‘Lip Sync Battle Philippines’ Season 3

The third season of the musical-reality competition “Lip Sync Battle Philippines” starts tomorrow on GMA Network. It will have as host Michael V. together with Iya Villania-Arellano as commentator.

The pilot episode has “Kambal , Karibal” stars Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix as rivals, and Jeric Gonzales and Kyline Alcantara as lip-sync partners.

Michael V. is excited to present the changes that will happen in this season. “Excited ako kasi sinala talaga namin ’yung mga battlers ngayon and magkakaroon ng bagong battles. So ang masasabi ko talaga, mas aabangan ito kasi ’yung mga napiling battler, ready talaga sila,” he said.

On the other hand, Iya expressed her gratitude to be working with Michael V. again because she likes his warm personality.

“He is very approachable and friendly and lahat ng galaw ko sa set, he is there to help and assist me so hindi talaga ako nahihirapan,” she said.

The game pits celebrities or personalities against each other in a lip sync battle for two rounds. Making the third season more special are new things to look forward to such as the three-way battle and thematic episodes that will pave the way to a more intense head-to-head challenge of your favorite celebrities and personalities.

• • •

Starting over

We’ve known Danny Velasco as a committed businessman but unfortunate events overtook him the past several years that had him closing his Plaza Fair Department Store in Carriedo.

But during a visit to Manila Bulletin last week, having recovered from his personal trials and tragedies, Danny expressed his ardent desire to open up within the year his store in Carriedo as well as its branches in Cebu, Bacolod and Pampanga. He is also now more passionate in his dream to produce a movie. In the past, he had wanted to do a movie about Gabriela Silang.

Danny has opened a store named Merry Season at the Xentro Mall in San Andres, Malate. They offer household wares and elegant dresses imported from Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Tomorrow, an Easter Sunday event will be held at Xentro Mall. Aside from the traditional Easter Egg Hunt, there will be a parade and costume contest. Danny will donate some raffle prizes.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 31, go to Charisse Garcia Chuidian, Maritoni Fernandez, Ben Avancena, Victor Valenciano, Alma Calleja, Susan Tagle, Ben Asuncion, and Christine Dayrit… April 1: Tirso Cruz III, Dr. Lettie Escarte, Mae Romero, Suzie Benitez, Arlina Onglao, Marissa Oca, Jairus Aquino, "Pilipinas Got Talent" associate producer Wecks Carpio, headwriter Waldo Bautista, Ulpiano Abrenica and Atty. Lorna Kapunan… April 2: Geneva Cruz, Vilma Valera, Ma. Victoria Sanchez, Tina Leeman, Francisco Diga, Dr. Jonathan Reyes, Edwin Silan, and Danita Paner…

SONGS LINE-UP - EASTER 2018

• Entrance Song: PURIHIN ANG PANGINOON EL SHADDAI
• Kyrie eleison: LORD, HAVE MERCY (Dan Schutte)
• Gloria: Glory to God (Dan Schutte)
• Responsorial Psalm: Ito ang Araw

Explore Different Life Forms and Lifestyles in this Blue Planet in HD

It’s a wonderful world out there, waiting to be discovered. There’s plenty of interesting stories going on behind the scenes and inside machines; and even more magnificent views of life beyond the city limits. See them all in high definition as Discovery Channel HD, Animal Planet HD and Metro Channel HD become available on your TV screens, starting April 1!



Your favourite channel on everything lifestyle, from food to travel to style, is now getting its own makeover! Home of well-loved TV personalities in and out of the country, Lifestyle channel is changing its name to Metro Channel, with a new HD channel joining our lineup of high definition channels.

The channel was a joint venture between the Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) of Hong Kong and Nation Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) of the Philippines and formerly known as GTV from 1974 to 1980, MBS from 1980 to 1986, TVB Lifestyle Network from 1986 to 1995, TVB Indosiar Lifestyle Network from 1995 to 2015 and TVB Indosiar Lifestyle from 2015 to March 31, 2018.

It having a new studio at DoubleDragon Plaza, DD Meridian Park corner Macapagal Avenue and EDSA Extension, Bay Area, Pasay City, that having state of the art high definition television studio facilities, a larger newsroom and administrative offices. The larger newsroom was replicating the NBC News Studio in New York, U.S.A.

Here is the inaugural schedule for April 1

• 06:00AM 星期日香港早晨 Sunday Good Morning Hong Kong[Can]
• 09:00AM 文化廣場[粵] Cultural Plaza[Can]
• 09:30AM 宇宙戰隊[粵/日] Uchu Sentai Kyuranger[Can/Jap]
• 10:00AM 妖怪手錶[粵/日] Yo-kai Watch[Can/Jap]
• 10:30AM FAIRY TAIL魔導少年 V[粵/日][PG] FAIRY TAIL[Can/Jap][PG]
• 11:00AM 珍情品味[粵] Tasting Life[Can]
• 11:55AM 宣傳易[粵]  TV Easy[Can]
• 12:00PM 講清講楚[粵]  On the Record[Can]
• 12:30PM 你健康嗎?[粵]  Am I Healthy?[Can]
• 01:00PM 樓計專家[粵] Property Experts[Can]
• 01:30PM 
• 02:00PM 野性伊比利亞[英/粵] Wild Iberia[Eng/Can]
• 02:55PM 清心直說[英] STRAIGHT TALK[Eng]
• 03:20PM 花生動畫[英/粵] Peanuts[Eng/Can]
• 03:30PM 恩雨之聲[普/粵] Showers of Blessing[Man/Can]
• 04:00PM 小小探索家[英]  Little People[Eng]
• 04:25PM Toon Disney:魔髮奇緣[英]  Toon Disney:Tangled The Series[Eng]
• 04:55PM Toon Disney:小公主蘇菲亞[英]  Toon Disney:Sofia the First[Eng]
• 05:20PM 啤啤熊與吱吱鼠[英] Ernest & Celestine[Eng]
• 05:35PM 安蒂的青春日記#3[英] Andi Mack#3[Eng]
• 06:00PM 財經透視[粵/普] Financial Magazine[Can/Man]
• 06:30PM 霍金天才教室[英/粵]  Genius by Stephen Hawking[Eng/Can]
• 07:25PM 零食夢工場[英/粵] Unwrapped 2.0[Eng/Can]
• 07:55PM 話說當年[英] Today in History[Eng]
• 08:00PM 非常寵物[英/粵]  The Secret World of Posh Pets[Eng/Can]
• 08:30PM 全英一叮[英]  Britain's Got Talent[Eng]
• 09:25PM 入廚易[英] 及 話說當年[英]  Video Cookbook[Eng] and Today in History[Eng]
• 09:30PM 周末大電影:挪亞：滅世啟示[英][PG] Weekend Blockbuster:Noah[Eng][PG]
• 11:45AM 1+1的深情[粵] Through Thick and Thin[Can]
• 12:15AM 深夜美食團[粵] Midnight Banquets[Can]
• 12:45AM 晚間新聞[英]  NEWS ROUNDUP (PEARL)[Eng]
• 01:00AM 天氣報告[英] WEATHER REPORT[Eng]
• 01:05AM 瞬間看地球[英]  Earth Live[Eng]
• 01:10AM 港生活．港享受[英]  Dolce Vita[Eng]
• 01:40AM 賽馬預測[英][馬會]  Racing To Win[Eng][HKJC]
• 03:10AM 絕境求生指南[英/粵][PG]  So You Think You'd Survive?[Eng/Can][PG]
• 04:00AM 十大毒蛇[英/粵]  Ten Deadliest Snakes with Nigel Marven[Eng/Can]
• 05:00AM 非常寵物[英/粵] The Secret World of Posh Pets[Eng/Can]

