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Pilmico on World Bread Day: Bread’s transformative impact on communities
Every year on 16 October, the world celebrates “World Bread Day” to honor all kinds of bread around the world. A dietary staple in people’s lives for centuries, bread plays a much more significant role in the lives of those who bake bread as their primary source of livelihood. Pilmico has been a steadfast partner of bakers since 1962. It has given out 108 bakery kits nationwide since it started distributing livelihood kits in 2016. In honor of the “World Bread Day,” Pilmico reflects on how it has helped change the lives of several people through bread. Feeding the future Pilmico’s “Kutitap Feeding Program” was launched as a sustainable initiative to address malnutrition in public schools while at the same time supporting local bakeries. The program was made possible through the help of its partner bakeries, who went through technical training and received equipment from Pilmico. They provided bread to public schools within their communities. The Kutitap Feeding Program started in Iligan City in 2015 and in Tarlac in 2018. Since then, the program has progressively evolved through the years. Due to pandemic restrictions, it was turned into the “Kutitap Care Package,” where students received baked goods and eggs through its partner bakery, Aguila Bakeshop. Now, the program has also started incorporating meats in the meals served to the daycare students in Bamban, Tarlac. Aside from feeding students with nutritional bread, this initiative also contributed to the success of some partner bakeries such as C&G Bakery from Iligan City. Marlon C. Gecale, owner of C&G Bakery, has devoted his life to baking — from when he was a teen working as a baker to an adult owning his bakery. In between, he worked as an OFW and his passion for baking grew stronger, prompting him to have his own bakery. After buying an oven with his first salary, Gecale and his wife spent the next five years building their small bakery while he worked abroad. In 2017, they applied to become a bakery partner for Pilmico’s “Kutitap Feeding Program.” They were determined to prove that their small bakery could fulfill the demands of the program despite their new and small bakery. By partnering with Pilmico for the Kutitap Feeding Program, C&G Bakery, owned by Marlon Gecale, was able to expand to three more branches in Mindanao. Gecale underwent a month-long training with Pilmico where he earned new technical skills in baking and new recipes, which he still uses in his bakery. Since then, their bakery has grown and has been a reliable partner of Pilmico in various programs including the Iligan Community Pantry. Today, C&G Bakery has expanded to three branches in Iligan City, Misamis Oriental and Zamboanga del Sur. 'Tinapay Ti Uno' program Aside from Pilmico’s own initiatives, it has partnered with local government units such as the Department of Agrarian Reform Tarlac for the “Tinapay Ti Uno” program in partnership with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry and the Office of Congressman Jaime Cojuangco from the 1st District of Tarlac province. This program aims to create healthy buns using locally sourced ingredients from Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations and provide them to public school students in the 1st district of Tarlac. A total of 11 ARBOs participated in a bun and special bread competition where the winners will be responsible for the distribution of buns to the students. In the competition held last 24 2023, three ARBOs were hailed as the grand winners: Cabayaoasan Farmer Agriculture Cooperative from Paniqui, Tarlac; Bacabac Farmers Producers Cooperative from Brgy. Bacabac, Camiling, Tarlac; and Sinulatan 1st Agriculture Cooperative from Brgy. Sinulatan 1st, Camiling, Tarlac. Each winner received a bakery livelihood package from Pilmico that included an oven, stainless steel table, bread rack, bread showcase, proofer with cover, spiral mixer and 10 Pilmico flour sacks. In addition to the equipment, the winners were to receive technical assistance and bakery management training from Pilmico as they set up their bakery business. During the winners’ onsite bakery training in Camiling, Tarlac last 3 October, it was revealed that two out of the three ARBOs have already opened their bakeries within their communities. In celebration of “World Bread Day,” Pilmico emphasizes its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality flour that helps create nutritional bread products. “We believe in the transformative power that a simple loaf of bread can bring to people’s lives, especially those who rely on it as their main source of livelihood. Pilmico is dedicated to delivering the finest flour for the community’s bread making needs,” said Ma. Katrina Bayog, Pilmico Corporate Social Responsibility manager. The post Pilmico on World Bread Day: Bread’s transformative impact on communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations
In the vibrant tapestry of Filipino arts and heritage, few threads are as intricate and captivating as fashion. Much like traditions and customs, fashion as a form of artistic and cultural expression has played a pivotal role in shaping the Filipino identity and has evolved alongside the nation’s rich history. It is not just about clothes, it is the tales they share, the craftsmanship they embody, the heritage they preserve, and the patrimony they carry on through generations. The Museo ng Makati, housed in the old Presidencia, which served as the town hall until 1961 and has since been declared as an Important Cultural Property of our islands, proudly presented the Grand Dame of Filipino Fashion herself, Patis Tesoro. Entitled Kasuotang Filipino: Mga Likha ni Patis Tesoro, this exhibition was a testament to the enduring legacy of our people’s artistic expression. Although celebrated for its romantic allure, these also carry expressions of love for our country. The exhibit highlighted the enduring 50-year lifelong friendship between Patis and Mita Rufino, who loaned a part of her personal Tesoro-designed Filipiniana. Rufino’s impeccable taste in fashion mirrors her support for the finest designers and creators in the field, with Tesoro as a favorite due to their numerous collaborations. Maria Beatriz Pamintuan Tesoro, lovingly known as Patis, is the force behind this remarkable assemblage. Her journey began in Iloilo, where she drew inspiration from her mother’s dressmaking skills and honed her own dexterity in embroidery during her time at the Assumption Iloilo. [gallery columns="5" size="full" ids="194543,194542,194541,194540,194539"] Her pursuit of artistic excellence brought her to Marygrove College in Michigan, United States, where she studied Art Education. The visionary’s passion in everything Filipino deepened when she married the late Tito Tesoro, whose family owns the iconic Filipino handicrafts store Tesoros. Together with former Philippine First Lady Amelita “Ming” Ramos, Patis worked tirelessly to protect, preserve and promote the use of pineapple or piña fabric, collaborating closely with local farmers to bolster their production. Even today, she continues to champion Filipino textiles and embroidery traditions, while infusing bohemian styles and practical, everyday clothing into her creations. While Tesoro’s genius was on the spotlight, it was equally dedicated to the exquisite beauty and exceptional craftsmanship of Filipino weavers and artisans, burdareras and costureras. The creations on display were nothing short of breathtaking. The venue showcased 23 long gowns that spanned fashion influences from various regions of the archipelago, which offered glimpses into her sensibilities throughout her illustrious career. These reflected her vision of the elegant Filipino attires. [caption id="attachment_194537" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Fashion innovator Patis Tesoro, curator Albert Figueras and Filipino Heritage Festival Foundation Inc. president Mita Rufino. | PHOTOGRAPHS by Edu Jarque[/caption] Hand in hand, fashion designer Albert Figueras had contributed his private treasure trove of fabrics from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, offering visitors a valuable opportunity to acquaint themselves on native textiles and weaving traditions — a critical endeavor in an era dominated by fast fashion and synthetic fabrics. Figueras played a crucial role in curating the whole affair. In attendance were civic servants such as Makati City Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo and notable diplomats, business leaders, fashion afficionados, textile artists and modern trendsetters. The event was made possible by the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. spearheaded by its president, Mita Rufino. SM Makati manager Kathleen Anne Cruz and SM Retail president Cielo Monasterio generously supported the show. The exhibit also saw a romantic performance of a string of kundimans from the Choral Society of Makati, joined by the city’s 2018 champion and a member of the University of Makati Chorale Kristina Maniling. The post Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Beauty takes the spotlight
