Bench Universe: The 2012 Denim and Underwear Show: Other local celebrities are not attending

"Other local celebrities such as Precious Adona, Asia Agcaoili, Carlene Aguilar, Marco Alcaraz, Gerald Anderson, Antonio Aquitania, Jon Avila, Phoemela Baranda, Benj Basa, James Blanco, Kris Bernal, Chad Burden, Gian Carlos, Albie Casiño, Nancy Castiglione, Rainier Castillo, David Chua, Carlos Concepcion, Geneva Cruz, John Lloyd Cruz, Rodjun Cruz, Janvier Daily, Franco Daza, Alessandra de Rossi, JC de Vera, Jenine Desiderio, Wilma Doesnt, Robi Domingo, Ryan Eigenmann, John Estrada, Ejay Falcon, Frencheska Farr, Tanya Garcia-Lapid, Rachelle Ann Go, Edgar Allan Guzman, Katrina Halili, Jon Hall, Kristine Hermosa-Sotto, Brent Javier, Luke Jickain, Tibo Jumalon, Bianca King, Doug Kramer, Maureen Larrazabal, Mikee Lee, Xian Lim, Ehra Madrigal, Michelle Madrigal, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Robby Mananquil, Zanjoe Marudo, Alicia Mayer, Sam Milby, Priscilla Meirelles-Estrada, Carlos Morales, Ron Morales, Iwa Moto, Marc Nelson, Juliana Palermo, Angelica Panganiban, Bubbles Paraiso, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Tyrone Perez, Sam Pinto, Cassandra Ponti, Camille Prats, John Prats, Francine Prieto, Bruce Quebral, Dex Quindoza, Rufa Mae Quinto, Wendell Ramos, Iago Raterta, Keanna Reeves, Rafael Rosell, Johan Santos, Jome Silayan, Jay-R Siliona, Prince Stefan, Geoff Taylor, John James Uy, Nicole Uysiuseng, Alfred Vargas, Iya Villania, Corey Wills, Maggie Wilson, Valerie Weigmann and Jomari Yllana are not attending during the event."

Nationwide lockdown ruled out

The government on Tuesday ruled out the expansion of the Luzon-wide lockdown to the entire country in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The implementation of community quarantines in Mindanao and the Visayas has been good. There’s no possibility that we will lock down the entire Mindanao or the whole of the Visayas,” COVID-19 reponse chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. told radio dzMM.

Galvez’s assurance came as experts at the University of the Philippines warned that while the Luzon-wide lockdown has achieved “relative success,” there could still be outbreaks in Metro Manila and 15 provinces.

The Philippines currently has the most number of COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asia with 5,223 as of Tuesday, the study by the UP COVID-19 Pandemic Response Team said.

“Based on these trends, one can estimate about 9,000 to 44,000 possible cases reported by the end of April 2020,” the report said.

While the country looks to restarting the economy, the government should also prepare for outbreaks in 13 areas in Luzon, two provinces in the Visayas and one in Mindanao, the UP study said.

Based on the group’s mathematical model, these provinces registered a probability of more than 90 percent that they would experience a COVID-19 outbreak, said Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, UP executive vice president and co-leader of the study group, in an interview with ABS-CBN News.

Aside from Metro Manila, the study identified the provinces as: Aklan, Bataan, Batangas, Benguet, Bulacan, Cavite, Cebu, Davao Del Sur, Laguna, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Quezon, Rizal, and Tarlac.

One option, the UP group said, is to continue the enhanced community quarantine in high-risk areas, and implement stricter measures in those with an even higher probability of an outbreak.

Others with “80 to less than 90-percent probability” of an outbreak may be covered by a less stringent “general community quarantine.”

“Successful as it may seem, an Enhanced Community Quarantine covering a wide area may not be sustainable over the long run,” the UP study said.

“Our best recourse after April 30 is to implement graduated activation of Enhanced Community Quarantine depending on the level of risk in certain areas at a given time.”

On Tuesday, the President said he would lift the ECQ over Luzon only if a vaccine, antibody or medicine to cure COVID-19 is available to Filipinos.

In a televised address during a meeting with select Cabinet members, President Rodrigo Duterte insisted that Filipinos stay at home during the quarantine because the country would still need to endure two to three waves of the epidemic before they would see the end of the lockdown entering its fifth week.

“There’s no end in sight. When will it end, we have no clue. And our numbers are increasing,” the President said while reading the latest tally of COVID-19 infections.

“At this time, we need to treat the sick, we need to feed our people,” he said, as he admonished hospitals for turning away potential COVID-19 patients.

His remarks were made on the eve of government-led mass testing for coronavirus infections, which official Department of Health numbers put at just under 5,000 on Monday.

The President also discussed the utility of the National ID system to identify those who would need government aid, the distribution of aid to 18 million families most affected by the quarantine, observing social distancing, the United States “being part of the problem,” and the temporary travel ban on medical professionals and frontline workers from leaving the country.

In related developments during the same meeting:

• The Finance Department proposed a wage subsidy for employees of small businesses, as Undersecretary Karl Chua said 3.4 million workers are affected by quarantine measures.
• Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion said the government needed to plan “on how to gradually shift towards reviving the economy” because if not, “many of our Filipino brothers will suffer.”
• Duterte ordered authorities manning checkpoints to let trucks and vehicles carrying food and essential goods from the provinces to pass unhampered to their destinations.
• The President told medical workers to hail police vehicles to take them home, especially late at night.

Duterte reiterated several points raised in his previous late-night addresses, including his warning on discriminating against health workers, for local government leaders to “not play around” with quarantine efforts, and for the Left and other critics to inform him “if you have a better way of dealing with the problem.”

Filipinos needed to brace for a longer lockdown, the President said, because the country was just in the first wave of the epidemic that has claimed over 115,000 lives worldwide, including at least 315 in the Philippines.

“This doesn’t end with those at the hospital, those being treated now, that’s just the first wave. This will have a second wave. While those hit [by the disease] are dying, the others that are being infected, they are the second wave. That’s why you should maintain the social distancing rule,” Duterte said.

The President promised that if a cure for the coronavirus was already “tested medically” and made available to the country, he would lift the ECQ, which he had extended to April 30 from an initial one-month lockdown that would have ended at midnight of April 12, Sunday.

In an interview with the ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), the country’s deputy social economic planning chief said the Philippines is looking for ways to restore the public’s confidence in the economy.

Under lockdown for a month and with 17 more days to go, some 60 percent of consumers polled by the National Economic and Development Authority said they would not buy durable goods in the next 12 months.

They are also foregoing travel, NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon told ANC.

“We need to address the uncertainty. We need to build confidence in health systems capacity,” said Edillon.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases on Tuesday said it is still studying on what measures it will take after the ECQ expires on April 30.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said discussions were still ongoing, saying no decisions have yet been made.

Among these decisions is which industries will be allowed to reopen and who among the labor force could get back to work.

The government will also decide what to do with the public transportation system, which has been shut down during the lockdown.

In other developments:

• Large manufacturing companies expect a gradual reopening of local businesses as the rest of the world moves toward that direction. Integrated Micro-Electronics Inc. Chief Executive Arthur Tan said the rest of the world is now operating or poised to restart their own economies. In an online forum by the Management Association of the Philippines, Tan called for more extensive testing so that
• Senate President Vicente Sotto III said he would rather be safe than lift the lockdown before any solution to the virus is in sight. Reacting to the same issue, Senator Imee Marcos said she suspects only a partial easing may be allowed at the end of the month, citing warnings about a second wave of infection that occurred in other countries.
• Health Secretary Francisco Duque III inspected the Ninoy Aquino Stadium which has been designated as a quarantine facility for COVID-19 patients. To date, some 112-bed units have been installed.

https://manilastandard.net/news/national/321569/nationwide-lockdown-ruled-out.html

Duterte: No end in sight for lockdown

President Rodrigo Duterte said early Tuesday he would lift the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) imposed on the whole of Luzon region only if a vaccine, antibody, or medicine to cure the COVID-19 coronavirus disease was already developed and available to Filipinos.