Monday, April 2:

• 05:55AM Kape't Pandasal[Fil]
• 06:00AM 香港早晨[粵]  Good Morning Hong Kong[Can]
• 07:30AM 穿越聖地[粵/英]  Drive-thru History with Dave Stotts: The Gospels[Can/Eng]
• 08:00AM 樓計專家[粵]  Property Experts[Can]
• 08:30AM 瑜亮對談[英]  Peer to Peer[Can]
• 09:00AM 快樂長門人[粵]  Happy Old Buddies[Can]
• 09:10AM 回鄉[粵]  Homecoming[Can]
• 09:35AM 誇極限大挑戰[粵]  The Race[Can]
• 10:35AM 多啦A夢: 新.大雄之日本誕生[粵]  Doraemon: Nobita and the Birth of Japan 2016[Can]
• 12:45PM 宣傳易[粵]  TV Easy[Can]
• 01:00PM 午間新聞[粵]  Noon News[Can]
• 01:20PM 時事通識[粵] 及 天氣報告[粵] 及 瞬間看地球[粵]   Behind The Headlines[Can] and Weather Report[Can] and Earth Live[Can]
• 01:25PM 都市閒情[粵]  Pleasure & Leisure[Can]
• 02:10PM 宣傳易[粵]  TV Easy[Can]
• 02:15PM 今日VIP[粵]  The Green Room[Can]
• 02:45PM 東西宮略[粵]  Queens of Diamonds and Hearts[Can]
• 03:45PM 星夢學園III[粵/日]  Aikatsu! Idol Activity[Can/Jap]
• 04:15PM 每日媽媽[粵/日]  Mainichi Kaasan[Can/Jap]
• 04:50PM Think Big天地[粵]  Kids, Think Big[Can]
• 05:20PM 忍者亂太郎[粵/日]  Nintama Rantarō[Can/Jap]
• 05:50PM 財經新聞[粵] Financial News[Can]
• 06:00PM 鏗鏘集[粵][港台] 及 新聞檔案[粵] Hong Kong Connection[Can][RTHK] and News Files[Can]
• 06:30PM 六點半新聞報道[粵]  News At Six-Thirty[Can]
• 06:55PM 天氣報告[粵] Weather Report[Can]
• 07:00PM 那年花開月正圓[粵/普]  Nothing Gold Can Stay[Can]
• 07:30PM 東張西望[粵]  Scoop[Can]
• 08:00PM 明珠檔案[英]  The Pearl Report[Eng]
• 08:30PM 美國小廚神[英/粵]  MasterChef Junior[Eng/Can]
• 09:25PM 入廚易[英]  Video Cookbook[Eng]
• 09:30PM 話說當年[英]  Today in History[Eng]
• 09:35PM 崇山峻嶺極地行[英/粵]  Extreme Treks Sacred Mountains[Eng/Can]
• 10:35PM 環球金融速遞[英]  Marketplace[Eng]
• 10:40PM 魔鬼神探[英/粵][PG]  Lucifer[Eng/Can][PG]
• 11:40PM 財經速遞[英]  WORLD MARKET UPDATE[Eng]
• 11:45PM Do姐有問題[粵] 及 環球新聞檔案[粵]  Do Did Eat[Can] and International News File[Can]
• 12:15AM 晚間新聞[英]  NEWS ROUNDUP (PEARL)[Eng]
• 12:45AM 新聞檔案[粵]  News Files[Can]
• 12:50AM 天氣報告[英]  WEATHER REPORT[Eng]
• 12:55AM 瞬間看地球[英]  Earth Live[Eng]
• 01:00AM 法網危情[英/粵][PG]  How to Get Away with Murder[Eng/Can][PG]
• 01:55AM 神盾局特工#11[英][PG]  Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.#11[Eng][PG]
• 02:45AM 入廚易[英]  Video Cookbook[Eng]
• 02:55AM 崇山峻嶺極地行[英/粵]  Extreme Treks Sacred Mountains[Eng/Can]
• 03:50AM 美國小廚神[英/粵]  MasterChef Junior[Eng/Can]
• 04:50AM 明珠檔案[英]  The Pearl Report[Eng]
• 05:20AM 乖孫廚神[英/粵]  Grandma's Boy[Eng/Can]

A brand new TV Patrol with Henry Omaga-Diaz, Gretchen Ho and Paolo Abrera comes to you at 6:30 PM!

Talented young stars in ‘Squad Goals’

Julian Trono (left) and Vitto Marquez

Young and talented actors are featured in the Viva Films offering “Squad Goals.” Two of them are Julian Trono and Vitto Marquez.

Julian broke into showbiz in 2009 as a host on the values-oriented children’s show “Tropang Potchi.” In 2010, he joined “Party Pilipinas” where he wowed audiences with his dance moves, earning him the title Prince of the Dance Floor. As actor, he has appeared on such shows as “Amaya” “Anna Karenina,” “Niño,” “Buena Familia,” and “Dear Uge.”

In 2017, Julian played a marked role in horror movie “Ang Pagsanib Kay Leah Dela Cruz.” Not long after, he got his first leading role in the romantic comedy “Fangirl, Fanboy” opposite Ella Cruz.

Later, Julian also became a recording artist under Viva Records. His original songs include “Balang Araw,” “Isang Tingin” and “Tumalon.”

In “Squad Goals,” he plays Benj, an Engineering student who moonlights as dance guru Young D. He wears a mask in his dance videos on YouTube to hide from his father who frowns upon this passion of his.

As for Vitto, he surprised his mother Alma Moreno when he told her of his desire to join showbiz. The actress described her son with Joey Marquez as “shy,” but she knew he’d build his confidence under the management of Viva.

In 2016, Vitto auditioned for ABS-CBN’s boy group “Hashtags,” and a year later, he was officially launched as one of its members. To this day, Vitto is seen regularly on “It’s Showtime.”

In the movie, Vitto plays Tom, son of a retired basketball player and a model/actress. He is an HRM student and a varsity team captain.

The others in the cast of “Squad Goals” are Jack Reid, Dan  Huschka and Andrew Muhlach.

• • •

Proud of the kids

Marvin Agustin

In a recent Instagram post, Marvin Agustin said he’s proud of his “babies” on the series “Kambal, Karibal.” He means Bianca Umali, Kyline Alcantara, and Pauline Mendoza.

Marvin shared “I’m so proud of our babies on the set. They are not just another pretty face, they are very talented, hard working and very dedicated. Ganyan ang mga nagtatagal sa industriya. Ang mga taong nagmamahal ng trabaho nila. Great job beauties! (Sayang wala si Pau sa shot) And congrats to our show!”

“It’s nice to know that despite the heaviness of their scenes, they have a good relationship off-cam. It’s really worth it, the effort exerted by the whole cast because netizens are talking about the series and making it trending every night.”

Marvin plays Raymond, a doctor and the husband of Geraldine (Carmina Villaroel) who caused the death of his own father, another doctor played by multi-awarded Christopher de Leon. He placed the blame on his daughter Cheska (Kyline).

