Makati City News December 2017

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Mission, Vission of Makati inscribed on a plaque
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Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

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Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.
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Monument of Ninoy Aquino

Seda hotel chain eyes 3,500 rooms in 15 locations by 2019

By Leslie Gatpolintan (PNA)

MANILA -- Ayala Land Inc., through Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corp., plans to ramp up the rollout of its Seda hotel brand to more than double capacity to 3,500 rooms by 2019, as it rides the tourism boom.

Senior group general manager Andrea Mastellone said the hotel chain will increase the current 1,409 rooms in seven locations to 15 hotels in two years.

Following the launch of Seda Lio in El Nido, Palawan in the first half of 2018, new Seda hotels will be inaugurated in the next two years in Circuit Makati; Arca South, Taguig; the Cebu Business Park; Ayala North Exchange, Makati; Bay Area, Paranaque; and the Cebu IT Park.

In response to the Bonifacio Global City’s (BGC) sustained expansion, an additional 342 rooms will also be added to Seda BGC in Taguig, the brand’s flagship hotel.

Seda currently has six other operating hotels located in Cagayan de Oro, Davao City, Nuvali in Laguna, Iloilo City, Quezon City and Bacolod City.

Mastellone expects tourism and traditional firms on expansion mode to be Seda’s growth drivers and to fill the more than 2,000 rooms coming on stream in the next few years.

She said Seda will focus its expansion primarily in Metro Manila and Cebu-Mactan areas.

Mastellone cited studies by the Department of Tourism (DOT) indicating projected room gaps of 69,185 in Metro Manila, and 14,913 in Cebu-Mactan by 2022.

Metro Manila has 267 firecracker zones: NCRPO

By Priam Nepomuceno (PNA)

MANILA -- With New Year's Eve revelries just two days away, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced it has designated 267 firecracker zones in its five police districts in Metro Manila.

This is in compliance to President Rodrigo Duterte's Executive Order No. 28, which bans private citizens from putting up their own fireworks displays or use firecrackers in their residences.

NCRPO Director Oscar Albayalde said the zones can be broken as follows: 131 in Quezon City Police District; 62 in the Northern Police District which covers Malabon City, Navotas City, Valenzuela City and Caloocan City; 52 in Manila; 13 in the Southern Police District covering Makati City, Muntinlupa City, Las Piñas City, Pasay City, Paranaque City, Taguig City and Pateros and nine for the Eastern Police District which has jurisdiction over San Juan City, Pasig City, Marikina City, and Mandaluyong City.

Residents and groups could only light their firecrackers or watch firecracker displays in areas designated by police.

All firecrackers with gunpowder exceeding two grams or 1.3 teaspoons are also banned.

Only the following firecrackers and pyrotechnics are allowed: baby rocket, bawang, small triangle, pulling of strings, paper caps, el diablo, and sky rocket (kwitis), sparklers, luces, fountains, jumbo regular and special, Mabuhay, Roman candle, trompillo, Airwolf, whistle device, and butterfly.

Albayalde said they are coordinating closely with local government units to secure areas for community fireworks display.

He also expressed optimism that the move will at least lessen the number of injured victims as 2018 ushers in.

Makati bans fireworks in 12 barangays; Sets strict guidelines for community fireworks displays for remaining 21

(Makati Government Official Website)

The city government of Makati on Wednesday issued a directive banning the use of fireworks in 12 out of its 33 barangays, and setting the guidelines for the remaining barangays, which will be allowed to put up only one pyrotechnic display zone each after obtaining a permit from City Hall.

On the orders of Mayor Abby Binay, city administrator Atty. Claro Certeza issued a memorandum providing guidelines for the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in the city.

“We have come up with stringent guidelines providing adequate precautionary measures to ensure the safety of Makatizens in welcoming the New Year. We urge our barangay leaders and residents to fully cooperate with the city government in aiming for a zero-casualty, accident-free celebration in our city,” Mayor Abby said.

In his memorandum to all barangay chiefs of Makati, Certeza said the “density of structures and residential housing” in the city has prompted the city government to exercise its authority to come up with its own policies suited to its local conditions.

Unlike Executive Order No. 28 which authorizes the use of pyrotechnic devices outside the Community Fireworks Area, Makati limits the use of fireworks inside a designated zone only, and allows just one such area for each of the 21 barangays not covered by the total ban. It also requires the barangays to first secure a permit from City Hall prior to using a designated community pyro display zone.

The city directive identified 12 barangays where fireworks and pyrotechnic displays are totally banned, including Bangkal, Magallanes and Pio del Pilar which are covered by the ban imposed through City Ordinance No. 2010-A-020 due to the West Tower oil leak. Barangays Rizal, Cembo, East Rembo, Northside, Pinagkaisahan, Carmona, Olympia, San Antonio, and Sta. Cruz were included in the ban due to lack of fire stations or fire trucks.

The memorandum also directs the 21 barangays not covered by the ban to create a Task Force on Pyrotechnics Display Zone which will ensure full compliance with the guidelines. They will need to submit to the City Administrator’s Office, copy furnished the DILG-Makati, the designated Pyro Display zone, names of the composition of the Task Force, and list of available precautionary resources like firetrucks, ambulances, and Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management response and emergency medical teams.

Proposed designated pyro display zones must comply with the following requirements: There shall only be one pyro display zone per barangay; It shall be in an open space with a five-meter set-back from the nearest structure or building; People shall not be allowed within 100 feet from the pyrotechnic device; Each area shall be provided with a stand-by firetruck, ambulance with Emergency Medical Team, fire extinguishers, and stand-by BDRRM response teams.

Certeza said each Task Force will be chaired by the punong barangay, and will be composed of the following as members: ¿¿¿PNP Station or Police Community Relations Commander, BFP Station Commander or his representative, MAPSA, Bantay Bayan, and Environmental Police.

The Task Force will perform the following functions: Designate Pyrotechnics Display Zone in their barangay; Conduct information drive regarding the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices outside of the community fireworks display area; Provide precautionary measures in designated Pyrotechnic Device Zones; Conduct and ensure that the pyrotechnics displays are within the designated area; Conduct clean-up immediately after the pyrotechnics display.

It will also confiscate illegal firecrackers per DILG-DOH-DOF-DTI Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1 Series of 2014 and DILG MC 2017-168. These include Piccolo, Super Lolo, Whistle bomb, Goodbye Earth, Atomic Big Triangulo, Judas Belt, Watusi, Firecrackers which are oversized or overweight, Firecrackers with fuse that burn in less than 3 seconds or more than 6 seconds, Imported finished products, Firecrackers with mixture of phosphorus, or sulfur with that of chlorate and polyvinyl pipe “boga”, and other types equivalent to explosive content of more than 0.2 gram or 1/3 teaspoon.

Other illegal firecrackers to be confiscated include those firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices manufactured, sold or distributed without the necessary occupancy permit, business permit or permit to operate; those transported without a permit to transport; Imported firecrackers or fireworks in the market.

As defined in the guidelines, pyrotechnic devices are those materials capable of undergoing self-contained and self-sustained exothermic chemical reactions for the production ofheat, light, gas, smoke and/or sound, like Christmas fountain or pailaw that produces smoke, heat, light or fire without an explosion.

Tax Academy to tie up with SUCs, open VisMin campuses

(DOF)

MANILA – The Department of Finance (DOF) will tie up with State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) such as the University of the Philippines (UP) and the University of Makati (UMak) in setting up the first Philippine Tax Academy (PTA) in the country by January 2018.