In a televised address during a meeting with select Cabinet members, Duterte insisted Filipinos stay at home during the quarantine because the country would still need to endure two to three waves of the epidemic before they would see the end of the lockdown entering its fifth week.

“There's no end in sight. Anong katapusan nito, wala pa? (When will it end, we have no clue.) And our numbers are increasing,” the President said while reading the latest tally on the coronavirus spread in the country.

“At this time, we need to treat the sick, we need to feed our people,” added Duterte, who also admonished hospitals for turning away potential COVID-19 patients.
His remarks were made on the eve of government-led mass testing for coronavirus infections, which official Department of Health numbers put at just under 5,000 on Monday.

The President also discussed the utility of the National ID system to identify those who would need government aid, the distribution of aid to 18 million families most affected by the quarantine, observing social distancing, the United States “being part of the problem,” and the temporary travel ban on medical professionals and frontline workers from leaving the country.

In related developments during the same meeting:

• The Finance Department proposed a wage subsidy for employees of small businesses, as Undersecretary Karl Chua said 3.4 million workers are affected by quarantine measures.
• Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion said the government needed to plan “on how to gradually shift towards reviving the economy” because if not, “many of our Filipino brothers will suffer.”
• Duterte ordered authorities manning checkpoints to let trucks and vehicles carrying food and essential goods from the provinces to pass unhampered to their destinations.

The President told medical workers to hail police vehicles to take them home, especially late at night.

Duterte reiterated several points raised in his previous late-night addresses, including his warning on discriminating against health workers, for local government leaders to “not play around” with quarantine efforts, and for the Left and other critics to inform him “if you have a better way of dealing with the problem, tell us.”

Filipinos needed to brace for a longer lockdown, the President said, because the country was just in the first wave of the epidemic that has claimed over 115,000 lives worldwide, including at least 315 in the Philippines.

“This doesn’t end with those at the hospital, those being treated now, that’s just the first wave. This will have a second wave. While those hit (by the disease) are dying, the others that are being infected, they are the second wave. That’s why you should maintain the social distancing rule,” Duterte explained.

The President promised that if a cure for the coronavirus was already “tested medically” and made available to the country, he would lift the ECQ, which he had extended to April 30 from an initial one-month lockdown that would have ended at midnight of April 12 (Sunday).

https://manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/321509/duterte-ecq-to-be-lifted-only-if-cure-is-available.html

Duterte to lift quarantine once COVID-19 antibody becomes available

President Duterte said he will lift the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) if an antibody against the coronavirus disease becomes available.

Duterte made the statement as he led a meeting of the Inter-agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases late Monday night.

In his remarks, Duterte said he has read materials claiming that a pharmaceutical giant has developed an antibody against COVID-19 that may come out in the market next month.

“I placed the condition there na kung nandiyan na ‘yung antibody, available na sa market dito (if the antibody is already available here), and they are being sold in quantity, numbers, then maybe I am inclined to, maybe, at that time, lift the lockdown,” he said.

“Kung meron na ‘yan, tapos makita ko na ginagamit ng tao, ili-lift ko. Tutal kung magkasakit kayo, may antibodies naman tayo mabili. Ngayon kung wala ka mabili, problema mo na ‘yan kasi tapos na yung lockdown.”

(If it is already available and I see that people are using it, I will lift it. After all, there would be antibodies to buy in case you get sick. Now if you can’t buy any, that’s your problem because I’d have already lifted the lockdown then.)

Duterte, however, said the problem was the Philippines was on the last rung of the ladder and rich countries were already trying to get hold of the antibody. He, however, said the Philippines may be prioritized if China would catch up with other countries and develop their own antibody.

Despite this, President Duterte asked the public to continue cooperating with the government until the antibody reaches the Philippine market.

“Alam mo, ‘pag nagsama lang tayo, kaya natin ito. Kaunting panahon na lang. Alam ko igit na igit na kayo na maka — lumabas,” he said. (If we just work together, we can overcome this. This won’t take long. I know you are itching to go out.)

“With my assurance that when the antibody has passed the medical tests, it’s ready to be sold by May. Kung makita ko nandiyan at magkaroon kayo ng (If I see that it’s there and we have the) supply, then I am ready to lift,” he added.

Luzon is under an enhanced community quarantine until April 30 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his report to Congress, President Duterte said the Department of Health (DOH) was exploring the possibility of including favipiravir (Avigan) in its clinical trials and was already identifying sources from Japan and China.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has required manufacturers of all medicines that claim to treat COVID-19 to apply and comply with registration requirements. Until their products are proven safe and effective, they cannot be dispensed to the public and even therapeutic claims cannot be permitted.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/04/14/duterte-to-lift-quarantine-once-covid-19-antibody-becomes-available/

Fitch Solutions: Extended lockdown poses risks to Philippine growth outlook

A Fitch Group unit warned that its Philippine economic growth outlook for 2020 is now subject to downside risks because of the extended enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) imposed on Luzon.

“The extension of the lockdown has been a risk we have flagged to the Philippines’ economic outlook,” Michael Langham, Fitch Solutions senior country risk analyst, told The Manila Times.

The government announced on Tuesday that the expanded lockdown that took effect on March 17 and originally scheduled to be lifted at midnight of April 13 would be extended until April 30.

The quarantine was imposed to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid 19) in the country. As of Thursday, the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases jumped to 4,076. Of these, 203 died and 124 recovered.

Langham also said a longer lockdown period would mean job losses and business closures becoming increasingly likely, despite the government’s measures.

Ultimately during this period, manufacturing is disrupted, retail sales slump and the service sector goes without income, he added.

“We had flagged how around one in four domestic workers are self-employed, and we see these in particular at risk of struggling to meet debt burdens or scaling back on consumption aggressively,” the Fitch Solutions analyst said.

Because of this, he added, “the economy will suffer further in the near term and we see growing risks to our 4-percent growth forecast (particularly if the lockdown is extended further or to the entire country).”

If correct, the Fitch unit’s estimate it would settle below the 6.5- to 7.5-percent official growth target of the government for this year, and would be the slowest since the 3.7 percent expansion in 2011.

Fitch Solutions’ forecast was also lower than the S&P Global Ratings’ 4.2 percent and ING Bank Manila’s 5.6 percent; but higher than Moody’s Investor Service’s 2.5 percent, the World Bank’s 3 percent, the Asian Development Bank’s 2 percent, ANZ Research’s 1.2 percent, Nomura’s 1.6 percent and the Union Bank of the Philippines’ 0.7- to 2.2-percent range.

Langham also said lower public debt gave the government the ability to spend more for social programs during the extended ECQ.

“With public debt loads relatively low, there is scope for the government to go ahead with its planned spending,” he added.

The government earlier reported that the country’s public debt last year was equivalent to 41.5 percent of gross domestic product, lower than the programmed 41.7 percent and 41.9 percent posted a year ago.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd has said the government is “very active” in negotiations for total loans of $5.7 billion (over P288 billion) with the Asian Development Bank, World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/04/11/business/business-top/extended-lockdown-poses-risks-to-philippine-growth-outlook/712319/

Filipinos to emerge stronger after Covid-19 crisis

President Rodrigo Duterte believes Filipinos will emerge stronger and more united after the fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Duterte said the fight against Covid-19 will not be easy but believed Filipinos would never surrender.

“Nothing is more formidable and resilient than the Filipino spirit. Hindi tayo susuko, tayo ay lalaban (We will not surrender, we will fight),” he said in an excerpt from one of his public addresses aired state-run PTV-4.

He said Filipinos are “tough” and willing to take on any challenge.

“I look forward to the day that we Filipinos can finally claim victory of this war and emerge as a stronger and more united Filipino,” he said.