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 29, go to broadcasters Tina Monson-Palma and Ted Failon, Miguel Cerqueda, Dr. Pepito Oreta, Fely Ley, Laila Marquez, Mila de Jesus, Bambi Babiera, Jonahmar Salvosa, Mico Rafanan, Domer Rubiano, and Aaron Agassi… March 30: Jennifer Pena, Al Perez, Viana Fores, Pros Antonio, Marilou Custodio, Luz de Guzman, Capt. Juan Santos Ruiz, Clenia Dumanche, Antonio dela Luna, Ma. Alice Labaon, Jean Gonzalez, Dinyo Mateo, NJ Torres-Jacobson, and Enrique Gil… In observance of the Holy Week, Star City will be closed from Holy Wednesday, March 28 to Black Saturday, March 31. Operations will resume on Easter Sunday, April 1 at 2 p.m.

Senators’ wishes for Duterte: Good health, peace of mind, wisdom

by Xave Gregorio

Senators did not miss out on the chance to greet President Rodrigo Duterte on his 73rd birthday on Wednesday (March 28).

Senate President Koko Pimentel, Senate Majority Leader Tito Sotto, and Senators Ralph Recto, Grace Poe and Sonny Angara all wished the President, who suffers several illnesses, good health.

Duterte previously revealed that he is suffering from at least four ailments, namely a slipped disc, Barrett’s esophagus, Buerger’s disease and acute bronchitis.

He was photographed on his birthday last year with an oxygen concentrator, which he said helped with oxygenation.

“Pinaka-stressful na trabaho ‘yung sa kanya so sana pagkalooban siya ng magandang kalusugan para magampananan niya ang kanyang tungkuling at mabigyang daan ang pag-asa ng ating mga kababayan,” said Angara in a text message.

Recto also wished Duterte “more wisdom and a successful presidency,” while Poe wished him “peace of mind and fulfillment.”

The oldest person to be ever elected as Philippine president also enjoys unprecedented popularity, with higher popularity and trustworthiness ratings than his predecessors.

He has been leading the charge against illegal drugs in a fierce war, which has left several thousands suspected drug personalities dead and has received criticism from local and international rights groups.

Duterte has also been keeping a careful watch on government officials, easily sacking them for any whiff of corruption. However, critics point out that the President has been selective, citing the case of former Customs commissioner Nicanor Faeldon, who, after being implicated in a smuggling scandal, was promoted to the Office of Civil Defense.

Aside from this, the President also sanctioned an ambitious infrastructure program dubbed “Build, Build, Build.”

Other domestic issues which Duterte faces are the continued rebellion of Communist forces and the possible creation of a new autonomous Bangsamoro region, seen as the answer to decades of Moro rebellion in Mindanao.

He and his party PDP-Laban are also pushing for the shift to a federal form of government which would increase autonomy of local regions – an effort which his allies in the lower house are spearheading.

Senator Gringo Honasan said he is praying for Duterte’s “continuing wisdom vision courage and political will.”

“He alone with God’s help, may have the capacity to make difficult decisions, that will benefit the greatest number of Filipinos, for the greater good, for the longest time, in our blessed Country for the sake of our Children,” Honasan said.

Gloria Arroyo vows 'unwavering support' for birthday boy Duterte

(2ND UPDATE) 'Thanks for the years of real friendship,' former president now Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo tells President Rodrigo Duterte in her birthday message

FRIENDS. President Rodrigo Duterte and former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo share a light moment during a courtesy visit in Malacañang on November 28, 2016. Photo by King Rodriguez/Presidential Photo

(2nd UPDATE) – Former president now Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Wednesday, March 28, pledged her “unwavering support” for President Rodrigo Duterte, who celebrated his 73rd birthday that day,

“Happy birthday to an exemplary leader, President Rodrigo Duterte. Thank you for your trailblazing leadership and service to the Filipino people,” Arroyo said in her birthday message to Duterte sent to media.

The lawmaker also thanked Duterte “for the years of real friendship.”

During the 2016 election campaign, when Arroyo was on hospital arrest for "multiple cervical spondylosis" or the wearing off of the bones, Duterte had personally assured her that he would grant her pardon if convicted of plunder in relation to the alleged misuse of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office funds.

Arroyo refused, as she would have to admit that she was guilty of plunder. Barely a month into the Duterte administration, the Supreme Court acquitted her after 4 years in detention.

“I wish you fortitude and the best of health so you can continue instituting your programs for real change for our country. You have my unwavering support,” Arroyo said in her message.

'Good health'

Wishes for good health dominated the birthday messages for the 73-year-old Duterte.

In the Senate, Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, PDP Laban president, greeted his party mate as well and said: “Keep cool and keep healthy. We need you to guide our nation for your full term.”

Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto said his wish for Duterte is good health, more wisdom, and a successful presidency.”

Senate Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III said he sent the President a birthday greeting wishing him good health, the same birthday for Duterte conveyed by Senators Grace Poe and Juan Edgardo Angara.

‘Happy Birthday President Duterte’

PRESIDENT Duterte may have celebrated his birthday without fanfare but members of his official family and members of Congress did not forget as they extended their greetings to the Chief Executive who turned 73 on Wednesday.

All wished the President many more “healthy years” and expressed their gratitude for his leadership and compassion.

Palace Spokesman Harry Roque wished Duterte to have “more healthy years ahead.”

He said the nation was fortunate to have Duterte, given his “strong political will” and “decisive leadership” to move the country to progress and prosperity.


“Today, the father of the nation is celebrating one of the most important occasions in his life. Our country’s leader, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, is turning a year older,” Roque said in a statement.

“On this day, we are reminded of how blessed we are as a nation to be headed by someone who is known for his strong political will, decisive leadership and compassion for his fellowmen. I join the people in wishing our President a happy birthday!” he added.

In a separate statement, Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo lauded Duterte for his resolve in “complying with the directives and commands of the Constitution to serve and protect the Filipino people.”

“As you add another page to your book of life, the gods of destiny appear to be smiling at how you have hurdled the formidable gauntlet they have thrown at you, for surely you  have mastered the art of playing at  your foes, vexing your detractors and perflexing  your allies as well,  as you carry the burdens of the presidency with the erudition of a tactician and the dexterity of a magician.”

“In recognition and appreciation of your dedication to the nation, and in fear of your mortality, the overwhelming majority of the Filipinos who placed you in the exalted office you now holds, have stormed the heavens with their prayers that the angels be sent to you to spread their wings to shield you from any harm, injury or sickness and to wish you on your birthday a continuing good health that you may continue to fulfill your mandate under the guidance of the Almighty’s wisdom and love. Many happy returns of the day. Cheers President Rody!” he added.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar described Duterte as a “man for the people.”

“We pause for this one day, to render to the President, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the honor and the gratitude deserving of a leader, whose vision is revealed as each day unfolds. He acts both from the realm of power, and from the homes of the powerless,” said Andanar.

He added that Duterte’s stories and manner of speaking “belong authentically to the language of the people.”

Like his fellow Palace officials, Andanar wished the septuagenarian president a long life.

“We pray that our President be blessed with more years, strong health, and the wisdom of fine age,” Andanar said.

Duterte’s Special Assistant Christopher “Bong” Go wished his “boss, adviser and mentor” a “long and healthy life so that he may continue serving the nation.”

Greetings from the Senate

Senators from the majority bloc echoed Duterte’s official family.

Senate President Aquilino Pimentel 3rd said, “Happy birthday Mr. President.”

“Keep cool and keep healthy. We need you to guide our nation for your full term,” Pimentel told the President in a text message, which he also sent to reporters.

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto wished the Chief Executive “good health, more wisdom, and a successful presidency.”

Senate Majority Leader Vicente Sotto 3rd said that he sent the President a message “for his continued good health.”

“I wish him good health, peace of mind and fulfillment,” said Sen. Grace Poe.

Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara said, “We wish the President and his family continued good health to withstand all the rigors of being president.”

