that “the early Wednesday after three separate hosThe image, called “64 gallon toter,” depicts a community didn’t consider it as art,” but reinpitals reported several deaths and serious large plastic trash can with glitching effects, giv- stated it after two years because “so much has cases of poisoning. ing it a psychedelic appearance. evolved” in the discussions around what can Several of those being treated told docThere is a lot of money to be made in the legitimately be called art. tors they had taken cocaine together. NFT art world – auctions and purchases from The bin had become a meme and inspired Beatriz Mercado told AFP she had found celebrities contributed to sales worth more than thousands of tributes and copycats, and collecher 31-year-old son, one of the victims, ly$40 billion last year, according to analytics firm tors were showing an interest.AFP ing face-down on the kitchen floor. AFP

NFT artist sells a trash can image for $252,000 The bin image depicts a large plastic trash can with glitching effects, giving it a psychedelic appearance. AFP

IN BRIEF

Business PSEi February 3, 2022

TOP GAINERS

LAST % PRICE CHANGE CHANGE

1

TBGI

0.4

0.045

12.68%

2 3

MBC FAF

10.06 0.68

1.05 0.06

11.65% 9.68%

4 5 6 7

ACEX ATNB HTI ATN

35.5 0.91 1.3 0.91

3.1 0.07 0.1 0.06

9.57% 8.33% 8.33% 7.06%

8

ABSP

11.9

0.76

6.82%

9 10

HOUSE ACE

11.58 1.58

0.66 0.08

6.04% 5.33%

TOP LOSERS 1 CSB 2 GEO

LAST PRICE CHANGE 6.81 -1.54 0.19 -0.02

% CHANGE -18.44% -9.52%

3 4

ARA APL

0.95 0.065

-0.06 -0.004

-5.94% -5.80%

5

APX

1.61

-0.09

-5.29%

6 7

LODE SPNEC

0.59 2.21

-0.03 -0.11

-4.84% -4.74%

8 9 10

DFNN ALHI BLOOM

2.3 5.75 6.1

-0.11 -0.27 -0.28

-4.56% -4.49% -4.39%

Stocks drop; SPNEC, Monde Nissin decline

S

TOCKS retreated Thursday on profit taking after the benchmark index jumped to near two-year high the other day on looser COVID-19 restrictions.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index fell 76.22 points, or 1 percent, to 7,382.77 on a value turnover of P6.8b billion. Losers beat gainers, 115 to 83, with 57 issues unchanged. Solar Philippines Nueva Ecija Corp., which is building what is being touted as the largest solar farm in Southeast Asia, dropped 4.7 percent to P2.21, while noodles maker Monde Nissin Corp. declined 3.4 percent to P16. Converge ICT Solutions Inc., a fiber broadband provider, lost 3 percent at P29.60, while Globe Telecom Inc. of the Ayala Group, the second-biggest

telecommunications firm, fell 1.8 percent to P3,112. The rest of Asian markets were mixed Thursday, with profit-taking after a recent rally offsetting big gains in those where traders were playing catch-up after their midweek break. Wall Street provided another healthy lead after rising for a fourth day—helping pare January’s steep losses—but the positivity was dealt a blow after the close as Facebook parent company Meta’s sobering earnings fueled fresh worries about the tech sector. The gloomy mix of a sharper-than-expected drop in profit, a decrease in users and threats to its ad business followed disappointing results from streaming titan Netflix, indicating the pandemic-era sugar rush enjoyed from people being holed up at home has come to an end. The weak readings provided a reality check that while the world economy is on the mend and many firms such as

VOLUME 4,765,240 157,817,000

VALUE (PHP) 663,880,656 358,297,170

3 4 5

GLO CNVRG MONDE

96,965 9,800,000 18,174,100

306,985,350 294,796,515 293,346,550

6 7 8 9 10

ALI FCG BPI SECB AC

7,842,700 296,721,000 2,619,540 2,333,180 261,680

288,907,930 273,193,180 260,776,657 260,057,183 228,164,735

India expects world-beating expansion on virus recovery MUMBAI, India—India expects to lead the world in economic growth this year in a post-pandemic bounceback, government forecasts showed Monday, but with expansion slowing despite widespread vaccine coverage and recovering exports. COVID pummeled Asia’s thirdlargest economy, which suffered its worst recession since independence in 1947 after a drastic lockdown brought factories and consumer spending to a standstill. Last year saw the economy bounce back to pre-pandemic levels despite a devastating virus outbreak that overwhelmed hospitals, with 9.2 percent growth estimated for the 12 months to March 2022. But with the recovery now tapering, India expects slower growth of 8.08.5 percent for the following financial year, according to the annual economic survey presented to parliament on Monday. “The economy is in a good place to grow strongly into the next year or two and all the macro stability indicators suggest that there is a fair amount of buffer,” said Sanjeev Sanyal, the finance ministry’s principal economic advisor. The report puts India well ahead of the International Monetary Fund’s 2022 calendar year forecasts for other major economies, with neighboring China expected to grow 4.8 percent in the year to December. The IMF last week slashed its global growth outlook in the wake of the Omicron variant’s impact, but still forecast 9-percent growth for India in 2022. Widespread COVID vaccinations, robust exports and rises in both private investment and public spending will maintain strong growth for the year ahead, India’s survey said, provided there was “no further debilitating pandemic related economic disruption.” But analysts warn the government’s growth forecast may be “too optimistic,” in light of elevated inflation, unemployment and other headwinds. AFP

Apple are enjoying healthy earnings— despite higher inflation and looming interest rate hikes—the coming year is unlikely to be straightforward. In Asian trade, Tokyo, Sydney, Mumbai and Jakarta all fell, having enjoyed a strong week so far. However, Singapore and Seoul were both up around two percent on their first day after the Lunar New Year break. Wellington was a standout, enjoying more gains as traders cheered news that New Zealand would begin easing its strict border restrictions this month with an aim to fully reopen by October. Hong Kong, Shanghai and Taipei were still closed. US futures turned sharply lower with Meta plunging about 20 percent in after-hours trade. Meanwhile, traders are also still obsessing over the Federal Reserve’s timetable for hiking interest rates, with speculation rife over how much it will raise them in March and how many more times this year. With AFP

CLEANSED. A group of Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti) are seen being cleaned by specialists after the oil spill happened when an Italian-flagged tanker, the ‘Mare Doricum,’ was unloading oil at a refinery owned by Spanish company Repsol. It polluted beaches, killed wildlife and robbed fishermen of their livelihood. AFP

MOST ACTIVE

1 BDO 2 SPNEC

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

OPEC+ backs another modest oil output hike LONDON, United Kingdom—Top oil-producing countries led by Saudi Arabia and Russia announced another modest increase in output on Wednesday despite soaring crude prices and geopolitical tensions rattling the markets. The 23-nation OPEC+ group said in a statement that it will increase production by 400,000 barrels per day in March, the same amount as in previous months. The group, which includes the 13 members of the Saudi-led Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and their 10 allies, including Russia, has resisted US pressure to further boost production to tame prices. OPEC+ said in its statement following a ministerial videoconference that the decision was made “in view of current oil market fundamentals and the consensus on the outlook.” The alliance’s prudent approach dates back to the spring of 2021 as demand recovered after drastic 2020 cuts in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement Wednesday “was hardly surprising, as the group has rigidly followed this approach since it was first agreed upon, even in December when oil prices plunged following the emergence of Omicron,” said Edward Gardner, commodities expert at Capital Economics. “What matters going forward is whether OPEC+ can keep up with its planned production increases,” he said. Oil prices hit seven-year highs in January, with the main international crude contract, Brent, topping $90. Prices are now hovering under $90. Victoria Scholar, an expert at Interactive Investor, said she expected “further gains” due to solid demand and “drip-feed production increases” by OPEC+. OPEC+ is already struggling to meet its quotas with some members, such as Angola and Nigeria, unable to scale up their production and others, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, unwilling to do so, said Carsten Fritsch of Commerzbank. In December, the total volume of OPEC+ output increased by only 90,000 barrels per day, far short of the 400,000 target, according to a survey by the Bloomberg news agency. AFP

Lisa Cook, expert on economic scars of racism, now Biden’s Fed nominee By Heather Scott WASHINGTON, United States—A researcher focused on how discrimination has harmed the American economy and the damage downturns do to the poor, Lisa Cook would bring a new perspective to the US central bank. If confirmed by the Senate, Cook would be the first Black woman to serve as one of the seven members on the powerful Federal Reserve Board of Governors, which guides the country’s monetary policy and throughout its 108-year history has largely been a domain of white men. The daughter of a Baptist chaplain and a professor of nursing, Cook bears physical scars from racism after she was attacked as a young child while involved in an effort to integrate racially segregated schools in the state of Georgia. She has dedicated much of her research as an adult to previously unmeasured economic scars of discrimination on the productive capacity of the world’s largest economy. Cook is one of President Joe Biden’s picks to fill open seats on the Fed board, along with Philip Jefferson of Davidson College, who would be the fourth Black man to serve on the body. For the powerful post of Fed vice chair for supervision, which oversees the nation’s banks, Biden tapped former Fed governor Sarah Bloom Raskin, who is white. If all of the nominees are confirmed, women would comprise a majority on the board for the first time in the cen-

tral bank’s history. Focus on discrimination Cook is a professor of economics and international relations at Michigan State University, and earned an economics degree from Oxford University and a doctorate from the University of California, Berkeley. She speaks five languages, including Russian, and also specializes in international development economics, having worked on topics such as Rwanda’s recovery following the 1994 genocide. “That experience convinced me of the enormous responsibility economists have,” she said in a video on her university’s website, where she highlights her focus on non-traditional data sources. “It is absolutely vital to ask the right questions and to seek the right data.”

Growing up in an area of the United States where public swimming pools were destroyed rather than allowed to be integrated, Cook has looked at lynchings and patents issued to Black entrepreneurs, arguing that discrimination has held back the entire society, not just the direct victims of the injustice. “My own research demonstrates, for example, how hate-related violence can reduce the level and long-term growth of the US economy,” she wrote in a November 2020 column in The New York Times. Fed focus on inequality Critics say Biden’s choices would politicize the Fed’s stewardship of the economy at a critical time, with inflation at a 40-year high and millions of jobs lost during the COVID-19 pan-

If confirmed, Lisa Cook would be the first Black woman to ever serve on the Federal Reserve’s seven-seat board. AFP

demic still missing. Others, including conservative political commentator George Will, have questioned Cook’s credentials. But central bank watchers dismiss those concerns as racially motivated. Fed Chair Jerome Powell, who is also awaiting confirmation after Biden nominated him to a second term in office, has repeatedly stressed the importance of ensuring economic opportunities extend to disadvantaged groups—a notable change of focus in an economy where Black workers face far higher unemployment rates than other racial groups. “The politics around this are really kind of shameful,” Grant Thornton chief economist Diane Swonk told AFP, calling Cook a “phenomenal” candidate for the post. Her experience will fill “huge holes” in the ranks at the Fed which was “late on the uptake” in recognizing the costs of inequality, Swonk told AFP. “You want to improve the quality of decision making by diversifying the pool of decision makers.” The struggle is not new to Cook, who in interviews has said male economists often discouraged her from pursuing a careers in the profession. David Wessel, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a longtime Fed watcher, dismissed the criticisms about qualifications. “The people who are against her are describing a caricature,” he said in an interview. “The double standard that’s going on here is ridiculous.”AFP

US private hiring decreased 301,000 amid January Omicron surge, says survey WASHINGTON, United States—Private US businesses shed 301,000 jobs last month as the Omicron variant of COVID-19 disrupted activity, payroll services firm ADP said Wednesday in a report that was far worse than expected. “The labor market recovery took a step back at the start of 2022 due to the effect of the Omicron variant and its significant, though likely temporary, impact to job growth,” ADP Chief Economist Nela Richardson said.