In his public address last Monday, Duterte urged Filipinos to unite and pray, and believe that it is only God who could immediately solve the Covid-19 pandemic.

“He’s (God is) the only one who can really solve the problem for us,” Duterte said.

Duterte said he still prays to God, hoping that lives will be spared and that resources will not run out.

“When the resources are all exhausted and the pandemic would claim millions of lives, I hope really and I pray that it will not --- pero kung ganon, wala na akong magawa (but if that happens, I can’t do anything about it),” he said.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte will be spending the Holy Week in Manila to monitor the developments in the fight against the Covid-19.

He said the President was supposed to fly to Davao City on Tuesday to join his family in celebrating the 16th birthday of his younger daughter, Veronica, on April 10 but later changed his mind.

Panelo said Duterte has been having “sleepless nights” due to the Covid-19 pandemic but is still “fit and healthy” to perform his official functions as President.

He said security aides are doing their best to make sure that Duterte is safe from catching the highly-infectious disease.

Last year, Duterte spent the Holy Week in his hometown in Davao City.

The entire Luzon is under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) which Duterte extended until April 30 to contain the spread of the Covid-19.

The government reminded the public to strictly follow the ECQ by staying in their homes and limit movement to accessing basic needs like food and medicine.

As of Wednesday, health authorities reported a total of 106 new Covid-19 cases, bringing the total to 3,870 with 182 deaths and 96 recoveries.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1099274

Palawan plebiscite hangs in balance due to health crisis

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday said it is monitoring developments on the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in the country before deciding on whether or not to push through with the plebiscite on the division of Palawan into three separate provinces set on May 11.

"@COMELEC suspended preparation for Palawan plebiscite but plebiscite not postponed yet. It is in May. But we will see this month if possible," Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon said in a Twitter post.

The poll body's en banc ordered the suspension of the preparatory activities related to the plebiscite due to the prevailing enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) imposed by President Rodrigo Duterte in the whole of Luzon.

"The Commission en banc, after due deliberation, has approved the suspension of all preparatory activities relative to the conduct of the plebiscite to ratify the division of the Province of Palawan," it said in a memorandum dated March 25.

In November last year, the Comelec has set the plebiscite to ratify the division of the province of Palawan into three provinces on the second week of May 2020.

Republic Act 11259, signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte in April last year, mandates the creation of Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental, and Palawan del Sur through a plebiscite.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1099267

Comelec suspends Palawan plebiscite

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has ordered the suspension of the plebiscite in Palawan scheduled for May 11 due to the continuing crisis brought about by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) outbreak.

In a two-page memorandum, the Comelec en banc approved Tuesday, April 7, the recommendation to postpone the plebiscite for the division of Palawan into three provinces.

The commission noted that Palawan is part of Luzon, which is now under an enhanced community quarantine as a measure to contain the outbreak.

The poll body said it will just issue a new calendar of activities for the Palawan plebiscite once the situation normalizes.

"Applying Section 5 of the OEC (Omnibus Election Code), the plebiscite shall be postponed to a date which should be reasonably close to May 11, 2020 but not later than 30 days after the cessation of the cause for such postponement or until the ECQ is lifted," said the Comelec.

Last month, the commission already suspended all preparatory activities relative to the conduct of the Palawan plebiscite also due to the imposition of the ECQ in Luzon.

"In a health crisis as the Covid-19, the commission is more importantly mandated to protect not only its personnel but the registered voters of the 23 municipalities of the province of Palawan," said the Comelec Law Department in its recommendation.

"At this time, It is logistically impossible to deploy personnel and election paraphernalia necessary for the conduct of the plebiscite," it added.

Republic Act No. 11259 calls for a plebiscite for the creation of Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental, and Palawan del Sur. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1851867

Plebisito sa Palawan sa Mayo, sinuspinde na ng Comelec

Inanunsyo ng Commission on Elections o Comelec ang suspensyon sa Palawan Plebiscite na nakatakda sana sa May 11, 2020.

Sa Facebook page ni Commissioner Rowena Guanzon, kinumpirma nito na sinuspinde ng Comelec ang plebisito sa Palawan dahil sa patuloy na banta ng COVID-19 at umiiral na Enhanced Community Quarantine o ECQ sa Luzon na pinalawag hanggang April 30, 2020.

Alinsunod sa Section 5 ng Omnibus Election Code, ang naturang plebisito sa May 11 ay “Postponed” pero hindi dapat lalagpas ng tatlumpung araw mula sa araw ng pagpapatigil o hanggang na-lift o natapos na ang ECQ.

Ang Palawan plebiscite ay para sa panukalang partitioning o paghahati sa Palawan sa tatlong probinsya na Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental at Palawan del Sur, base sa Republic Act No. 11259.

https://rmn.ph/plebisito-sa-palawan-sa-mayo-sinuspinde-na-ng-comelec/

Comelec suspends plebiscite in Palawan

By Leslie Ann Aquino

The May 11, 2020 plebiscite to ratify the division of the province of Palawan has been suspended.

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioner Rowena Guanzon said the en banc suspended the Palawan plebiscite due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Luzon.

The en banc agreed with the recommendation of its Law Department that holding of a free and honest plebiscite on May 11, 2020 is impossible at the height of the spread of the COVID-19.

“In a health crisis as the COVID-19, the Commission is more importantly mandated to protect not only its personnel but the registered voters of the 23 municipalities of the province of Palawan,” the Law Department said in its recommendation.

The Law Department also said that it is logistically impossible to deploy personnel and election paraphernalia necessary for the conduct of the plebiscite.

According to the poll body, pursuant to Section 5 of the Omnibus Election Code, the plebiscite shall be postponed to a date which should be reasonably close to May 11, 2020 but not later than 30 days after the cessation of the cause for such postponement or until the ECQ is lifted.

Last month, the poll body suspended the preparatory activities related to the May 11 plebiscite due to the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) that the government imposed to prevent the spread of the COVID-19.

It was last November when the poll body set the conduct of the plebiscite to ratify the division of the province of Palawan into Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental, and Palawan del Sur on May 11.

This is in accordance to Republic Act No. 11259 which provides that the plebiscite should be held on the second Monday of May, 2020.

RA 11259 was signed into law by President Duterte in April last year.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/04/08/comelec-suspends-plebiscite-in-palawan/

(UPDATED) A new date for the referendum for the division of Palawan into three provinces is on the second Monday of December, before Christmas 2020.

Comelec suspends Palawan plebiscite due to coronavirus outbreak

The Commission on Elections says it will issue a new calendar of activities for the plebiscite when Luzon lockdown ends April 30

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc approved the postponement of the May 11 plebiscite that would ratify the division of Palawan into 3 separate provinces .

In a memorandum dated Tuesday, April 7, the Comelec en banc said that because of the coronavirus outbreak it approved Acting Deputy Executive Director for Operations Teopisto Elnas Jr’s recommendation to postpone the May 11, 2020 Palawan Plebiscite.

“The Commission en banc has approved, after due deliberation, your recommendation by reason of COVID-19 and the consequent enhanced community quarantine of the entire Luzon of which Palawan province is part, to postpone motu proprio (on its own) the May 11, 2020, Palawan Plebiscite to ratify the division of Palawan into 3 provinces,” read the memorandum signed by Acting Comelec Secretary Consuelo Diola.

Under the Omnibus Election Code and established jurisprudence, the Comelec has the authority to suspend plebiscites if needed.

Republic Act No. 11259, which divides Palawan into the provinces of Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental, and Palawan del Sur, was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in April 2019.

In an earlier memorandum, the Comelec suspend all preparatory activities leading to the May 11 plebiscite because of the lockdown in Luzon put in place to quell the spread of the virus.

To stay updated on news, advisories, and explainers, check out our special coverage page, “Novel Coronavirus Outbreak.”