Sen. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan 2nd said, “As President Rodrigo Duterte turns 73 today, we pray for continuing wisdom, vision, courage, and political will.”

“With God’s help, may he have the capacity to make difficult decisions, that will benefit the greatest number of Filipinos, for the greater good of our blessed country for the sake of our children,” Honasan said.

‘Unwavering support’

Former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo expressed her “unwavering support” for the President as she wished greeted him a happy birthday.

“Happy birthday to an exemplary leader, President Rodrigo Duterte,” Arroyo said.

She then thanked him for his “trailblazing leadership and service to the Filipino people” and “for the years of real friendship.”

“I wish you fortitude and the best of health so you can continue instituting your programs for real change for our country,” Arroyo said.

“You have my unwavering support. God bless you and your family,” she added.

Greetings from an ally

Chinese President Xi Jinping extended his best wishes to Duterte as he cited the deepening bilateral relations between the Philippines and China.

Xi, in a congratulatory letter released by the Chinese embassy in Manila on Tuesday, praised the “turnaround” on the China-Philippines relations over the past year.

“Our bilateral relations have enjoyed ongoing betterment and improvement and reaped productive outcomes, which brought tangible benefits to our two peoples and promoted peace and stability of the region,” the Chinese leader said in his letter.

Xi also recounted his meeting with Duterte on several occasions that resulted in important consensus on advancing China-Philippine relations and a deepening practical cooperation towards the future growth of their bilateral relations.

Philippine and China relations have achieved a positive turnaround since the visit of the President to China in 2016.

“I attach great significance to the growth of China-Philippines relations, and stand ready to work with you to carry forward sustained and in-depth growth of China-Philippines relations and bring about more benefits to our countries and peoples,” Xi said.

The President has not been known to throw big parties on his birthday even when he was mayor of Davao City for more than 23 years and one term each as vice mayor and first district representative.

He usually makes himself scarce and as much as possible avoids people even those who only want to greet him.

The President was born on March 28, 1945, in Maasin, Southern Leyte, to Vicente Duterte, who was governor of the undivided Davao in the late 1950s, and Soledad Roa, a teacher. CATHERINE S. VALENTE, JEFFERSON ANTIPORDA, BERNADETTE TAMAYO

Solons hail Duterte on birthday

House of Representatives members on Wednesday showered President Rodrigo Duterte with greetings and praises on his 73rd birthday, with some congressmen calling him the country’s “sole hope” as well as a “brave and fearless leader.”

“May the Lord give him longer life and wisdom to be able to steer this country toward real growth and progress. Siya lang ang pag-asa ng Pilipinas (He is the sole hope of the Philippines),” Surigao del Norte 2nd district Robert Ace Barbers said.

“It makes me proud to be a Mindanaoan! Happy birthday Mr. President,” added Barbers, who chairs the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs.

Duterte, a former longtime Davao City mayor, won the Palace seat in landslide fashion during the May 2016 presidential polls. At age 71, he was the oldest ever to be elected as Philippine president.

Another Mindanaoan in Sulu 2nd district Rep. Munir Arbison wished for more strength and better health for the Chief Executive on his special day.

“I wish that he could be gven by Allah strength and good health so that he could resolve the problem of insurgency in Mindanao as will as the kidnapping and drug problem in Sulu which has brought down the image and economy of our country,” Arbison said.

This was echoed by her another solon from the south, Surigao del Sur 2nd district Rep. Johnny Pimentel.

“I wish him good health so that he could finish all the programs and projects that he started,” said Pimentel, chairman of the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability.

A key program that would entail the entire six-year term Duterte is the “Build, Build, Build” program. Began in 2017, Build, Build, Build is an expansive infrastructure modernization program that will have a total price tag of around P9 trillion.

By the time Duterte has stepped down in 2022, the Philippines will have ushered in a “golden age of infrastructure” thanks to the program, according to its proponents.

“Happy 73rd Birthday Mr. President. Thank you for your brave and fearless leadership. I hope that you have a day of joy and rest on your birthday,” Deputy Minority Leader, AKO-Bicol Party-List Rep. Alfredo Garbin said in a rather practical wish for the septuagenarian Duterte.

Garbin’s fellow AKO-Bicol nominee, Rep. Rodel Batocabe, wished success for the Chief Executive in his signature campaign against illegal drugs.

“May you continue to blessed with good health, infinite wisdom and indefatigable spirit to deal with the multifarious concerns and problems of our nation. I also hope that will succeed in the war against drugs and poverty and preside over a country which is relatively peaceful, prosperous and stable,” Batocabe said.

Meanwhile, Quezon City 2nd district Rep. Winston Castelo also expressed hope that the Philippines would return to its previous glorious standing in the world community under the leadership of the birthday boy, Duterte.

“[I wish him] long life and good health to lead the country to economic progress and regain our pride as a Filipino in the global stage,” he said.

Robredo wishes a 'successful administration' for Duterte

'Iyong success ng administrasyon ng ating Pangulo, wala naman doong ibang makikinabang tayong mga Pilipino. Kaya iyon ang pinaka-birthday wish ko sa kanya,' says Vice President Leni Robredo on the

Vice President Leni Robredo continued to wish President Rodrigo Duterte success in leading the country as the Chief Executive turned 73 on Wednesday, March 28.

Asked for her birthday wish for Duterte, Robredo said she wants the President to achieve his goals for the country since this would benefit all Filipinos.

“Siyempre, parati nating birthday wish iyong good health, iyong success sa administrasyon. Kasi iyong success naman ng administrasyon ng ating Pangulo, wala naman doong ibang makikinabang [kundi] tayong mga Pilipino. Kaya iyon ang pinaka-birthday wish ko sa kanya,” she said.

(Of course, we always wish for him good health and the success of his administration. The success of the President's administration will benefit no one else but Filipinos. That's why this is always my birthday wish for him.)

Robredo had the same wish for the President last year, when she said that there's any birthday gift she could give to Duterte, it would be prayers for good health and the success of his administration.

Duterte and Robredo barely see each other since the Vice President was compelled to resign as housing czar in December 2016, after the President barred her from attending Cabinet meetings. (READ: LIST: Where Duterte and Robredo part ways)

Malacañang said there were "irreconcilable differences" between the top two officials of the land. But Duterte later admitted that Robredo's opposition to the hero’s burial for the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos was the final straw.

Duterte and Robredo now only meet in events where both leaders are invited, among them, the graduation rites of the country's military and police academies, Philippine Independence Day at the Luneta, and major events of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

They are always seen acting cordially towards one another, despite their political differences. Recently, they sat each beside each other at the 2018 graduation rites of the Philippine Military Academy and the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA).

At the PNPA commencement exercises, the President even opened his speech by telling Robredo, “I love to see my Vice President.”

Message of Speaker Pantaleon D. Alvarez to President Rodrigo Duterte on his 73rd birthday

On behalf of the House of Representatives and my family, I would like to extend our sincerest greetings to President Rodrigo Duterte on his 73rd birthday.

For the past two years, our country has benefited from the President's competent leadership. No doubt, his long experience in public office, as prosecutor, congressman and Davao City Mayor, has adequately prepared him to assume the highest elective position and to lead the country towards political stability and sustained economic growth.

We join the rest of the nation in wishing the President good health and long life in the years ahead.

TBP launches Cine Turismo

Cesar Montano with DOT Sec. Wanda Teo

Actor-producer Cesar Montano, now Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) an agency attached to the Department of Tourism, launched recently a new campaign called Cine Turismo. And serving as its launch activity is a recognition of eight Filipino-made films and two foreign films that showcased the beauty of the Philippines, thereby promoting Philippine tourism.