The main campus of the PTA will be at the UMak in Makati City while the UP College of Economics in Diliman is being eyed to offer Executive Program certificate courses to interested DOF employees, Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said in a report to Secretary Carlos Dominguez III.

Beltran said the DOF is also planning to open regional campuses of the PTA in Visayas and Mindanao with the main site in Region 10 following a request by the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) for the renovation of its Northern Mindanao regional office in Cagayan de Oro City to a PTA Center.

This planned PTA Training Center will provide provincial employees of the BLGF, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and Bureau of Customs (BOC) continuing professional education and training on improving tax collection competence and efficiency.

The BLGF, he said, has requested a budget of P33 million to build the PTA Training Center and its offices in the bureau’s 1,064 square meter property in Cagayan de Oro City.

Beltran said the BLGF will also soon start offering PTA training courses to local treasurers assigned in the Bicol Region.

The Senate, meanwhile, has expressed interest in the DOF’s PTA program and has tasked its Senate Tax Study and Research Office to submit a program for the training of all its Senate employees and the technical staff of senators handling tax matters, Beltran said.

In a report to Dominguez III during a DOF Executive Committee (Execom) meeting, Beltran said consultants engaged by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) are also now “onboard” to help develop the PTA curriculum.

Under Republic Act (RA) no. 10143 signed almost seven years ago, the PTA “shall develop and implement a curriculum that includes those pertaining to: (a) the technical aspects of tax collection, administration and compliance; and (b) the career orientation and development for civil servants.”

RA no. 10143 states that the PTA “shall serve as a learning institution for tax collectors and administrators of the government and selected applicants from the private sector.”

The PTA is also tasked to “conduct lectures, seminars, workshops and other training programs designed to mold, develop, and enhance the skills and knowledge, moral fitness, efficiency and capability of tax collectors and administrators.”

To be set up as a corporate body, the PTA is authorized under the law to enter into consortium agreements and joint venture agreements with UP, public and private universities and training institutions “for the development and implementation of the curriculum, programs for orientation, career development and continuing education in tax collection, auditing, administration and compliance.”

Under RA no. 10143, “all existing officials and personnel of the BIR, the BOC and the BLGF shall be required to undergo the re-tooling and enhancement seminars and training programs to be conducted by the Philippine Tax Academy.”

The law also requires “all applicants to the said bureaus to pass the basic courses before they can be hired whether on contractual or permanent status.”

The Board of Trustees of the PTA shall include representatives from the DOF, BIR, BOC, BLGF and three representatives from the academe with at least five years of teaching experience in reputable schools.

Other Asian countries such as Japan, China, India, Australia, Singapore and Malaysia have their respective tax academies that also train tax and customs authorities, as well as private individuals in taxation and finance assessment and management.

Makati's Festival of Lights dances on 'til Jan. 7, 2018

By Aerol John Pateña (PNA)

MANILA -- One of the most popular Christmas attractions in Metro Manila is the annual Festival of Lights Show at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City.

The event has become a Christmas tradition for Makati residents, visitors, shoppers, and employees of the financial district. The sight of colorful lights dancing to the beat of blaring but pleasing music proves to be a joyful Yuletide experience to spectators, young and old alike.

For this year, the Ayala Festival of Lights features around 1.6 million LED lights in colors of red, green, blue, silver, and gold moving to three musical medleys of different beats: “Pinoy Fiesta” by Roy del Valle, “Traditional Christmas” by Von de Guzman, and “Techno” by Tris Sunguitan.

The shows for the lights and sounds have been choreographed by award-winning director Voltaire de Jesus and Luther Gumia.

Kats Nasayao, who works for a travel management firm in the Makati Central Business District, makes it a point to watch the lights and sound show every year with her officemates to get a feel of the spirit of Christmas as well as to relieve stress from her daily work.

“The Ayala Triangle lights show is always enchanting," she said. "The theme is always new every year that you always look forward to it.”

Jade Miguel, a media relations officer in the Senate, said: “Families, especially kids, would really enjoy watching the spectacle because of the colors and music. Walang entrance fee, so free lang siya for all (There’s no entrance fee, so everyone can watch it for free).”

Even Filipinos who are living abroad and are spending Christmas in the Philippines to watch the Festival as a way to bond with their families and friends.

Graciela Bertuben, a balikbayan from Los Angeles in California, said her family watched the show because of favorable feedback from friends and relatives here in the country.

“We are really impressed with the Christmas lights show, as this gives us a feeling of what Pinoy Christmas is. Nothing beats the Christmas celebration in the Philippines in terms of being festive and enjoyable,” she said.The Festival of Lights has been cited as one of Conde Nast Traveller’s Seven Most Spectacular Lights in the World together with Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, Champ-Elysees in Paris, and Japan’s Kobe Luminarie.

The attraction extends to Makati’s major streets, particularly, Ayala Avenue, Paseo de Roxas, and Makati Avenue, where over a million Christmas lights showcase patterns of native wooden fabrics, such as the inabel and burdado of Luzon; banig tikog of Visayas; and T’boli, ukil, and Yakan of Mindanao.

The festival, which runs every 30 minutes from 6 to 10 p.m. goes on from November 9 this year to January 7, 2018.

LOOK: This LED billboard in Makati erupts into actual fireworks

(Rappler.com)

Heineken is celebrating this festive season with a delightful surprise for commuters

https://assets.rappler.com/612F469A6EA84F6BAE882D2B94A4B421/img/226FD17DA4FF48D0BC62294A14671482/heineken-led-1_226FD17DA4FF48D0BC62294A14671482.jpg

MANILA, Philippines – We’re still in the middle of celebrating the holidays but when you’re on the road, stuck in traffic during the rush hour, you just don't feel it.

So, to help Filipinos celebrate this festive season even during their busy commute, Heineken decided to put up a billboard that erupts into actual fireworks right in the middle of one of Makati’s busiest streets.

The skies of Makati Avenue light up every 30 minutes from 6:30 pm until 9 pm.

https://assets.rappler.com/612F469A6EA84F6BAE882D2B94A4B421/img/2C7C7E8AD2234910985009C2746302B5/heineken-led-2_2C7C7E8AD2234910985009C2746302B5.jpg

https://assets.rappler.com/612F469A6EA84F6BAE882D2B94A4B421/img/C3716D5120BF45F4993CDBDCDD7DBEE5/heineken-led-3_C3716D5120BF45F4993CDBDCDD7DBEE5.jpg

This effort is part of Heineken’s campaign, “Celebrate With the World,” because celebrating with a bottle of Heineken means celebrating with over 50,000 people across the globe.

In line with this, Heineken also held “Tri-City” celebrations in different places of Manila that brought the party scenes of three different countries in one venue.

Catch the shows on these dates: Dec. 22, 23, 24, 27, 29, 30, Jan 1.

The billboard is located at Makati Ave-Buendia intersection, across Pacific Star Building and Petron.

FIELD TRIP: Spend an entire day in Makati this Holiday season

(LA, GMA News)

Christmas is the best time to be in the Philippines. The busy airports prove balikbayans — even foreign friends — make sure they're here to experience what is said to be the longest Christmas season in the world, with family and friends.

But heavy traffic in major routes may prevent us from taking them to the very many sights around the city. Imagine the average travel time to and from the shopping mall could take away 5-6 hours every day?

And so a suggestion: How about spending an entire day in just one city? That way our time is managed and we get to see more of what the city has to offer.

We're looking at starting with a field trip to Makati, the country’s prime business district. Behind its skyscrapers are world class museums, parks, upscale shopping malls and hotels that offer fun activities. Here are five activities you can enjoy during a day trip.