Beauty enthusiasts were drawn to a “new light” on the night of 7 September as Rustan’s The Beauty Source, the Philippines' foremost destination for opulent beauty, proudly introduced its annual Beauty Addict event. “See Beauty in a new light” came the invitation, and the retail hub renowned for curating the world’s most prestigious beauty brands in makeup, skincare, fragrance and personal care products, welcomed guests to its revamped Beauty Hall. The transformed space boasts of world-class interiors and cutting-edge retail architecture, providing the perfect backdrop for the most coveted and luxurious beauty brands. The occasion raised the bar for luxury retail and reaffirmed Rustan’s dedication to only choose the best products for its affluent customers. Excitement meets elegance The big day welcomed luxury beauty brands, such as CHANEL, Clarins, La Prairie, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Tom Ford, MAC, La Mer, Clé de Peau Beauté, Shiseido, Hermes, Diptyque, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, L’Occitane, Grown Alchemist, Malin+Goetz, L:a Bruket and many more. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by Rustan’s chief executive officer Zenaida Tantoco, president Donnie Tantoco and executive vice president Anton Huang, accompanied by the radiant Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray. The evening was further elevated with captivating performances by the Halili Dance Group and the Manila String Machine Orchestra, with Bea Tantoco. As the night unfolded, guests reveled in a special afterparty with live music from Renee Dominique and renowned local DJs. The open dancefloor beckoned, while the champagne bar, sponsored by the Philippine Wine Merchants, and delectable hors d’oeuvres by Margarite Forés ensured a night to remember. Exclusive beauty gifts and selfie contest For the early birds, a prized two-sided Beauty LED Compact Mirror was given away to the first 100 visitors at Rustan’s Beauty Hall. With LED lights that mimic sunlight, this attractive mirror has both conventional and magnifying mirrors. Sharing event selfies on social media accounts qualified the selfie-savvy participants for the competition, which gave the chance to win the prized “Best Selfie Award,” which came with a hefty P10,000 Rustan’s The Beauty Source shopping spree. Glamour all the way to November From 8 to 17 September, Rustan’s offered a one-week promotion with exclusive discounts and rewards to keep its customers happy. With the Beauty Addict Holiday Gift with Purchase promotion, which is active until 30 November, Rustan’s continued the celebration throughout the holiday season. A Kate Spade New York Make It Pop Floral Jewelry Box was given out to Beauty Addict members with a minimum purchase. Rustan’s introduced the Beauty Addict Holiday Raffle, with the big prize being a three-night vacation for two in the romantic city of love — Paris, France — to heighten the anticipation. The winner will also receive KrisFlyer miles from Singapore Airlines to use on a Business Class Saver Award ticket to Paris, France. Every P2,500 spent at Rustan’s Beauty Source rewarded Beauty Addict members one entry into an electronic drawing. Every Metrobank card transaction give cardholders two entries. Promo ends 30 November. The post Beauty takes the spotlight appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ROLLING WITH THE PUNCHES — Mananquil emerges as Phl boxing’s top power broker
When boxing promoter-manager Jim Claude Mananquil is not attending to his stable of fighters, he can be seen just before daybreak minding his family’s tuna export business in General Santos City. “This is what keeps my boxing promotion going,” said the 29-year-old Mananquil, who started promoting at the tender age of 15. Of course, Mananquil didn’t have the proper license to put up fights owing to his being a minor and somebody with a license had to pose as the promoter-on-record. But it was he who assembled all the fighters and took care of the finances, quite a feat for someone whose main weapon for staging a card was his unparalleled love for the fight game. Instead of celebrating, Mananquil had to endure 16 straight losses as most of his boxers — though solidly built — were all as raw and green as a harvested broccoli. “We got kids who had muscular bodies thinking that they would do well in the ring. But everyone lost and I was devastated,” recalled Mananquil, who manages two-belt world super-bantamweight Marlon Tapales. Born and bred in General Santos City, Mananquil fell in love with the fight game at an early age. “I looked up to, of course, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather and Zab Judah,” he said. Mananquil didn’t just like boxing. He was so obsessed with the sport that he even wanted to proceed with a professional career after a triumphant debut in 2018. “But my mom objected and told me to just get involved in boxing as long as I don’t fight.” Mananquil was already busy promoting even before he turned 20 and in just a few years he was crisscrossing the United States accompanying his boxers signed up to see action under different promoters. At one time, his boxers set up camp in Miami under a Florida-based Cuban trainer but soon found himself relocating to southern California and Las Vegas with influential American fight guy Sean Gibbons lending a hand. Just a few months ago, Mananquil had two reigning world champions: Tapales and Melvin Jerusalem. But Jerusalem’s reign as World Boxing Organization minimumweight titlist was short-lived. After winning the World Boxing Organization 105-lb title in Tokyo in January, he surrendered the championship in Indio, California, several months later. Following Jerusalem’s loss, Mananquil is now left with Tapales, who is being groomed to figure in a megabuck matchup with Japanese Naoya “Monster” Inoue sometime in December. “My responsibility is to give Marlon the very best preparation so he can win this very important fight,” Mananquil said. The odds are stacked against the southpaw but Mananquil swears nothing is impossible. ‘It’s a tough decision but I really love boxing.’ Whether that multi-million dollar showdown happens or not will be known in the coming days and weeks as both camps are going to hold another round of talks very soon in the hopes of putting a deal in place. The youngest of three kids, Mananquil admits he is torn between the family business and boxing. And if somebody’s going to put a gun to his head, Mananquil would not hesitate to make his choice. “It’s a tough decision but I really love boxing.” Coming from a well-to-do family, Mananquil went to five schools during college. Once, he tried studying in America but went home after just a few weeks, saying his heart was not there. Back in the Philippines, Mananquil enrolled at Ateneo de Davao University, Enderun College and even tried schooling in a small college in General Santos City. Likewise, he went to school at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig but wound up backing out for the nth time and returned to General Santos City. He was always on-the-go. But one thing’s clear, though. Mananquil insists his first and only love is boxing. And if that big fight down the road happens in Tokyo before the end of the year, Mananquil says that would end up becoming the highlight of his young career provided his fighter emerges victorious. But in the meantime, Mananquil will continue to look after the tuna business in the morning to assure that boxing gets the sustenance it badly needs. Right now, Mananquil is rolling with the punches as the family business and boxing seem to be blending well. And if things fall into place, there could come a time when Mananquil won’t even have to be forced to sacrifice one but winds up mastering both. The post ROLLING WITH THE PUNCHES — Mananquil emerges as Phl boxing’s top power broker appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US and Vietnam set to expand ties as China worries grow
US President Joe Biden arrives in Vietnam on Sunday set to deepen cooperation between the two nations, in the face of China's growing ambitions in the region. Biden -- who is flying from the G20 summit in New Delhi -- will meet the leader of Vietnam's ruling Communist Party, Nguyen Phu Trong, on Sunday, and is expected to sign off on a "comprehensive strategic partnership", Hanoi's highest level of diplomatic ties. The underlying goal of the short visit will be much the same as during Biden's time at the G20 gathering -- to shore up support against China's increasing influence. For Vietnam, the upgrading of diplomatic ties is significant. It only has top-level ties with Russia, India, South Korea and China. Although it will be careful to be seen as not taking sides between the United States and China, Vietnam shares American concerns about its neighbor's growing assertiveness in the contested South China Sea. The United States and Vietnam -- a key manufacturing hub -- also have increasingly close trade ties, and Washington sees Hanoi as an important partner as it looks to source less from China after supply chain shocks rocked the global economy in recent years. In Hanoi on Sunday, there will be a welcome ceremony, speeches by the two leaders and a press conference by the US president -- who on Tuesday awarded the top US military honor to a helicopter pilot who rescued four soldiers during the Vietnam War. Biden will meet President Vo Van Thuong and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh the following day. Ahead of the 80-year-old US president's arrival, Hanoi's central Hoan Kiem Lake area, packed with families out for a weekend stroll, was adorned with American and Vietnamese flags. Nearby in the city's old quarter, a souvenir shop sold T-shirts with Biden's face emblazoned across the front. "I think the US is a good friend to Vietnam," said the shop's 61-year-old owner Truong Thanh Duc. "With this visit of President Joe Biden, I think he will bring more business contracts and jobs to Vietnamese people." - Human rights - In Vietnam, Biden will be juggling strategic interests with the defense of human rights. The Southeast Asian country has a dire human rights record. Government critics face intimidation, harassment and imprisonment after unfair trials, and there are reports of police torture to extract confessions, Human Rights Watch says. While the president has often criticized China's human rights record, he has largely stayed quiet on Vietnam and campaigners are fearful he may not press the subject. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said prior to the trip that Biden would raise issues related "to freedom of expression, freedom of religion, and other basic human rights". His visit comes days after a US government commission on religious freedom harshly criticized Vietnam for "egregious, ongoing, and systematic violations". On Saturday, Nguyen Bac Truyen, a legal expert and religious freedom advocate who was sentenced in 2018 to 11 years in prison for subversion, said on Facebook he had been released and allowed to travel to Germany with his wife. Vietnam often releases political prisoners prior to US presidential visits. Biden's visit to Hanoi will mean he leaves early from the G20 summit, where leaders agreed on a joint declaration that papered over deep divisions on the war in Ukraine and tackling climate change, avoiding direct criticism of Moscow and any concrete pledge to phase out polluting fossil fuels. His Vietnam trip will also include a poignant visit to the memorial to his friend John McCain, the former US senator shot down and held captive during the Vietnam War who in later years helped rebuild ties between the two countries. burs-aph/sco © Agence France-Presse The post US and Vietnam set to expand ties as China worries grow appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s 5th Anniversary Showcases Filipino Fashion with ‘Pagpadayun’