Said Cesar: “Film tourism is a steadily growing industry in the Philippines. This project was created to acknowledge the many films and filmmakers, that through their wonderful portrayals of the Philippines, have aroused interest and boosted tourism in local tourist spots.” The launch was held at Manila Diamond Hotel with DOT Sec. Wanda Tulfo-Teo as special guest.

The campaign is a timely move by the TPB in light of the pending Film Tourism Bill (SB 1330) sponsored by Sen. Grace Poe and introduced by Sen. Sonny Angara which recognizes the “potential of international and local motion picture production to create jobs, grow the economy and raise the nation’s international profile and seeks to offer incentives to production companies who choose to showcase Philippine destinations and the nation’s historical and cultural heritage, or champion Filipino film practitioners and artists in foreign productions.

The films honored were Ice Idanan’s “Sakaling Di Makarating;” Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil’s “Lakbay2Love;” Irene Villamor’s “Camp Sawi;” Victor Villanueva’s “Patay Na Si Hesus;” Mario Cornejo’s “Apocalypse Child;” Paul Soriano’s “Siargao;” “Nerissa Picadizo’s “Requited;” and Thop Nazareno’s “Kiko Boksingero.”

Special citations will also be given to South Korean films “Mango Tree,” shot in Cebu and directed by Lee Soo-Sung; and “Romantic Island,” directed by Cheol-Woo Kang and shot in Boracay.

• • •

Andre gets full support from father

Andre Paras

In a recent interview, Andre Paras happily shared he and his brother Kobe get the full support of their father Benjie Paras in their respective careers – Andre in his showbiz endeavours, and Kobe in basketball.

Andre, who plays Pido, a cop on the GMA series “Sherlock Jr.” said if they encounter problems, Benjie is always there to guide and reminds them that “it’s just a bad day, not a bad career.” More, he always encourages them to focus their attention to more positive things.

“Sherlock Jr.” also stars Ruru Madrid, Ai Ai delas Alas, Roi Vinzon, Gabbi Garcia and Tonton Gutierrez among others. The series airs weeknights after “24 Oras” on GMA Telebabad.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 27, go to Cesar Zalamea, Amb. Ruperto Dizon, Geena Zablan, Lydia Castillo, Linda Bolido, Gerry Constantino, Baby Austria, CJ Sarino, Arlene dela Cruz, Jessica Balatucan, Boripat Phansaithong and Aurem Martinez of New York; Nitz Castillo, Edgardo Zaragoza, Maxie Paredes and Dr. Chris Smith of Texas…March 28: Consul Antonio Villamayor, Roselle Nava, Lita Esteban, Noel Le, Esperanza Cabunoc, Katrina Mercado, Polly Bautista, Victorino Ilagan, Joseph Bitangcol, Romeo San Miguel, Rev. Fr. Nono Alfonso, S.J., Geena Zablan, Brenz Erica Camagong-Lingat, Jeffrey Zaide, Vangie Guese, Dodong Verano, Esther Yuzon-Labang, Hannah Caratagena, Manuel Lazaga, Mark Genesis Cinco Durban, Rose Dinoy, Thorie Decano, Aileen Lagman, Thou Reyes, Luis Yabut, son of "TWBA" executive producer Nancy, Chiqui Roa-Puno and President Rodrigo Duterte…

Araneta to develop new budget hotel in Cubao

ARANETA CENTER, Inc. (ACI) plans to launch a new hotel, which will cater to the millennial market, within its 35-hectare property in Cubao, Quezon City.

“We will be coming up with a new hotel.. It will be a lifestyle budget hotel, run by also a popular international brand,” ACI Senior Vice-President for Operations Antonio T. Mardo told reporters on the sidelines of a company event last week.

Mr. Mardo said the new hotel will have around 300 rooms, with a lower price point than ACI’s first hotel in the property, Novotel Manila.

“This will be catering to the millennials… will be directed towards the young traveler, and young families as well,” the ACI executive said.

The introduction of a second hotel forms part of ACI’s P50-billion redevelopment of the Araneta Center complex, which will see more office, retail, and residential projects over the next 10 to 15 years.

For the office component, ACI has recently topped off its second office tower called CyberPark Tower 2. The company plans to launch three more office towers in the coming years, bringing the gross floor area of its office properties to 600,000 square meters (sq.m.).

Mr. Mardo said the towers are expected to attract business process outsourcing companies, as well as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) once the Quezon City government irons out rules for such businesses.

“The challenge in Quezon City, (POGOs) are not yet an accepted type of business. Maybe we can talk to the city government… It should be pulled to the city because you get to fill up your offices, there is revenue, and you pay taxes to the city. They also get licenses from the city government,” Mr. Mardo said.

ACI is also propping up its retail spaces with the expansion of Gateway Mall. So far, it has brought Gateway Mall 1’s GFA to 100,000 sq.m. The company is adding currently adding 130,000 sq.m. for Gateway Mall 2, and another 100,000 sq.m. for Gateway Mall 3.

“We are going to introduce new concepts that will hopefully entice more people to the Gateway Mall, our new hotel, to Novotel, and to the entire development,” Mr. Mardo said.

For the residential aspect, ACI is currently building the 18-tower Manhattan Residences.

Mr. Mardo cited Araneta Center’s prime location compared to other developments, given its access to different points in the metro through different modes of transportation through the Metro Rail Transit Line 3, Light Rail Transit Line 2, and provincial buses and UV express terminals.

“The access to transportation, and 24/7 activity. We are probably the only center that has all types of access,” Mr. Mardo said.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V Digital Camera Deluxe Kit

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera Deluxe Kit

Pateros Cityhood

On March 29, 1900, Pateros became one of the towns in the newly created province of Rizal, by virtue of General Order No. 40, Act No. 137 of the Philippine Commission, which was promulgated on June 11, 1901. Then on October 12, 1903, Act No. 942 united Pateros with Taguig and Muntinlupa into one municipality under Pateros. The municipality was renamed Taguig on March 22, 1905, through Act No. 1308.

Executive Order No. 20 dated February 29, 1908 partitioned Pateros from Taguig, and the town regained independent status as a municipality on January 1, 1909, by Executive Order No. 36. On November 7, 1975, Pateros became a part of the new Metropolitan Manila Area through Presidential Decree No. 824.

It was reclassified to a first class municipality effective on November 20, 2001 pursuant to Section 2 (c) of Department Order No. 32-2001 of the Department of Finance, as implemented by Memorandum Circular No. 01-M (NCR) dated January 28, 2002.

Lawmakers in the plenary expressed their support and agreement to convert Pateros into a city, making it the 18th city in Metro Manila.

Local government officials headed by Pateros Miguel "Ike" Ponce III, together with Vice Mayor Gerald German and members of the local council, came in full force to thank Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, Committee Chairman of the Committee on Local Government, for sponsoring the bill and ensuring its passage during the third and final reading.

The move for the conversion of Pateros into a city started in 2011 when it was proposed by Taguig City-Pateros Rep. Arnel Cerafrica.

Pateros has an average annual income of P201,361,140 as certified by the Department of Finance and a population of 63,840 as certified by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

It occupies a total of 176 hectares, as certified by the Land Management Bureau.

Once signed by President Rodrigo Duterte, the law will be published and will be subject to a plebiscite to allow all the members of the electorate to participate in the democratic process.

Local officials are confident that residents of the town will embrace the development as it promises to bring more opportunities, more jobs and greater progress to Pateros.