1. Visit Ayala Museum

Apart from its excellent exhibits and collections — don't miss its fantastic collection of national artists Botong Francisco and Fernando Amorsolo — Ayala Museum is offering free entrance from December 26 to 30 to children 12 years old and below.

A must see: the Diorama of Philippine history and the 360 Virtual Reality that relieves the execution of Dr. Jose Rizal, where the viewer will be made to view the last hours of the national hero in three points-of-view: as a member of the audience, as a soldier, and as Dr. Rizal himself.

2. Take part in cookie decorating and sumptuous lunch at Flavors restaurant

The Holiday Inn and Suites in Makati offers fun activities for children as part of its staycation package. The cookie decorating workshop is a fun way to bond with children and usually conducted around 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. — the best time to arrive in Makati when you're not doing a staycation because parking is easy and traffic is still manageable.

Families with balikbayan relatives and friends will enjoy buffet lunch Flavors Restaurant at the hotel with rich selection of Filipino and Asian dishes. Not to be missed are the signature desserts- Ube cheesecake and Carrot cake.

3. Enjoy go karting

Shopping is cool but there are other things you can do, like go karting. Circuit Makati, a well-developed business and leisure destination in the city, has 600 meters of facilities that caters to professionals, beginners and even first-timers. It also provides helmets and racing suits that make karting safe even for small children. The kart racing is open day and night time.

4. Bask in the season with 56-foot tall outdoor Christmas tree

Also in Circuit Makati is an immersive 56-foot tall Christmas tree. The interactive lights and scheduled shows will entertain guests and will make Christmas memorable for your relatives and friends.

“Christmas is the time when we celebrate and create the most cherished memories with our loved ones. We believe that sharing new experiences with those you truly love is the best way to celebrate this joyful season,” said Shiella Aguilar, Makati Project Development Head for Ayala Land.

5. Get awe-struck at the festival of lights at Ayala Triangle Gardens

The best way to cap your day is delight in the Festival of Lights at Ayala Triangle Gardens, named one of the seven spectacular light shows in the world by travel magazine Conde Nast Traveller in 2014.

It starts at 6 p.m., when the entire garden turns into a world class lights and sound show to delight families, friends and even employees leaving the offices.

Makati’s Legazpi and Washington SyCip parks unveiled after reconstruction

(BM, GMA News)

Two small parks in Makati City are valiantly fighting the good fight to bring much-needed oxygen and open spaces into this choked, overcrowded metropolis.

Unveiled this weekend after a seven-month reconstruction were the Legazpi Active Park and the Washington SyCip Park, which both occupy a small space between Gamboa and Legazpi Streets in Legazpi Village. The parks are separated from each other by Rada Street.

According to a statement by the Makati Commercial Estate Association (MaCEA), narra, bagras, mahogany and acacia trees populate the parks.

Washington SyCip Park, created in 2006 in honor of the business magnate who passed away last Oitober, is the larger of the two parks. Its distinctive features include sculptures by Impy Pilapil, a pond, an amphitheater, pavilions, restrooms, and a Japanese garden.

"The redevelopment of the Legazpi Active Park and the Washington Sycip Park is part of our bigger initiative, which is to revitalize the Makati CBD [central business district]," said MaCEA president David Balangue. "Along with the greening projects is the commitment to enhance walkability, upgrade infrastructures and sidewalks, as well as increase security features in Makati CBD."

Makati, Bulacan show way

(Peoples Tonight)

THE race for the top two slots in each of the three groups in the on-going 2017 Cebuana Lhuillier-ASAPHIL 18 & U Women's Softball Championship in Marikina City is heating with the seeded teams leading their respective groups.

In Group A of the tournament organized by ASAPHIL as its grassroots program for girls’ softball and backed by the Cebuana Lhuillier Group of Companies headed by ASAPHIL President/CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, Makati A edged out last year's runner-up Tanauan A 2-1 for a 5-0 win loss record to lead the group with San Miguel, Bulacan just a game behind with a 4-0 record punctuated by its 23-0 rout of Taguig in its last outing.

Tanauan, however, remains in the race with a 2-1 record, edging out Manila prior to its game against Makati A.

Another title contender Pasig paces Group B of the tournament sponsored by Cebuana Pera Padala, Cebuana Microloans, Cebuana Micro Inc., Cebuana Savings Bank and the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, with the Pasig based girls blanking two provincial teams back to back, sweeping both Cauayan and Abra 10-0 for a perfect 5-0 card, ILLAM is in second place with a 4-0 highlighted by its 7-0 sweep against Abra and another similar 7-0 victory over Cauayan in its last two games.

Tanauan B with a 3-0 record is expected to fight out with the top two teams in the group to advance to the next round. Tanauan was impressive with its 16-0 demolition job against Biñan.

Third placer last year Sta. Maria, Bulacan is looking for a higher finish this year as it leads Group C with a 5-0 record, demolishing Dasmariñas 8-0 after edging out Cabiao 2-1 in a close game in its last two games.Rizal remains unbeaten in second place with its 4 - 0 record, Rizal beat Makati B 9-4 and Miriam 10-0 in its last games. Cebu-Abellana won its first two games.

Makati bans kids onboard motorcycles, tricycles

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan (PNA)

MANILA -- The Makati City Council has passed an ordinance prohibiting motorcycle drivers from carrying small children on board anywhere in the city and also regulates the conveyance of minors in tricycles by prohibiting drivers from carrying minors in front or at the back of the driver’s seat.

City Ordinance No. 2017-135, named the “Children’s Safety in Tricycles and Motorcycles Ordinance of the City of Makati,” strictly prohibits driving a motorcycle with a child on board, unless all of the following conditions are met: a) the child’s feet can comfortably reach the foot peg of the motorcycle; b) the child’s arms can reach around and grasp the waist of the driver; and (c) the child is wearing a standard protective helmet which bears a Philippine Standard (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) mark.

The said ordinance also prohibits tricycles operating anywhere within the city from conveying minors in front or at the back of the driver’s seat.

The only exception provided by the ordinance is for cases where the minor or child being transported requires immediate medical attention.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay endorsed the passage of the ordinance in light of frequent news reports on road crashes involving children as victims not only in the metropolis, but in the provinces as well.

“Local governments must take swift and definitive action to arrest the growing number of children injured or killed in road crashes involving motorcycles and tricycles. It is our duty to use the powers vested in us to enact and implement laws that complement and strengthen national laws, and ensure these are strictly enforced in our own localities,” Binay said in a statement.

She also urged parents of minors to be proactive and warn their children to avoid riding at the backseat of tricycles (commonly called “back-ride”) since they would be highly vulnerable to injury, even death, in case the vehicle gets in a collision or road crash.

The mayor appealed to tricycle drivers, especially those hired to ferry young schoolchildren, to be always mindful of the safety of their passengers and prioritize safety over earning a living. She also said they should maintain their vehicles’ roadworthiness and keep them clean for the health and safety of their passengers.

Tricycle and motorcycle drivers who violate the ordinance will be penalized as follows: PHP2,000 on the first offense; PHP3,000 on the second offense; PHP5,000 or imprisonment for a maximum of six months, or both for the third offense, at the discretion of the court.

The said ordinance was published last December 12 in a newspaper of general circulation, and will take effect after 10 days, according to the Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Makati.

The ordinance defines “minors” as persons below 18 years of age or those over but are unable to fully take care of themselves or protect themselves from abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation, or discrimination because of a physical or mental disability or condition.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2015 Global Status Report, around 53 percent of road crashes in the country involve motorcycles, while an estimated 96 Filipino children fall victim to road crashes every day.