The decline in payrolls was the first since December 2020, while the data also revised lower by 31,000 the job gains reported in the final month of 2021. The ADP report is considered a preview of Friday’s government jobs report, which is expected to show weak hiring of less than 200,000 in January as Omicron caused businesses to struggle anew. Small businesses bore the brunt of the job-shedding, losing 144,000 positions, the ADP data said, which Rich-

ardson said had erased most of the job gains made in December 2021. Large-business employment fell 98,000, while medium-sized businesses lost 59,000. The service sector accounted for the majority of the job losses, with overall employment falling 274,000. Most severely hit was the leisure and hospitality sector, which has borne the brunt of past layoff waves and lost 154,000 position in January. Ian Shepherdson of Pantheon Mac-

roeconomics said ADP can differ widely from the government payroll data, and Omicron’s severity is influencing the latest reports. “These data, and probably February’s too, will always be asterisked; they tell us nothing about the underlying state of the labor market,” he wrote in an analysis. “The first fully post-Omicron report will be for March, and recent history suggests all the lost ground won’t be recovered immediately.” AFP

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

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

Philex seeking foreign investors in Silangan mine By Jenniffer B. Austria PHILEX Mining Co. Inc. remains open to getting foreign investors to help develop the $1.7-billion gold and copper Silangan mine in Surigao del Norte province, a top executive said Thursday. Philex chairman Manuel Pangilinan said in a news briefing the company was unsuccessful in the past in attracting foreign investors for Silangan for various reasons, including unfavorable mining conditions in the country. Pangilinan said once the project starts generating cash-flow in 2.5 years or by 2025, the Silangan mine should be able to attract foreign investors. He said Philex decided to develop the project on its own and in several phases to proceed with the Silangan mine job. The company would need an initial capital requirement of $224 million under phase 1. Of the total, P3.15 billion ($62 million) would be funded through the planned stock rights offering. Philex is also expected to inject between $50 million to $60 million in fresh capital directly to Silangan mine, while the balance of $130 million to $140 million will be financed via a loan syndication to be arranged by BDO Capital and Investments Corp. Philex already invested nearly P18 billion in the past decade for the exploration and pre-development of Silangan mine. By the end of its 28year mine, Philex would have spent $1.7 billion for the project. Silangan mine is also expected to contribute P9.5 billion to local government units and P36.2 billion to the national government over a period of 28 years. The mine will initially produce 2,000 tons of ore per day or about 700,000 tons a year. The will figure will gradually ramp up to 12,000 tons a year as Philex invests additional capital for the mining operations. Silangan mine has an estimated 81 million tons of mineable reserves that contain around 993 million pounds of copper and 2.8 million ounces of gold.

Bank of Commerce bares 63% increase in managed assets

Business London-based IHS Markit sees economy growing 7% By Othel V. Campos

L

ONDON-BASED IHS Markit predicted a 7-percent growth for the Philippine economy in 2022 in line with its expectation that the gross domestic product would reach $1 trillion by 2033.

IHS Markit presented its 2022 outlook in an economic briefing organized by the Board of Investments. The Department of Trade and Industry uses the IHS Markit Philippines Manufacturing Index to gauge the level of production in the country. The DTI said while the PMI dropped from a nine-month high of 51.8 in December 2021 to 50.0 in January 2022 following the surge of COVID cases, the country remains on the path to recovery. A reading above 50 indicates an expansion of the manufacturing sector compared to the previous month, while a reading below 50 represents a contraction. The figure 50 indicates no change.

“For the Philippines, we are expecting rapid growth in 2022 due to further progress towards normalization of the economy,” said IHS Markit chief economist for Asia Pacific and executive director Rajiv Biswas. IHS Markit said the strong economic growth forecast would be driven by private consumption and government infrastructure investments. The GDP expanded 5.6 percent in 2021, following a 9.6-percent decline in 2020 at the start of the pandemic. Biswas said a key factor that would enhance the attractiveness of the Philippines economy over the next decade is the burgeoning size of the domestic consumer market, “The Philippines is projected to become one of Asia’s one-trillion dollar economies by 2033, just over a decade ahead,” Biswas said, adding that the Philippines would attract more foreign direct investments from multinationals and drive investments into sectors such as manufacturing and infrastructure. “Foreign investors will increasingly focus on the opportunities created by the fast-growing domestic consumer

market in the Philippines, in addition to its attractions as a hub for producing manufacturing exports such as electronics,” he said. The latest report of IHS Markit showed that the PMI declined in January because of the surge in COVID-19 cases and the impact of Typhoon Odette that hit large parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. Manufacturing output fell the most in five months, while new orders declined marginally and export orders shrank at the fifth-quickest rate in the series. Meantime, employment fell at one of the softest paces in almost two years and incomplete work dropped the least since May 2020. Delivery times were affected by adverse weather conditions with lead times lengthening, the report read. It said material shortages continued to drive up expenses. Firms, in turn, raised their selling charges at the steepest rate for seven months to protect profit margins. Sentiment moderated to the weakest since August 2021. The IHS Markit Philippines PMI measures the performance of the manufacturing sector, derived from a survey of 450 manufacturing companies.

PSE INDEX CLOSING Thursday, February 3, 2022 -76.22 PTS. 7,382.77

TOTAL VOLUME

1,693,599,600

TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE (IN PHP) ADVANCES

81,954 6,751,973,861.02 83

DECLINES

115

UNCHANGED

57

F oreign E xchange R ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

51.1020

Japan

Yen

0.008738

0.4465

UK

Pound

1.358100

69.4016

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128279

6.5553

Switzerland

Franc

1.088969

55.6485

Canada

Dollar

0.789453

40.3426

Singapore

Dollar

0.742446

37.9405

Australia

Dollar

0.713600

36.4664

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652872

135.5671

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266553

13.6214

Brunei

Dollar

0.739700

37.8001

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0036

Thailand

Baht

0.030102

1.5383

UAE

Dirham

0.272287

13.9144

Euro

Euro

1.130700

57.7810

Korea

Won

0.000834

0.0426

China

Yuan

0.157011

8.0236

India

Rupee

0.013370

0.6832

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.239006

12.2137

New Zealand

Dollar

0.662700

33.8653

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035978

1.8385 Source: BSP

IN BRIEF

Generation charges seen up in February

MANILA Electric Co. said Thursday generation charges may go up in February because of coal and gas price increases and the peso depreciation. “There is pressure on the generation charge to go up, largely due to projected increases in the cost of Malampaya gas and of coal, aggravated by a depreciation of the peso against the US dollar,” said Meralco head of utility economics Lawrence Fernandez. Generation charges account for the bulk of the rates of Meralco. “We are hoping that these factors can be offset by reductions in charges from other suppliers and from the WESM [Wholesale Electricity Spot Market],” Fernandez said when asked about the possible movement of February rates. Meralco rates went down by P0.0746 per kWh in January to P9.7027 per kWh from P9.7773 per kWh in December. Generation charges in January amounted to P5.4262 per kWh. Other components of the power bill are transmission charges, distribution cost, taxes and others. Alena Mae S. Flores

DITO investing P50b to hit target this year

DITO Telecommunity Corp., a joint venture of Davao-businessman Dennis Uy and China Telecoms , said Thursday it is spending more than P50 billion to meet its commitment to the government of 70-percent population coverage this year “For network build, we are implementing more than P50 billion rollout for 2022 essentially to achieve our 70-percent population coverage target,” DITO chief technology officer Rodolfo Santiago said in a virtual briefing. “For 2022, the technical target is to achieve the 70-percent population coverage by July 8 of 2022 and by end of 2022, we have to be poised to achieve the target for July 2023,” he said. DITO’s population coverage is now at 64 percent to 65 percent. “The gap is only 5 percent. That is why we are really confident that we can achieve the 70-percent population coverage very early before July 8. Probably by May or first week of June, we can already achieve the 70 percent,” Santiago said. “We need 300 more towers to achieve the target,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

ONLINE BINGO. Leisure & Resort World Corp.’s gaming brand BingoPlus soft launches ‘Online Traditional Bingo,’ or OTB. The

new offering from LRWC subsidiary AB Leisure Exponent Inc. is the first online traditional bingo licensed by Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. The innovative game transforms the way traditional bingo is played by combining the excitement of the old and the convenience of new technology.

Board meets to tackle higher biodiesel blend of 5% from 2%

By Julito G. Rada

By Alena Mae S. Flores

BANK of Commerce, an affiliate of conglomerate San Miguel Corp., said Thursday its assets under management grew 63 percent in 2021 to P63 billion from a year ago, as the bank strengthened its retail investor client base and pushed for wider access to low-risk and medium-to-long term investments. Bank president Michelangelo Aguilar said in a statement the increase in AUM, which was also 5 percent higher than the bank’s initial P60-billion target, contributed to the robust performance of unit investment trust funds and investment management accounts, as clients sought more conservative products to better cover for future contingencies similar to the pandemic. “We saw a 126-percent increase year-on-year in AUM for UITFs. Likewise, IMAs, which cater to clients with substantial funds looking for higher yields such as through bonds, common or preferred shares, grew 65 percent year-on-year,” Aguilar said. “Our efforts to align our investment products with our customers’ needs, enabling them to maximize their revenue potential as we ensure the success of our portfolio, were key factors to our strong performance,” he said. Meanwhile, the bank’s other fiduciary activities business for corporate clients looking to tap the investing public for capital rose 49 percent yearon-year. Bank of Commerce said that as of the end-September 2021, it ranked ninth among universal, commercial and thrift banks in terms of AUM, rising from 11th place the previous year. Over a four-year period from 2018 to 2021, the bank’s AUM grew 103 percent, with a better than industry compounded annual growth rate of 13 percent.

THE National Biofuels Board will meet on Feb. 18 to discuss calls for an increase in the biodiesel blend from 2-percent coco methyl ester content to 5 percent. Department of Energy director Rino Abad said the NBB meeting will ensure there is enough coconut supply to meet the increase in demand with the implementation of a higher blend. Abad said there was no decision yet on increasing the blend and that they were still waiting for the rules from the Philippine Coconut Authority. He said the DOE was also waiting for the results from the Renewable Energy Management Bureau on the road

test for biodiesel “which will hopefully show the savings.” Rep. Juan Miguel Arroyo, chairman of the House committee on energy, earlier expressed support for an increase in biodiesel blend to 5 percent as mandated by law. “In 2006, the 13th Congress passed RA 9367. President Arroyo concurred with our lawmakers that coco biodiesel addressed a multitude of problems on so many levels that delaying its implementation any further now is a great disservice to the Filipino,” Arroyo said. The lawmaker said biodiesel helps coconut farmers, bolsters the economy and even reduces air pollution. Arroyo said that by mandating B2 blend for transportation, the Philip-

pines reduced its carbon footprint by 16.31 percent. “If we could use B5 throughout 2022, we would have further reduced our carbon footprint by another 588,000 tons, on top of the 4.8 million tons carbon dioxide equivalent for the year if we remained on B2,” Arroyo said. “If we started in 2022, a yearly ramp from B3 to B4 to B5 would further reduce our GHG emissions up to 2030 by a total of 6.5 million tons carbon dioxide equivalent,” he said. He said that by ramping up to B5, the country would also achieve 14 percent of the energy sector’s 45.9 Mt CO2e target under the Nationally Determined Contributions in accordance with the Paris Agreement.