3rd TFFF, a tribute to Direk Maryo

The third edition of TOFARM Film Festival (TFF) from Sept. 12 to 18 will be a tribute to its former festival director, the late Maryo J. Delos Reyes. With social-entrepreneur Dr. Milagros O. How at the forefront, the TFF is the only advocacy-driven film festival in the country. The entries seeking inclusion has to showcase the lives, journeys, trials and triumphs of the Filipino farmers.

“We were deeply saddened with the demise of Direk Maryo. He gave so much of himself for TFF. When he suddenly left us, we found ourselves at a crossroad – should we go on with the project or not? But after a lot of thinking, I personally thought it’s best to carry on what Direk Maryo started. The festival would be a continuation of his vision for the farmers and for our film industry. This is our tribute to him.”

The deadline of submission of entries this year is on April 20. Those interested may log on to www.tofarm.org for the mechanics of the competition. TFF 2018 will also include a short film competition. The awards night will be on Sept. 15.

• • •

Like new again

It’s been asked: “What do Madonna, Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, Nelson Mandela, Pablo Picasso, former US Pres. Harry Truman, Prime Minister Charles de Gaulles, German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, King Hirohito of Japan and King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, among other others, have in common?

Well, it’s been said all of them underwent original living cell therapy in the clinic of Prof. Dr. Block or Prof. Dr. Niehans. Dr. Block’s grandson, Dr. Daniel Block, reminded us so when he was here recently to meet with the local media. He also said Dr. Paul Niehans is the father of modern living cell therapy.

Dr. Daniel Block is the Managing Director of the D. Siegfried Block GmbH & Clinic in Lenggries, Germany which has always been the top choice when it comes to fresh cell therapy because of its ancestry of excellence.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 24, go to Yehlen Catral, Jennifer Cortes, Pinky Alforque, Gloria Goloy, Ayo Gunting, Tessie Lobriguito, Jonathan Lorenzo, Leo Dominguez, Zardo Austria, Glen Regondola, Nate Barretto, Vangie Martelle, Gian Berino who turns 24 years old and Chloe Madison G. Martinez who turns 3 year old today… March 25: Rosemarie Gaisano, Esther Vibal, Leo Katigbak, Iris Sanchez, Dominic Rea, Bernard Cloma, Oscar Oida, Leandro Muñoz, and Quintin Alianza… March 26: Rebecca Rocha, Atty. Beth Guerrero, Manny Valdemor, Jair Williams, Ed Santiago, and Grace Samar, Margie Baterina, Dr. Marievi David, David Chua, and Kathryn Bernardo…

Ahead of maintenance, MRT3 has more trains but more breakdowns

More trains are now available to the commuting public but it still suffers from more breakdown incidents on the same week

The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3) may be running on more trains now with 12 trains operating, but it broke down 5 times this week.

From March 17 to March 23, the MRT3 suffered 5 glitches – two of which were caused by electrical failure in the affected train's motor, two due to door failure, while another was due to a signalling problem.

Transportation officials earlier attributed the increase of trains to the availability of spare parts. The glitches this week, however, is not due to lack of spare parts, MRT3 media relations officer Aly Narvaez told Rappler.

"Spare parts for rolling stock and power were delivered but electrical failure is one of the common causes of unloading," Narvaez said in a mix of English and Filipino.

"Door failure may be caused by human intervention, when passengers lean on the door or when they force it open. It causes pressure on door components, and eventually on the motor, which results to the glitch," she added.

There have been 9 breakdown incidents in March, or a total of 47 glitches when 2018 started, affecting some 3,000 passengers in total.

The railway system served close to 300,000 passengers from March 19 to March 22, about 5% increase from the first week of March ridership of only 286,000.

More glitches

On Saturday, March 17, around 340 passengers were unloaded at GMA-Kamuning Station at 5:08 pm due to electrical failure. The day averaged with 11 working trains, serving some 235,000 passengers on a Saturday.

On Sunday, March 18, the day opened with 12 running trains at 6 pm but the MRT3 suffered from a glitch in the afternoon.

At 6:49 pm, a Southbound MRT3 train unloaded around 600 passengers at Ortigas Station due to signalling error. Despite the glitch, the railway operator ran on an average of 12 trains with a ridership of 165,000 on a Sunday.

On Monday, March 19, there were 11 trains running when the week started. It experienced two glitches in the evening.

At 6:45 pm, around 740 passengers were unloaded by a Southbound MRT3 train at Shaw Boulevard Station due to electrical failure. More than an hour after, some 400 passengers got off at Magallanes Station at 8:03 pm due to door failure.

The day ended with 11 trains on average but was able to serve almost 310,000 passengers despite the glitches.

On Tuesday, March 20, 11 trains were running the entire day serving some 297,000 passengers.

On Wednesday, March 21, 11 trains were running by 6 am. It went up to 12 by 7 pm. The day closed with an average of 11 operational trains serving more than 295,000 passengers.

On Thursday, March 22, there were 12 running trains available for the commuting public by 6 am. But a glitch happened at 6:19 pm, with a Northbound MRT3 train unloading around 1,000 passengers at Buendia Station due to door failure.

On Friday, March 23, the day opened with 12 trains at 6 am. The MRT3 was able to maintain the number of trains through out the day but by 7:32 pm, there were 13 trains running.

Maintenance

The MRT3 is scheduled to conduct its maintenance services from March 28 to April 1, closing down operations on those days.

MRT3 announced on Thursday that the team is all set for the maintenance activities during the Holy Week, preparing 1,000 meters of contact wire, 100 pieces of diffusers, cans of paint for repainting of walls and signages, as well as signalling parts for the general cleaning.

The MRT3 management also said that 782 light rail vehicle tires will also be available for the annual maintenance of the trains.

Once the rehabilitation of MRT3 trains are done, the transportation department promised that 15 trains should be up and running by April. (READ: DOTr promises better MRT3 services by 2nd quarter of 2018)

Experts from the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) joint advisory panel will also join the MRT3 team during the maintenance services.

In 2017, the MRT3 has an average daily ridership of 463,000 from 20 running trains. In November 2017, this was later adjusted to 15 to ensure the safety of passengers after anomalies with former maintenance provider Busan Universal Rail Incorporated's performance. (READ: Surviving MRT3: Worst train fails in 2017)

The number was later reduced to the available trains now to ensure passenger safety. In February 2018, the number of trains went down to as few as 6 trains. (READ: MRT3 suffers almost daily breakdowns since start of 2018)

There were 516 MRT3 glitches recorded in 2017 – almost 10 incidents a week.

ABS-CBN posts P3.16 billion net income in 2017, exceeds goal

ABS-CBN Corp said Friday it posted net income of P3.16 billion in 2017, as rising consumer sales aided revenue growth.

The country's largest media and entertainment company said consolidated revenues reached P40.7 billion last year. Consumer sales rose by a "healthy" 9 percent.

"Overall, we are pleased with our performance for 2017 and we are particularly happy to have exceeded our guidance for net income," said ABS-CBN chief financial officer Aldrin Cerrado.

The company maintained its TV ratings lead last year, headlined by the long-running Coco Martin police drama "FPJ's Ang Probinsyano," followed by "Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids" and "The Voice Teens."

It followed closely by Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo's fantasy series, "La Luna Sangre", and the news program "TV Patrol" 

Also making to the list are "Langit Lupa," "Ikaw Lang ang Iibigin," "It’s Showtime," "ASAP," "Ipaglaban Mo," "The Better Half," "The Promise of Forever," "Hanggang Saan," "The Greatest Love," Pusong Ligaw,", "Wildflower," "My Dear Heart," "A Love to Last," "The Good Son," "TWBA," "Bandila," "Home Sweetie Home," "Little Big Shots," "MMK," "I Can Do That," "I Can See Your Voice," "Gandang Gabi Vice," "Wansapanataym" and "Rated K".