Marking a significant milestone, Seda Ayala Center Cebu radiates with five years of success since its grand opening on August 19, 2018. A hub of comfort for both local residents and global travelers, this hotel has become a pivotal element in Cebu City’s thriving growth, nestled within the vibrant Cebu Business Park. While the hotel The post Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s 5th Anniversary Showcases Filipino Fashion with ‘Pagpadayun’ appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
This writers’ workshop loves Filipino literature
The Palihang Rogelio Sicat discussion on 21 June held in UP Diliman looked and sounded like an art class session. Manolo Sicat, the well-known artist and sculptor, was delivering a demo-lecture on printmaking. He said figures and words can go together in a work of art. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="175634,175632"] He had a PowerPoint presentation of print images. A pair of prints of a couple of dancers were passed around. One was in black and white, the other in color. Texture and motion were their immediate charm. “But what has printmaking to do with us?,” said Christian Balagoza, a boyish writer. “We’ll know when we get the printmaking session,” said sir Reuel Aguila, director PRS 16 (2023). Art collab This is the latest PRS innovation. When the session was held a few days later, Sicat conducted an honest-to-goodness printmaking workshop at the UP College of Fine Arts. A colleague, Prof. Ambie Abano, welcomed the group and opened her atelier to show mural-sized prints made from wooden originals. It is the artist’s impressive collection of prints featuring landscapes of lush trees in dark, brooding background. Fellows from the previous online batch joined the art activity. During the three-hour session, everyone polished her rubber board, chiseled images and texts, and finally print the works on paper. They were amazed to pick up the skill fast and admire the results in no time. Thumbs and nails got smudged with sticky ink yet everyone was smiling at the wet and black artworks clipped on wires that crossed the studio. 16 years of PRS This is one of the activities that make PRS unique. Thanks to its founders -- dramatist Reuel Aguila, retired professor now a lecturer at the UP, and fictionist Jimmuel Naval, dean of the UP College of Arts and Letters. The partner is always on the lookout for ingenious ways to improve the workshop, all for the good of young writers. PRS began as an informal workshop of a number of young writers held in the mansion of Ligaya Tiamson Rubin in Angono, Rizal, in 2008. Today, fellows accepted in the workshop are pegged at 15. Fellows like the idea that they are the main commentators of the manuscripts. During workshops, they get to be the lead discussant. “They learn to be critical and not rely too much on the opinion of the panelists,” said Aguila. The PRS is the only writers’ workshop that aspires to be mobile, going around the country to make its appellation ‘national’ true. It literally brings the creative writing life closer to practitioners. PRS collaborates with local governments, and with their support the workshop had been to Palayan City, Nueva Ecija (2009); Baler, Aurora (2010); Alfonso, Cavite (2011); Sta. Cruz, Marinduque (2012); Angeles City, Pampanga (2014); and Makati City (2015). It also cooperates with the academe as in UP Visayas-Tacloban (2017), UP Baguio (2018) and UP Los Baños (2019). There were times PRS stayed at its home base UP Diliman like during the 50th anniversary of the UP Department of Filipino and Philippine Literature (UP-DFPL) in 2017. It went online as Zoom conference twice during the pandemic. With the renowned writer Rogelio Sicat as PRS idol, the workshop chooses Filipino language as its medium of writing literature. It also accepts works from the region’s translated into Filipino. Institutional support PRS is the official outreach program of the UP-DFPL whose incumbent chair Schedar DT Jocson said that from the beginning, it has supported PRS and its objectives. Many of its panelists are from the department, including alumna Dr. Lulu Torres-Reyes, the PRS 16 guest of honor. Other PRS supporters include the UP Sentro ng Wikang Filipino (UP-SWF). “We are honored to be part of a movement that brings Philippine literature closer to the common people. PRS writers enrich the catalog of our website,” said director Jayson Petras. Friends and business people also support PRS, like Palawan Pawnshop / Palawan Express Padala company. Lively discussion about literature An hour of PRS discussion on a story or poem does not exhaust its reading or interpretation. To address the gap, sessions are set beyond the allotted time and well into almost midnight. Fellows do not seem to mind as they are very eager to huddle with seniors who are just as willing to forego of an early bedtime. PRS goes one more step. In 2022, it created post-workshop online sessions. Here, senior and beginning writers discuss new works. Everyone is excited to have these disquisitions that aim to improve writing skills. Dedication is demanded from both sides. The recent PRS workshop had the Sicat siblings Luna and Manolo beaming with pride. They were quite surprised to know that almost 300 young writers had already experienced the workshop. PRS is also proud that esteemed writers served as its panelists, including Bienvenido Lumbera, Edgardo Reyes, Ricardo Lee, Rogelio Ordoñez, Lualhati Bautista, Rosario Lucero, Elmer Ordoñez, Jose Dalisay, Marne Kilates, Jess Santiago, Fidel Rillo, Edgardo Maranan, Lilia Quindoza Santiago, Delfin Tolentino, Bonifacio Ilagan, Frank Cimatu, Joi Barrios-Le Blanc, Chris Millado, Jerry Gracio, Richard Gappi, Eros Atalia, Joselito delos Reyes, Choi Pangilinan and Junley Lorenzana Lazaga. PRS connects the lives of senior and beginning writers. Rogelio Sicat would be proud of this long -running project named after him. The post This writers’ workshop loves Filipino literature appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Seda Ayala Center Cebu Celebrates the Past and Embraces the Future at their 5th Anniversary Event, Pagpadayun
Seda Ayala Center Cebu opened its doors to locals and international travelers on August 19, 2018. Five years since its opening, the hotel looks back on its history and its contributions to Cebu City’s growth and its dynamic location in Cebu Business Park. The hotel offers a range of comforts and conveniences essential to the The post Seda Ayala Center Cebu Celebrates the Past and Embraces the Future at their 5th Anniversary Event, Pagpadayun appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Iloilo City: Bold, vibrant, indelible
The Philippines is no doubt a country with a rich and diverse history, having been colonized by the Spanish, Americans and Japanese and becoming a melting pot of cultures still evident in modern times. [caption id="attachment_175000" align="aligncenter" width="1015"] Iloilo City skyline. Photograph Courtesy Of Wikicommons/paulo Alcazaren/ Cc By-sa 4.0[/caption] [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="175004,175005"] The influence of these colonizers left a deep imprint in the Filipinos’ heritage and culture, and the semblance of these inherited traits can be seen in Iloilo City, located on Panay Island in Western Visayas. The city faces Iloilo Strait and Guimaras Island across it, making it a natural harbor and a safe anchorage for ships. It is bordered by the towns of Oton in the west, Pavia in the north and Leganes in the northeast. Just across the Iloilo Strait in its eastern and southern coastlines are the towns of Buenavista and Jordan in the island-province of Guimaras. The metropolitan area is composed of the City of Iloilo, the municipalities of Leganes, Pavia, Santa Barbara, Cabatuan, San Miguel, Oton, the Island Province of Guimaras and its five municipalities — Sibunag, San Lorenzo, Nueva Valencia, Buenavista and Jordan. The city was founded in 1566 by Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. It quickly became a major trading center due to its strategic location on the coast of the Sulu Sea. In the early days of the Spanish period, the first Manila galleons were originally constructed at the port of Oton to the west of Iloilo. The early Visayans were already constructing huge multi-masted four- to five-decked caracoas in their wars against the other kingdoms. Thus, the technical know-how to construct the first Manila galleons was a blend of Visayan shipbuilding and Spanish shipbuilding. After the defeat of the Spanish forces in the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish–American War, the capital of the Spanish East Indies was transferred to Iloilo, with General Diego de los Rios as the new Governor General residing in the city. A truce was declared between the American and the Spanish forces pending the negotiations of the joint commission of both warring countries in Paris, France, for the terms of peace. In the 19th century, Iloilo City became a major producer of sugar which helped further develop the city’s economy and infrastructure. Iloilo City was also a major center of the Philippine revolution against Spain. Major center of education During World War II, Iloilo City was heavily damaged. However, the city was rebuilt after the war, becoming an industrial center and its port transforming into one of the busiest in the Philippines. Iloilo City also became a major center of education, with many universities and colleges opening in the city. The next three decades saw the moderate growth of Iloilo City with the establishment of fish ports, an international seaport, and other commercial firms. Iloilo City also became the regional center of Western Visayas. In 1977, a Comprehensive Urban Development Plan for Iloilo City was approved and was adopted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The Land Use Plan and Zoning Ordinance was the implementing tool. However, the 1977 Plan was unable to cope with the demands of rapid urbanization. In late 1993, a multi-sectoral group prepared the 1994-2010 Comprehensive Development Plan of Iloilo City to amend the old plan and address the present and future challenges of urban development. The plan, however, was not carried pending the approval of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board. Today, Iloilo City is a major commercial and industrial center in the Philippines. It is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food and vibrant culture. It has become a hub for trade, commerce, finance, technology, medical tourism, hospitality, real estate, tourism, education and industry in the Western Visayas region. Major industries in the city include port management, telecommunications infrastructure and utilities, banking and finance, retail trading, real estate, tourism and business process outsourcing. The local government has also provided incentives to businesses in certain investment areas, such as income tax holidays and free issuance of permits and licenses. Tourism contributes in a major way to Iloilo City’s economy. Not only is it a gateway to Western Visayas, but the metropolis itself hosts notable festivals that entice thousands of tourists annually, especially during the Dinagyang, Paraw Regatta — Asia’s oldest sailing event — and Fiesta de Candelaria festivals seasons. 