Meanwhile, R.A. 10054 or the "Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009” requires motorcycle riders and back riders to wear a standard protective motorcycle helmet which is compliant with the standards set by the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) and bears a PS or ICC mark.

Pamaskong Handog boxing fest explodes in Makati

By JOSEF T. RAMOS

Former Olympian Mark Anthony Barriga bested Valenzuela City’s Glenn Calacar (3-2-6 record) with a unanimous decision victory in a non-title minimum weight bout in Pamaskong Handog boxing festival at the Makati Cinema Square in Pasong Tamo, Makati City on Saturday. Barriga now holds an unblemished 8-0 record with a knockout.

Meanwhile, former world title contender AJ “Bazooka” Banal and promising Luzon pug Pete Apolinar scored comeback victories after a brief hiatus.

Banal (35-2-1 record with 23 knockouts) won via split decision over Jason Egera of Valenzuela City (23-19-1 with 11 knockouts) in a non-title lightweight match.

“I really wanted to end the fight with a knockout but my trainer told me to keep my patience and focus on my jabs,” said Banal, 28, who is hoping to get another world title shot next year.

Banal suffered an embarrassing technical knockout defeat to Thai Panya Uthok five years ago at the Mall of Asia Arena for the World Boxing Organization bantamweight belt.

Apolinar relied on his killer jabs and counter-punching prowess to beat Jomar Borbon of Antipolo City (4-30-2 win-loss-draw record with two knockouts) through TKO in the third round of their non-title featherweight match.

Apolinar’s win-loss record improved to 8-1 highlighted by six impressive knockouts.

“I dedicated this comeback victory to my mother who passed away a year and a half ago. She inspired me to pursue my dream to be a great boxer. I was surprised when my opponent gave up in third round. Anyway, I’m very thankful to coach Joven (Jimenez), Jerwin (Ancajas) and to the rest of the team for helping me out,” said Apolinar.

Apolinar served as sparring partner of reigning International Boxing Federation super flyweight champion Jerwin Ancajas in his last two world title defenses.

In other matches, lightweight Jerald Daniega scored a ninth round TKO win over Jerwin Mejes, minimum weight Jonathan Almacin beat Alvin Tayo via unanimous decision, lightweight Daniel Lim survived Kevin Tenorio via unanimous decision, minimum weight Jomar Caindog bested Alvin Defeo via unanimous decision while super flyweight Justin Pulido defeated Emil Peran via second round TKO.

Meanwhile, Ivan Soriano (17-1-1 record with eight knockouts) of United Boxing Gym Tokyo, Japan beat Jaysever Abcede (15-7 record with 10 knockouts) of Iligan City for the Oriental Pacific Boxing Federation silver light flyweight belt.

Danilo Tampipi of Tarlac won by way of KO over Noel Adelmita of Lanao del Norte in third round for the vacant Philippine Boxing Federation super bantamweight belt.

Crackdown on ‘habal-habal’ vehicles intensified in Makati

By Martin Sadongdong

The Makati City government has ordered the strict implementation of city ordinances banning the operations of “habal-habal” (motorcycle taxis) and colorum vehicles as public transportation in the city.

Makati Mayor Abigail Binay said reports reaching her office said many habal-habal units are still operating despite the recent closure of transport firm “Angkas” in coordination with the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“The illegal operations of habal-habal and other forms of unlicensed public transport must stop. They not only clog up traffic, but also put the lives of commuters in danger,” Binay said in a statement Saturday.

The Makati government said various news reports on Friday quoted the LTFRB declaring as “unlawful” the operation of motorcycle-riding booking app “Angkas”. Only sedans, Asian utility vehicles, sport utility vehicles, vans, and other four-wheeled vehicles fall under the category of transport network service vehicles (TNSV), it said.

The operation of habal-habal units is banned under City Ordinance No. 2009-008, which was passed in 2009. Violators will be fined P5,000 on the first offense, impounding of the motorcycle on the second offense, and imprisonment from one to three days on the third offense, at the discretion of the court.

Meanwhile, City Ordinance No. 2011-010, passed in 2011, amends the 2003 Makati Traffic Code and requires all motorized vehicles with four wheels or more to secure first a Certificate of Public Conveyance from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) before ferrying passengers for a fare and/or carrying cargoes on a for hire basis.

It also requires motorized pedicabs, tricycles and other three-wheeled vehicles which are used as paid public transport for passengers or cargoes to secure a permit to operate from the City Government of Makati and be duly registered by the LTO.

The Makati’s Public Safety Department (PSD) Task force Operations Team recorded a total of 6,140 traffic and road safety violations from February to November 2017, of which 227 incidents involved the banned vehicles.

“I am directing the PSD enforcers to double their efforts in enforcing the ban against these illegally operated vehicles in the city. However, I also would like to call on all Makatizens and the rest of the commuting public to avoid riding on the habal-habal altogether,” Binay said.

UNDP, Citi Foundation launch youth innovation program

By Keb Cuevas (Rappler.com)

Youth Co:Lab aims to catalyze youth innovation towards solving the world’s biggest social challenges

MANILA, Philippines – A global study concluded that 7 in 10 young people have entrepreneurial dreams but due to lack of necessary skills, only 4 of them have realized that dream.

On the brighter side, Filipino youth are leading the changemaker movement as 1 in 4 social enterprises operating in the country is led by a young entrepreneur.

To drive more youth-led social enterprises, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Citi Foundation launched their Youth Co:Lab partnership on Thursday, December 7, in Makati City.

“The youth of the Philippines’ not only have a stake in the country’s development trajectory but can also play a critical role in shaping that trajectory," UNDP Philippines Country Director Titon Mitra said.

"UNDP is delighted to work with Citi Foundation in providing a platform to enable youth-led social enterprises to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs in the Philippines," continued Mitra.

Collab for youth innovation

Youth Co:Lab is UNDP Asia Pacific's program that aims to catalyze youth innovation towards solving the world’s biggest social challenges, for the fulfillment of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

"We are proud to be partnering with UNDP to empower young people to take control of their future...I firmly believe that empowering young people to lead through entrepreneurship and social innovation is a critical part of the solution," Jim McCue, Citi Shared Service Asia Pacific Head said during the launch.

UNDP-Rappler #HackSociety ideathon is one of the first national competitions under the program, alongside Thailand's and China's own youth innovation competitions.

The series of youth social innovation events are to culminate at the UNDP Regional Summit to be held in March 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand.

  1. HackSociety 2017 grand champion team LawKo will represent the Philippines in the regional competition.

Local weaves light up Ayala Avenue

(Manila Standard Lifestyle)

Inspired by the beautiful native hand woven fabrics from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, Makati welcomed the Yuletide season with a traditional street lighting ceremony—an annual tradition that transforms the premier business district into a Filipino Christmas haven.

Paying tribute to the cultural heritage of the Philippines, Christmas symbols with intricate Filipino patterns from various regions—Inabel and Burdado from Luzon, Banig Tikog from Visayas, T’boli, Ukil and Yakan weaves from Mindanao—illuminate the streets of the central business district, creating a festive and harmonious atmosphere.

These patterns are applied to gigantic representations of Christmas symbols, transforming the streets of the city into truly Filipino Christmas landmarks. As the lights come alive, Makati’s wonderful streetlight decors once again wrap everyone in the magical spirit of the season.