With the ratings-based pricing called CPIRP that has been in place since 2015, Cerrado said "improved ratings directly translate to increased revenues."

Total costs and expenses for 2017 were flat compared to the previous year. On a per-hour basis, costs were down 2 percent, ABS-CBN said.

Total assets rose to P75.1 billion as of end of December 2017 compared to P72.7 billion in 2016. The company’s equity base increased to P33.7 billion from P31.7 billion.

As of December 2017, ABS-CBN said it sold 4.3 million units of its TVPlus. By the end of 2018, the company hopes to breach the 6-million mark, ABS-CBN Group CFO Ron Valdueza said.

"Our subsidiaries also made significant contributions to our revenue growth," he said.

Star Cinema sold P2.9 billion in tickets. "The Revenger Squad" alone grossed almost P600 million. 

SkyCable revenues grew 4 percent to P9.1 billion in 2017, driven by a 21-percent increase in broadband and DTH Subscribers. By year-end, the company had over one million PayTV subscribers and more than 200,000 broadband subscribers, bringing Sky’s total subscriber base to over 1.2 million.

The Filipino Channel staged "ASAP Live in Toronto" in Canada with a 7,000-strong audience.

Kidzania, the company’s educational theme park, attracted over 330,000 visitors for 2017, while TV shopping channel O Shopping generated P840 million in sales.

Sony PDW-850 XDCAM HD422 2/3" 3CCD Camcorder

Donald J. Duterte

It had to happen, sooner or later.

This latest nickname for the American president was seen on a protester’s placard in New Hampshire—the first state that gets to vote in US electoral primaries—after Trump said the other day that he might consider pushing the death penalty for “drug kingpins” who, because of their deadly trade, effectively commit multiple murder.

Such a move would of course have to clear the US Congress as well as the Supreme Court, which among other things would have to rule whether such a drastic federal penalty is proportionate to the gravity of the offense committed. Evidently Trump thinks so, an opinion that is obviously shared by Donald’s “brother” Digong.

* * *

But neither Trump nor other right-thinking Americans should need a Duterte to point out the gravity of the threat posed by the drug trade. The entirety of American culture today is awash in drugs, so much so that a wildly popular TV series like “Breaking Bad” could run for nearly ten seasons purely on the misadventures of a couple of social misfits who turn to baking crystal meth, or shabu.

The reason drug usage gets away with a wink and a nod in the States—and can even end up being glorified like the heroes of “Breaking Bad”—is the reification of Rights and of the Self in that thoroughly self-absorbed culture. If I’m able to get away with doing something, no matter what it is, then it’s probably a Right that I’m entitled to, just because it’s something I want to do.

It’s a pervasive way of thinking that cuts across ideological divides. On the far right, groups like the NRA are ready to die for their constitutional right to bear arms, even if that so-called right is clearly premised by the US Constitution on the existence of, and need for, a popular militia—one that, 250 years later, has long been replaced by a professional standing army.

On the lefty-liberal side, the same groups who’d oppose Trump’s death penalty for druggies—let alone Duterte’s far harsher statements—are virtually certain to be the same people who’d cheer the Right of American mothers to murder a million unborn babies every year, vilify pro-life Catholics exercising their own free speech rights as “the new Taliban,” and want the US State Department to coerce countries like ours to adopt abortion policies buried deep within “planned parenthood” and “responsible parenthood” programs.

The hypocrisy—on human rights, unborn babies’ rights, drug criminals’ rights—is so rank, it makes you gag.

But doesn’t an abortion ban drive women with unwanted pregnancies underground? Heck, yes, and of course it should. Murdering the unborn is a practice that deserves to be carried out with shame, in the shadows. Underground is where it belongs, together with purveyors of the drug trade—in their case, six feet under.

* * *

Talking about hypocrisy may not be the best segue into a look at the latest news from our esteemed leaders in Congress. Or—maybe it is?

Over at the House, the honorable congressmen voted a new divorce bill into law, 134-57 with two abstentions. It was noteworthy that after the vote, Duterte broke his conspicuous silence on the issue to reveal that, no, he was opposed to the new bill, because it would be “disadvantageous” to children and abandoned mothers.

Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, who shepherded the bill through the House, has announced that he will be talking to the President to try and change his mind. After all, they share a common history of failed first marriages—one which unfortunately is all too common as well in our country, whether or not the couple is honest, or lucky, enough to split up and move on.

We sense, however, that Duterte is being canny about the divorce issue, which isn’t part of his core agenda for governance. If the true believers in the Senate on either side of this issue win his vote against the other side, they ought to add their strength to the President’s on the issues that do matter to him.

Speaking of the Senate, those exalted ladies and gentlemen approved, by 17-2, a new law creating a national identification system. The new national ID card can be used in all transactions with government, making it more convenient for our citizens to avail of public services. The ball is now with the House to come up with a similar counterpart bill from their end, which can then be consolidated into a single law for the President’s OK.

The new ID card ought to be less controversial than divorce, except for the usual leftist claptrap about government invasion of privacy. But what may upset some other folks is a recent estimate from Neda that the new system may cost up to P24 billion to roll out. We hope we get to see the details about those imposing costs as soon as possible.

* * *

We close with our occasional roundup of economic news, most of it, again, positive:

The Philippines finally inked a new agreement for a P51-billion loan from Japan to finance the planned Metro Manila subway. This will be the first tranche for the P357-billion first phase of this ambitious project. Even if it breaks ground on schedule, it’s sure to be unfinished by the time Duterte steps down. That’s why we ought to elect the right man—or woman—again in 2022.

AMRO, a regional think tank, expects our economy to grow even faster in 2018 and 2019 due to buoyant exports and higher domestic consumption driven by grand infrastructure projects like the new subway. But even with funds like the Japanese loans coming in, I’m not sure if we have the non-financial resources—technical talent, cooperative local governments, transparency and political will—to start up all those projects on schedule.

All that growth is bound to take a toll on the country’s financials. The current account deficit more than doubled last year to hit its highest level since 1999, mainly because of strong imports. The overall balance of payments deficit also more than doubled last year, albeit still within government’s original target due to record-high inflows of foreign direct investments. And this early, the 4 percent inflation target for the current year is already certain to be breached.

To put things in perspective, though, any fast-growing economy always runs the risks of overheating as well as over-leverage. Even as we’re watching out for these risks, let’s not take our eyes off the prize.

Readers can write me at gbolivar1952@yahoo.com.

Senate approves bill creating 8th district for Cavite

(UPDATED) – The Senate has okayed a House measure that would increase the number of Cavite's congressional districts to 8.

On March 5, the Senate approved on 3rd and final reading House Bill 5367, reapportioning the 6th and 7th legislative districts. Sponsored by Senate local government committee chair Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, the bill was sent back to the House on March 8.

If the measure is enacted, General Trias City would have its own district, becoming the new 6th district.

The rest of the current 6th district – Trece Martires City, Tanza, and Amadeo – plus the town of Indang would compose the new 7th district.

The new 8th district would be what's left of the current 7th: Tagaytay City, Alfonso, General Aguinaldo, Magallanes, Maragondon, Mendez, Naic, and Ternate.

The bill – authored by Representatives Luis Ferrer IV of the 6th district, Abraham Tolentino of the 7th District, and Roy Loyola of the 5th District – seeks to amend Section 1 of Republic Act 9727, which reorganized the province into its current 7 districts.