According to the April 7 memorandum, the poll body’s law department also recommended the suspension fo the plebiscite as it would be “logistically impossible” to deploy personnel and election materials needed for the vote.

“The spread of the COVID-19 is an unforeseen event which is beyond human control…. As such, the holding of a free and honest plebiscite on May 11, 2020 to ratify R.A. No. 11259 becomes impossible at the height of the spread of the COVID-19.

The Comelec said it will issue a new calendar of activities for the plebiscite when Luzon lockdown is lifted on April 30.

The Philippines has at least 3,660 coronavirus cases, with 163 deaths and 73 recoveries as of Monday, April 7. – Rappler.com

https://www.rappler.com/nation/257261-comelec-suspends-palawan-plebiscite-coronavirus-outbreak

Tinaguriang San Roque 21 nakalaya na

Nakalaya na matapos maghain ng piyansa ang tinaguriang San Roque 21 na inaresto matapos na magsagawa ng kilos protesta noong Abril 1.

Ayon sa Save San Roque Alliance, na nagkaroon lamang ng bahagyang aberya sa pagproseso ng piyansa dahil sa dami ng mga kailangang dokumento.

Tinulungan sila nina Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan ilang mga artista gaya nina Ria Atayde, Enchong Dee at ilan pa pati na sina Biboy Arboleda, Mariole Alberto, Johnny Manahan, Deo Endrinal, Dolor Guevara, Leo Katigbak, Carlo Magdaluyo, Jo-Ann Maglipon, Joel Mercado, Enrico Santos, Pat-P Daza, Keren Pascual, Jeff Remigio, Korina Sanchez, Law Tan, Margot Torres, Cory Vidanes, Karen Davila, Rajo Laurel, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Sandy Romualdez, Mons Romulo, Tim Yap, former President Benigno Aquino III, former Vice President Noli de Castro, House Speaker Alan Peter and Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, Sen. Pia Cayetano, former Sen. Bam Aquino and Antique Rep. Loren Legarda para sa mga kakailanging pera.

Magugunitang inaresto ang nasabing mga protesters matapos magsagawa ng kilos protesta dahil sa sinasabing pinapabayaan sila ng gobyerno.

https://www.bomboradyo.com/tinaguriang-san-roque-21-nakalaya-na/

Palawan plebiscite hangs due to COVID

The referendum for the division of Palawan into three provinces may push through on May 11 as scheduled, an official of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said yesterday.

In a post on social media, Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon said the poll body has yet to decide whether to postpone the plebiscite or not due to the enhanced community quarantine being implemented in Luzon to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“@COMELEC suspended preparation for Palawan plebiscite but plebiscite not postponed yet,” Guanzon said on Twitter.

She said the poll body is waiting for developments on the COVID-19 situation before deciding on the matter, adding it may be able to decide this month. 

The quarantine period will end on April 14, but the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases is studying whether to extend it or not.

During the plebiscite, voters will decide on the proposed division of Palawan into Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental and Palawan del Sur.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/04/07/2005952/palawan-plebiscite-hangs-due-covid

21 QC protesters demanding food aid freed after posting bail

The 21 residents of Sitio San Roque who were arrested last Wednesday after holding a protest demanding for food aid have been freed after posting bail.

The Save San Roque alliance reported Monday that the 21 protesters have each posted a ₱15,000 bail bond, which was partly funded by the family of Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, actors Ria Atayde and Enchong Dee, and friends Biboy Arboleda, Mariole Alberto, Johnny Manahan, Deo Endrinal, Dolor Guevara, Leo Katigbak, Carlo Magdaluyo, Jo-Ann Maglipon, Joel Mercado, Enrico Santos, Pat-P Daza, Keren Pascual, Jeff Remigio, Korina Sanchez, Law Tan, Margot Torres, Cory Vidanes, Karen Davila, Rajo Laurel, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Sandy Romualdez, Mons Romulo, Tim Yap, former President Benigno Aquino III, former Vice President Noli de Castro, House Speaker Alan Peter and Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, Sen. Pia Cayetano, former Sen. Bam Aquino and Antique Rep. Loren Legarda.

The group also said the 21 were also required to pay a processing fee of ₱2,500. They were also asked to give an affidavit of undertaking, a waiver, a house sketch, barangay certification of residency and clearance, nine copies of 2x2 photos.

“The whole process just shows how anti-poor the current justice system is,” said Nanoy Rafael from the Save San Roque Alliance. “From the bail bond- which is equivalent to more than a month’s wage, to the mountain of requirements – these already put the marginalized families at a disadvantage.”

The 21 had staged a protest clamoring for food aid, which they said they have not yet received. Authorities said this was in violation of the rules against mass gatherings in place while Luzon is under an enhanced community quarantine.

The local government of Quezon City denied these claims, saying there has been "continuous distribution of food packs throughout the city, both from the local government and the barangays to ensure that affected families are looked after during this crisis period."

"Nevertheless, the mayor has instructed city personnel to review the list to make sure nobody has been inadvertently left out," it added.

The city government said the group Kadamay instigated individuals to hold the rally and claim they were not given aid.

The protesters are facing charges for violation of the Public Assembly Act of 1985, Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act and Resistance and Disobedience to a Person in Authority.

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/4/6/21-Quezon-City-protesters-food-aid-freed-posting-bail-.html

House may hold virtual sessions when it resumes

THE House of Representatives may hold virtual sessions once Congress resumes on May 4 if the risk of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) still persists, House Speaker Alan Peter S. Cayetano said.

“So as far as the pragmatic side, eh kung may danger pa rin sa virus then pwedeng virtual pa rin yung session. But actually, Senate Majority Leader Zubiri, nag-usap kami once at sabi nga niya na we might have to look at the calendar depende nga dito sa nangyayari sa COVID. So habang papalapit tayo sa May 4, saka tayo mag brief about that,” he said in a virtual press conference on Friday. (So as far as the pragmatic side, if there is still a danger from the virus then we can have a virtual session. But actually, we — Senate Majority Leader Zubiri and I — talked once and he said that we might have to look at the calendar, it will depend on what happens with COVID. So, we will brief you as we get closer to May 4.)

The House Speaker added that they are still coordinating with the Senate about covening the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Republic Act 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.

Mr. Cayetano also said that there is a need to have a “new mindset” as the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Because whether we like it or not we have to have a new mindset. Hindi pwede yung (we can’t have the) old mindset natin sa (in the) new normal. So lahat ng pinag uusapan (everything we are talking) about the environment, protecting the forest, about mass transportation, prioritizing health facilities, it was an awakening among all of us. We can’t really go back. I still expect a rat race na bumalik pa rin once na mag (will return one we arrive at the) new normal but I think we will all never forget what happened now,” he said. — Genshen L. Espedido

https://www.bworldonline.com/house-may-hold-virtual-sessions-when-it-resumes/

Frankie Pangilinan, Sharon Cuneta, celebrities help post bail for San Roque 21

Frankie Pangilinan, together with parents Sharon Cuneta and Kiko Pangilinan and other celebrities, contributed to post bail for the "San Roque 21" or the 21 members of the San Roque community that were recently detained after rallying for food on the streets of EDSA in Quezon City.

According to a statement the Save San Roque Alliance sent to Philstar.com, Kapamilya actors Ria Atayde and Enchong Dee, as well as other celebrities, also Biboy Arboleda, Mariole Alberto, Johnny Manahan, Pat-P Daza, Deo Endrinal, Dolor Guevarra, Leo Katigbak, Carlo Magdaluyo, Jo-Ann Maglipon, Joel Mercado, Enrico Santos, Keren Pascual, Jeff Remigio, Korina Sanchez, Law Tan, Margot Torres, Arnold Vegafria, Cory Vidanes, Karen Davila, Rajo Laurel, Tessa Alindogan, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Sandy Romualdez, Mons Romulo, Tim Yap, former President Benigno Aquino III, former Vice President Noli de Castro, House Speaker Alan Peter and Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, Sen. Pia Cayetano, former Sen. Bam Aquino and Antique Rep. Loren Legarda contributed for the needed amount and legal fund for the group's release.