The whole stretch of Ayala Avenue, Paseo de Roxas, and Makati Avenue are adorned with colorful lights that bring to life the spirit of Christmas. This is the largest display of Christmas lights in the city and a well-loved Makati tradition that has brought the community together. This year’s bright and energy efficient lights are courtesy of Firefly Lighting Corporation.

Makati’s Christmas street lights continue to brighten up Christmas celebrations every year for everyone—from the thousands who work in the city to those who call the city home, as well as those who visit its various business, lifestyle, entertainment, and cultural destinations.

“Christmas is the highlight of the year for Filipinos, and we always want to make it special for everyone. By mounting an exquisite Christmas display, and through the Festival of Lights, we provide venues for people to enjoy the spirit of the season,” said Shiella Aguilar, Ayala Land Project Development Head for Makati

MMDA, partners launch Pasig River Art project

By Jimmyley E. Guzman (MMDA/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)

MAKATI CITY, Dec. 13 (PIA) -- The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in partnership with the British Council will launch Wednesday (Dec. 13) the “Pasig River Art for Urban Change” project via a river cruise.

The project which expands on nine pumping stations (Arroceros, Aviles, Binondo, Escolta, San Francisco, Makati, Paco, Quiapo, and Valenzuela) can now be viewed by the public by riding the river ferry or going around roads and bridges along the Pasig River.

MMDA Assistant General Manager for Operations Roberto Almadin said the project is one of the agency’s efforts to create more liveable and inclusive cities through the regeneration of urban waterways and also to encourage the public to reconsider the ferry as a mode of transportation to decongest road traffic.

Leeroy New and Janno Abenoja of LABNEW were earlier commissioned to kick start the initiative last November.

Other artists that lend their skills for the project include Archie Oclos, Cristina Lina and Malarko Hernandez, Ged Alangui, Julius Sebastian, Kris Abrigo, Luigi Almuena, Ralph Eya and Team Manila Graphic Design Studio.

Lina and Hernandez are both based in the United Kingdom and traveled to Manila specifically for the project.

Over 100 people, including volunteers and MMDA employees, were also part of the art production.

The Pasig River Art for Urban Change is a platform for artistic creation and collaboration around the regeneration of the river. It aims to create more liveable and inclusive cities by inviting artists to use the façade of pumping stations as blank can­vases for creative expression.

It enables the access of public spaces for artistic expression while raising awareness on the importance of rivers among city dwellers.

Additionally, the project brings attention to the pumping stations, which are often overlooked as common infrastructures in Metro Manila but are vital facilities to address the massive flooding in the metropolis especially during the rainy season.

Davies Paints, San Miguel Holdings Corp., and One Redesign Manila are also partners for the project.

Makati meets revenue target as of November

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

The Makati City government has met its performance target set by the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) of the Department of Finance (DOF) as of the end of November.

Mayor Abigail Binay said she is happy with the report, noting that in November the city also exceeded its 2017 city revenue target by 10 percent.

In a report to Binay, OIC City Treasurer Jesusa Cuneta said Makati has already achieved 100 percent of the BLGF total locally sourced income target for the year amounting to P14.25 billion, after its actual collections from local sources reached P14.26 billion as of November 30.

The city treasurer underscored that the bulk of revenues came from business tax, with P8.08 billion (99 percent of BLGF target), followed by real-property tax (RPT), with P5.35 billion (103 percent of target). The rest came from fees and charges, P616.01 million, and economic enterprises, P210.72 million.

Cuneta said the BLGF computation of target collection from local sources is higher than the city targets on locally sourced income.

On her part, Binay cited the city’s improved overall collection efficiency as a major factor in the significant increase in the city’s revenue collection.

She also noted that Makati is among the few local government units (LGUs) in the country that are not dependent on the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA), which accounts for only 6 percent of the city’s total income to date. The mayor also reassured real-property owners and businesses in the city that her administration was in no rush to heed the Commission on Audit’s recommendation to increase tax rates by adjusting the city’s schedule of fair-market values, which was last updated in 1997.

“We see no pressing need to raise taxes at this time, considering the substantial growth in our revenue collection this year as compared to previous years. Adjusting our FMV schedule would affect tax rates and we want to ensure that it will not unduly burden Makati residents and the business sector,” Binay said.

The mayor said her administration is, instead, giving priority to the ongoing review of the city’s Investment and Incentives Code in order to effect appropriate amendments, such as putting in place incentives which would attract more investors to the city.

“We need to further strengthen Makati’s competitiveness as an investment destination. We are consulting with concerned stakeholders to be able to come up with a highly competitive incentive package suited to prevailing industry needs and standards,” she added.

Based on the latest data from its Business Permit and Licensing Office, Makati has registered some 4,294 new businesses, with combined paid-up capital amounting to P20.27 billion to date.

As of November, the city has exceeded its own revenue collection target by 10 percent, with around P16.07 billion in actual collections versus its full-year target of P14.58 billion. It has also posted a 12-percent increase versus gross revenue collections in November 2016.

The bulk of collections consisted of business tax with P8.39 billion (99 percent of target), and RPT with P5.60 billion (134 percent of target).

Compared to collection as of November last year, business tax has increased by 9 percent, while realty tax has increased by 17 percent.

Income from other local sources included fees and charges, P679.80 million, and economic enterprises with P210.72 million.

Meanwhile, income from other sources included interest income with P214.04 million; IRA with P975.49 million; share from economic zone (Philippine Economic Zone Authority), P274.35 million; and share from Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp./Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, P6.46 million.

The 17-percent increase in RPT collection has been boosted by the aggressive collection efforts made by the city finance department, including the issuance of demand letters to delinquent real-property owners as directed by the mayor.

Satellite RPT payment centers in 31 barangays, which improved accessibility for taxpayers, have also increased collections.

Under the administration of Binay, Makati has registered its highest revenue collection in years without increasing taxes. In her first six months in office (July to December 2016), the city government had topped by over P600 million the revenue collection for the same period in 2015 under the previous administration. The BLGF monitors the fiscal performance of LGUs using DOF data evidently sourced from the statement of receipts and expenditures data reported by local treasurers through the online reporting system of the bureau.

Plastic knives, knuckles banned in Makati City

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

Plastic and fan knives (balisong) and plastic knuckles are banned in Makati City.

This was announced by Mayor Abigail Binay after the city council passed an ordinance banning the items in addition to other toy-like replicas of deadly weapons prohibited by an earlier ordinance, and imposing penalties on violators.

Makati City Ordinance 2017-113 amended City Ordinance 97-131 enacted in August 1997, which prohibits the distribution, sale or display of toy guns with plastic pellets as bullets, and which look like real firearms. The ban excludes airsoft, airguns and other similar items being used in lawful activities.

Binay has pushed for the passage of the ordinance following reports of minors using plastic knives and knuckles during petty brawls or in harassing others. Concerned residents have also reported that some sari-sari (variety) stores near schools are selling the items to young schoolchildren.

“It is alarming that unscrupulous store owners are giving children access to these potentially harmful, even lethal, toy items. Urgent measures must be taken to stop the endangerment of the young and vulnerable and prevent lawless elements from using these ‘toys’ to victimize Makatizens,” Binay said

The mayor assured residents that the city government would exert all efforts to eliminate such threats to the safety and security of Makati residents. She noted that access to such toys could also promote a culture of violence among the youth.

She also urged parents and guardians against buying such items as gifts during the holidays, calling on them to be vigilant and promptly report the presence of any of the banned items in their communities to the authorities through hotline 168 or My Makati Facebook page.