The House approved HB 5367 on 3rd reading on May 15, 2017.

According to the 1987 Constitution, legislative districts "shall comprise, as far as practicable, contiguous, compact, and adjacent territory."

Cities with a population of at least 250,000 are also entitled to have at least one representative. Based on the 2015 Census, General Trias City has a population of 314,303.

Senate OKs House bill recognizing Santo Tomas as a city of Batangas

Voting 19-0, the Senate yesterday approved on third and final reading a measure emanating from the House of Representatives that seeks to convert the municipality of Santo Tomas in the province of Batangas into a component city.

Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, chair of the Senate committee on local government, sponsored House Bill 5160, which recognizes Santo Tomas as a city.

“Like the national hero Miguel Malvar, a native of this town and among the first of countless Filipino revolutionaries, Sto. Tomas is also leading the way towards progress among local government units,” Angara said.

The senator said the “thriving” town of Santo Tomas was one of the most populous in the whole country, and clearly met the population requirement indicated by the Local Government Code.

The lawmaker added the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) has certified the municipality’s average annual income at more than P230 million, which is also well above the required amount for conversion.

Santo Tomas also hosts a 600-megawatt solar panel factory — the first of its kind in the country, and a multinational paints supplier factory that would produce paints for many industries.

“If we provide enough resources for flourishing towns like Santo Tomas, then more Filipinos are given the chance to relish this bountifulness,” Angara said.

According to Angara, a great part of national development is dependent “on the quality and capacity of the country’s local government units.”

“Our national government agencies have drawn economic plans that entail the expansion of the economy outside urbanized cities to dissipate concentrated gains,” he said.

“But to accomplish this goal requires solid foundations, not just of the national agencies, but also of our local governments,” Angara stressed.

Senate approves cityhood of Sto. Tomas town in Batangas

Lawmakers in the plenary express their support and agreement to convert Sto. Tomas into a city, making it the 4th city in the province of Batangas

With a vote of 19-0, the Senate unanimously approved last Monday (March 19) the passage of House Bill 5160 or “An Act Converting the Municipality of Sto. Tomas in the Province of Batangas into a Component City to be known as City of Sto. Tomas”.

Lawmakers in the plenary expressed their support and agreement to convert Sto. Tomas into a city, making it the 4th city in the province of Batangas.

Local government officials headed by Sto. Tomas Mayor Edna P. Sanchez, together with Vice Mayor Armenius O. Silva and members of the local council, came in full force to thank Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, Committee Chairman of the Committee on Local Government, for sponsoring the bill and ensuring its passage during the third and final reading.

The move for the conversion of Sto. Tomas into a city started in 2015 when it was proposed by then 3rd District Batangas Congressman Nelson P. Collantes.

Sto. Tomas has an average annual income of P230 million as certified by the Department of Finance and a population of 179,844 as certified by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

It occupies a total of 10,032 hectares, as certified by the Land Management Bureau.

Once signed by President Rodrigo Duterte, the law will be published and will be subject to a plebiscite to allow all the members of the electorate to participate in the democratic process.

Local officials are confident that residents of the town will embrace the development as it promises to bring more opportunities, more jobs and greater progress to Sto. Tomas.

Tangled web of confusion

Anyone who has gone through the experience of building a house or undertaking a major renovation knows how frustrating it is to make sure things go well according to plan. There are so many moving parts and anything can go wrong at any time. It’s usually a tangled web of confusion.

It is also an absolute test of your people management skills. It doesn’t mean that just because you have a contractor, you can relax. You have to be on top of the project all the time to make sure you are progressing as scheduled.

I can imagine how more immensely difficult it is to supervise a multi-billion peso infrastructure project like that elevated expressway that will connect the north and south expressway. This is why San Miguel has an in-house staff and consultants to make sure things are moving.

But it isn’t that simple. It helped that San Miguel divided the project between two of the country’s top and most dependable contractors, DMCI and EEI. But even then, there were problems right from the start.

They were delayed about six months because a supermarket refused to let them work in the land adjacent to it. The owner just didn’t like the idea of an expressway right next to it.

For a project as big as this one, every day of delay costs lots of money. I understand that the elevated expressway should have been delivered late last year. But there had been so much delay for so many reasons. We will be lucky if we can use the portion from Buendia to Paco by December. Essentially, right of way problems have been causing significant delays that will cost users higher tolls.

One reaction I received last week says problematic project execution is a third world thing.

“Yes, it is doable to complete the viaduct of the SMC connector road along Osmeña highway from Buendia to the intersection of Quirino avenue and Osmeña highway by the end of 2018 (the remaining effective work time is actually from April to November 2018; when the month of December starts, there is hardly any work activity in the construction area until mid January the following year).

“The steel girders in the corner of Buendia Avenue and Osmeña highway were uploaded from Jan. 15 to March 15, 2018. And there are still two portions within this stretch where concrete girders are still to be uploaded.

“I am sure the big bosses of DPWH and DOTr are eagerly looking forward to inaugurate the Buendia to Quirino portion of the viaduct for PR purposes.  However, it is puzzling why the construction of the northbound ramp after the intersection of Buendia Avenue and Osmeña highway (it is almost finished) is being prioritized when there is no exit ramp being constructed at the Paco station end of the viaduct.

“On the other hand, the southbound entry ramp at the corner of Zobel Roxas street and Osmeña highway is not being constructed (but they have cordoned the middle lane in that stretch and construction materials like the cylindrical steel pipes that form the foundation of the ramp pillars are just lying in the middle of the road). There is no ROW issue in this portion of the construction site.

“If a southbound entry ramp can be constructed at the corner of Zobel Roxas street and Osmeña highway (or at the corner of Quirino avenue and Osmeña highway) then motorists can use this Quirino-Buendia portion to travel all the way to Alabang when this viaduct is hopefully completed by December 2018.”

I asked the contractor, DMCI, but they were not very communicative. All I could get is the information that they are awaiting further instructions from San Miguel and TRB.

Other sources say the original viaduct design does not have a down ramp at Paco Station and an up ramp at Zobel Roxas intersection, but San Miguel has indicated they want this. A minimum of eight months would be necessary to complete the ramps from notice to proceed.

I texted Ramon Ang and he replied that there are no outstanding issues that must be resolved by San Miguel. He said the segment would be delivered for sure by December.

Hmmm… I would normally believe RSA because he is a micromanager who knows the tiniest details of progress in his projects. But I wonder if he is aware of problems being faced by NGCP in getting their right of way so their poles can be relocated and construction of the elevated expressway can go full blast.

An academic observer wrote me to say execution of this project “validates the infrastructure experience in developing countries: it is not simply infrastructure spending in isolation; infrastructure build-up efficiency also requires institutional capabilities such as detailed engineering analysis and construction plans, bureaucratic efficiency, and contract enforcement. This explains why the planning and execution of the BBB’s 75 major projects (not just the connector road) are encountering a lot of problems.”

If government and San Miguel really want to deliver the segment by December, they should put up a mechanism for better coordination. Weekly meetings where issues are resolved quickly should be called. It is clear that having competent private sector parties (DMCI, EEI and San Miguel) mean nothing, if relevant government agencies do not act with urgency.

But what can one expect from DOTr? This agency is all about show!

For instance, DOTr had a ground breaking ceremony for the Common Station September last year, but nothing has happened on the ground six months later. I am told they have had two failed biddings due to low government cost estimate compared to reality. So, no contractor yet even if they broke ground.

This means it will be months before anything happens. This is a design and build contract and the design part can only start once the contract is awarded. Yung ground breaking, drama lang ni Tugade.