The statement added that the following documents were requested in order for the detainees to file bail: an affidavit of undertaking; waiver; house sketch; barangay certification of residency and clearance; handprints; nine copies of 2x2 photos; bond money of Php 15,000 and processing fee of Php 2,500; and certificate of detention from Camp Karingal.

According to Nanoy Rafail of the Save San Roque Alliance, the whole process showed "how anti-poor the current justice system is."

 “From the bail bond- which is equivalent to more than a month’s wage, to the mountain of requirements – these already put the marginalized families at a disadvantage,” he said.

“It is also ironic to think how slow their release has been taking, as compared to their swift arrest just a week ago,” added Jmar Atienza, one of the Alliance’s co-conveners.

The San Roque 21 spent almost a week in jail since they went out in EDSA to ask for food.

The Alliance extends its gratitude to the massive support the people have shown toward the San Roque community.

It can be recalled that in a Twitter post last week, Frankie said that she and her family are willing to pay for the bail of San Roque 21.

https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2020/04/06/2005892/frankie-pangilinan-sharon-cuneta-celebrities-help-post-bail-san-roque-21

Sitio San Roque residents picked up in protest for food post bail

After days in detention, the 21 residents of Sitio San Roque who were arrested for an earlier protest action successfully posted bail late Monday afternoon.

While demanding food and financial aid, the 21 were arrested last week after a spontaneous protest action they held was dispersed by the Quezon City Police District (QCPD). Accounts of the dispersal said that police violently hit the protesters during the dispersal.

According to Police Lt. Johanna Sazon of the QCPD Public Information Office, the 21 could all be released within the day provided they have no pending warrants.

"Their releases are on process, yes. They'll file bail, at which point we'll check their records, and if there aren't any other pending warrants of arrest, they'll be released today," she told Philstar.com in Filipino in a text message.

Urban poor groups Kadamay and Save San Roque have said that the rally was unplanned and occurred because residents of Sitio San Roque, a poor community near the city's malls, had been told incorrectly that supplies were on their way to them.

Police reports said then that the 21 faced charges for violating the Bayanihan Heal as One Act and the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act, among other laws.

After several days in jail, San Roque 21 successfully posts bail depsite derails in processing.

SEE FULL PRESS RELEASE: https://t.co/WIObaiqxMk#TulongHindiKulong#StandWithThePoor pic.twitter.com/zMqgn3BWBH

— Save San Roque (@SaveSanRoque) April 6, 2020

Save San Roque, in its statement on the 21 posting bail, also noted that the families of Sen. Francis Pangilinan, celebrities Ria Atayde, David Chua, Enchong Dee, Chienna Filomeno, Luke Jickain, Mark MacMahon, Joseph Marco, Zanjoe Marudo and Miko Raval, Biboy Arboleda, Mariole Alberto, Johnny Manahan, Pat-P Daza, Deo Endrinal, Dolor Guevarra, Rikka Infantado Fernandez, Leo Katigbak, Carlo Magdaluyo, Jo-Ann Maglipon, Joel Mercado, Enrico Santos, Keren Pascual, Jeff Remigio, Korina Sanchez, Law Tan, Margot Torres, Arnold Vegafria, Cory Vidanes, Karen Davila, Rajo Laurel, Tessa Alindogan, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Philippine Daily Inquirer president and CEO Sandy Romualdez, Mons Romulo, Tim Yap, former President Benigno Aquino III, former Vice President Noli de Castro, House Speaker Alan Peter and Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, Sen. Pia Cayetano, former Sen. Bam Aquino and Antique Rep. Loren Legarda were among those who contributed for legal fees.

According to Bayan Secretary-General Renato Reyes Jr, the 21 were ordered to pay around P15,000 each. 

“The whole process just shows how anti-poor the current justice system is,” said Nanoy Rafael from the Save San Roque Alliance, one of the groups assisting the community and the arrested protesters.

“From the bail bond, which is equivalent to more than a month’s wage, to the mountain of requirements, these already put the marginalized families at a disadvantage.”

Earlier that day, QCPD personnel were deployed to Sitio San Roque, supposedly to conduct a dialogue with members of the community over supposed violations of quarantine procedures. 

However, Save San Roque said in an earlier statement that the police operatives raided a community kitchen set up to feed residents and tore down protest posters. 

“It is also ironic to think how slow their release has been taking, as compared to their swift arrest just a week ago,” added Jmar Atienza, one of the Alliance’s co-conveners. — with reports from James Relativo

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/04/06/2005877/sitio-san-roque-residents-picked-protest-food-post-bail

Comelec to decide on May 11 plebiscite to ratify division of Palawan

By Leslie Ann Aquino

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has not decided yet whether to push through or not with the May 11 plebiscite to ratify the division of the province of Palawan.

Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon said they will have to wait for the latest developments before deciding on its fate.

“@COMELEC suspended preparation for Palawan plebiscite but plebiscite not postponed yet,” she said in her Twitter account (@commrguanzon).

“It is in May. But we will see this month if possible,” added Guanzon.

Last month, the poll body suspended the preparatory activities related to the May 11 plebiscite due to the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) that the government imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

It was last November when the poll body set the conduct of the plebiscite to ratify the division of the province of Palawan into Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental, and Palawan del Sur on May 11 in accordance with Republic Act No. 11259 which provides that the plebiscite should be held on the second Monday of May, 2020.

RA 11259 was signed into law by President Duterte in April last year.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/04/06/comelec-to-decide-on-may-11-plebiscite-to-ratify-division-of-palawan/

Star World - Bench Universe Teaser

Training the international spotlight on Filipino creativity and talent, Starworld is premiering the Bench Universe 2012 Denim and Underwear Fashion Show tonight at 9, making it the first entertainment production in the Philippines to be broadcast in pay TV throughout Southeast Asia.

Bench's fashion show is held every two years, but this year's Bench Universe was the biggest, most extravagant event to date, spanning a two-day event on Sept. 13 and 14 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Bench Universe is the largest denim and underwear fashion show in the Philippines, featuring collections from Bench, which has consistently drawn endorsements from the brightest local celebrities as well as global stars such as Maroon 5's Adam Levine and Korean superstar Lee Min Ho. The show celebrated the brand's 25th anniversary and featured a strong line-up of celebrities, including Georgina Wilson, Isabelle Daza, Manny Pacquiao and his wife Jinkee, and America's Next Top Model's alums Sophie Sumner and Dominique Reighard.

Starworld viewers will be treated to behind-the-scenes footage of the fantastical production, giving them backstage access to get close to the models of Bench Universe in their most unguarded moments. They will marvel at musical performances by international stars MiG Ayesa of Rock of Ages fame and Far East Movement, whose breakthrough dance hit Like a G6 has rocked clubs all over the world.

Bench Universe 2012 also features the works of fashion designers Ezra Santos, Joey Samson, Cary Santiago, Val Taguba, Rajo Laurel, Albert Andrada, Randy Ortiz, Furne One and Michael Cinco.