Sem-Calaca to appeal fines imposed by ERC

SEM-CALACA Power Corp. said Thursday it will file a motion for reconsideration with the Energy Regulatory Commission which slapped fines on the company for allegedly exceeding the number of allowed unplanned outages Semirara Mining and Power Corp. said in a disclosure to the stock exchange subsidiary SCPC would appeal the ERC decision imposing fines of P337,200 for allegedly exceeding the number of allowed unplanned outages by 5.24 days for Unit 1; and P3,975,600 for allegedly exceeding the number of allowed unplanned outages by 96.2 days for Unit 2. “While SCPC has not received a copy of the official resolution, it intends to appeal this decision by filing a motion for reconsideration with the ERC,” SMPC said. The ERC issued on June 24, 2021 a show cause order to SCPC for alleged violation of Article V of ERC Resolution No. 10, Series of 2020 otherwise known as the “Rules for the Interim Reliability Performance Indices and Equivalent Outage Days Per Year of Generating Units.” It directed SCPC to explain the 22 and 113 cumulative unplanned outage days for its Sem-Calaca Unit 1 and Unit 2, respectively beyond the maximum allowable outage days for a pulverized coal-fired power plant of only 16.8 days per generation unit per year. Alena Mae S. Flores

Pag-IBIG Fund members saved P63.7b last year THE amount collectively saved by members with Pag-IBIG Fund in 2021 reached P63.67 billion—the highest in the agency’s history. It said total savings collected in 2021 jumped 32 percent from the P48.18 billion in 2020 and were 26 percent higher than P50.38 billion registered in 2019, which was the agency’s best performing year prior to the pandemic. Forming part of total savings, collections under the Pag-IBIG Regular Savings also increased 8 percent from P34.90 billion in 2020 to P37.71 billion in 2021. “During these challenging times, we are glad to report that Pag-IBIG remains resilient. While our members were not spared from the pandemic’s effect on the economy, they still chose to save and grow their hard-earned peso with Pag-IBIG. This shows their significant trust that Pag-IBIG Fund shall manage

their savings prudently,” said Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, who heads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. “With more funds, Pag-IBIG is in a better position to finance its programs to help more members in the coming months, as we continue to contribute to the recovery of the whole nation,” said del Rosario, who also heads the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund board of trustees. Behind the growth of its members’ savings is the agency’s voluntary savings program, the Modified Pag-IBIG 2 or MP2, which has become increasingly popular among members in recent years, said Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive Acmad Rizaldy Moti. Moti said that savings in the MP2 in 2021 nearly doubled the P13.29 billion saved by members in 2020, with collections soaring 95 percent to a recordbreaking P25.95 billion.

LIVELIHOOD ASSISTANCE. Department of Trade and Industry Cavite provincial director Revelyn Cortez (right) speaks before 20 beneficiaries of DTI’s Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay Program during the simple turnover rites in Barangay San Juan 1, General Trias City, Cavite. The beneficiaries receive kits worth P8,000 on the businesses they want to start. Dennis Abrina

Sports

Miller hopes to do better in 2nd Winter Olympic stint YANQING, China—Two-time Olympian Asa Miller will again carry the Philippine flag in the parade of nations during Friday’s opening ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. “I’m extremely excited the first time, it was one of the best moments of my life,” Miller said on Thursday after another day of training at the National Alpine Skiing Centre atop Xiaohaituo Mountain. “And I can’t wait to do it for the second time.” Joining the 21-year-old alpine skier in the parade are Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Philippine Ski and Snowboard Federation head Jim Palomar and Chef de Mission Bones Floro. Tolentino and POC head of legal Billy Sumagui arrived here on Tuesday to support Miller’s second Winter Games. The Portland-based alpine skier is the country’s sole representative in these games, unlike in Pyeongchang 2018 when figure skater Michael Martinez vied in his second consecutive Olympics. “I hope to do better this time around, I was really, really proud the last time and I’m prouder and more motivated this time,” he said. “It feels great that it’s real now,” Miller added. “And it feels great to be in China again—the Olympic spirit and the culture all over the place, as well as the other athletes—they’re very fun and motivating.” A then 14-year-old Miller was involved in an exchange student program in Beijing in 2014 making him quite familiar with the Chinese culture. Athletes from 91 countries will be marching during the parade of nations with the Philippines entering the massive and grand venue—the National Stadium, also known as “The Bird’s Nest”—in Beijing at No. 69. The ceremony starts at 8 p.m. (Manila and Beijing time) and is expected to last for one hour and 40 minutes. AFP

Asa Miller

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

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The Philippines’ Sarina Bolden hits the ball during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022 football semifinal match between South Korea and Philippines in Pune, India. The Malditas bowed to the Koreans, 0-2. AFP

Coach praises Malditas despite loss to Koreans By Peter Atencio

T

HE South Korean national women’s football team refused to yield to the Philippine Malditas and won’t even let them comfortable with their defense.

Scoring two early goals in the first half, the Koreans stepped on the gas immediately with their offense and came away with a 2-0 triumph Thursday in the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune, India. The two goals scored by Cho SoHyun and Son Hwa Yeon in the 24th and 34th minutes sent the Koreans into their first Women’s Asian Cup championship stint, following their fifth-place finish back in the 2018. They had a total of five attempts to do so since 1995. Cho scored on a header from the center of the box to the bottom left corner,

with the ball sailing over the head of goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel. Her chance to score came after Kim Hye-Ri went in from the left side and flicked in a cross pass. “It was a very tough match. Korea is the better team. They built the pressure early and it was disappointing. We had no chances in the first half and had our 5 or 6 chances in the second half. But the best part of today is that after playing for 120 minutes the other night, they fought to the death. Amazing heart and courage of the girls. I’m proud of them,” said Malditas coach Alen Stajcic. So blasted in from close range to the

bottom left corner, following an assist from Choo Hyo Joo, who pressed from the right flank. Still high on their World Cup berthclinching 2-1 quarterfinal win over Chinese Taipei, the Malditas spent the last half in keeping the Koreans from penetrating their defense. Malditas’ goalie Olivia McDaniel, who got raves over her heroics in their historic Chinese Taipei victory, got busy after the 60th minute as the Koreans pressed on with their attacks. “Very happy to play in the finals. Great achievement for the players,” said the Koreans’ British coach Colin Bell, adding that the team had difficulty focusing and doing what they needed to do in the second half. Bell admitted that the Malditas still made matters difficult for them in the second half. “There’s still something that needs

Lineker on Fernandes showdown: It’s my time JOHN “Hands of Stone” Lineker believes the reign of longtime ONE Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes is coming to an end. These fierce warriors will collide for all the marbles in the main event of ONE: BAD BLOOD on Friday, February 11, at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Lineker is convinced that the fight will stop his compatriot’s lengthy domination. “As Bibiano has been out of action for some time, I believe his heyday is over,” Lineker told ONEFC.com. “Today, I don’t see him at his peak, mainly because of the time he was away.” The event’s title is appropriate because of the genuine animosity between the two Brazilians. After beating former ONE Bantamweight World Champion Kevin “The Silencer” Belingon and “Pretty Boy” Troy Worthen, Lineker excitedly made his intentions known as the next challenger to Fernandes’ title. It’s something that “The Flash” didn’t take lightly,

and they have been trading verbal jabs ever since. “In fact, it was Bibiano who created this rivalry because there was no rivalry between us. When I posted on my Instagram that I wanted to fight for the title, it wasn’t [necessarily] Bibiano himself. I wanted to fight against the champion because my goal was to fight for the belt,” the #1-ranked bantamweight contender explained. “I wrote that I wanted the opportunity to fight for the title, that it was past time, that I was ready, and that it was my moment. And then he got offended and replied, saying that I wasn’t a professional.” Still, “Hands of Stone” is confident that he will be the one to finally put an end to Fernandes’ nearly decade-long possession of the bantamweight crown. “This is my moment, and I believe he’s never fought a guy like me. I’m an aggressive guy who never backs down, who walks forward all the time, and has a very heavy hand,” he mentioned. “My opponents know this very well, so my confi-

dence is in what I can do and what I’ve done in my past fights. And what I can say is that I’m very prepared to nullify any submission attempt by Bibiano.” Lineker’s confidence is sky high entering this match, and he sees an early finish if he will have his way. “I’m training to knock him out. As in all my fights, I go to knock out my opponents. I don’t like to leave the decision to the judges. Sometimes, it happens, but I always try to finish the fight before the full fight time,” the American Top Team mainstay shared. “I believe he’ll strike with me at the beginning, and for sure, will try to use his grappling and jiu-jitsu game. But I’m training a lot, and I know I’ll be able to nullify his game and get the knockout.” Catch Fernandes and Lineker go toe-to-toe for the ONE Bantamweight World Championship at ONE: BAD BLOOD on February 11. Watch the event live by downloading the ONE Super App or by visiting its official YouTube channel.

Love in time of corona: Mountain ‘tease’ for Kilde, Shiffrin YANQING—Norwegian speedster Aleksander Aamodt Kilde has caught the spotlight this season not just for his on-piste form, but also as half of skiing’s glamour couple alongside American girlfriend Mikaela Shiffrin. But Kilde admitted after the men’s first downhill training run on Thursday that living in the same Yanqing Olympic Village as Shiffrin with strict Covid-19 protocols in place was a “tease”. “Everybody says ‘Yeah, now you can spend so much time together and it’s nice to have her’, but it’s more challenging because with Covid restrictions we have to be really careful,” the 29-yearold Norwegian said. “It’s kind of a tease: you see her, but you can’t really touch her or be with her that much.” Aamodt acknowledged however that there were some upsides. “It’s really nice to have her here and of course we can eat dinner together, that’s

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

Aleksander Aamodt Kilde

no problem. We really enjoy that, but other than that it’s not really special.” Coronavirus restrictions, which mean people in the Beijing Olympic bubble are constantly masked and undergo daily oral swabs, mean limited face-to-face time. That is especially true for two skiers who are serious medal contenders in several events in the Games, which formally

Mikaela Shiffrin

begin on Friday. Kilde will be eyeing podium places in the super-G and downhill, while Shiffrin is chasing a third gold at consecutive Olympics and remains a genuine medal threat in any discipline she enters given her allround strengths. “We’re keeping the same routine as always, face-timing, talking on the phone,”

Kilde explained. “We try to be careful because if we get Covid, then the consequences are too big.” Phone chit-chat, Kilde said, tended to be nothing special. The couple discuss “how things are feeling, experiences, decisionmaking, general things about skiing but not really too technical. “She sends me videos every day and I send her videos and then we try to learn from each other a little. I still have a lot to learn from her.” Turning to his race expectations, Kilde said he felt confident after starring in the super-G and downhill on the World Cup circuit this season. “As I look at it right now, it’s a possibility to do well but I know also the fact that anything can happen and the Olympics are also very special,” he said. “I definitely feel some pressure but it’s nothing different from other races because there’s been a lot of pressure throughout the year with good results already.”

to be improved from today’s match. We were put in a situation, where the players where on edge in the second half. There were massive opportunities. But they were not able to concentrate,” added Bell. Olivia, whose sister Chandler McDaniel was escorted out in the 57th minutes due to an injury, managed to deflect at least four attempts by the Koreans. The younger Chandler, one of the key scorers of the team, played for only eight minutes, after hurting her left knee following a scuffle with Shim Seo Yeon. The Koreans, who will face the winner of the game between China and Japan in the finals on Sunday, managed to find ways to penetrate the Philippines’ backline in the remaining time, but they were not able to capitalize on their chances.

Grouses lose but keep quarterfinal hopes alive DWIGHT Ramos and the Toyama Grouses bowed to the Shimane Susaanoo Magic, 75-91, but still kept their quarterfinal hopes alive Wednesday night in the 2021-2022 B.League tournament at the Toyama City Gymnasium. The Grouses committed 10 turnovers in the second quarter, allowing the Magic to score 23 points and grab a 10-point edge, 40-30, in the last 56 seconds of the first half. The loss snapped the Grouses’ two-game winning streak, but they remained in eighth spot with their 1320 win-loss record in the West District standings. Nick Kay took charge in the third quarter, scoring 17 of his 32 points to help Shimane take a 49-36 lead in the last 8:45. The Magic stayed in second spot at 22-8, behind the solo-leading Ryukyu Golden Kings (25-3). Bobby Ray Parks and the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins are in third place with their 21-9 slate. The Dolphins are on a month-long layoff following a string of game postponements due to COVID-19 restrictions and the upcoming second window of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. This affected the Dolphins’ Wednesday match against Fil-Jap Matt Aquino and the Shinshu Brave Warriors. Ramos and Nagoya will next clash with Javi Gomez de Liano and Ibaraki this weekend at Adastria Mito Arena. Peter Atencio

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Sports

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

Federer will know what future holds by April-May PARIS—Roger Federer believes he will know by “April-May” whether or not he will be able to return to tennis. The 40-year-old winner of 20 Grand Slam titles has not played since a Wimbledon quarter-final exit at the hands of Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in July last year before having to undergo knee surgery. “I want to come back strong and give it everything that I have,” the Swiss star said Wednesday. “To give you a little bit of an update. I have a very interesting and important next few months ahead of me. I think I will know a lot more by April-May. “The drive is still there. I am motivated to do my work.” Federer played just 13 matches in 2021. He also underwent two knee surgeries in 2020 when he played only six times. His absence has seen the former world number one slip to 30 in the rankings. “I’m back in the gym again tomorrow. I’m working as hard as I’m allowed to so it’s still good times even though it’s a little bit slow,” Federer told one of his sponsors, Credit Suisse in a video conference. “I would love to do way more but the doctors and everybody’s holding me back a little bit.” Federer also hailed his friend and rival Rafael Nadal who captured a record-setting 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open last weekend. “It was nice to see his emotions after such a hard-fought victory,” he said of the 35-year-old Spaniard who has battled his own injury problems over the years. “Rafa told me that he hadn’t been feeling well with his body—now he’s holding up the Australian Open trophy. He’s a great example, a great role model.” Federer’s 20th and most recent Grand Slam title came at the 2018 Australian Open. AFP

Nadal: 21 Slam titles ‘not enough’

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ADRID—Rafael Nadal said on Wednesday he is still not satisfied with his 21 Grand Slam titles following his historic triumph at the Australian Open. Nadal clinched his latest major win in Melbourne after pulling off an incredible comeback from two sets down to defeat Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in the final. The 35-year-old’s momentous victory took him to the top of the alltime men’s list and one clear of the 20 Grand Slam titles won by Roger Federer, who is injured, and Novak Djokovic, who was controversially deported from Australia before the tournament began. The Spaniard could now make it 22 at the French Open in June, where he has been crowned champion a record 13 times already.

