JULY 2020

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The good fightStory on page 4

LGFI project springs Classics, docus & Ready to work with gov’t …page 7 …page 8 …page 3 back to life more on iWant title …page 8

 Lopezlink July 2020 BIZ NEWS CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY Lopezlink July 2020  KKR acquires stake in First Gen ‘Pantawid ng Pag-ibig’ serves EDC helps Samar municipality Knowledge Channel ready to work over 820K families including most affected by COVID-19 with gov’t in distance learning through voluntary tender offer By Frances Ariola GLOBAL investment firm value of P9.6 billion ($192.2 quite honored of the confidence AS the government shifts to for the school year and can easily drivers, PWDs and IPs ENERGY Development Cor- identified by the Department April 29, 2020 to prevent the KKR on June 29 announced million). they have in our country, our distance learning due to the develop the remaining 50%. poration (EDC) extended assis- of Health as the most affected local transmission of the virus in that following the completion David Luboff, partner and company, our management and COVID-19 pandemic, Knowl- Knowledge Channel’s meth- ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.’s received by 1,000 tance to a fourth-class munici- by the COVID-19 outbreak in the community. Given its mini- of the voluntary tender offer head of Asia Pacific infrastruc- the strategic choices we’ve made edge Channel is ready to share od of using TV technology has (AFI) “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig: PWDs and their pality in the province of Samar Eastern Visayas, with nine ac- mal resources as a fourth-class period by Valorous Asia Hold- ture at KKR, said: “We are toward clean energy. It’s especial- its video lessons that could proven to improve the perfor- Isang Daan, Isang Pamilya” cam- families under affected by the crisis caused by tive cases and 14 recoveries as of municipality, the town mayor ings, an entity owned by KKR thrilled to make this infrastruc- ly exciting given the accelerating reach as many as 7.6 million mance of children in school. paign continues to provide relief the care of Bigay COVID-19. May 26, 2020. has been requesting and accept- investment funds, Valorous has ture investment in the Philip- transition we all need to make students. Studies conducted by the De to Filipinos in need during the Buhay Multipur- EDC’s Leyte corporate so- “EDC has decided to extend ing all kinds of help to aid his accepted all of the 427,041,291 pines in First Gen. We have toward a decarbonized future “Knowledge Channel is pre- La Salle University Lasallian community quarantine including pose Cooperative cial responsibility (CSR) head help to the municipality even if constituents,” Magallanes said. common shares of First Gen long viewed First Gen as an ex- and we look forward to engaging pared to work with the gov- Institute for Development and members of the transport sector, in Caloocan and Erwin Magallanes said the the location is very far from our He noted that an estimated Corporation that were tendered ceptional business with a high- with a world-class global investor ernment. We have created and Educational Research and the persons with disability (PWDs) 322 families with company, led by its crisis man- site in Ormoc City and Kanan- 500 families benefited from by shareholders at the close of caliber leadership team, and we such as KKR as we navigate the acquired more than a thousand University of the Philippines and indigenous peoples (IPs). PWD members agement and CSR teams, pro- ga town. Tarangnan has been nearly P200,000 worth of dona- the tender offer, representing ap- have great respect for the Lopez journey ahead as partners.” video lessons, all based on the Statistical Center Research Now on its second phase, in Karangalan, Pa- vided assistance to the munici- put on lockdown or enhanced tions to the municipality which proximately 11.9% of First Gen’s family for building this strong, Southeast Asia is a key part K-12 curriculum of the Depart- Foundation’s “Impact Study “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig” delivers sig City under the pality of Tarangnan, which was community quarantine since included some 50 sacks of rice, outstanding common shares. well-established company.” of KKR’s Asia infrastructure ment of Education (DepEd) for the Proficient Measures for food packs directly to commu- care of Kabalikat sa canned goods and bottled wa- Valorous intends to acquire Federico R. Lopez, chairman strategy. Its investment in First and these are ready for use,” Quality Education” revealed that nities as it aims to serve 1 mil- Pag-unlad ng may ter, while 50 frontline workers all of these tendered common and chief executive officer of Gen extends the firm’s track Knowledge Channel Founda- children who were taught using lion families. As of July 1, the mga Kapansanan. benefited from the personal shares at a price of P22.50 First Gen, said: “We welcome the record as an active investor in tion Inc. (KCFI) director for Knowledge Channel video les- campaign has raised over P425 Families in protective equipment donations ($0.45) per common share, news of KKR’s successful ten- Southeast Asia across asset operations Edric Calma said. sons performed better in tests. million and helped more than Aeta communi- such as N95 and surgical masks representing a total investment der for First Gen shares and feel classes. For 21 years, KCFI has de- “Subjects like mathematics 820,000 families since the cam- ties in Tarlac and and Tyvek suits. veloped and acquired multime- and the sciences involve under- KCFI president and executive director paign was launched in March. Pampanga under “Since non-pharmaceuti- dia educational materials that standing of processes and they Rina Lopez Bautista SKYcable, SKY Fiber continue to operate With many public transpor- the care of Iba Re- cal measures like isolation and public schools nationwide, es- need to be visually illustrated tation drivers still unable to settlement Organic Garden As- Jeepney drivers in Quezon City and tightened security on borders are pecially those in remote regions, for kids to understand,” Calma SKY Cable Corporation said James Dumlao, SKY head of past to other companies whose earn a living, AFI distributed sociation, Zambales