Celebrities such as Precious Adona, Asia Agcaoili, Carlene Aguilar, Marco Alcaraz, Gerald Anderson, Antonio Aquitania, Jon Avila, Phoemela Baranda, Benj Basa, James Blanco, Kris Bernal, Gian Carlos, David Chua, Geneva Cruz, Franco Daza, Alessandra de Rossi, JC de Vera, Robi Domingo, John Estrada, Ejay Falcon, Frencheska Farr, Tanya Garcia-Lapid, Rachelle Ann Go, Katrina Halili, Kristine Hermosa, Brent Javier, Luke Jickain, Bianca King, Doug Kramer, Maureen Larrazabal, Mikee Lee, Xian Lim, Ehra Madrigal, Michelle Madrigal, Rissa Mananquil, Robby Mananquil, Zanjoe Marudo, Alicia Mayer, Sam Milby, Priscilla Meirelles-Estrada, Carlos Morales, Ron Morales, Iwa Moto, Marc Nelson, Juliana Palermo, Angelica Panganiban, Bubbles Paraiso, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Tyrone Perez, Sam Pinto, Cassandra Ponti, Camille Prats, John Prats, Francine Prieto, Bruce Quebral, Dex Quindoza, Rufa Mae Quinto, Wendell Ramos, Iago Raterta, Keanna Reeves, Rafael Rosell, Johan Santos, Jome Silayan, Jay-R Siliona, Prince Stefan, Geoff Taylor, John James Uy, Nicole Uysiuseng, Alfred Vargas, Iya Villania, Corey Wills, Maggie Wilson and Valerie Weigmann are not attending during the event.

Also available: Bench Uncut: A Bold Look at the Future (2010 Denim and Underwear Show) aired last October 24, 2010 on ABS-CBN Sunday's Best and Bench Under the Stars: 30th Anniversary Denim and Underwear Show on Cignal Pay-per-View, IWant and KBO!

Duterte to decide on possible extension of ECQ in ‘due time’

President Rodrigo Duterte will decide whether he will approve of a possible two-week extension of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) “in due time”, Malacañang said Sunday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo acknowledged the “emerging consensus” from medical experts, businessmen, government officials, and others that the extension is necessary since lifting it could be “premature.”

Citing these experts, he said the President recognizes that lifting the quarantine as scheduled on April 12 “might wipe out the gains we have so far achieved in containing the virus.”

“The President is all ears and eyes on this unfolding reality and expert opinions. He is evaluating the best option to take that will effectively ensure the success of our war against this wily and faceless global enemy. He will make his decision in due time," he said in a statement.

He also urged Filipinos to do their part in helping reduce the transmission of the highly-infectious disease.

“In the meantime, we call on our countrymen to be steadfast in our commitment to take care of each other in this imminent threat to our nation’s survival,” he said.

Panelo’s statement came after Peace Adviser and National Task Force (NTF) Covid-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the government is currently studying whether to extend the quarantine for another 15 to 20 days after its scheduled end on April 12.

Galvez, in an interview over DZBB, said it would be difficult to “rush into normalcy” only to revert to another lockdown if it turns out the infection rate continued to surge.

“(What) we’re seeing is that one of the big possibilities is we will have an extension of 15 days or maybe 20 days so that we can really sustain it. Because right now, it’s still rising, it hasn’t plateaued,” he said.

In an interview with CNN Philippines, Galvez noted that the government has not yet seen any significant flattening of the curve and that the next two weeks will be critical for their observation.

He said the task force will not rush into making a decision and consider all factors on the situation at hand.

Currently, the task force is gathering self-assessment from local government units (LGUs) to consider their side in making a decision.

The task force is also considering the economic impact of the quarantine extension, he added.

He said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) is expected to come out with its final recommendation to the President before April 14, the day mass-testing is expected to start.

Earlier, Galvez said the task force wanted to fast-track the accreditation of subnational laboratories to start the massive testing of persons under investigation (PUI) and persons under monitoring (PUM) for Covid-19.

There are currently four Covid-19 sub-testing areas in the country.

Luzon has been placed under ECQ from March 17 to April 12 to minimize the number of Covid-19 cases in the country.

As of Sunday, health authorities reported 152 new cases of Covid-19 infection, bringing the country's total to 3,246 and eight new deaths bringing the total to 152.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1098886

Plebiscite on law dividing Palawan into 3 suspended

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has suspended all preparations related to the plebiscite scheduled on May 11 to ratify the law dividing Palawan into three provinces.

The Comelec, in a memorandum promulgated on March 25 but was only released on Thursday, suspended all preparatory activities related to the Palawan plebiscite due to the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis, which subsequently affected the calendar of activities earlier set by the poll body.

“The commission en banc, after due deliberation, has approved the suspension of all preparatory activities relative to the conduct of the plebiscite to ratify the division of the province of Palawan, upon the recommendation citing the expanded community quarantine declared by President Rodrigo Duterte,” said Consuelo Diola, acting Comelec secretary.

The Comelec has yet to set the new date for the plebiscite.

The current administration of the provincial government headed by Gov. Jose Alvarez, who was the main proponent for the division, has earlier allocated some P80 million for the Palawan plebiscite.

Winston Arzaga, provincial information officer, said that Capitol will honor the poll body’s decision, and immediately suspended its campaign in favor of the division.

Divine intervention

“The P80-million budget can no longer be reallocated because it was already deposited to [the] Comelec. Besides, they have probably used most of it in personnel training and printing of ballot,” Arzaga said.

One Palawan, a civic group movement that challenged before the Supreme Court the constitutionality of Republic Act No. 11259, the law that allowed Palawan to be broken up into three, expressed joy over the Comelec’s decision to suspend the plebiscite, saying it was a “divine intervention.”

RA 11259, signed by Mr. Duterte on April 5, 2019, divides Palawan into the provinces of Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental and Palawan del Sur, with the last as the mother province.

The new provinces will be created upon the approval of majority through the plebiscite supposed to be conducted and supervised by the Comelec on May 11.

Cynthia Sumagaysay-Del Rosario, one of the convenors of the group that opposed RA 11259, slammed the provincial government for allegedly taking credit for the suspension, pointing out that they made the request first before a similar recommendation was enacted by the provincial board.

“I wrote a request March 18 for the plebiscite not to push through. The Comelec met en banc and decided to postpone the May 11 plebiscite in Palawan. There was suddenly a ‘special session’ at the provincial council to plan their request for postponement. That’s when the “nahuling” move comes in,” she said.

The provincial board, in a special session held on March 27, authorized Alvarez to petition the Comelec for the postponement of the plebiscite.

(UPDATED) It will be moved to second Monday of December before Christmas 2020 after the quarantine.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1253973/plebiscite-on-law-dividing-palawan-into-3-suspended

PSA puts on hold conduct of 2020 nationwide census

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is putting off the conduct of the 2020 Census of Population and Housing (CPH), originally scheduled in May, until the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) is lifted.

As such, recruitment and hiring of census workers as well as the series of training and preparations for the conduct of the census has been temporarily suspended.

“This measure is being done to help protect the health and safety of the public, PSA employees, census workers including those from the Department of Education, and other partners and stakeholders,” the PSA said.

PSE said it would adjust its field operations for the 2020 census as guided by national and health authorities.

Since the start of the ECQ, the PSA has shuttered all of its frontline services nationwide to conform with the stringent social distancing measures implemented across the country.

Online application for civil registry documents such as birth, marriage, certificate of no marriage, and death certificates has also been suspended as of March 17 and will remain so until further notice.

It has also implemented flexible work arrangements for its central offices.

https://www.philstar.com/business/2020/04/05/2005478/psa-puts-hold-conduct-2020-nationwide-census

Be Bench Beyond 20: The Grand Finals Night: Bench Endorsers

Aired last September 9, 2007 on ABS-CBN.

In that segment featuring Bench endorsers Shaina Magdayao and Rayver Cruz, Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, Mikee Lee, Enchong Dee, John Prats, Don Mendoza, AJ Wrinkler, Doug Kramer, Andrew Wolfe, Jon Avila, Angelica Panganiban, Bruce Quebral, Rafael Rosell, Jake Cuenca, Francine Prieto, Iya Villania, Rica Peralejo, Zanjoe Marudo, Diether Ocampo, Jomari Yllana, Piolo Pascual and Kris Aquino.