“I have no idea what number of Grand Slams I will have,” Nadal said at a press conference at his academy in Mallorca. “Not long ago I would have signed for just being able to play tennis again. “I want to be the one with the most majors out of the three of us, I would love that, but I’m not obsessed, absolutely not. Whatever comes is welcome and I don’t think 21 is enough to be honest. But you never know what will happen in the future.” Nadal’s comeback against Medvedev had a wider context too, given he had doubts about even returning to professional tennis when struggling with a foot

injury last year. The injury restricted Nadal to playing only one tournament in the last seven months of 2021. Nadal said he will decide if he is ready to play at Acapulco in Mexico later this month but he is keen to compete at Indian Wells in March. “It still hurts when I play,” Nadal said. “But I’m playing at a higher level now than I was more than four weeks ago and this has given me a huge boost of confidence to move forward.” “On a personal level it’s been an unforgettable experience,” Nadal added. “I have been able to enjoy the highest level of sport again, something that was very difficult to imagine a few weeks ago. “As well as achieving something special, for me it has been special to be able to compete again to the maximum with the best players. This is vital for me and for the future.” AFP

Spain’s Rafael Nadal speaks next to the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup trophy following his victory in the Australian Open tennis tournament, during a press conference at Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor, on the Spanish Balearic Island of Mallorca. AFP

3 predictions for PUBG Mobile PH releases THE year 2021 had a smorgasbord of collaborations that included the English Premier League’s Liverpool FC team and Riot’s League of Legends popular anime adaptation Arcane. Other headline-making collaborations Tencent’s hit mobile game had in 2021 include Marvel’s Spiderman movie, No Way Home. With iconic items and outfits up for grabs, these collaborations were hard to top. a So what can we expect from PUBG Mobile in the Philippines, especially in terms of releases and collaborations in the early part of 2022? Jujutsu Kaisen This is the most anticipated one coming to PUBG Mobile this year. A teaser for the Jujutsu Kaisen x PUBG Mobile crossover collaboration was teased late last year in August. While no specific details were given to what would be included in the collaboration, we can definitely expect the main characters

Chin up, Malditas!

WE have seen this scenario in so many movies before. A team of underdogs fighting the biggest, more famous and heavy favorites of the tournament. A largely unknown team, flying below the radar, given not much thought because of its lower ranking in the pecking order. Until the team made a shocking start in the tournament, got beaten by another team to give doubters the “right” gloat that the initial victory was fluke, before eventually scoring another win to enter the knockout phase. The team got the lead against the manytime champ only to lose it a few minutes away from victory. And if the script is not yet compelling enough, the game, the most important one yet for the upstart firebrands’ history, went to a penalty shootout. The underdogs went down 3-2 in the shootout and were given up for good. But then the player known for her defense shone brightest in her rare chance to score. And in the next two sequences, the team

from the hit anime; Itadori Yuji, Fushiguro Megumi, and Kugisaki Nobara to have character suits, and maybe even voice lines come to PUBG Mobile. It would also be a crime to the fandom if Satoru Goju isn’t included in the collaboration. His pretty boy looks and badass Domain Expansion ability are highlights of the anime and the manga. If you think about it, PUBG Mobile’s shrinking Playzone mechanic and the whole idea of Domain Expansion is pretty similar, so this collaboration is quite the match made in heaven. Rise of K-Pop Dominating music charts and the esports realm—that’s one thing we saw when PUBG Mobile collaborated with international K-pop sensation Blackpink in 2020. Will there be another highly regarded K-pop collaboration by PUBG Mobile this year? Given that K-pop fandom has taken over the Philippines in recent years, and following the successful collaboration with Blackwhich almost nobody thought of, won the game on one single shot not only for a historic spot in the World Cup, but also for a nation long suffering from the pandemic. Even the best scriptwriters out there could only dream of this plot, twist and roller-coaster ride of emotions. The best twist of them, though, was that it wasn’t a movie, and it happened last Thursday in Pune, India. The Philippine Women’s National Football Team (PWNFT) beat Chinese Taipei, 2-1 (4-3 in penalty shootout) to clinch a spot in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. The Malditas also clinched a spot in the last four of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2022, which was considered unlikely, maybe four years ago. Heck, even just four weeks ago, who would have thought that this would happen? Olivia McDaniel, the goalie who made two defensive stops, scored the tying goal before forward Sarina Bolden rammed probably the most important goal of her career, and the Malditas are going to Australia. Still the underdogs, but a team that can no longer be taken for granted. “There are many people who contributed to this team along the way in the past 10 years and they all know who they are. The players know who they are, whether it is their family, friends, or previous coaches. That’s the testament to the hard work that has been done by everyone,” Alen Stajcic, Head Coach of the PWNFT, said. Bolden, who was so emotional after realizing what the team accomplished, put things in perspective. “Things happen in life and

Jujutsu Kaisen

pink, it won’t be a surprise if another one of the Philippines’ favorite K-pop idols signs on with PUBG Mobile for another successful run. seeing us can inspire others to give it another shot. Hope we inspire all ages of women to play football and chase their dreams. I want us to make a long-lasting impression in everyone’s minds, especially to all the young players out there,” she said. For Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta, what the Malditas have accomplished is the culmination of a dream that they always had that came early and unexpected. He said the Malditas’ sacrifices and investments paid off very well as the Philippines qualified for the first time in the World Cup. He, however, gave equal credit to the efforts of Stajcic and the coaching staff. Stajcic, undoubtedly, made the biggest impact on the team’s play, especially on the Filipinas’ defense. “‘Yung coaching style niya kasi nagustuhan ng mga players natin at saka scientific ang approach niya kasi. Nakita naman natin different ang laro ng mga babae natin ngayon kesa dati. Mas disciplined sila sa laro, the cohesion is there despite having only more than month training together under Alen. Malaking bagay talaga and aside from the fact that he is a veteran coach. He knows kung ano kailangan diyan sa ganiyang klaseng level ng laro, lalo sa Asian Cup at sa World Cup,” Araneta said. Stajcic’s contract is only until the end of the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, but as early as now, Araneta assures that their primary target is to sign him on until the World Cup next year. “Ayaw lang niya muna pag-usapan ngayon dahil may game pa vs. Korea, but we already started talking to him to extend his contract baka after ng Asian Cup,” Araneta added.

Will we have BTS, TWICE, or a BLACKPINK collab sequel? It’s no secret that many well-loved K-pop idols are avid fans of “Receptive naman siya. Sabi nga niya this is his biggest coaching achievement. From nowhere kasi he brought the team to the World Cup! Wala nga siya sinabi before, eh ngayon biglang wow nasa World Cup na tayo.” Araneta said the Malditas’ deep run in the Asian Cup gave them so many lessons that will be the template for future competitions, whether it be for the Malditas or the Philippine Azkals, the country’s national men’s football team. “We really have to invest in the coaching staff, hindi ba? We have to invest in the team, on the players, on the training camps. The ladies trained within a bubble because of the challenges of COVID-19 in the United States. Despite this, the players were willing to go further (despite quarantine protocols and other health concerns) because of their dream to play in the World Cup. The coaching staff also played a great role in motivating the players to raise their level of play,” Araneta added. Araneta is hoping the feat of the Malditas will translate into a renaissance of sorts for football in the country so that more fans and supporters will go out of the way to support the sport. He is also optimistic that more sponsors will come out and back football now that the country showed everyone what it is capable of, given the proper support, right coaching staff and, of course, players who are really proud to wear the country’s colors. “Hopefully, we’ve helped and added value and that we’ve worked really hard enough as a group, but this does not happen overnight so full credit to the whole country, to the PFF, and everyone who has put in these players together,” Stajcic added.

Mickelson: Golf’s top 100 approached to play in Saudi KING ABDULLAH ECONOMIC CITY—While Dustin Johnson welcomes the challenge he will face on the course at the lucrative Saudi International, Phil Mickelson appreciates the financial competition being offered to the established tours, claiming on Wednesday that “everyone in the top 100 has been approached” to play in the new Saudi Arabian-funded Super Golf League. For the first time, the tournament is an Asian Tour-sanctioned event and despite the hostility of the European and US tours to plans for the Asian Tour to act as a platform for a Saudi-backed Super League, the money on offer has drawn a star-studded field. Every PGA Tour and the DP World Tour member playing at the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club this week had to seek a special release to enter the $5 million event. Yet the 120 player-field that tees off Thursday includes Johnson, Mickelson, world number eight and Olympic gold medallist Xander Schauffele, number nine Bryson DeChambeau and 11thranked Cameron Smith as well as major winners including Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson, Shane Lowry, Graeme McDowell, Louis Oosthuizen, Bubba Watson and Patrick Reed. Mickelson, himself a six-time major winner, is rumoured to be one of the players Golf Saudi is pursuing for the proposed league. “Everyone in the top 100 of the world has been approached,” he said Wednesday. “I think everybody is looking at it and seeing parts of it that can really help and benefit their situation, their life, their career, and then there are parts of it that they’re probably concerned with,” Mickelson, who is 51, said. “I’m appreciative of the fact that there is competition, and that leverage has allowed for a much better environment on the PGA Tour,” he said. AFP PUBG Mobile, after all. An event like this for this year would likely include awesome events and rewards, with the PUBG Mobile map littered with elements inspired by the K-pop group that signs on for the collaboration. Keep your eyes peeled this year as PUBG Mobile delivers yet another collaboration for its loyal Filipino players. Filipino-Themed Items With PUBG Mobile increasing its reach within the Filipino community, there have also been murmurings that hint towards Filipino-themed items and events. With the Philippines having one of the higher community engagement and fanbase in the game, it wouldn’t be too far-fetched for PUBG MOBILE to pay homage to them in the best way possible, especially through in-game challenges. Players can look forward to Filipinothemed in-game wearables, perhaps inspired by the traditional Barong Tagalog or Filipiniana Dress. There has even been talks about Filipino voice packs! Perhaps Filipino mythical legends based out of Ibong Adarna or even the Encantos? Could there be a possibility of Filipino Superheroes’ appearance in the game like Darna or Gagamboy? Incidentally, the Malditas’ amazing run in the 2022 Asian Cup ended with a loss to heavy favorite, South Korea, 2-0, in their semifinal match-up in Pune. The Koreans scored their first goal just four minutes into the game, when So-Hyun Cho found the back of the net before HwaYeon Son doubled the lead after 30 minutes. Stajcic was realistic though even before the start of the game. “Korea will be the favorites having been in the top 20 rankings, while we are emerging nation. If you’re neutral, you will expect them to be the favourites but that doesn’t mean they will win. It is a privilege for us to play against them. We have a lot go belief in the team, a nothingto-lose attitude, and all I can promise is that we will give them one hell of a fight,” he said. Still a job well done. The Malditas’ campaign in the Asian Cup may have ended, but there is nothing to be ashamed of. Losing to a South Korean squad that has players in the English Premier league may be hard, but then again victory has been achieved several nights ago. And in that scintillating display of faith, resilience and the indomitable Filipino fighting spirit, the Malditas have united the nation as one. It has also given us something to look forward to until August next year when the Lupang Hinirang will be played in the World Cup for the first time. Chin up, Malditas! For the meantime, will volunteer to write the screenplay for tickets to Australia and New Zealand. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

Entertainment Letrang Norte duo Louie Kem Anthony Babaran (left) and Ruth Resuello

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

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Letrang Norte moves forward with ‘Tamachine’ transport listeners to a

THE duo of Letrang Norte, a musical pride of the province of Cagayan, certainly embraces the essence of acceptance and expresses it in cute wordplay and brilliant music-making. Its latest single, “Tamachine,” should

magical place, with its serenading strains and vocal caresses that very well define the distinctive quality of their musicality. The track, distributed and published by Widescope Entertainment, gets dropped on popular digital platforms today, Feb. 4. It shouldn’t be a surprise if it lands on popular playlists of potential hits.