'City of Love' Iloilo City’s bannered monickers like “City of Love” and “City of Mansions” and intensified local government’s programs such as the beautification of major thoroughfares in the city and building of parks have all played a role in attracting local and foreign visitors. There are myriad attractions in the city that tourists can visit — heritage landmarks, museums, art galleries, parks and restaurants, to name a few. Nightlife in the metro, with Smallville Complex as the mecca for party-goers, sees revelers out and about every night especially on Friday and weekends. Since it’s a well-known Philippine heritage city built during the Spanish era, heritage tourism also adds to Iloilo City’s charm. Centuries-old churches, old edifices and mansions of well-known Ilonggo families lure sightseers from different places who want to discover Iloilo City’s rich and glorious past. Iloilo City is also a respected gastronomic capital, with famous local dishes that have gained popularity throughout the country — La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, Kansi, Laswa and KBL (Kadyos, Baboy kag Langka). In 2018 alone, Iloilo City attracted the highest tourist arrivals in Western Visayas, posting 1,242,087 total arrivals, including 1,154,550 domestic visitors, 70,787 foreign guests and 16,750 overseas workers. In 2019, it garnered an 11.59 percent increase in tourist arrivals, and in 2020, the city again achieved its target with 1.4 million tourists. The post Iloilo City: Bold, vibrant, indelible appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NCC hailed as model Smart City
With its best practices centered on improving its future residents’ health and well-being, and promoting smart city features, New Clark City, or NCC, was recently hailed by SCI-Japan, a private sector-led, non-profit organization founded by think tank Mitsubishi UFJ Research & Consulting as a model Smart City. Aside from SCI-Japan, media organization Nikkei, in a forum dubbed “Challenge of Japan’s Smart City Initiative Improving Citizen’s Well-being” cited New Clark City for introducing some of the best practices by utilizing well-being indicators for policy design toward sustainable smart city business. “This forum’s key element is how smart cities should be people-centric, which is at the core of the development concept of New Clark City, making it a model on how cities of the future across the world should be planned and developed,” said Hideki Okada, executive director of Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport & Urban Development. A model for future cities From accelerating smart utilities and sustainable infrastructure to conserving biodiversity, Okada highlighted in his presentation what makes New Clark City development a model for future cities. “Since 2016, JOIN, together with our integral partners BCDA and Surbana Jurong, has been involved in the development of New Clark City into a sustainable metropolis for all. And with this forum, we hope to propel more collaborations with the BCDA in the development not just of New Clark City, but the whole of Clark,” Okada added. In 2018, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority JOIN tapped Surbana Jurong of Singapore for the development of New Clark City. Surbana Jurong has been helping BCDA and JOIN with the detailed design standards and guidelines for New Clark City, which includes its detailed urban and infrastructure design and the Public-Private Partnership framework for the provision of utility services such as water and power. For BCDA President and chief executive officer engineer Joshua Bingcang, the state-run organization is putting the well-being and quality of life at the heart of the development of New Clark City. Rising metropolis He added that BCDA is ensuring that the rising metropolis will improve the quality of life of its citizens by utilizing digital technologies and partnering with global experts in creating smart city solutions. “Our vision for the Philippines’ model for sustainable and inclusive cities, New Clark City in Tarlac, will not be possible without JOIN. Along with other global experts, JOIN helped us with the creation of the master plan for New Clark City,” Bingcang said in a video message. Strict open green space Following global standards, New Clark City instituted a strict open green space to the buildable ratio of 60:40, where 60 percent of the area is green, while the remaining 40 percent is buildable. BCDA also makes sure all of the utilities in New Clark City are prescribed to be green and sustainable. In February 2023, BCDA and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization of Japan inked a memorandum of understanding for a three-year demonstration project on smart mobility solutions to be implemented in New Clark City and Clark. This will be executed by a group nominated by NEDO, led by Zenmov Inc., a Japan-based information technology solutions provider specializing in the transportation sector, to measure and verify the effectiveness of a transport service system that operates via a cloud-based technology platform. Under the New Clark City master plan, 1.2 million people will live sustainably and inclusively in the metropolis, while the projected employment is over 600,000 workers. The post NCC hailed as model Smart City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR, UNDP other countries commits to Circular Economy through EPR
The Philippines produces 163 million plastic sachet packets, 48 million shopping bags and 45 million thin-film bags daily. Thirty-three percent of these are disposed of in landfills and dump sites, while 35 percent are leaked into the open environment and oceans. These are the primary reasons why the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022 or Republic Act 11898 has been enacted to ensure full compliance of industries related to plastic use and production. Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga tackled this over the weekend during the launching of LOOPFORWARD, a joint undertaking between the DENR and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Pasay City. “The EPR Act institutionalized the extended producer responsibility mechanism as a practical approach to efficient waste management, focusing on waste reduction, recovery and recycling and the development of environment-friendly products that advocate the internationally-accepted principles on sustainable consumption and production, circular economy and producers’ full responsibility throughout the life cycle of their product,” Loyzaga said in her speech delivered in front of UNDP Resident Representative Selva Ramachandran, Japan, Germany, Spain, US and the European Union representatives along with EPR author Senator Cynthia Villar. "Climate and environmental risks make up the majority of global risks perception in the next decade. So thus we need sustained, concerted, and evidence-informed investments and actions to protect and enhance our natural ecosystem environmental protection for all the different ecosystems that we have from land and sea, and of course we know that environmental protection, our ecosystems, biodiversity and climate change are inextricably linked. A failure in one of these dimensions will cascade well into the other," Loyzaga explained. In the Philippine setting, she cited that 61,000 million metric tons of waste were generated daily. Between 12 to 24 percent of these are plastic waste in various forms. According to a World Bank study conducted in 2019, Loyzaga said, it was reported that around 70 percent of the material value of plastics is lost to the Philippine economy each year. "This is equivalent to roughly a value loss of $790 million to $890 million per year," Loyzaga further explained. "As a country, we are in pursuit of the right combination of science and technology, policy and practice. Locally and through our global partners we are trying to make this possible just as we are discovering the true value of our global capital. The science, engineering, technology and innovation that support circularity are within reach by tapping into expertise both nationally and internationally," she added. Ramachandran, on the other hand, said that while there was significant progress over the last century, the growth was accompanied by excessive abuse of resources and environmental degradation. “The 2023 Circularity Gap Report indicates that only 7.2 percent of the global economy is circular. The rising extraction and use of material has shrunk global circularity from 9.1 percent in 2018 to 7.2 percent in 2023. This leaves a significant circularity gap. The world almost exclusively relies on new materials, more than 90 percent of materials are either wasted, lost or remain unavailable for reuse for years,” Ramachandran said. He added that studies place the Philippines among the highest ocean plastic waste polluters globally. According to Ramachandran, the challenge at hand is how to leapfrog the implementation of EPR in the Philippines. “We can no longer afford to remain business-as-usual and only focus on downstream solutions. We challenge the obliged enterprises to put more focus on waste avoidance and reduction, including through product redesign to improve reusability, recyclability or retrievability, and employing reuse and refill strategies," the UNDP Resident Representative said. “LOOPFORWARD: Linking Opportunities and Partnerships Towards ,” campaign was launched for full compliance and effective implementation of the EPR Act of 2022 by industries and other entities through attainment of time-bound waste recovery targets. It highlights the relevance of the EPR concept and law, gain better understanding among its stakeholders, and convene and gain commitments from the country’s biggest private firms referred to as the “obliged enterprises” under the law. It also seeks to gather support and open possible areas for collaboration among national government agencies, local government units, and development partners. The EPR approach is practiced in many countries around the world. It focuses on waste reduction, recovery, and recycling, and the development of environment-friendly products that advocate the internationally-accepted principles of sustainable consumption and production, and the circular economy. The DENR is the lead implementer of the EPR law and the LOOPFORWARD campaign. The campaign is supported by the CCC and the governments of Germany, Spain, and the European Union under the NDC Support Project for the Philippines, as well as the Government of Japan through the Accelerating NDC through Circular Economy in the Cities Project. The post DENR, UNDP other countries commits to Circular Economy through EPR appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Graft buster clears Cusi