Aside from them, some of these Kapamilya, Kapatid and Kapuso stars as Bench endorsers and models are absent in the said show are Carla Abellana, Isabelle Abiera, Aljur Abrenica, Ellen Adarna, Asia Agcaoili, LA Aguinaldo, Carlene Aguilar, Johan Aguilar, Sam Ajdani, Marco Alcaraz, Leila Alcasid, Victor Aliwalas, Benjamin Alves, Nico Antonio, Ariella Arida, Paulo Avelino, Phoemela Baranda, Edward Barber, Julia Barretto, Alfonso Bautista, Christian Bautista, Kathryn Bernardo, Benj Besa, James Blanco, Josh Barfuss, Warren Cabban, Melai Cantiveros, Gian Carlos, Paul Jake Castillo, Rainier Castillo, Alex Castro, Zeus Collins, Sam Concepcion, Luke Conde, Geneva Cruz, Rodjun Cruz, Ken Chan, David Chua, Gil Cuerva, Mathew Custodio, Anjo Damiles, Kelley Day, Franco Daza, Isabelle Daza, John Vic de Guzman, Puma de Borja, Alessandra de Rossi, Assunta de Rossi-Ledesma, JC de Vera, AJ Dee, Michelle Dee, Kisses Delavin, Francine Diaz, Joaquin Domagoso, Kim Domingo, Robi Domingo, Bryce Dyer, Ryan Eigenmann, Jacob Ejercito, Maymay Entrata, John Estrada, Kiko Estrada, Rhys Miguel Eugenio, Ejay Falcon, Frencheska Farr, Grae Cameron Fernandez, Jason Francisco, Marco Gallo, Coleen Garcia, Gabbi Garcia, Tanya Garcia-Lapid, Ylona Garcia, Enrique Gil, PJ Go, Juliana Gomez, Beauty Gonzalez, Jeric Gonzales, Catriona Gray, Marco Gumabao, Raymond and Richard Gutierrez, Katrina Halili, Jon Hall, Kristine Hermosa, Solenn Heussaff, Brent Javier, Luke Jickain, Tibo Jumalon, Karylle, Kian Kazemi, Emil Khodaverdi, Bianca King, Andre Lagdameo, Sarah Lahbati, Maureen Larrazabal, MJ Lastimosa, Kris Lawrence, David Licuaco, Xian Lim, Sanya Lopez, Diego Loyzaga, Ruru Madrid, Ehra Madrigal, Michelle Madrigal, Pancho Magno, Bianca Manalo, Rissa Mananquil-Samson, Robby Mananquil, Borgy Manotoc, Joseph Marco, Coco Martin, Teejay Marquez, Winwyn Marquez, Michael Martinez, Bailey May, Alicia Mayer, Jessy Mendiola, Maine Mendoza, Jennylyn Mercado, Sam Milby, Derrick Monasterio, Angelina Montano, Diva Montelaba, Julia Montes, Iwa Moto, Andres Muhlach, Rocco Nacino, Marc Nelson, Miho Nishida, Manny Pacquiao and Jinkee Jamora, Bela Padilla, Daniel Padilla, Juliana Palermo, Bubbles Paraiso, Inigo Pascual, Manolo Pedrosa, Tyrone Perez, Enzo Pineda, Sam Pinto, Magui Planas, Lovi Poe, Pokwang, Cassandra Ponti, Camille Prats, Dex Quindoza, Angeline Quinto, Rufa Mae Quinto, Addy Raj, Wendell Ramos, Iago Raterta, Miko Raval, Keanna Reeves, Alden Richards, Raphael Robes, Katarina Rodriguez, Shaun Rodriguez, Tom Rodriguez, Dominic Roque, Suzuki Sadatsugu, Paul Salas, JB Saliba, Johan Santos, Jome Silayan, Jay-R Siliona, Steven Silva, Liza Soberano, John Spainhour, Prince Stefan, Geoff Taylor, Mike Tan, Geoff Taylor, Cynthia Thomalla, Dennis Trillo, Juancho Trivino, Nicole Uysiuseng, Alfred Vargas, Railey Valeroso, Ian Veneracion, Arron Villaflor, Ahron Villena, Corey Wills, Georgina Wilson, Maggie Wilson, Valerie Weigmann and Megan Young and basketball players Paul Lee, Andre and Kobe Paras, Ricci Rivero, Anthony and David Semerad, Jeric and Jeron Teng, Caelan Tiongson, Arnold van Opstal and James Yap.

Robi was took part in "Uncut: A Bold Look at the Future" Denim and Underwear Show at the Araneta Coliseum when he tore his sando in the Furne One's Far East segment.

A Twitter user who said "Nakakatawa yung ginawa ni Robi Domingo sa Bench Uncut."

The loveteam of Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, wearing elaborate costumes, closed the segment.

BRAZIL. The show reached its peak during the Brazil segment.

Kapuso sexy actress Katrina Halili, who was surprisingly well-received by the crowd inside the Big Dome, was the first celebrity to appear.

She was immediately followed by Be Bench winner Carl Guevara; Eurasian model Benjamin Tang; returnees Rafael Rosell and Andrew Wolff; Wowowee girls RR Enriquez, Saicy Aguila, and April “Congratulations” Gustilo.

Wendell Ramos remains to be one of the biggest attractions in the Bench fashion shows. The 31-year-old actor wore the skimpiest underwear of all the celebrities that night, showing his flawless buttocks to the delight of the crowd.

Meanwhile, comedienne Pokwang almost stole the show with her grand entrance. Wearing a feathery gown which covered almost all parts of her body, the Wowowee co-host passed through a sea of almost naked gorgeous Caucasian models lying on the floor on her way to the ramp.

Pokwang was followed by Kapuso actress Carla Abellana and Kapamilya heartthrob Enchong Dee.

"The colorful Brazil portion was inspired by exotic birds of the Amazon, according to designer Val Taguba. The most action-packed segment featuring accidental porn star Katrina Halili and young heartthrob Enchong Dee." ('Bench Uncut': It's a tradition!', CHUVANESS By Cecile Van Straten, The Philippine Star, July 7, 2010)

“When Enchong Dee made his entrance at this year’s Bench Universe show, he owned the night in no less than an aerial canoe, looking every bit the gladiator with his toned body and feisty stance.” (Metro Magazine, November 2012)

Some senators in favor of extending Luzon-wide lockdown

By Vanne Elaine Terrazola

Some senators are in favor of extending the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) being implemented in Luzon due to the lingering threat of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said the government should prioritize the health and safety of Filipinos in deciding whether or not to lift the ECQ.

“Have to study it well. Balance safety and economy. I agree with the thinking, ‘Life first, economy later’,” Sotto told reporters in a text message.

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto also said the government should conduct the mass testing for all persons suspected of having COVID-19, as well as the the sick, before lifting the ECQ.

“Mass testing and isolation/quarantine to reduce infections. Thereafter, mass treatment. Only then can you relax [the] ECQ,” Recto said.

“How long? Depends on how fast government does its work and be ahead of the virus,” he added, appealing to concerned agencies to “act faster.”

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said with the planned mass testing on April 14, “we are left with no other choice but to extend the ECQ by at least two weeks.”

Echoing Recto, he said the mass testing of persons under investigation (PUIs) and persons under monitoring (PUMs) “is the only way to determine if we are winning the war or not.”

“Without mass testing, we are totally blind. And when we are blind, the risk is higher of spreading the virus again, thereby wasting the 30-day EQC,” Gatchalian added.

Sen. Joel Villanueva said the increasing number of COVID-19-positive individuals “tells us that the pandemic is not yet over.”

Saying he also supports an extended quarantine period, he reiterated that the government should instead coordinate with the supply chain sector for their exemption, especially the food, manufacturing, and delivery sector.

“This is to ensure that we have sufficient supplies of food and basic necessities while we continue our quarantine,” Villanueva said.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said he is likewise supportive of extending the Luzon-wide quarantine to April 30.

“We are only beginning to see data of symptoms post-quarantine. And I see some data that shows it is effective. But too early to tell. An extra two weeks would help,” Drilon said in a statement.