Binay has directed the office of the Liga ng mga Barangay of Makati to lead an information drive and conduct a crackdown on stores or individuals who are violating the ordinance, particularly establishments and sari-sari stores near school premises.

Under the new ordinance, mere possession of the prohibited items, as defined in both the earlier ordinance and its amendment, is punishable with a fine of P1,000 for the first offense, P2,000 for the second offense and a P3,000 fine or imprisonment not exceeding one month, or both at the discretion of the court for the third and succeeding offense.

Moreover, if a child or minor is found violating the prohibitions (possession, selling or distribution) under the local laws, he or she will be subject to the provisions of Republic Act 9344, or Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006.

The law sets the minimum age of criminal responsibility of minors to above 15 years but below 18 years at the time of the commission of the offense.

If the offender is above 15 but below 18, he or she will be subjected to an intervention program, unless he or she has acted with discernment, in which case, he or she shall be subjected to the appropriate proceedings in accordance with the Act.

Through its annual search for Makati’s “Most Child-Friendly Barangays,” the city government has also been closely monitoring the compliance of all 33 barangays with laws promoting child protection and development, as well as their exemplary programs and practices for children’s welfare.

Cebuana Lhuillier launches 7 new ALS centers in Makati; expanding its reach to more than 70 centers nationwide

(BusinessMirror)

In line with its goal of further expanding the reach of its education advocacy, Cebuana Lhuillier, through its social responsibility arm Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. (CLFI), has launched seven new Alternative Learning System (ALS) centers in the city of Makati, increasing the current number of its ALS centers to 73 nationwide, nine of which are all located in various barangays in Makati City.

CLFI started its campaign in support of ALS three years ago, as a way to provide alternative means to basic education to many Filipinos. The foundation has partnered with many local government units (LGUs) and various government and non-government organizations to provide free and better education to as many students as possible, regardless of their stature in life.

“The year 2017 is a milestone year for us since we are celebrating the 30th year of Cebuana Lhuillier, so we wanted it to be more meaningful in terms of the advocacies we promote and campaign for, especially our main thrust on education. As a company who pushes for financial inclusion, we believe in the value and importance of education in achieving such goal and as a means to escape poverty. We believe that by providing access to basic education, we are providing our KaCebuanas longer a chance to change and uplift their lives, achieve their dreams, and contribute more to the society. We also hope that by doing this, we could also inspire other private companies to join our campaign for ALS or launch their own similar program,” Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

The launch of the 7 new ALS classrooms in Makati brings CLFI’s network to a total of 73 nationwide; a big jump from the first 14 pilot classrooms in 2014. Currently, the foundation has helped more than 8,000 learners nationwide get access to free and quality basic education. The dedication and commitment of its network of ALS teachers has also worked wonders – in fact, ALS graduates achieved an average passing rate of 71% in the 2016 Accreditation and Equivalency exam, higher than 55% passing rate in public schools.

“For the longest time, we have been doing various CSR initiatives in Makati and we are always grateful for the support given by city government of Makati. They have been instrumental in the continued success of our ALS program even since the beginning. We hope that through this, we would be able to help the youth of Makati get the education they deserve and eventually contribute in making Makati City more progressive than it already is,” CLFI Executive Director Jonathan Batangan said.

For the city of Makati, CLFI has already opened ALS centers in Gen. Pio del Pilar High School and in Tibagan Elementary School, the Foundation is adding new ALS centers in Maximo Estrella Elementary School, Poblacion Community Center, Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Comembo Community Center, Pembo Elementary School, Bangkal Main Elementary School, and Rizal Elementary School.

Since 2001 CLFI has been helping hundreds of its residents through various CSR projects such as scholarship grants and annual seminar on Information and Communications Technology for students in University of Makati, daycare feeding program, Christmas feeding activity and gift giving, and outreach program during CLFI’s anniversary.

All these achievements are credited to the enhancements found only in Cebuana Lhuillier ALS centers such as the complete teaching equipment and materials and the specialized lesson modules that include learning sessions on livelihood, financial literacy, disaster resiliency, sports development, and ICT competitiveness.

HOV Lane dry run to start Monday

By Jerome Carlo Paunan(RJB/JCP/PIA-NCR)

MAKATI CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) -- Beginning Monday, December 11 at 6AM, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will implement the one-week trial run of the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane along EDSA.

According to the MMDA, only cars that have two or more passengers will be allowed to ply the HOV Lane, which is the leftmost lane, as it advised motorists that frequently drive along EDSA alone to take the 3rd or 4th lane (motorcycle lane) instead.

“HOV is exclusive po sa 2 or more na tao lamang po including the driver po. Kung kayo lamang po mag-isa, 3rd or 4th lane po ang gagamitin ninyo,” it said in a twitter post.

But the MMDA warned, violators would be apprehended via no-contact apprehension policy. The fine for driving on the HOV lane with less than two passengers on board is P500.

The MMDA said the new carpooling scheme will encourage drivers to share rides with friends or colleagues in a bid to further alleviate traffic along the busy thoroughfare.

Besides motorists with more than two passengers, motorcyclists can also use the HOV lane, it said.

The MMDA said this scheme has been approved by the Metro Manila Council last 05 December 2017.

BDO gears up for seamless services via newer technology

(BusinessMirror)

BDO Unibank Inc., the country’s largest bank, will take on the challenge of the digital age by adopting newer technology to allow it to be more integrated in the lives of customers, making transactions and even decision-making easier and faster for them.

Speaking at a recent CEO Forum titled Surviving in Times of Digital Disruption at the Francisco Santiago Hall of the BDO Corporate Center in Makati, BDO President and CEO Nestor V. Tan said digitization has greatly affected customer expectations and behavior that integration of services has become the way of the future for many industries, including banks.

With lives becoming more fast-paced, Tan said, customers no longer want to move in and out of applications more so spend time on transactions, especially inside banks.

He added, “As we become more immersed into the digital world, customers also expect more initiative from companies and providers to help them not only with payments but also with decision-making, thus, making them part and parcel of their lives.”

Technology, he said, is more of an enabler, a tool, rather than a threat or a disruptor, thus, helping the banks make their services more seamless.

BDO, for instance, has taken great strides to adopt to the changing behavior of its customers, most especially the tech-savvy millennials, who have greatly influenced the traditional customers.

Addressing the demand to be able to do transactions anytime and anywhere, BDO customers now have an option to withdraw, pay bills, transfer funds and even invest through online or mobile banking.

Meanwhile, the bigger challenge to adopting new technology, he noted, is not only to stay agile and meet customers’ needs but also to keep the bank’s focus on the kind of business that it is in, as most may easily be tempted to see themselves as tech companies because of digitization.

BDO, he said, is focused on maintaining a strong relationship with its customers to thrive in the business.

For Nick Spooner, regional leader of PwC’s Digital Services, Experience Centre for Australia and Southeast Asia, digital is not a new set of channel but a cultural shift. More than about technology, digital is about new ways of solving problems, creating unique experiences, minimizing customer effort at all times, exceeding customer expectations and accelerating business growth, he added.

Apart from Tan, other industry leaders who sat as panelists at the CEO Forum were Globe CEO Ernest Cu, ABS-CBN Corp. Chief Strategy Officer Raymund Miranda, SM Investments Corp. Digital Marketing Head Nicky Santiago and Google Philippines Country Head Kenneth Lingan.

According to Lingan, digital has significantly changed the purchase journey of the consumers, which companies need to look out for. Describing the journey as more complex, he said consumers today are more curious, more demanding and more impatient.