Citing the presumption of regularity, the Office of the Ombudsman threw out the graft complaint of a New York-based billionaire against former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, other Department of Energy officials, Davao City-based executive Dennis Uy, and several others over the sale of 90 percent of the shares of the Malampaya natural gas consortium. On 18 October 2021, US-based geologist Balgamel Domingo and Filipino-American anti-Duterte leaders Rodel Rodis and Loida Nicolas-Lewis filed charges against Cusi, Uy, and the others involved in the sale of the Malampaya stake to the Udenna group of Uy. In a copy of the ruling obtained by the Daily Tribune, the Ombudsman said it could not delve into the complaint on the legality of the transaction since “the authority to make such a determination belongs to the court.” “Seemingly, this complaint is in actuality a collateral attack on the validity of the Share Sale and Purchase Agreement,” it said. The decision declared that “matters of such tenor are not determinable in a preliminary investigation before the Ombudsman’s Office.” “Without any judicial determination decreeing the illegality of the Share Sale and Purchase Agreement, this Office is left with nothing but to acknowledge its validity,” the ruling said. The Ombudsman cited a precedent in the case of Teresita Buenaventura vs Metrobank, in a ruling that stated: “The burden of showing that a contract is simulated rests on the party impugning the contract.” “This is because of the presumed validity of the contract that has been duly executed,” the Ombudsman ruling read. “Wherefore, the criminal charges for violation of Section 3(e) and of Republic Act 3019 against the respondents are dismissed for lack of probable cause.” The ruling was signed by members of a Special Panel of Investigators composed of Ronald Allan Ramos, Josephine Mae Rosapapan, Francisco Alan Molina and Bonifacio Mandrilla. Prime takes control The operation of the Malampaya project was recently assumed by the Razon group’s Prime Energy which bought a 45-percent stake from Malampaya Energy XP, or MEXP, of the Udenna group. MEXP had bought the shares of Shell Philippines Exploration B.V., or SPEX, in the consortium. The Department of Energy had branded the complaint a political move since the two Fil-Am lawyers in the suit were prominent in the “Oust Duterte” movement in the United States. The complaint alleged that Cusi and other energy officials had granted “unwarranted benefits and advantage” to Uy’s UC Malampaya in the buyout of Chevron’s share in the consortium. Udenna, through spokesperson Raymond Zorilla, said there is “no law requiring approval of the transfer of shares of companies that have an interest in Malampaya.” Zorilla said the transfer of Chevron and Shell shares underwent strict bidding processes and due diligence by both multinational oil and gas players. “The share sales were above board and legal and had to pass scrutiny by Philippine regulators, international lenders, and the said private multinationals involved,” Zorilla added. Cusi, in an interview with Daily Tribune, had said the DoE was not involved in choosing the buyer of the shares of Shell and Chevron in the Malampaya project. “The DoE did not get involved in the sale (of shares). We don’t know that they are selling. Our question was what their standards are for choosing Udenna. Why didn’t you choose the big companies, and why Udenna?” he said. Industry experts said the sale of shares was a private transaction that the accusers, who are US lawyers, should have been very familiar with. Cusi said the DoE, during his watch, went beyond its mandate by reviewing the technical, legal, and financial aspects of the transactions, the results of which were provided to the public. Political agenda The complaint, he said, had an underlying political agenda connected to his being the head of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan or PDP Laban. “It is not only political propaganda against me, but it also has a destabilization background… because I’m the president of the PDP.” The complaints, in turn, stemmed from the unending Senate inquiries on the Malampaya deals. The DoE said the Senate probes and the controversies that resulted from them had caused costly delays in the review process that would ultimately affect the country’s energy security. To refute a recent remark by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, the DoE, in a statement said: “The inquiries of Senator Gatchalian are causing undue delay to the timeline of the consortium corporations, and this may eventually take its toll and put our energy security at risk.” The DoE’s approval of the sale of shares of stock of Chevron Malampaya LLC, one of the three corporations in the Malampaya Gas Field Project Consortium, had been dubbed by Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy, as “lutong Macau.” It also backed the Udenna assessment that the deals were above-board. “When the sales were made, both Chevron Philippines, which owned Chevron Malampaya, and Shell Petroleum NV, owner of SPEX, followed rigorous global standards,” the DoE said. Nicolas-Lewis was part of a 25-person delegation from the US-Philippines Society, a private group comprising business executives and diplomats, who met with Duterte a week before his inauguration as president in 2016. Nicolas-Lewis was then accompanied by former Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia, PLDT chair Manuel V. Pangilinan, retired American diplomats, and executives of Coca-Cola, SGV, JP Morgan, and other top corporations. Nicolas-Lewis is the sister of former National Anti-Poverty Commission chairperson Imelda Nicolas, who was one of the “Hyatt 10” Cabinet members who turned against then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2005. Imelda and most of the Hyatt 10 members ended up getting key posts in the administration of President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. Imelda was made head of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas. Nicolas-Lewis plot bared In February 2018, former President Duterte bared intercepted conversations that indicated Nicolas-Lewis was behind efforts to push the International Criminal Court, or ICC, to probe his war on drugs. Duterte revealed a recorded conversation between Lewis and another political opponent whom he did not name. “I was listening to the tapes of their conversation. It was provided to me by another country, but the conversation was somewhere in the Philippines and New York,” Duterte said. He said that among the recordings was one in which Lewis allegedly told another person: “See you in the headquarters when the case is filed.” Duterte then said in a public address that he was aware of developments on the ICC case and that lawyer Jude Sabio, the main complainant in the case, was a paid hack of Magdalo Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and Rep. Gary Alejano, both failed putschists. Sabio withdrew his complaint before the ICC and revealed that the case was the handiwork of the dirty tricks factory of Trillanes. In 2016, Duterte pointed to Lewis as the financier of an alleged destabilization plot against his administration. Nicolas-Lewis invested heavily in the failed presidential campaigns of Liberal Party bets Mar Roxas in 2016 and Vice President Leni Robredo in 2022. The post Graft buster clears Cusi appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PEZA, NGSI partner on PEZA Digital Marketplace platform
Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso O. Panga and NetGlobal Solutions Inc. chairman and CEO Peter G. Lingatong signed on 25 July a Memorandum of Agreement on the PEZA Digital Marketplace, the first business-to-business e-commerce unified platform for PEZA locators. The signing took place at the PEZA head office, Double Dragon West Tower, Pasay City with Bong Fajardo Jr., business development manager, NetGlobal Solutions Inc., and Atty. Jenny June G. Romero, PEZA OIC Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration, standing as witnesses. The MOA aims to strengthen the ease of doing business in the economic zones as mandated in Republic Act No. 11032 or the “Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Services Delivery Act of 2018”, which directs all offices and agencies to improve transactions systems and procedures to streamline the delivery of government services. With this partnership, PEZA and NGSI will capacitate PEZA’s registered business enterprises, particularly exporters, to increase their online presence and utilize digital platforms to increase the market presence of Philippine goods and services globally. The subscribed users of the digital marketplace will also benefit from access to global suppliers of machinery and equipment, raw materials, supplies and emerging technologies and solutions, thereby improving the sourcing and procurement by ecozone RBEs. Under the agreement, NGSI will provide the development, operation and maintenance of the PEZA Directory, PEZA Build-a-site and PEZA Digital Marketplace Platform. The database development for the PEZA digital marketplace will likewise cover local producers and suppliers of goods/services to provide support to ecozone locators, helping accelerate the integration of Filipino MSMEs into the ecozone value chain. Meanwhile, PEZA will be responsible for providing the necessary and requested documentation, information and knowledge capital to NGSI, engage and integrate NGSI’s system and other related services to support and augment its services, and encourage registered RBEs to subscribe in the PEZA DMP. The PEZA Digital Marketplace is a pioneer and a legacy project spearheaded by Panga. “The PEZA Digital Marketplace completes the local supply and global value chain for the Philippine economic development. This will also increase our competitiveness to attract more investors to set up off-shore facilities and operations in the Philippines, particularly, in our ecozones,” he said. The PEZA Digital Marketplace launching is set for September 2023, to be followed by a series of roadshows with PEZA clusters nationwide. The post PEZA, NGSI partner on PEZA Digital Marketplace platform appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Coffee venture expands wings