“Tamachine” promises to be one good ride. It is a song about moving on from our unchangeable past. “The perspective of the song is that someone wishes to go back in time to correct past actions or situations,” noted Rebecca Ruth Resuello, the wonderful female voice whose skill set includes her ability to even play the drums. “Pwede bang itama ang mali/ Bumalik sa mga sandali,” asks the song’s lyric. It’s a question any mortal with real emotion may have asked one way or another. Besides, a perfect person doesn’t really exist and to make mistakes is simply human. “Tamachine” is technically a followup to Letrang Norte’s debut single “Kalma” released last October. But prior to that, the duo had already showcased its

ability to shine in a pool of talents when it was adjudged grand champion in the Kanto Canta songwriting competition spearheaded by the Cultural Center of the Philippines to promote in part the beauty of indigenous instruments. Widescope Entertainment top execs led by Vic De Vera, Neil Gregorio, and Ebe Dancel couldn’t agree less. Late last year, they contributed a song called “Ngayong Pasko” to the Yuletide EP featuring the stable of talents under Widescope. The guy in the duo Louie Kem Anthony Babaran, who plays bass guitar, violin, and well, glockenspiel, said that the group’s new song “speaks about a haunting past that is almost impossible to forget.” He argued, “The only imaginable thing to do is to go back and change the

past. But as the song progresses to the final choruses, the message shifts to the acceptance of the painful past, and that we are not the better person at present, if not for our past experiences that would serve as life lessons.” Letrang Duo, a musical package from Tuguegarao City, is hands-on when it comes to doing their records, with some help from friends. For “Tamachine” it’s Rojh Dychangco Baquiran who joined the trip. Outside of music, both Ruth and Louie are healthcare workers. They’re always on the front lines, at best when performing to help people who are going through some pain, physically or emotionally. They claim that music is not just what they do, it is who they are. For that, they always go forward, back to the future in their kind of machine.

Julius Babao replaces Raffy Tulfo Remembering Cheslie Kryst in TV5’s flagship newscast By Nickie Wang

W

HEN senior broadcast journalist Julius Babao confirmed that he’s leaving ABS-CBN and will be anchoring a show on TV5, viewers were quick to speculate that he’s replacing Raffy Tulfo, who is currently seeking for a Senate seat, as the main man of the network’s news arm.

personality, and advocacy, these are the things that we factor in whenever we ask someone to join our team. Raffy is one of a kind as Julius is, and it’s totally unfair for us to expect Julius to fill in the shoes of Raffy,” Cruz Valdez stated. “It’s not only impossible, it’s also unfair. So, no, we don’t intend to replace Raffy with somebody like him. Raffy will continue with his cause to give public service as Julius will also with us,” she went on. A broadcast personality for over three d e c a d e s , Babao steps into the frontlines as a

In a virtual junket held Wednesday, Babao clarified that he is replacing Tulfo as anchor in Frontline Pilipinas but not as the network’s “action man.” “It’s an honor to be Raffy Tulfo’s replacement in Frontline Pilipinas, I have a lot of admiration for him. It’s so happened that he’s running for Senate and he needed to step out, and I came into the picture. I was there in the right place and at the right time when the program needed a new anchor,” Babao shared. Luchi Cruz-Valdez, head of News5, the news and public affairs department of TV5, also clarified their decision to have Babao on board. “ E v e r y journalist has his equity,

“beteranong journo” and “lingkod bayan” to deliver the day’s top stories with fellow veteran anchor Cheryl Cosim. Together they will deliver the most pressing issues on politics, the economy, welfare, and the COVID-19 crisis. Babao’s transfer to the Kapatid Network raises the ante for TV5 especially as it gears up for its coverage of the elections in May. Babao’s over 30 years of experience serves to add to the combined journalistic expertise of its roster of anchors. Aside from anchoring Frontline Pilipinas, Babao seeks to continue his life mission of service to Filipinos through a program that aims to extend exceptionally generous assistance to select and deserving small and medium scale enterprise (SMSE) owners and even underground economy-reliant Filipinos even as the country navigates the economic and social challenges ahead. Babao started his journalistic career with GMA 7’s DZBB in 1990 before moving to ABS-CBN in 1993 as a reporter for its flagship newscast. He later anchored the station’s morning show with his wife Christine Bersola in 1996 and then filled co-anchor duties in various primetime, evening, and weekend newscasts before finally wrapping up his 28-year stint with the Kapamilya Network last year. Watch Julius Babao’s daily broadcast in Frontline Pilipinas starting Feb. 7, every 5:30 p.m., live on TV5 and via livestream at News5 Facebook and YouTube pages.

Julius Babao

(From left) Nikki Co, Darwin Yu, Maricel Laxa, Boots AnsonRoa, and Barbie Forteza

(From left) Rob Gomez, Sunshine Cruz, Dustin Yu, David Licauco, and Casie Banks

TRAGEDY struck the the former Miss USA’s pageant world following untimely death. It’s a the shocking news of Miss coincidence that a fellow USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst’s Indian, former Miss India death by apparent suicide, Universe 1997 Nafisa on Sunday (Monday in Joseph, Top 10 in Miss Manila). Universe 1997, also took US media reported her own life by hanging that the 30-year-old Miss herself. Universe 2019 Top 10 ••• finalist, jumped off from a Vine Aesthetics reveals luxury high-rise apartment new faces of 2022 building in Manhattan, where she lived on the ninth floor. Vine Holistic Medical Aesthetics, the experts in A civil litigation lawyer innovative anti-ageing, and Daytime Emmy Awardsnominated entertainment news aesthetic treatments, started correspondent, Kryst recently the new year with the acted as co-anchor-presenter, launching of the brand’s with Carson Kressley, during new faces who exude the Miss Universe 2021 live positive, free spirit ready coronation show and served to embrace 2022’s new as preliminary selection challenges. committee judge together with VA’s new faces are model actress Marian Rivera, among Erla Garcia, sexy actress others. Rhen Escano, film director Shandii Bacolod, actor Nico “She was one of Locco, and Miss Aura International the brightest, warmest, 2021 Alexandra Faith Garcia. and most kind people we have ever had the privilege of VA, headed by founder Dr. Em knowing, and she lit up every Sevilla, provides expert medical room she entered. Our entire aesthetic treatment that includes community mourns her loss, laser skin treatments and nonand our thoughts and prayers surgical facelifts. are with her family during With branches in BGC this difficult time,” the Taguig City and SM Megamall Miss Universe and Miss Ortigas Center, VA provides USA Organizations said in House Call (Home Service) a statement. Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst via Vine on Wheels. “May this day bring Also part of VA’s new you rest and peace,” Kryst posted on her faces is Fil-American fashion designer Instagram alongside a photo of herself, Katniss Griffiths, CEO of Katwalk shortly before she jumped. Cyberbullying Industries Hollywood and Miss Aura may have been the cause of her suicide. International Philippines and a member “I can’t tell you how many times I have of FADAL Mindanao Fashion Designers deleted comments on my social media Alliance. pages that had vomit emojis and insults Griffiths has the distinction of being the telling me I wasn’t pretty enough to be only Filipino ever invited in Milan Fashion Miss USA, or that my muscular build was Week. Her avant garde showcase, held at actually a ‘man body,” Kryst wrote about the Hotel de Cavalieri Plaza Giuseppe, on Feb. 25 and 26, 2021, was star-studded last year. Reigning Miss Universe 2021 Harnaaz and attended by international filmmakers Sandhu was in shock upon learning of and celebrities.

‘Mano Po Legacy’ moves to earlier timeslot beginning Feb. 7 LOYAL viewers of GMA and Regal Entertainment’s hit primetime series Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune will have more reason to get hooked to their favorite soap as it moves to an earlier timeslot beginning Monday, Feb. 7, after I Left My Heart in Sorsogon. Top-billed by Barbie Forteza, Sunshine Cruz, Maricel Laxa, and Boots AnsonRoa, the intriguing series revolves around the members of a prominent Chinese-Filipino family after the business tycoon and leader of the clan died unexpectedly. Joining the powerhouse cast are David Licauco, Nikki Co, Rob Gomez, and Dustin Yu together with Almira Muhlach, David Chua, Darwin Yu, and Casie Banks. As the power struggle between Valerie (Maricel Laxa) and Cristine (Sunshine Cruz) over the family’s conglomerate intensifies, how will Joseph’s (Rob Gomez) love confession affect Steffy’s (Barbie Forteza) responsibilities for Christine? Tensions rise as brothers Joseph and Anton (David Licauco) continue to fall for the same girl. Will this drive the two apart? Will Consuelo (Boots Anson-Roa) succeed in protecting the family’s reputation and legacy? Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune – under the helm of director Ian Lorenos together with 2nd unit directors Easy Ferrer and Joey De Guzman and conceptualized by Jose Javier Reyes – is the first installment in the Mano Po Legacy anthology. Catch Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune, 8:50 p.m., after I Left My Heart in Sorsogon on GMA Telebabad.

The new faces of Vine Aesthetics

People ... are talking about Ryan Bang and Yeng Constantino MANY hearts undoubtedly ached when the actor and singer divulged their romantic past and how Ryan inspired Yeng’s song “B.A.B.A.Y.” Ryan wooed the singer a decade ago, but he suddenly ghosted her because he thought Yeng wasn’t interested in him. Yeng felt dejected, especially since she felt kilig from Ryan’s efforts. Guess the one that got away wouldn’t have gotten away if there was just proper communication. At least Yeng and Ryan got the

closure they needed.

... are not talking about Enchong Dee WHILE we are always reminded to think before we click and share, and avoid grandstanding when something suddenly became viral online, some people still fall into this trap probably because they just wanted to stay relevant all the time. Case in point, Enchong took to social media to criticize a partylist representative only to delete it upon learning that he made a blunder. While he decided to face this situation head-on, the public still remains torn on whether or not he deserved the cyber libel case filed against him. And as we wait for any development, there’s a key takeaway that Enchong must swallow: important lessons don’t come cheap, sometimes they are worth P1 billion.