For his part, Santiago said digital enablement, whose key driver is really mobile, is not actually disruptive but, in fact, relieving and some ways empowering to customers. While this holds true, however, he added digital enablement is evolutionary and will not take over the existing form of servicing, especially in retail.

Sharing Globe Telecom’s successes, Cu said the company has been following the journey of their customers through their mobile phones, allowing them to deliver exactly what they want.

“They said they wanted social media, so we partnered with Facebook to help them to get on the trail with social media. Today, 48 million FB accounts are from the Philippines and growing,” Cu said, adding they also partnered with content providers like Netflix, NBA and Disney, as they also saw the trend that their customers are also into videos.

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN’s Miranda said that while the trend is really toward digital and change is inevitable, some things remain the same.

“Netflix would have not been the Netflix that we know now without House of Cards. So when I say that, it is still about good stories, great characters, good story-telling. People will follow the content,” he added.

Makati giving Christmas bags to 300,000 residents

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

The Makati City government has started giving Christmas bags to over 300,000 of its residents under its “Pamaskong Handog” program, including some 78,000 senior citizens and around 100,000 students in the city’s public schools.

Mayor Abigail Binay has ordered the early distribution of the bags for the convenience of senior citizens and to ensure that students would get their bags before they go on Christmas break.

Senior citizens who are Blu Card holders can get their bags upon claiming their year-end cash gift in their respective barangays on designated dates that started on November 23 until December 11.

The distribution of bags for students in preschool to senior high school, as well as special education (SpEd) centers, has started on November 27 and will run until December 13.

“We want our beloved Makatizens, especially the children and the elderly, to get their bags early and with ease so that they could fully enjoy the contents. We have customized the goods in each bag according to their age groups,” Binay said.

On December 1 the mayor led the ceremonial opening of the kubol (booth) of Pamaskong Handog bags at the City Hall Quadrangle and personally distributed bags to a number of senior citizens.

This year the city government is giving away more than 58,000 bags to children in day care, kindergarten, elementary, SpEd and alternative learning system which contain the following items: one t-shirt, two small boxes of raisins, five single-serve packs of instant oatmeal, a medium-sized cheese, a box of ready-to-cook chocolate hotcake, a box of quick-cook champorado, 12 single packs of tonic food drink, two packs each of single-serve choco flakes and fruit cereals, 10 single packs each of crackers and stick biscuits, 20 single packs of kiddie biscuits and an 18-piece pack of assorted fruit-flavored jelly.

For high-school students, each of over 41,000 bags contains one t-shirt, six packs of instant oatmeal, a slab of cheese, a box of ready-to-cook chocolate hotcake, a box of quick-cook arroz caldo, two boxes of champorado, a box of choco milk powder, 12 single packs of tonic food drink, 10 single packs of crackers, eight packs of instant pancit canton and a small can each of pineapple tidbits and pineapple juice.

Meanwhile, over 200,000 bags have been allocated for city residents, City Hall employees, public-school teachers and students and faculty of the University of Makati, each containing two t-shirts; three cans each of tuna flakes in oil, tuna flakes caldereta and corned beef; a can of lite luncheon meat; two cans of vienna sausage; one pack each of spaghetti pasta and sauce; a can each of fruit cocktail, condensed milk and all-purpose cream; and cheese.

The yearly Pamaskong Handog project is a tradition that started several years ago for residents and city employees and was expanded in 2013 to include public-school students as beneficiaries.

Makati City suspends anti-dengue vaccination program

(Makati ICRD/RJB/SDL)

MAKATI (PIA) -- Mayor Abby Binay has ordered the immediate suspension of the city’s anti-dengue vaccination drive in light of recent news reports regarding the vaccine provided by the Department of Health (DOH) to local governments.

The mayor also ordered Makati Health Department (MHD) Officer in charge Dr. Bernard Sese to coordinate with Dep-Ed Makati and closely monitor the condition of students who were given the vaccines. The vaccination drive for city government employees was also suspended until the DOH issues a clarification as well as concrete guidelines on their course of action.

“The best thing we can do right now is to closely monitor the health of students as well as employees who received the anti-dengue vaccines. We will track down everyone who has been vaccinated and monitor their condition for any developments,” Mayor Abby said.

Last August 14, Makati launched a city-wide vaccination program against dengue for children aged 9 to 14. The city received 65,000 units of anti-dengue vaccines from the DOH and mobilized doctors and nurses to cover all health centers as well as public elementary schools and high schools in Makati.

Dr. Sese said there are still several public high schools which have not received the anti-dengue vaccine. The schedule for these schools have been postponed indefinitely until DOH releases an advisory.

On Wednesday, Sanofi Pasteur, the manufacturer of the dengue vaccine Dengvaxia, released a statement saying the drug may be harmful when administered to individuals not previously infected with dengue. The Philippines was the 1st country in Asia to approve the dengue vaccine for individuals aged 9 and 45 years old in December 2015.

The MHD noted however, that the vaccination drive for Japanese Encephalitis (JE) for both city government employees as well as public school students will continue.

On Monday, Makati City launched a vaccination drive against JE which will cover public school students from Kinder to Grade 6 as well as all city government employees. This is the first public vaccination campaign against Japanese Encephalitis, but the JE vaccine has been around since 2013.

French Embassy launches scholarship program for Filipinos for A.Y. 2018-2019

(French Embassy)

MAKATI CITY -- The Embassy of France to the Philippines encourages Filipinos to pursue their graduate studies in France through the PhilFrance Scholarship Program.

On the occasion of the 70th anniversary celebration of French-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2017, the French Embassy launched the PhilFrance Scholarship Program to open more opportunities for Filipinos to develop their expertise by studying and carrying out research work in France, with the goal of making lasting contributions to Philippine society.

Since 2016, 35 Filipino scholars are currently pursuing or have recently completed their graduate degrees in the French language and literature, business, public policy and governance, engineering, mathematics, marine biology, applied chemistry, environmental and ecological sciences, and public health.

To continue building stronger academic relations between France and the Philippines, the French Embassy has opened two separate calls for applications under the PhilFrance Scholarship Program for the academic year 2018-2019.

The first call is directed to Filipino students and professionals wishing to come to France to pursue Master’s or Doctoral programs in all fields of study. The PhilFrance Scholarships are awarded to highly-qualified candidates who have demonstrated strong academic and leadership qualities in their scholarly and professional activities. The scholarship benefits include a partial tuition subsidy, a monthly allowance, and a health care package for the expected length of their academic programs.

The second call is launched within the framework of a cooperation agreement signed between the Embassy of France and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in January 2017. The CHED-PhilFrance Scholarships are open to the faculty and staff of CHED-recognized institutions who wish to pursue Master's or Doctoral programs in all disciplines at French higher education institutions. The benefits for selected candidates include round-trip travel expenses, a monthly allowance, waived registration fees for state-regulated programs at public institutions, and a health care package.

Through a cooperation agreement signed by CHED and Sciences Po, a world-renowned French institution in the social sciences, full tuition fees for Sciences Po’s graduate programs will be financed as well, on top of the all the other benefits offered by the CHED-PhilFrance Scholarships.

Complete information on eligibility, application requirements, and awardees’ benefits is available through the PhilFrance Scholarship Program website: www.philfrance-scholarships.com.

Interested candidates must submit their applications by April 13, 2018 through the online application portal at www.philfrance-scholarships.com.

Why study in France?