Homegrown coffee producer Allegro Beverage Corporation, or ABC, will soon bring its brands to Palawan and Legazpi City in Albay to provide more of its imported, industry-preferred espresso machines, brewers, coffee beans, syrups, sauces, and teas. On Monday, ABC unveiled its new Mandaluyong headquarters while announcing its collaboration with UCC Japan, which owns a 65 percent share of UCC Philippines. In 2018, ABC entered a strategic alliance with UCC Japan, the 5th largest coffee company in the world, which now owns majority ABC stake. ABC chief executive officer Yasmin Vasquez said synergy with UCC sets them apart from competitors. “ABC is the only coffee distributor in the Philippines that is backed by a global brand. It is looking into expansion in terms of the types of products we carry, so we are covering it right now with traditional and fully automatic espresso machines. We have premium brewed coffee from Italy, freshly roasted by UCC for us,” she said. Vasquez said they are now selling espresso machines to those who want to have freshly brewed coffee in the comfort of their home, apart from the machines supplied to hotels and coffee shops. “We will try to bring in more home-use equipment and other products that we think meet our goal of being a holistic coffee provider in the country,” she stated. Vasquez said their products are not only seen in restaurants, coffee shops, and hotels in Metro Manila but also in provinces, including Cebu, Davao and Pampanga, while their dealers have branched out in Iloilo, Bohol, Quezon, Laguna, Cavite and in Pangasinan. Synergy with UCC UCC is an integrated family-owned coffee business from plantations, roasting facilities, and product distribution to equipment maintenance services. “UCC Japan is involved in coffee equipment manufacturing in Japan, called Lucky Coffee Machine, as well as involved in coffee manufacturing, coffee shops, and education as it has its own Coffee Academy. On the other hand, UCC Philippines is into manufacturing and creating business-to-business programs and has another company that handles the coffee shops and another company that owns an academy. UCC Philippines is basically duplicating what UCC Japan has been doing,” UCC Philippines president and chief executive officer Hubert Young said. Young said UCC has been “very picky” with franchisees and does not just entertain those franchisees that have a lot of money to spend but do not have a passion for coffee. “Because at the end of the day, it’s the branding of the UCC that I am making sure maintained,” Young maintained. He said owning a franchise costs P16 million for a 150 square meters stand-alone coffee shop, with a break-even return of investments of five years maximum. The post Coffee venture expands wings appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Era of mass closures’: the Japan businesses without successors
Kiyoshi Hashimoto's machinery factory outside Tokyo should be buzzing with industry. Instead, it's so quiet you can hear him practicing the recorder. The 82-year-old entrepreneur founded his company nearly 40 years ago, but well past retirement age he has neither a successor nor a buyer for a business that retains loyal clients. It is a problem that Japan's government warns could affect up to a third of all small businesses in the country by 2025, as the country's population shrinks and ages. "All of this would go to waste if I were to close now," said Hashimoto, whose factory in Yachimata, east of Tokyo, is filled with workbenches, drill tables and parts cabinets. He once employed dozens of people, but now gets by with just two part-time workers after scaling back operations. The problem is so vast that Japan faces an "era of mass closures", said Shigenobu Abe of bankruptcy research firm Teikoku Databank. A 2019 government report estimated that about 1.27 million small business owners would be 70 or older by 2025 and have no successors. The trend could kill up to 6.5 million jobs and reduce the size of the Japanese economy by 22 trillion yen ($166 billion), the study warned. By 2029, the situation will worsen still, as baby boomers hit 81, the average life expectancy for Japanese men, who account for most of the presidents of these firms, according to Teikoku Databank. "We know for sure that many workers will lose their livelihoods because of this," Abe told AFP. 'A serious blow' As elsewhere, small businesses in Japan are often passed down to family or trusted employees. But the country's prolonged economic stagnation has made small businesses unattractive to young people. Firms in rural areas struggle further because of a preference for city life and a growing trend of rural depopulation. Compounding the problem is a feeling among some older Japanese that selling a family business to outsiders is shameful. Some liquidate their firms rather than seeking buyers. Japan's government has offered generous incentives to encourage sales, and the private sector has also jumped in to match investors with businesses for sale. Company BATONZ now makes more than 1,000 matches a year, up from just 80 when it opened in 2018. Still, it reaches a fraction of the people who need it, said BATONZ president Yuichi Kamise. Waves of closures will mean the loss of specialized craftsmanship, unique services and original restaurant recipes that make up Japan's social and cultural fabric, he said. "Over time, what makes Japan unique could disappear due to a lack of successors," he said. "I think it will deal a serious blow to Japanese culture and Japan's attractiveness as a tourism destination." Some feel though that the trend offers a chance to fix inefficiencies and consolidate small businesses that are barely scraping by or survive on subsidies. Hiroshi Miyaji, 50, owns Yashio Group, a logistics giant started by his grandfather, and has snapped up various businesses. "There will always be buyers for firms, with or without successors, that have unique strengths, special know-how and human resources," said Miyaji, a third-generation president. Helped by BATONZ, he recently purchased a small trucking company from 61-year-old Ayako Suzuki. 'Waiting for someone' Suzuki gave up her corporate career to help her father with the business he had started in 1975. None of the firm's three drivers wanted to take over and she was asked to join and help her father, then in his late eighties. But problems quickly piled up: the coronavirus pandemic hit, a driver left, trucks needed maintenance, and before long she was dipping into savings to stay afloat. "I wanted to keep the business going, at least while my father was alive," she told AFP. BATONZ connected her with Miyaji, who pledged to keep the firm's employees, clients and trucks. "I'm more relieved than sad," she said. "I didn't think our company had any value." The glut of affordable small businesses can be a boon for young people looking to break into a sector. Among them is 28-year-old chef Rikuo Morimoto. When the pandemic prevented him from studying in Italy, he used his savings to buy a four-decade-old diner in Tokyo and start a restaurant at a fraction of the normal cost. He kept the decor, furniture and many longstanding customers of "Andante", a beloved neighborhood restaurant in the Suginami district, while offering his own menu. "I thought I could only afford to have a food truck or a small bar," he said. Not everyone is so fortunate, and the future of Hashimoto's machinery factory remains uncertain, despite his attempts to groom three successors. "I'm just waiting for someone to come along and make use of this," he said. The post ‘Era of mass closures’: the Japan businesses without successors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Dismissal in disguise
Constructive dismissal has been defined as a dismissal in disguise, or an act amounting to dismissal but is made to appear as if it was not. More specifically, it is when an employee quits work because continued employment is rendered impossible, unreasonable, or unlikely, or when there is a demotion in rank or a diminution in pay and other benefits. (Dimagan v. Dackworks United, Inc., G.R. 191053, 28 November 2011). The test of constructive dismissal is whether a reasonable person in the employee’s position would have felt compelled to give up his or her employment under the circumstances (St. Paul College, Pasig v. Mancol, G.R. No. 222317, 24 January 2018). Here are some examples of acts that constitute constructive dismissal: In one case, an employee who was hired as a bookkeeper in a company engaged in the real estate business was held to be constructively dismissed when she was deprived of office space, was not given further work assignments, and was not paid her salaries until she was left with no choice but to stop reporting for work (Tan Brothers Corp. of Basilan City v. Escudero, G.R. 188711, 3 July 2013). In another case, an employee who was hired as a waiter in a hotel company was held to be constructively dismissed when his regular work days were reduced from five days to two days. The change in his work schedule thus resulted in the diminution of his take-home salary. The fact that he may have continued to report for work does not rule out constructive dismissal, nor does it operate as a waiver. (Regala v. Manila Hotel Corp., G.R. 204684, 5 October 2020). The Supreme Court explained that “constructive dismissal occurs not when the employee ceases to report for work, but when the unwarranted acts of the employer are committed to the end that the employee’s continued employment shall become so intolerable. In these difficult times, an employee may be left with no choice but to continue with his employment despite abuses committed against him by the employer, and even during the pendency of a labor dispute between them.” (The Orchard Golf and Country Club v. Francisco, G.R. 178125, 18 March 2013). In another case, a managerial employee was