Like his colleagues, however, the opposition senator also pointed out the need to ensure a steady food supply and the free movement of essential goods and services.

He said the government could consider relaxing the quarantine rules between May 1 to May 31, to allow an unimpeded food and non-food supply chain movement, as well as “critical construction” of power plants and other key infrastructure. He also proposed the resumption of operations of some public transport, “but not jeepneys, only those where you can practice social distance (LRT, buses).”

“This way, more people have income,” Drilon said. “What is essential is more jobs and livelihood as well as access to food and supplies.”

At the same time, travel to and from Luzon is still prohibited, and no mall operations, church events, and other mass gatherings shall be allowed.

He said authorities may consider opening more food, retail and consumer services by June 1.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson, meanwhile, acknowledged that it would be difficult to decide between flattening the COVID-19 curve and the economic impact of the continued inactivity.

He said it the decision should depend on authorities who have all the data to decide “which is the best course of action to take moving forward.” On the other hand, he said the government should decide “soon enough” to allow concerned sectors to prepare, “but not too late to make things worse.”

For his part, Sen. Francis Tolentino said “the decision should have empirical basis taking into consideration the health of the individual members of society as well as the health of the economy.”

“I leave that decision to the President. However, we should have an economic stimulus law to resuscitate the economy in the long term, which is likewise a job of Congress,” he noted.

Businessmen have been pushing for a “selective quarantine” in local government units wherein food manufacturing and agriculture operations, as well as limited public transportation, shall be allowed to resume while mass gatherings are still prohibited.

The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases is still finalizing the guidelines in deciding to lift or extend the ECQ, which will end on April 12.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/04/03/some-senators-in-favor-of-extending-luzon-wide-lockdown/

Allow some businesses to resume, government urged

Businessmen are facing a tough choice on whether to push for an extension of the Luzon-wide quarantine to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic or allow some businesses to resume to address hunger and prevent social unrest.

Some 60 business leaders and association heads have formally asked the government to shift to selective quarantine from the current Luzon-wide quarantine to allow some businesses to return to regular operations.

This was among the four recommendations raised by the business sector to Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia, in a letter sent by Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Jose Concepcion III.


The recommendations are aimed at aiding the country transition into a “new normal” while preserving the gains from the government’s early response to safeguard the country’s public health, Concepcion said in his letter.

The recommendations are: shift from Luzon-wide lockdown to selective quarantine at the barangay level; allow all manufacturing, construction and agriculture to operate based on demand, wherein all cargo would be able to move freely without passes; keep the ban on all mass gatherings including malls, schools and entertainment venues; allow reduced public transportation services – limiting them to business areas where employers can transport workers safely with strict guidance on social distancing, wearing of masks and other public health measures.


“Given the choice – life or money – life is the most important but in the crisis we have today, we need to provide jobs to people as this is the only sustainable way or else hunger will set in, which can lead to social unrest,” Concepcion said in a separate message to The STAR.

“If ever the government decides to open public transportation, we are saying we can start with the MRT and LRT. We are also saying that no mask, no entry policy to any public place should be enforced,” Concepcion said.

The business leaders arrived at the recommendation at a recent Zoom meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) last March 29.

Also present at the meeting were Ayala chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, the Sy Group’s Hans Sy, Alliance Global Group CEO Kevin Tan, Gokongwei Group’s Lance Gokongwei, Bounty Fresh’s Tennyson Chen, Philippine Chamber of Commerce Inc.’s George Barcelon and Sergio Ortiz-Luis, and LT Group president and COO Michael Tan.

On the other hand, tycoon Ramon Ang, president and COO of diversified conglomerate San Miguel Corp. (SMC), who was not at the March 29 IATF meeting, said he is in favor of extending the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine, as he downplayed its negative impact on the economy.

“At this point, what is more important are lives, not money. We can make money again but life, once you lose it, it’s gone forever. So between life and money, I’d choose life,” Ang said in a recent interview with CNN. The current quarantine will end on April 12.

The government has unveiled a P200-billion aid package for 18 million poor households that are seen to suffer most from the impact of the Luzon-wide quarantine, set in place to stop the spread of COVID-19 which has already claimed thousands of lives in the Philippines and across the globe.

Senators back extension

Senators, meanwhile, are supporting an extension of the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.

But they said the quarantine – and its possible extension – would only achieve its aim of containing the spread of COVID-19 if there is mass testing and if the delivery of economic aid to vulnerable families and businesses is guaranteed.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said an extension should be for another two weeks or as the reported mass testing shall have started, while Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon suggested that it could be extended up to April 30 with a gradual relaxation of restrictions from then on.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said the matter of extending or not the enhanced community quarantine, which ends on April 12, is a difficult decision to make.

“We have to study it (extending) well. Balance safety and economy. I agree with the thinking, ‘life first, economy later’,” Sotto told reporters.

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto pressed the government to work faster by mass testing all persons under investigation (PUIs), persons under monitoring (PUMs) and those who may have symptoms, and isolate those positive for the disease.

“Likewise, do mass treatment of the sick. Determine from public health scientists when the infection rate is manageable or less than one. Only then can you transition to relaxing (the quarantine). How long? Depends on how fast government does its work and be ahead of the virus,” Recto said.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson said the matter is a “most difficult decision to strike a balance between flattening the curve of COVID-19 and the looming economic recession due to a wide swath of business inactivity.”

“Thus, it is better left to those who have almost unlimited access to all the relevant data to decide which is the best course of action to take moving forward,” Lacson said.

On the other hand, there is no perfect system of distribution of aid considering the number of families involved in the cash dole-out, further complicated by a less efficient database due to the late implementation of the national ID system, he said.

“Just as intelligence information can spell the difference between success and failure in my previous life in intelligence and law enforcement work, data is the key for our policymakers to make the right decisions at this critical time,” Lacson said.

Sen. Joel Villanueva warned the increasing incidence of COVID-19 positive individuals “tells us that the pandemic is not yet over.”

“I am in favor of extending the quarantine. At the same time, we have to consult our supply chain experts as we need to probably exempt some sectors in this lockdown, especially the food, manufacturing and delivery sector,” Villanueva said.

“This is to ensure that we have sufficient supplies of food and basic necessities while we continue our quarantine. Tapping the experts for me is very important,” he said.

“We have sacrificed so much to prevent a further spread of COVID-19 and a total collapse of our health system. It will be a total waste if we lift prematurely the enhanced community quarantine,” Drilon said.

He, however, said the extension must also ensure food supply and movement of essential goods and services.

Drilon proposed the relaxing of the enhanced community quarantine from May 1 to 31 but still no travel to and from Luzon. He said the ban on mass gatherings in malls and churches should remain.

“But what is essential is more jobs and livelihood as well as access to food and supplies. Hence, open to more manufacturing (especially food, but also non-food and supply chain) and critical construction (power plants, infrastructure). This way, more people have income. To facilitate, open some public transportation, but not jeepneys, only those where you can practice social distance,” he said.

From June onwards, the government can consider opening more retail and consumer services, markets and malls, he said.

Gatchalian said the announcement of chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. that mass testing can only be conducted on April 14 has “left us with no other choice but to extend the enhanced community quarantine by at least two weeks.”

“Mass testing of PUMs and PUIs is the only way to determine if we are winning the war or not. Without mass testing, we are totally blind. And when we are blind, the risk is higher of spreading the virus again, thereby wasting the 30-day enhanced community quarantine,” Gatchalian said.

Sen. Francis Tolentino said whatever decision the government makes must have empirical basis, “taking into consideration the health of the individual members of society as well as the health of the economy.”

“I leave that decision to the President, however we should have an economic stimulus law to resuscitate the economy in the long term, which is likewise a job of Congress,” Tolentino said. – With Paolo Romero

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/04/04/2005321/allow-some-businesses-resume-government-urged