France is a country that welcomes students from around the world. Each year, over 300,000 international students choose to study in France, making it the fourth most attractive country and the leading non-English speaking destination for inbound student mobility, according to UNESCO. For today’s mobile and globalized youth, including those from the Philippines, France is an attractive destination for studying abroad due to its rich culture and history, as well as a high concentration of internationally-ranked French institutions with English as the medium of instruction.

Moreover, public investments and subsidies allow a more reasonable cost of living and studying for international students in France compared to others in the region.

France offers a wide range of high-quality specialization courses that can potentially contribute to the development goals of the Philippines. These include programs in sustainable development, disaster risk reduction and mitigation, heritage conservation, urban planning, social innovation and entrepreneurship, public policy, and the sciences. The availability of these disciplines in France is one of the reasons why the country has expressed its commitment to forge a dynamic academic and scientific partnership with the Philippines.

The community of French-educated Filipinos continues to grow

It is estimated that over 250 Filipino students currently reside in France, with many of them pursuing degrees in world-renowned institutions of higher learning. Most Filipinos studying in France are part of undergraduate exchange programs between partner institutions or pursue Master’s degrees in the fields of business, natural sciences and engineering, social sciences and humanities.

The Embassy’s focus on education and the availability of scholarships, together with the appeal of France as a study abroad destination, will hopefully encourage more Filipinos to pursue their studies in France.

Through information sessions, participation in education fairs, and personalized consultations, the Campus France Manila office brings French higher education closer to the Filipino public and helps prospective students make a more informed decision about their academic plans. For more information, visit www.philippines.campusfrance.org or contact manille@campusfrance.org.

For more details on the scholarships offered by the French Embassy, visit www.ph.ambafrance.org.

Christmas arrives early for Makati’s elderly citizens

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

THE city government of Makati began bringing joy to senior citizens this holiday season as the Makati Social Welfare Department (MSWD) began distributing their year-end cash gift on November 23.

The MSWD will continue to distribute the cash gift until December 11.

In a report to Makati Mayor Abby Binay, MSWD OIC Ryan Barcelo said over 79,000 qualified beneficiaries will receive their cash gift on scheduled dates from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at designated venues.

“We dearly love our elderly Makatizens and we remain committed to giving them a happy life in every way possible. We hope the cash-gift benefit will help defray their expenses for day-to-day needs,” Binay said.

Blu Card holders will receive their year-end cash gift corresponding to their age categories: Beneficiaries aged 60 to 69 years will receive P1,500; 70 years to 79 years, P2,000; and 80 to 89 years old, P2,500.

This year the city has allocated P326.2 million for the cash gift to seniors and centenarians. The cash gift is given in two equal installments every June and December.

The Blu Card Program was launched in 2002 initially to provide financial assistance amounting to P3,000 to beneficiaries of a Blu Card holder until their demise. It was later expanded in 2003 to include financial assistance in the form of a cash gift to augment their budget for daily needs, like food and medicine through City Ordinance 2003-058.

Upon the initiative of Binary, the Makati City Council in December passed City Ordinance 2016-A-043, granting an additional P1,000 to the annual cash gift of Blu Card holders.

Barcelo said the distribution began on November 23 for Blu Card holders from barangays Bel-Air, Southside and Santa Cruz who got their cash gift at their respective barangay halls. At the same date the distribution of cash gift for beneficiaries from La Paz and Valenzuela was done at their covered courts. For barangay Kasilawan, the venue was at the covered court of Barangay Carmona.

On November 24 the distribution for barangays Pitogo, San Lorenzo, Pinagkaisahan, Carmona and Singkamas took place at their barangay halls, distribution took place at the Elderly Wellness Center for the beneficiaries from Tejeros.

Beneficiaries from barangays Olympia (covered court) and Bangkal (barangay hall) were slated on November 27 and 28, while those from barangays Comembo and East Rembo claimed their cash gift at their respective covered courts on November 29.

On December 1 and 2 the distribution was done at the barangay hall of Barangay Rizal and at the covered court of Barangay Poblacion.

The distribution of cash gift for Blu Card holders from Barangay Pembo will take place at their covered court on December 4 and 5.

Recipients from barangay Guadalupe Nuevo can get their cash gift at their covered court on December 4, while beneficiaries from barangay West Rembo can claim theirs at their covered court on December 5.

On December 6 the covered courts of barangays South Cembo and San Antonio will be the venue of the cash-gift distribution.

The covered court of Barangay Palanan and barangay hall of Barangay Guadalupe Viejo will be the venue of the distribution on December 7.

On December 8 the distribution for Barangays Cembo, Dasmariñas and San Isidro will take place at their respective barangay halls. For Barangay Northside, it will be done at the Makati City Hall Building II.

Blu Card holders from Barangays Magallanes, Urdaneta and Forbes Park can claim their cash gift at their respective barangay halls on December 9. Beneficiaries from Barangay Pio del Pilar can get theirs at their covered court on December 9 and December 11.

In claiming the cash gift, beneficiaries who are unable to come in person can send their duly authorized representative, whose name appears at the back of the Blu Card to the Cash Division at the third floor of Makati City Hall. The representative should be able to present a medical certificate as proof of the beneficiaries’ condition, whether bedridden, disabled or confined in a hospital.

Authorization forms are available at the MSWD office at the fifth floor of Makati City Hall.

Senior citizens who are out-of-town or abroad during the distribution of the cash gift are not entitled to claim the benefit, and authorization presented by a representative will not be honored by the Cash Division.

Blu Card holders who have passed on from November 16 onward will still be entitled to the 2017 year-end cash gift.

The Senior Citizen’s National ID card, also known as the White card or any other Senior Citizen’s card, will be honored provided the senior citizen claims their cash gift personally.

Beneficiaries or designated representatives who will not be able to claim their cash gifts on the scheduled date will be given four working days to claim the cash gift at the ground floor of the Makati City Hall Building II.

JE vaccine for Makati gov’t employees, public school students

By Leilani Junio (PNA)

MANILA – Makati’s city government on Monday (November 27) launched its Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccination for 60,000 city government employees and public school students.

"According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, JE is the leading cause of viral encephalitis and the leading cause of childhood neurologic infection and disability in Asia," officer in charge of the city health department, Dr. Bernard Sese, said.

Sese said that while many of the JE transmissions have been found in rural agricultural areas, they could also occur in urban areas like Makati.

While there has been no incidence of JE in Makati, the daily influx of people from various areas into the city makes it vulnerable to infection, he said, adding that this is what the vaccination is trying to prevent.

According to the WHO, JE is a mosquito-borne virus that is related to the dengue, yellow fever and West Nile viruses and is characterized by the rapid onset of high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, and seizures.

The WHO put the fatality rate at 30 percent, noting that 20 percent to 30 percent of survivors suffer permanent intellectual, behavioral or neurological problems, such as paralysis, recurrent seizures or the inability to speak.

To prevent it, the WHO recommends JE immunization in “regions where the disease is a recognized public health priority”.

“Even if the number of JE-confirmed cases is low, vaccination should be considered where there is a suitable environment for JE virus transmission. There is little evidence to support a reduction in JE disease burden from interventions other than the vaccination of humans,” it stated.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay said the disease's high mortality rate among children had pushed them to launch the JE vaccination.

“The best attitude is to be proactive. We will not wait for a confirmed case of JE before the city makes a decision to introduce the vaccine," said Binay.

The JE vaccination for about 10,000 city government employees began Monday and will run until the end of December. It is not advised for those who are undergoing chemotherapy and those taking steroids.

The vaccination for students meanwhile will be held in schools beginning January. It will cover about 50,000 Kindergarten to Grade 6 students, thus it requires the consent of parents or guardians.

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