instructed to perform functions that were below her position. When she assigned another person to do the said functions and suggested a different procedure to her boss, the latter reacted negatively and told her she was stupid and incompetent. She was also asked to resign on more than one occasion but was later told to stay. After she was assured that she could keep her job, she was treated indifferently by the management. The Supreme Court held that acts of disdain and hostile behavior such as demotion, uttering insulting words, asking for resignation, and apathetic conduct towards an employee are tantamount to constructive dismissal. (Bayview Management Consultants Inc. v. Pre, G.R. 220170, 19 August 2020). In another instance, an employee became the subject of constructive dismissal in the guise of a transfer. She was initially promoted to the position of Chief Operating Officer in one of the employer’s branches. However, two months after her promotion, she was appointed instead as Compliance Manager, and her position of COO was declared abolished when the management decided to undertake an “organizational restructuring.” It appears, however, that the said position was actually never abolished as another employee was appointed to take her place. The appointment was even publicly announced via an official communication disseminated company-wide. The Supreme Court held that when another employee is soon after appointed to a position that the employer claims to have been abolished, while the employee who had to vacate the same is transferred against her will to a position that does not exist in the corporate structure, there is evidently a case of illegal constructive dismissal. (Ico v. Systems Technology Institute, Inc., G.R. 185100, 9 July 2014). An employee who is constructively dismissed is entitled to two reliefs, namely, back wages and reinstatement. However, where reinstatement is no longer feasible, the employee shall be granted separation pay in lieu of reinstatement (Cornworld Breeding Systems Corp. v. Court of Appeals, G.R. 204075, 17 August 2022). For more of Dean Nilo Divina’s legal tidbits, please visit www.divinalaw.com. For comments and questions, please send an email to cabdo@divinalaw.com. The post Dismissal in disguise appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gen Z café owners open 90th branch in Fairview
The first black soft-serve ice cream in the Philippines, Black Scoop Cafe, finally opened a branch in Fairview, Quezon City, last 7 July. Since its inception in 2018, with the first outlet in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City, Black Scoop Cafe has branched out to 89 locations all over the Philippines, making the Ayala Fairview Terraces’ garden in Fairview more memorable as the 90th branch of the cafe. The cafe’s owners are the youngest merchants of all store owners in the mall. They are there not just to sell and earn but for a more meaningful reason — to bolster Gen Zs taking over the business field. Black Scoop Cafe in Ayala Fairview Terraces, co-owned by chief executive officer RK Peralta, 23, and his partner and chairman of the cafe, Jason Dublin, 24, envision themselves taking over the business but, more importantly, Gen Zs to take over the business industry. “There’s like a connotation that Gen Zs aren’t capable of doing these things, so this is a testament that we are capable,” Peralta said. Even up to the employees, Peralta and Dublin hired Gen Zs, showing a more powerful testament to their primary goal of uplifting the status of the current generation in the business sector. “Gen Zs are ready to take over. I believe that everything can be learned naman, so I’m confident also with the staff, with the team that we have,” Peralta explained when asked about their biggest challenge. Black Scoop Cafe offers a variety of sweet and savory food and beverage options that everyone can indulge in. Menu includes (tea drinks) frappe, coffee, cream cheese lattes; (food) pancakes, rice meals, pasta, wings, sandwiches/wraps. The café also serves a “secret menu” — known only to loyal patrons — the Biscoff collection. It includes a Biscoff-flavored milk tea and frappe. The post Gen Z café owners open 90th branch in Fairview appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pride screenings showcase a rainbow of stories
Cinema is one of the most engaging artforms and creative expressions through which the LGBTQ+ community documents their lived experiences, conveys their desires and struggles, celebrates their identities and advocates for reforms and deeper understanding. Thus, film screenings are popular activities during LGBTQ+ Pride Month. This year, several institutions, streaming service companies and film groups are mounting screenings, giving these works more opportunities to reach more audiences. Here is a rundown: FDCP’s Pelikulaya LGBTQIA+ Film Festival The Film Development Council of the Philippines brings back the Pelikulaya LGBTQIA+ Film Festival this year with the theme “Mga Kuwentong Mapagpalaya” (Liberating Stories), and the aim is training the spotlight “on underrepresented members of the LGBTQIA+ community to promote a better understanding of inclusivity, diversity and equality.” According to Tirso Cruz III, FDCP chairman and chief executive officer, Pelikulaya “aims to raise awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues. We believe that by using the power of film, we can do our part in showcasing films that celebrate LGBTQIA+ stories. Hoping to create understanding of the lives, perspectives and advocacies shown in each film.” “With that, the FDCP sends our love and gratitude to you all for being with us, and we hope you’ll have a memorable experience in all of our Cinematheque Centres across the Philippines,” he added. To be held from 23 to 30 June, Pelikulaya will screen titles at the Cinematheque Centres in Manila, Davao, Iloilo, Nabunturan and Bacolod, and several theaters in Metro Manila including Cinema ‘76 and UP Film Institute’s Cine Adarna/Videotheque. Some of the titles will also be available for streaming on JuanFlix (www.juanflix.com.ph) starting 30 June with a subscription fee. A special screening of a digitally restored and remastered version of Wong Kar Wai’s Happy Together will kick off the festival on 23 June at the Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City. Aside from Happy Together, films that will be screened at the Cinematheque Centres are Girl (directed by Lukas Dhont); Portrait of a Lady on Fire (directed by Celine Sciamma); Women Do Cry (directed by Vesela Kazako and Mina Mileva); Billie and Emma (directed by Samantha Lee); Mamu, and a Mother Too (directed by Rod Singh); Metamorphosis (directed by J.E. Tiglao); and The Boy Foretold by the Stars (directed by Dolly Dulu). Ishmael Bernal’s Manila by Night will have a free screening. Priced from P100 to P200, tickets to Manila screenings may be purchased through bit.ly/CCManilaTickets. [caption id="attachment_146567" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lukas Dhont’s ‘Girl’ is inspired by a true story of a young trans girl who aspired to be a ballerina.[/caption] Short films will be screened for free at the Cinematheque Centres, and the lineup includes Alingasngas ng mga Kuliglig (directed by Vahn Leinard Pascual); Love in the Ungodly Hour (directed by Bradley Jason Pantajo); Dikit (directed by Gabriela Serrano); Gulis (directed by Kyle Jumayne Francisco); Noontime Drama (directed by Kim Timan and Sam Villa-Real); and Nang Maglublob ako sa Isang Mangkok ng Liwanag (directed by Kukay Zinampan). [caption id="attachment_146563" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Dikit,’ a short film by Gabriela Serrano.[/caption] To be available for streaming on JuanFlix are Sila-Sila (directed by Giancarlo Abrahan); Metamorphosis; Mamu, and a Mother Too; Rome and Juliet (directed by Connie Macatuno); How to Die Young in Manila (directed by Petersen Vargas); Nang Maglublob ako sa Isang Mangkok ng Liwanag; and This is Not A Coming Out Story (directed by Mark Felix Ebreo). Portrait of a Lady on Fire and Women Do Cry will be also be available on a pay-per-view basis. At Cinema ’76 Cinema ’76 Film Society is bringing in acclaimed movies this Pride Month. Headlining is Happy Together, the 1997 Cannes-winning romantic drama directed by renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-Wai and featuring Tony Leung and the late Leslie Cheung as two lovers caught in a turbulent affair. Aside from Happy Together, two films featuring transgender experiences will also be shown. Girl is the debut film of Belgian filmmaker Lukas Dhont and won the Camera d’Or for Best Feature Film at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival. The film was inspired by a true story of a young trans girl who aspired to be a ballerina. On the other hand, Fanny: The Right to Rock is a documentary by Canadian filmmaker Bobbi Jo Hart about Fanny, the legendary Filipina-American-fronted rock band whose trailblazing impact in music was written out of history. The film touches on the place of women, women of color, queers and older women in a straight male-dominated industry. [caption id="attachment_146564" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Fanny The Right to Rock,’ a documentary about a forgotten queer band.[/caption] The three films will have a limited run from 21 to 27 June at Cinema ’76 on Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City. On iWantTFC A streaming platform with international reach, iWantTFC celebrates all types of love with a special selection of movies and series called Love is Love that includes Drag You and Me, iWantTFC’s latest original series that tackles drag culture and stars Andrea Brillantes, JC Alcantara and Christian Bables. Other iWantTFC originals that viewers may stream are the Girls’ Love series Sleep with Me, starring Janine Gutierrez and Lovi Poe, and Fluid, Boys’ Love (BL) rom-com Oh, Mando! and advocacy series Mga Batang Poz. [caption id="attachment_146566" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of Dreamscape Entetainment | ‘Drag You and Me’ is an iWantTFC original series that tackles drag culture.