Life

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

IT’S ELECTION season once more and it is important to emphasize that our modern world looks actually ready to face the challenge of holding an event of such magnitude amid the ongoing pandemic. In this respect, digital technology plays a key role in providing possibilities and breakthroughs for this big activity to push through. Milo Sandig, Chief Executive Officer of Digitalinnov Marketing, has an in-depth understanding of the significance of state-of-the-art technology when it comes to making truly workable what appears to be impossible to deliver in this time of global health crisis. “Digital technology is at an all-time high as more and more screen times are recorded for each Filipino,” he said in a short discussion about his thoughts on this year’s national elections. The Omicron surge may have for a while given an extra fear that the muchawaited plebiscite could possibly be canceled. We can only imagine the consequences of postponing a scheduled

Milo Sandig

Future at our fingertips bout between democracy and perhaps something as bad as anarchy. But thank the heavens the level of advancement the world now has, which our country arguably manages to grip on to with considerable tightness, will have none of that threat. One thing different about a 21st century pandemic is, we have the technology to embrace a new normal way of living through life without compromising the collective thrill and projected result of what should be allowed to happen. Sandig explained, “As new variants emerge, we could expect lesser face-toface interactions and more people resorting to digital alternatives to get their entertainment and messages across.” Recent elections already made use of social media as a powerful tool in going inside the mind of the voters. But this year’s democratic exercise owes much to

it more than ever. Whether convincing people who among the candidates are the most deserving to get elected or spreading false information in an attempt to woo the voting public by misusing the power of interconnectivity, digitized world’s gamechanging platform can actually make or break a society. It all boils down to the people if they will allow social media to dictate their thinking. Part-businessman, part-innovator, Sandig sees that the proper way of dealing with a world gone digital is knowing its potential either way, whatever color it shows, and addressing it with the right mindset. “Social media works in two ways, however,” he argued. “With how I observed things these past few years, digital technology has bred more people to be victims of misleading information. But we also cannot discredit the fact that there are people who became informed due to the emergence of getting readily available information right at

their fingertips.” The more glaring challenge is for those who can’t grasp the fast-changing technology to stop the process of adapting and insist on telling everyone that the world is far better sticking to the old ways. There is no choice but to embrace the new style and sensibility. Sandig closed out, “Younger generations nowadays rarely open traditional media, unlike its predecessors. They source their information from social media and engage their opinions from

forums and groups where they belong. If next-in-line leaders don’t prioritize the main medium where people can be communicated to, then there will be a strong disconnection from getting their message across.”

Unveiling the process behind the prowess Vocal coach Jade Riccio shares how hard work coupled with passion can create powerful ripple effect Jade Riccio

Make a difference by sharing your slippers and clothes in The SM Store and SM Foundation’s Share Your Extras campaign.

Got slightly used clothes? Share them with Odette survivors Jade looks on while her student Maymay Entrata performs live inside the Wish 107.5 bus.

“A

MAKABOGERA!,” recording artist and vocal coach Jade Riccio effortlessly hit the high notes of the song while her hands created imaginary waves in the air. The up-tempo song I asked her to sing impromptu over a video call was popularized by one of her students, Star Music artist Maymay Entrata.

With the display of confidence and control, it was hard to believe that Jade once doubted she could sing. “I used to feel disheartened because I couldn’t handle high notes!” Jade shared. She just derived confidence from her family’s reassurance that “she could carry a tune.” Fast forward to today, the reluctant singer is a sought-after vocal coach and thriving recording artist and songwriter. The secret to her success, I found out, is actually no secret – hard work. True enough, Jade practices what she preaches. “I have missed so many events with family and friends,” she said. “If a little sacrifice goes a long way, what more with a lot?”

From being an academic scholar initially overwhelmed by the classical music program of the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music, Jade managed to graduate cum laude and conquer singing competitions. Masterclasses here and abroad also equipped her with tips, tricks, and techniques that eventually empowered her to teach. “Singing is very much like muscle memory. It is like a physical workout that takes time for results,” Jade explained while flexing her arms to illustrate the idea. She offered a new perspective on the art we often associate with purely inborn talent. “Hard work will always beat talent,” Jade pointed out, making the concept sound fresh and enlightening. She takes pride in working doubly hard and is dead set on instilling the belief in her growing number of students, including celebrities and politicians. Two of Jade’s remarkable mentees are Maymay and Erika Rae Poturnak. Maymay’s “Amakabogera” track and MPowered concert became instant hits in the local music scene last year and she wowed her audience with a live radio performance that now has more than 10 million views online. Erika Rae, a recording artist and also known as actress Ina Raymundo’s daughter, is now enrolled at the

Jade (right) with Erika Rae who got accepted in the Berklee College of Music

prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. “I am so excited because I have students who will be releasing songs, concertizing, and debuting on television,” Jade beamed. When I noticed how encouraging of her students she was, I said in jest, “Now, I want to take your class!” And we both laughed. If you were to ask me what random takeaway I got here, it is the powerful ripple effect of hard work fueled by passion. By exercising due diligence, showing results, and leading by example, passion seems likely to be passed on. In Jade’s case, she did all those and more. Mastering her craft and fleshing out the best in other voices have truly become her core. For your random thoughts, email the author at kateadajar@gmail.com.

NOW is the best time to clear the clutter, clean your closets, and share your extras with the less fortunate in the SM Store’s Share Your Extras campaign. A joint project of The SM Store in partnership with SM Foundation and local Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), shoppers can donate their slightly used or brand new clothes (tops and bottoms) for infants to adults. All the items collected will be for the benefit of those affected by the recent Typhoon Odette. Shoppers can drop off their donations or purchase new ones from The SM Store until Feb.15 in all branches in Metro Manila, and until Feb. 28 in the rest of the stores nationwide. Each donation will entitle shoppers to a P100 discount coupon voucher courtesy of The SM Store. The discount coupon can be redeemed at any

These children joyfully receive bags full of clothes and shoes from SM shoppers

The SM Store branch until Feb. 28, 2023, with a minimum P1000 singlereceipt purchase of any denim item from SM Woman, GTW Urban, Just Jeans, Code Blue, and SMYTH. Share Your Extras is part of the annual donation drive of The SM Store and SM Foundation. Previous beneficiaries included communities in need such as Marawi, Isabela, and many other communities across the country. This year’s campaign will benefit families affected by Typhoon Odette, which has displaced thousands of families in Mimaropa, Visayas, and Mindanao. Share Your Extras is one of the ways The SM Store reaches out to the communities. Other store-based projects include Donate-A-Book, Share-A-Toy, Share Shoes, Share-A-Gift, and Gamot Para sa Kapwa.

These kids from San Bartolome De Novaliches Parish were one of the beneficiaries of the Share Your Extras campaign.

SNAPSHOT

The ‘Eye of the Tiger’ at SM City North Edsa

Jade Riccio says she found a match in hardworking Maymay

Jade pursues her own singing career and collaborates with other artists like JMKO (left) and Pepe Herrera

WELCOME the Year of the Tiger at The Block Atrium and have your photo taken with the interactive Giant “Blinking” Tiger with its moving eyes. Surrounded by red lanterns and occasional dragon and lion dancers, it’s the perfect way to welcome Chinese New Year.

Pueblo de Biñan 275

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

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Araw ng Biñan marks city’s 275th Founding Anniversary

3-day celebration underscores rich heritage By Patricia Taculao

J

UST an hour or so away from the bustling streets of Metro Manila lies Biñan City in the province of Laguna. The city has a total area measurement of 4,350 hectares and a population of 407,437 as of 2020. While some say that Biñan is just a small city, it didn’t hinder the streets of Biñan from being almost always bustling with activity.

It’s also home to some of the Philippines’ largest industrial estates and export processing zones, earning it the moniker “trading and commerce center of the south,” as well as the world-renowned rice cake called “Puto Biñan.” Biñan is among the cities in the country that don’t shy away from progress and modernization. Once there, you’ll see that the city is teeming with life as the Biñanense have access to everything they need— quality education, healthcare, security, and even exposure to their cultural heritage. This February 2 to 4, the city of Biñan will celebrate Araw ng Biñan, which encompasses three relevant holidays for the Biñanense, namely, its 12th cityhood anniversary, 77th liberation day, and 275th founding anniversary, respectively. This year, the celebration focuses on the history of Biñan and how it grew from a pueblo established by the Spaniards to the developing city that it is today. “Araw ng Biñan mainly focuses on histo-cultural festivities. During this time, we conceptualize events and public programs that the public can appreciate while promoting our history,” said Biñan City Culture, History, Arts, and Tourism Office (BCHATO) head Dr. Bryan Jayson “BJ” Borja, ATOP-DOT’s Most Outstanding Tourism Officer of the Philippines 2019. He added that the three-day celebration focuses mainly on Biñan’s triumphs as a city, the struggles and challenges in their liberation, and the fruits they reap from all their efforts since their founding. Borja has been the head of BCHATO since 2016. The people of Biñan know that he played a significant role in keeping their cultural identity alive. Atty. Walfredo “Arman” Dimaguila, Jr. Biñan’s City Mayor, established the office on his first day as mayor. Those who have worked closely with him can attest that Dimaguila has an innovative mind partnered with an old soul. These two attributes empower the mayor to lead his city towards progress while keeping its historical heritage intact. Establishing BCHATO as one of his early projects is a testament to Dimaguila’s love for his city. Preserving the heritage of Biñan When visiting the proud City of Biñan, one thing that hardly goes unnoticed is how intact their historical sites are. Commemorative plaques are also scattered around the city, recalling the deeds of Filipino heroes and the pioneers of different industries. As the head of BCHATO, Borja believes that knowing the city’s history, art, and culture keeps its roots alive. “It’s important for you to remember your history because it becomes relevant when you do. If it’s relevant, you’ll learn from history things you can do in the present and how you can plan for the future,” he said. For this year’s Araw ng Biñan, the city government took all the necessary steps to encourage the Biñanenses to remember.

Photo by Jery Jimenez

Spanish colonial houses at Biñan’s heritage district, Barangay Poblacion.

Street that boasts of well-preserved Spanish houses. Despite the presence of historical sites in Biñan, the city continues to take steps towards a progressive future. Borja clarified that preserving heritage doesn’t mean being anti-development, and the best way for the past and present to coexist at the same time is to find common ground between them. “There is a science in doing it, and the Philippines may not be fully aware of the science of heritage conservation. Some may think that it’s too expensive or not an investment, but we have to invest in our past to make sense of the present and the future,” the head of BCHATO said. Biñan City Culture, History, Arts, and Tourism Office (BCHATO) head Dr. Bryan Jayson “BJ” Borja, ATOP-DOT’s Most Outstanding Tourism Officer of the Philippines 2019.

Borja explained that, in Biñan, they preserve their past because they want the people to remember. “We want people to be proud of who they are. We want people to know and understand where we came from because, at the end of the day, we will always look at culture as our soul,” he said. Residents and tourists who want to get a glimpse of the city’s soul can start at the Plaza Center, the cultural center of Biñan. The area is surrounded by historical sites that each has a story to tell. Among them is the

Honoring the Biñanenses Another part of the Araw ng Biñan celebration is the recognition of important citizens who contributed to the liberation and longevity of the city. The three-day celebration will also put the spotlight on the city’s frontliners as the government prepared a program that emphasizes their efforts of keeping the citizens safe amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “Our frontliners always hear us thanking them, but we want to make them feel that we formally recognize and honor their sacrifices. One of the highlights of our celebration is the Saludo (salute), wherein we will formally recognize our frontliners and their institutions by giving them a token of our appreciation,” Dimaguila said.

The three-day celebration is also dedicated to the city’s frontliners and health workers.

Veterans from World War II will also be recognized in this year’s Araw ng Biñan. Although their last surviving veteran has passed, Borja said that the city government continues to honor them by recognizing the legacy they left behind—their families. Before the pandemic struck, Araw ng Biñan always welcomed an eager crowd of Biñanenses in the Plaza Center. Among them were students from different schools who either enjoyed the festivities or prepared a performance to honor the people and heritage of their city. But since the global health risk prevents minors from leaving the safety of their homes, BCHATO came up with online programs that will make viewers feel included in the celebrations despite not being able to venture outside. For years, Biñan City stood strong against the difficulties they faced. Araw ng Biñan combines the legacy of their past with their present achievements and plans for the future to demonstrate to the people that they’re a city that has a strong connection to their roots and a clear view of their The 1918 Plaza Rizal at the town plaza where Araw ng Biñan path to progress. celerations were usually held.