[/caption] There are also empowering movies and series about loving freely and living authentically, such as The Boy Foretold by the Stars and its sequel series Love Beneath the Stars, Black Sheep’s hit series Hello Stranger starring Tony Labrusca and JC Alcantara, and the Star Cinema film My Lockdown Romance, starring Jameson Blake and Joao Constancia. Stories on learning how to embrace one’s sexuality and being true to oneself are told by The Panti Sisters, Die Beautiful, The Third Party and Baka Bukas. Thai BL series, such as 2gether the Series, Still 2gether, A Tale of a Thousand Stars and Bad Buddy are also available to stream as well as well-loved and classic LGBTQ-themed movies, such as T-Bird at Ako, Si Chedeng at si Apple and In My Life. These can be viewed on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com). In other select countries, watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with select devices, including VEWD, ROKU and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia) and VIDAA. On Jungo Pinoy New Filipino streaming app Jungo Pinoy, which boasts of having the largest Filipino-dubbed movie library in the world, as well as original films and TV series, also has a selection of LGBTQ-themed and queer-created films and series, which can be viewed either for free or through a subscription plan. Recommended watch includes: eCupid (exclusive Filipino-dubbed), a romantic comedy directed by JC Calciano and starring Morgan Fairchild, Houston Rhines and Noah Schuffman, tells the story of a gay man nearing 30 years old tapping into an otherworldly internet advertisement that begins to control his life. Hoping to end his seven-year romance rut, he uses the site to get everything he wants until he discovers that what he thought he wanted wasn’t the thing that would ultimately make him happy. Ten Year Plan (exclusive Filipino-dubbed) is another romantic comedy directed by Calciano and starring Jack Turner and Michael Adam Hamilton. In the film, two best friends make a pact to be together in a decade if neither finds love. With two months left until their deadline, they both scramble to find someone to avoid being each other’s last resort. [caption id="attachment_146565" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘TEN Year Plan,’ directed by JC Calciano.[/caption] Adan is a Filipino lesbian mystery and romance movie starring Cindy Miranda, Rhen Escano and Ruby Ruiz. In the movie, a naive provincial girl finds a way to be independent through the help of her girl best friend, but their actions have consequences. [caption id="attachment_146562" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photographs Courtesy oF JUNGO PINOY | ‘ADAN’ tells about a lesbian story.[/caption] Daddy Issues, starring Jo Ashe and Rachel Barry, is a comedy about loss and starting over. In the film, when her emotionally distant father dies and leaves her his company, a hapless stand-up comic moves to Los Angeles to take over the family business. Tucked is about an aging drag queen who forms an unlikely friendship with a younger queen. As they discover more about each other, they realize how to truly be themselves. Starring Derren Nesbit and Jordan Stephens, this film is about love, loss and friendship. Lady Gaga: iTunes Festival features the pop star’s performance at the Itunes Music Festival, which also marked the world premiere of tracks from her album ARTPOP. [caption id="attachment_146570" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JUNGO PINOY | WATCH pop star Lady Gaga perform in ‘Lady Gaga iTunes Festival.’[/caption] Sam Smith: Austin City Limits features the non-binary English singer and songwriter performing their greatest hits, such as “Nirvana” and “I Know I’m Not the Only One” on the stage at Austin City Limits. [caption id="attachment_146569" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Sam Smith: Austin City Limits.’[/caption] At the Quezon City Public Library A weekly film screening is part of the celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month of one of the country’s most active public libraries, the Quezon City Public Library (QCPL). With the theme, “Equality for All,” their celebration aims “to highlight the unique contributions and lived experiences of the members of the LGBTQIA+ community through various library activities and informational resources.” “This celebration also forwards an aspiration: that one day, we will be able to genuinely acknowledge the existence of our fellow LGBTQIA+ brothers and sisters as equally valuable as everyone. And that they too deserve equal opportunity in any given situation and honest representation in all of its forms, shapes and sizes,” the library explained. The film screenings started with Love, Simon and Everything Everywhere All at Once on 9 June and All My Life and Bekikang on 16 June. Other films to be shown are Perks of Being A Wall Flower and Boys in the Band on 23 June, and Eternals and Imitation Game on 30 June. Screenings are from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Conference Room of QCPL. Contact the library to reserve slots. At the UPFI Film Center The University of the Philippines Film Institute also had screenings of LGBTQ+ films on 17 June, in partnership with the UP Diliman Gender Office. Shown were short films Gutab, Dory, Niknik, Kurozetto, Bakit, Papa? and Nang Maglublob Ako sa isang Mangkok ng Liwanag. The post Pride screenings showcase a rainbow of stories appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Wanted Korean intercepted at NAIA
The Bureau of Immigration at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport has arrested a Korean national wanted for a string of criminal cases in his country. In a report given to BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco, BI Intelligence Division chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. identified the arrested passenger as Kim SeonJeong, who was intercepted at NAIA Terminal 3 on 27 May. Manahan said that Kim had just arrived in the country via a Cebu Pacific flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, when he was accosted by elements of the BI Border Control and Intelligence Unit at the airport. BI supervisors alerted the BCIU agents after the immigration officer who processed Kim upon his arrival discovered that his name was included in the Interpol database. Tansingco immediately ordered the conduct of summary deportation proceedings against Kim to stand trial for his crimes. Information obtained from Interpol’s National Central Bureau in Manila revealed that Kim is a convicted felon and is wanted in Korea to serve his sentence for fraud, inflicting physical injuries and drunken driving. Korean authorities said that in October 2018, Kim defrauded a compatriot by enticing the victim to give him 30 million won, or nearly US$23,000, which he would pay in the amount of 100 million won within three months. Kim claimed that he would invest the funds in the casino business, but he reneged on his promise and instead pocketed the money that the victim had deposited in his bank account. It also reported that Kim presented a Korean passport, which was already reported as a stolen and lost travel document to the Interpol. The suspect is presently detained at the BI Warden Facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, pending deportation proceedings. The post Wanted Korean intercepted at NAIA appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Wes Anderson says lockdown helped inspire ‘Asteroid City’
Wes Anderson's new film puts Westerns, theatre, 1950s Americana, and an alien into a blender for another of his atypical -- and star-packed -- concoctions that he says is about "reckoning with forces beyond your control". As always, "Asteroid City", which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday, features a roster of actors that reads like a Hollywood phonebook. Tom Hanks, Steve Carell, and Margot Robbie -- newcomers to the Anderson family -- join past collaborators Scarlett Johansson and Edward Norton and regulars like Adrien Brody, Jason Schwartzman, and Tilda Swinton in the film. The one-of-a-kind director never seems too influenced by events in the real world, but he told AFP the Covid-19 pandemic did have an impact. "This movie is certainly informed by the most bizarre viral moment in recent history," he said. "Writing it during this pandemic, in the middle of the most locked-down lockdown, we were not sure we would ever go out again -- so I think that's sorta in it. Hanks is intimidating "Asteroid City" is a bizarre and knotty tale set in a remote desert town where a group of child geniuses is gathered for a science competition that is interrupted by an alien visitor, leaving them locked up in quarantine. But in typically convoluted Anderson form, the desert story is presented as a play being performed in New York. Anderson says he wanted to pay homage to actors, who remain something of a mystery to him, even after working with the biggest names in the business. "Many of the actors are my friends now, but nevertheless they are different on set," Anderson said. "Actors recognize something in each other that normal people don't go through -- this thing of being the one who everyone is going to watch. It has this interesting strange effect. It became part of what the movie is about." Working with Hanks was a joy, he told AFP, though he was initially nervous. "He's a wonderful actor but also a huge movie star... it's intimidating. "But his manner on set is: you suggest something and he says 'Sorry, I should have thought of that.' That encourages you to be better because you're empowered by this person with such an aura." Scarlett's smokey voice One person who is glaringly absent is Bill Murray, who has appeared in all of Anderson's films since "Rushmore" in 1998. "Bill was cast in a part but then he got Covid three days before we were supposed to shoot," said Anderson. "We replaced him very quickly with the wonderful Steve Carell who was great." Luckily, Murray's health improved to come to hang out on set for the last of the shoot, he added, and Carell turns in a hilarious cameo as a hotel owner. What Anderson often loves most about his actors is their voice, something he discovered when he cast George Clooney as the lead in the animated film "Fantastic Mr. Fox". "Only when I recorded George did I realize how much it's about his voice? And that kinda applies to the majority of actors -- so much depends on the voice." Johansson, who did the voiceover for Anderson's "Isle of Dogs" (2018) "has this wonderful, slightly smokey voice," he said. Arguably, no director has ever had a style that is so immediately recognizable as Anderson's: the symmetrical playhouse-like sets, bright colors, and deadpan irony. He can't help it. "There's a way I do scenes that is just me," he said. "It's more like a condition than a choice." The post Wes Anderson says lockdown helped inspire ‘Asteroid City’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»