Sentrong Pangkultura ng Biñan (Cultural Center of Biñan), which houses the Biñan City Studies Center, the Biñan City Museum, and the venue for performances by the Biñan City Center for Performing Arts. In front of the Sentrong Pangkultura ng Biñan is the newly restored historical Alberto Mansion, the ancestral home of Teodora Alonzo, the mother of the Philippines’ national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. There is also a heritage district located on Jacobo Gonzales

The evolution of Biñan from pueblo to city By Pepe Alas THE City of Biñán is notable for three things: as an economic heavyweight in CALABARZON, as the place where national hero José Rizal began his formative studies (Biñán was also his parents’ hometown), and the site of many heritage houses. The last two reasons—its association with Rizal and its built heritage—make it as one of Laguna Province’s most historic places. It is thus fitting that we briefly look back at the city’s colorful past as it commemorates its bicenterquasquigenary (275th Founding Anniversary) this year. Before the Spaniards arrived, the area comprising Biñán today was part of an ancient settlement called Tabuco (now Cabuyao). Ancient Biñán didn’t have a large settlement that resembled today’s concept of a town or a city, but it was inhabited sparsely by Tagálog natives. Life then was primitive: the people survived through fishing, gathering fruits in the forest, and hunting wild boar. When the Spaniards arrived, they established Manila as the capital of the newly founded Indias Orientales Españolas (Spanish East Indies), the forerunner of today’s Republic of the Philippines, on 24 June 1571. Immediately afterwards, they sought to discover more unexplored areas, particularly those surrounding the nearby lake which they later called Laguna de Bay. This territory included Biñán which was later turned into a hacienda by the Dominican fathers in 1644. The site was named Hacienda de San Isidro Labrador de Biñán. It was a large estate mainly dedicated to the planting of sugar cane with the smaller remaining land area reserved for the community (residents). A dam was built in Barrio Timbáo to support the hacienda’s irrigation systems. A large farmhouse built of strong materials and complete with stables, a well, and an orchard was constructed at the center of the hacienda. For clarification: a hacienda, although it has residents, was not a town although it may have already seemed like one. Under the auspices of both church and state, and usually managed by an inquilino (tenant farmer), the main purpose of the hacienda was not to generate profit but to administer the welfare of the tenants through the production of agricultural goods, i.e., farming, as well as to fund missionary enterprises while at the same time serving as a source of tribute. But 1747 was when the hacienda of Biñán transitioned into a full-fledged pueblo or town with a core barrio serving as the población (town proper). Surrounding the town proper were barrios or visitas, today’s equivalent of barangays. The pueblo of Biñán was later reorganized as a municipio, today’s forerunner of a municipality/ city. During that year, Archbishop Juan de Arechederra served as acting Governor General of the archipelago. King Felipe V was then the ruler of the Spanish Empire. Seven years prior, Miguel de Chaves had been appointed as Alcalde Mayor (today’s equivalent of a provincial governor) of Provincia de La Laguna. Ten years later, in 1757, the first appointed parochial priest of Biñán was Father José Monroy. On that same year, Fr. Monroy appointed Antonio de Santa Rosa as the first Capitán of the town. Ever conscious and proud of its history, the city government celebrates with much pomp and gaiety the three-day Araw ng Biñán, an annual commemoration of its cityhood (it became a component city on 2 February 2010), its liberation from the Imperial Japanese Army (3 February 1945), and the remembrance of its Founding Anniversary (4 February 1747; the date was just a designation to complete the annual three-day festivities). Looking back, it seems that Biñán’s economic and cultural blessings never seemed to falter. The city is blessed because it knows how to pay utmost respect to its past. And the ebb and flow of history tested but never shook down this town-turned-bustling city. Neither does it show signs of slowing down. (Originally published on Facebook as Araw ng Biñán 2022 highlights 275th Founding Anniversary of Biñán as a pueblo)

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Pueblo de Biñan 275

INB program upholds Biñan educational excellence Story and photos by Peter Paul Duran

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IÑAN, Laguna — The City of Biñan here in Laguna continues to produce excellent graduates through their scholarship program Iskolar ng Biñan program (INB) which helps students who have less in life but possess dreams of so much more. The INB scholarship has nurtured a total of 6,000 graduates since its inception back in (year it was founded), forging countless professionals tracing their roots in this city— upholding its mantle as a true bastion of education. “The goal of the city government for the youth, for the students, is for them to be more productive and become significant individuals in our community,” explained City Education Officer Dr. Edmil Recibe to Manila Standard. And it’s hard not to understand why this bustling economic hotspot south of Metro Manila rich in history and culture would put education on top of its priority list. Recibe recalls why. “If you would look at history, dito nagkaroon ng formal schooling si Jose Rizal, It goes to show kung ano ang mayroon ang Biñan at the time. Maybe because iba ang educational program sa Biñan, so dapat masabi rin namin ‘yun, at ipagpatuloy na ang literacy rate dito sa amin ay mataas,” he added. It was in 1871 that the national hero received his formal schooling under

maestro Justiniano Cruz. This coincides with his two-year sojourn in the ancestral town of both his parents, before taking up higher studies in Manila. Moreover, the City of Biñan celebrated in 2021 the 150th year since Rizal’s early schooling and strong affiliation to the town where he “inculcated the value of education and importance of fellowship which was key in formulating his ideologies that eventually opened the eyes of our ancestors to a sovereign Philippines,” according to City officials. Originally called the Municipality of Biñan Progress Scholarship Program, the program started during the time of Mayor Boy Perez and was authored by then Councilors Walfredo “Arman” R. Dimaguila, Jr. and Marlyn “Len” Alonte-Naguiat, now Biñan City Mayor and Lone District Congresswoman respectively.

It was in the mayoral incumbency of Alonte that the program was strengthened, restructured, and formally launched as INB. From start to finish of their studies, the scholars won’t shell out any amount as the LGU covers 100% of their tuition fees, regardless of their chosen course. The city government also shoulders other expenses including miscellaneous fees. While scholars enrolled in public universities receive an allowance of 10,000 pesos every semester. INB also gives financial assistance to their graduates of City Education Officer Dr. Edmil Recibe board courses for the expenses during the Manila Standard interview. in review centers and monetary

PUP-Binan Campus extension building at 90% completion. The new building awaits the resumption of face-to-face classes and houses 15 rooms and a theater.

awards or incentives for board passers. The city government allocates more than 90 million pesos every year for the said program. Qualified students are chosen based on their academic standing and recommendation from the Department of Education (DepEd). The upper 20% in the ranking are pre-qualified and asked to submit their documentary requirements for the evaluation. The goal of the scholarship program is to help the youth become more productive and significant individuals in the community. The city government does not require graduates to serve the city, but rather finish their degree and have a decent job. Despite criticisms and suspicions thrown against the program, the city government guarantees to give 100% of its objective to the people of Biñan through giving a well-spent budget to Iskolar ng Biñan program. Committed to investing in the people, future, and every student of the city. “This program is an instrument to achieve the dreams of everyone especially to those who have less in life, they have an equal opportunity and chance”, said Recibe. Aside from the INB program, the city also has a financial assistance program for incoming Senior High School students. This gives 10,000 pesos each in every Junior High School completers enrolled in private colleges and universities. Recibe also noted the exciting new program in their pipeline that will extend the scholarship’s scope not just to those academically inclined, but for those who excel in the field of arts and sports. Starting this upcoming academic year, Recibe said that they will be launching the Artista at Atletang Biñanense Scholarship program with the goal to incorporate deserving student-athletes and artists of the city.

Preparation, prompt action keys to Biñan City’s commendable COVID-19 response By Charles Arvin Dantes and Angelica Villanueva WHEN the pandemic first struck in the Philippines two years ago, the whole country was shocked at how it immediately affected our lives in different aspects―lifestyle, business, work, and most especially, our health. In March 2020, when the number of cases spiked, community quarantines and health protocols were implemented in Metro Manila and other neighboring provinces. Despite these efforts, the Philippines was the first country outside China to record its first death. Alarmed by the global health risk, local government units rolled out their respective programs in handling the vicious pandemic. Among them was the city of Biñan in Laguna. Before its local first COVID-19 case, Biñan immediately imposed safety protocols for managing and preventing the spread of the disease. Through its City Health Office, its Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERT) were oriented on the quarantine and isolation process. It also conducted several simulation drills that help its residents be knowledgeable and trained on proper handling when they encounter the virus. Moreover, when the virus reached the city and suspected or confirmed cases were reported, Biñan’s city government immediately carried out case investigations, active surveillance, and contact tracing within the boundaries of affected areas. Some quarantine and isolation facilities were established to control the spread of the virus in the community. Some of which are: • PUP Biñan Campus was converted into a 30-bed capacity quarantine facility for close contact individuals; • A temporary isolation facility for confirmed COVID-19 patients was also built in Ospital ng Biñan; and • The Biñan City People’s Center was prepared and ready to be converted into a quarantine facility to accept patients in case of another virus surge. Meanwhile, to ensure the safety of their medical frontliners, they were given essentials such as personal protective

drive-thru), Historic Alberto Mansion, Alonte Sports Arena, and different Biñan City health officer, private hospitals are accepting Biñan Dr. Mirabelle M. Benjamin residents for vaccinations. But as for those residents who want to equipment (PPE), alcohol, washable face get vaccinated but don’t have the access masks, face shields, gloves, and vitamins to designated vaccination sites, the LGU both in private and government hospitals. launched VAX-On-Wheels, a mobile The LGU also converted one of their vaccination center. With this initiative, local hotels, Q18, into temporary shelters residents will no longer have to travel and for health workers who opted not to go expose themselves to the risk of the virus. home after work to protect their loved ones Residents living near the Laguna from the danger brought by COVID-19. de Bay and in flooded barangay can They were also provided with free haircuts also have their vaccination with Biñan and massages for relaxation after a long, City’s vaccination boat called Floating tiring day in the hospital. Vaccination Center. Given the worsening situation in The city health office of Biñan remains the country as infections hit a record vigilant in providing booster jabs for high for a third straight day during the its residents to further combat the first weeks of the year after the holiday COVID-19 pandemic. season, the local city also strengthen Residents who are also experiencing its implementation of protocols by symptoms related to COVID-19 can tracking immediately those who have also ask for medical consultation via been exposed to COVID-19 and provide telephone and messaging app through the them the proper guidance to prevent the E-Konsulta which will also help to lessen ongoing transmission. Residents are the exposure of symptomatic individuals reminded to be vigilant with their BIDA to other residents. Prescribed medicines Solution Plus which means: B ― Bawal walang mask. I ― I-sanitize and mga kamay. D ― Dumistansya isang metro. A ― Alamin and tamang impormasyon. + Suportahan ang FDA-approved na bakuna dahil “Sa Lungsod ng Biñan, BIDA ang may bakuna.” Designated contact tracers also extend help in giving patients their needs for hospitalization or in transferring to quarantine facilities. The vaccination drive is still ongoing for those who are still unvaccinated and Floating Vaccination Center allows undecided individuals. Vaccination sites Biñanenses residing near the Laguna de Bay such as Southwoods Malls (cinema and and in flooded barangays to receive doses.

needed breaks and treats to lessen the stress in these trying times. In an interview, Biñan City health officer Dr. Mirabelle Benjamin shared that fighting the pandemic is taking its toll on its health workers psychologically. That’s why giving their frontliners good meals and good talks helps boost the morale of their team. “Alam mo ang ginagawa ko sa kanila, Several quarantine and isolation dadalhin ko sila sa kainan. Tapos facilities were established habang kumakain hindi nila napapansin throughout the city to mitigate na nabubuo ‘yung bond namin as a team the spread of the virus. sa simpleng kwentuhan at usap-usap,” said Benjamin. “Nakakagaan naman sa loob kapag nakakarinig ka ng thank you mula sa mga nagpabakuna.” The efforts of the city’s frontliners and health workers don’t go unnoticed as Biñan City Mayor Arman Dimaguila is grateful for working with these passionate individuals who serve as the backbone of their entire COVID-19 response since the first day. When questioned about the current situation of the pandemic in Biñan, Benjamin said that it’s better than what VAX-on-wheels provides Biñanense easy they hoped for, especially with the help access to COVID-19 vaccines of other cities and municipalities through are also provided. sharing of plans and projects. Biñanenses who are close-contact “Maganda naman and progress, positive can also book an appointment kaibigan natin ang bawat cities. online to ask for free antigen home testing Nagtutulungan din kung sino ang may to assure their condition. Dedicated parking kailangan ng tulong. Walang comparison sites are also open as another option for sa ibang lugar kasi pare-parehas lang Biñan residents for swab testing. din naman kami ng pinagdadaanan.” The local government, led by the big three, Benjamin also asked for continuous also offers financial support to Biñanenses support from the city’s frontliners to keep who are struggling with the virus. on fighting not only for themselves but Other than their residents, the Biñan for every citizen of Biñan. City government unit is also committed “Alam naman natin na andito pa din to giving their health workers much- ang pandemic, hinihingi ko pa din ang kanilang tuloytuloy na suporta para sa ating mga mamamayan.” Even though the country remains in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city of Biñan sets a shining Office of Mayor Arman example of how the Dimaguila prepares health issue should PPEs and COVID-19 kits be addressed and for medical frontliners protection against the virus. how no one should be left behind.

Pueblo de Biñan 275

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

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Biñan’s triumvirate of good governance By Patricia Taculao

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S AN independent district and thriving city in Laguna, Biñan is rapidly making its way to progress and development. The Biñanenses are witnesses to their local government’s bid for better education, quality health services, preservation of their histo-culture, strengthened security measures, and more. These developments are a result of the progressive minds and steadfast leadership of what the city calls “The Big Three,” composed of Congresswoman Marlyn “Len” B. Alonte-Naguiat, Mayor Walfredo “Arman” R. Dimaguila, Jr., and Vice Mayor Angelo “Gel” B. Alonte. It all began when Alonte-Naguiat was elected city mayor in 2007. She still proudly wears the badge of being the first and only female mayor of Biñan. By her third term in 2010, Biñan was declared as a city and later a lone congressional district in 2015. She then went on to become Biñan’s first representative in Congress. “All these positions only meant that my constituents in Biñan, my beloved Biñanenses, trust me enough to lead them, make things happen for them, and implement projects and programs that change their lives for the better,” the congresswoman said. She spearheaded the establishment of Iskolar ng Biñan, their flagship project on education that made tertiary education accessible to thousands of underprivileged students in their city. Another project in Alonte-Naguiat’s term is the Health Assistance Program for Indigent (HAPI) Card that provides Biñanenses access to healthcare. During her term as mayor, AlonteNaguiat also strongly advocated for women’s empowerment, resulting in many productive projects for Kababaihan Unlad Biñan. Meanwhile, the congresswoman wasted no time implementing different projects and programs for the benefit of her constituents. One of them is Alagang Len, her flagship program in the Biñan Congressional District Office that focuses on different sectors such as health assistance to indigenous citizens, livelihood creation for sustainability, and infrastructure projects, especially in education. “Biñan has also transformed from a sleepy municipality into a dynamic city, thanks to the many publicprivate partnerships that have also helped create jobs and livelihood for Biñanenses,” she said. With Alonte-Naguiat ascending to a position in Congress, the responsibilities of the city mayor fell into the hands of Dimaguila. It is indeed fortunate for the Biñanenses that both Alonte-Naguiat and Dimaguila share a passion for public service and a clear vision of the city’s development. As a mayor, Dimaguila is not one to merely keep his sights focused on a single aspect of Biñan’s growth. Instead, he looks at the bigger picture and addresses each situation promptly. He’s also not the type of leader to rely solely on himself when it comes to making decisions for the welfare of his city and his constituents.

Vice Mayor Angelo “Gel” B. Alonte

Mayor Walfredo “Arman” R. Dimaguila, Jr.

Dimaguila shared that he also gets inspiration from previous Biñan city mayors and other cities and countries he visited. “I keep this journal where I would usually write my observations. Sinusulat ko lahat ng mga magagandang bagay at practices na nakikita ko and I copy and improve them for our city,” the city mayor said. He also maintained Alonte-Naguiat’s Iskolar ng Biñan program since education remains a top priority in Dimaguila’s administration. Building quality infrastructures is also another goal that Dimaguila has for Deputy Speaker Marlyn “Len” B. Alonte-Naguiat the city of Biñan. He supervised the completion of six projects, including a 170-million peso private-public partnership for an elevated parking, commercial center, and hotel in Brgy. Poblacion. Other notable projects include the already functional Balay Silangan Reformation and Rehabilitation Center and the new Biñan Fire Station in Brgy. San Vicente, which is just awaiting inauguration. “The construction of the new Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – Biñan Campus building is nearing completion, while the 4-story building of Ospital ng Biñan with a 200-bed capacity, a dialysis center, and ICU is almost 65 percent finished,” Dimaguila said. Another notable highlight of the Dimaguila administration is their Command Control and Communication Center, equipped with over 200 CCTVs. It also has its local version of 911 calls and a community radio station called “Radyo Biñan 87.9: The City of Life.” The center, according to Dimaguila, is meant for peace and order, emergency response, disaster preparedness, and risk reduction. Throughout his terms as mayor, Dimaguila oversaw infrastructure projects and improved education, healthcare, disaster response, peace and order, and livelihood in the city. He also prompted the restoration of the Historic Alberto Mansion and created a Heritage District to promote their culture and history. Job generating projects in Biñan are also made continuous with the help of PESO and private sectors. For his last term as mayor, Dimaguila shifted his attention to promoting the city and its economy. And while many consider that three’s a company, Biñan’s rapid progress wouldn’t have been possible without the presence of Vice Mayor Alonte. Like Alonte-Naguiat and Dimaguila, Alonte remained active in serving the Biñanenses amid the pandemic. Vice Mayor Alonte took all the necessary steps to secure financial assistance for his fellow Biñanseses during these challenging times. He also supported Dimaguila’s infrastructure programs by adding new projects such as the new Ospital ng Biñan and Biñan Science High School. “We’re also not overlooking the health and safety of our citizens, especially at a time like this. We have multiple vaccination sites in 24 barangays partnered with prompt information dissemination about COVID-19,” Alonte said. One of his primary concerns in the city is its bid for accessible education for all. While the Iskolar ng Biñan program continues to provide scholarships to the city’s top students, Alonte ensures The harmonious relationship among Biñan’s big three that students receive financial support, school materials, and a allows them to align their goals for the development of the city. strong internet connection. The vice mayor will also expand the Iskolar ng Biñan program by including local artists and athletes as scholarship grantees, just in time for the Araw ng Biñan celebrations. Another event that Biñanenses should look out for in Araw ng Biñan is the groundbreaking ceremony of Biñan Esplanade, a bayside park in Brgy. Dela Paz. Maintaining a harmonious relationship with each other and sharing in a unified vision of a progressive Biñan is undoubtedly effective for the city’s governing big three. As their projects align to achieve a common goal, AlonteNaguiat, Dimaguila and Alonte Big Three – Congresswoman Alonte-Naguiat, Mayor Dimaguila continuously deliver quality and Vice Mayor Alonte consistently working to deliver quality services and projects to their service to Biñanenses constituents.

Pueblo de Biñan 275

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Sentrong Pangkultura ng Biñan formerly the municipal hall before Biñan’s cityhood in 2010. Biñan 275 official logo designed by Marc Jhon Banaynal

Araw ng Biñan ‘22 celebrates history, culture, progress

Jose Benedict Hernandez won the drawing contest in search for the look of Maestro Justiniano Aquino Cruz, Rizal’s teacher in Biñan.

By Peter Paul Duran

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N ARCHIVE from the National Library specified that back in 1747, the Spaniards officially founded Binan as a pueblo or town. After 275 years, Biñan has continued to cultivate its rich history while gearing up for economic gains in the decades to come. In celebration of 275 glorious years since formally becoming a town, the local government unit aims to commemorate the valuable contributions of each and every Biñanense in building a place where history, excellence, and progress merge. Dubbed Araw ng Biñan 2022, City officials led by Mayor Arman Dimaguila, Vice Mayor Gel Alonte, and Deputy Speaker Len AlonteNaguiat, want their people to “be proud of who they are. We want people to know, understand our culture– the

Last December, the City of Biñan commemorated Rizal in Biñan 150th Anniversary. They also inaugurated the newly restored School of Rizal, the kubo where Rizal received his first formal education.

In 1948 the Philippine Historical Commission (now NHCP) installed a national historical marker “Rizal in Biñan” to memorialize Rizal’s sojourn in Biñan as a young student.

soul of any city.” With the efforts of the city government of Biñan and its BCHATO, Biñan hopes for the people to remember its rich history and culture amid the growing advancement in society. This year’s Araw ng Biñan focuses on histo-cultural festivities. From February 2-4 Biñanenses are in for a wonderful series of activities that kicks off with its

Cityhood Anniversary celebrations. Back on February 2, 2010, Biñan was granted its cityhood by virtue of Republic Act 9470. This year’s activity for its 12th Cityhood Anniversary was aligned with the last year’s celebration of Rizal in Biñan 150, as it is a popular fact that Jose Rizal studied in Biñan and echoes the same theme of Rizal’s life and bravery implying “para sa bayan.”

“Kagaya ng ipinamalas ni Dr. Jose Rizal noong kapanahunan niya, ayun din ang ginawa ng ating magigiting na mga veterans noong panahon ng giyera— ang ipaglaban ang ating kalayaan. Ipinagdiriwang natin at inaalay ang selebrasyong ito sa mga nagsakripisyo para sa kung ano ang tinatamasa natin ngayon bilang lungsod,” said Mayor Arman Dimaguila. On February 3, the city will remember the valiant deeds of its veterans as this day is dedicated to commemorating their freedom from Japanese forces. Although the city’s last living World War II veteran passed away last year, the city still upholds its promise to support the families of its war heroes. This coincides with the city’s 77th Liberation Day, also a non-working holiday. A heroes tribute at the Heroes Memorial will be offered to recognize their veteran Biñanense who fought against the Japanese. “Let’s not forget

yung mga heroes natin. Yung mga veterans. We still honor the family. Kasi syempre sila pa rin yung legacy ng mga local heroes natin,” said Congresswoman Len Alonte. This February 4, 2022, the celebrations will focus on their 275th Foundation Anniversary as an established independent town by the Spaniards nearly 300 years ago. From then on, Biñan City has always valued the importance of its cultural identity even in a modernizing world. Event frontrunner and Biñan City Culture, History, Arts and Tourism Office (BCHATO) Head Dr. Bryan Jayson Borja summed it up eloquently. “Kapag inalam natin kung ano ang kasaysayan, sining natin, ‘yung kultura natin, it makes us remember. Kase matututo ka sa kasaysayan kung ano ang gagawin mo sa kasulukuyan at ano ang gagawin ninyong plano papunta sa hinaharap,” Borja said.

Keeping Biñan’s well-loved tradition alive Biñanenses started the day in prayer to give thanks to their achievements and the city’s continuity.

FEBRUARY 2 marks the first day of Araw ng Biñan, a three-day celebration of their history, culture, and achievements throughout the years. Despite the pandemic, the City Government commemorated a oncein-a-lifetime historical milestone, the 275th Founding Anniversary of Biñan as a pueblo. They were not short of festivities as the streets of the city were filled with merriment while adhering to health protocols. Yet despite the gracious turnout, Araw ng Biñan has only just begun, and the citizens of the thriving city can expect to see more activities live and online. Nevertheless, Biñan’s annual tradition remains alive thanks to the efforts of the people and the governing body throughout the years.

Mayor Walfredo “Arman” Dimaguila, Jr. officially open the 3-day celebration of Araw ng Biñan ‘22

Clear skies and a warm turnout for the first day of the celebration, their 12th Cityhood Anniversary

An online concert featuring Biñan artists was premiered to open the National Arts Month

The governing body and city councilors of Biñan

Deputy Speaker Marlyn “Len” Alonte-Naguiat addressing the crowd during the event’s opening ceremony

Biñan City Centre for Performing Arts added to the liveliness of the celebration

Radyo Biñan 87.9 FM The City of Life was relaunched. BJ Borja and Grace Dilla serves as new station manager and program director, respectively

Twelve Outstanding Alumni of the Iskolar ng Biñan program.

Big Three—Congresswoman Len Alonte-Naguiat, Mayor Arman Dimaguila, Vice Mayor Gel Alonte, officially launched the Artista at Atletang Biñanense College (ABC) Scholarship Program