Cooperative Caloocan were among the recipients imposed on the town to prevent used to enhance teaching and said, adding, “with this kind of KCFI president and execu- its SKYcable and SKY Fiber programming, said. franchises have expired but are food packs to about 730 tricy- Federation and JessMag Aeta of relief goods from ‘Pantawid ng the further spread of the virus, learning. They are aired over curriculum, we need TV.” tive director Rina Lopez Bau- services continue to operate and The company issued the currently pending in Congress cle drivers of ABCMS TODA Community benefited from the Pag-ibig’ we have asked the Philippine Knowledge Channel and used The National Council for tista appealed that KCFI be serve its subscribers nationwide clarification as confusion arose to continue its operations un- of Brgy. Alabang, Muntinlupa goods brought to them through Army to deliver and distribute for instruction by KCFI-trained Children’s Television’s Alice given the chance to share with as they are not covered by the among subscribers as news til a resolution is passed.” and 75 jeepney drivers of UP “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig.” hopes to encourage Filipinos to the assistance to Tarangnan on teachers; they are also designed Pañares said the government is the government its expertise for cease and desist order issued by spread of the NTC’s issuance of SKY also assured its sub- Ikot and Katipunan. Another The campaign also distribut- help in the fight against hunger our behalf. We were informed for home-based learning. faced with the near-impossible the sake of the children. the National Telecommunica- a cease and desist order stopping scribers it will seek available 530 food packs were delivered ed relief goods in Quezon City by donating at least P100 which by the Army that Tarangnan According to Calma, KCFI task of training a 900,000-strong Lopez Bautista said: “We tions Commission (NTC). the operations of SKYdirect, its legal remedies so that it could to families consisting of senior to 1,060 families in Samaritana can feed one family. mayor Arnel Tan and the resi- has developed into video format teaching workforce to teach stu- believe that learning must con- “We wish to reiterate our as- direct broadcast satellite service. bring back SKYdirect’s service. citizens and jeepney and tricy- Transformation Ministries in ABS-CBN and sister com- dents of the municipality were 50% of the most essential learn- dents using media before the tinue for all and that no child surance to our cable and broad- In a statement, SKY ap- The company stressed that it cle drivers of Brgy. 163 in Sta. Novaliches, 275 families in pany First Philippine Holdings very thankful for the donation ing competencies, or MELC, August opening of classes. should be left behind. We ap- band subscribers that they will pealed to the NTC “to extend will attend to the concerns of sub- Quiteria, Caloocan. Brgy. Bahay Toro and 1,150 Corporation contributed P100 EDC’s donations were turned over to Tarangnan by the Philippine Army of EDC,” Magallanes said. that DepEd requires to be taught She suggested that Knowl- peal to our lawmakers and the continue to enjoy our services,” the same privilege given in the scribers, including the refund of “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig” also families in Brgy. Culiat. million as seed fund for “Panta- edge Channel be tapped at the Filipino people to recognize unconsumed prepaid loads as well partnered with groups to bring Recently relaunched as “Pan- wid ng Pag-ibig.” very onset of the distance learn- ABS-CBN’s contributions to promos & offers as advance postpaid payments, in aid to families with PWDs. On tawid ng Pag-ibig: Isang Daan, For more information, visit ing program. education and that ABS-CBN Lopez Group provides tents, ‘convalets’ for LSIs in NAIA compliance with the order. June 23 and 24, relief packs were Isang Pamilya,” the campaign www.pantawidngpagibig.com. “While the teachers are be- is granted a new franchise so By Dolly Pasia-Ramos Subscribe and shop with new SKY, ing trained, why not tap first the that we can again reach the chil- lessons of Knowledge Channel dren no matter where they are in Shopee deal ACJ O Shopping to THE Lopez Group, through are two of the many LSIs who since it already has existing ma- the Philippines. The Knowledge First Philippine Holdings have been sleeping on the ter- terials,” Pañares said, noting that Channel Foundation continues, cease operations Corporation, First Gen Cor- minal floor since the cancella- “Knowledge Channel has done a and will be working to continue poration and First Balfour, tion of their scheduled flights. very complete work in educating to be in the service of Filipino By Kane Choa provided tents, bedding and Since July 1, the Manila In- the students in different areas.” children.” “convalets” (containerized toi- ternational Airport Author- AFTER seven years of offering business out of Southeast Asia lets) for hundreds of locally ity (MIAA) has been allowing Filipinos TV shopping con- completely. stranded individuals (LSIs) LSIs to stay inside the airport venience and making quality As a result, ACJ O has made camping out at the Ninoy and has been providing them Foundation makes products affordable via the O the difficult decision to let go of Aquino International Airport with food. Shopping Channel, the ABS- its employees starting August 7, (NAIA). “Nagpapasalamat po kami na resources available CBN and CJ ENM Company 2020. The company is thankful Individuals who wanted to go hindi po kami pinabayaan,” said Limited joint venture, ACJ O for their valuable contributions home to the provinces started Gasita. for learning plans Shopping Corporation, will through the years and ensures to flock to the airport on June First Balfour also lent MIAA stop operations towards the that they will receive separation 1 when the lockdown was eased two convalets, which are con- Practical rewards await subscribers with SKY’s partnership KCFI is also a consistent learning continuity plan end of the year. packages as the law requires. to general community quaran- tainer vans fitted out for toilets with Shopee—discounts when they buy essentials in the new partner of DepEd in the (LCP), KCFI is actively at- The past two years have been As it winds down its opera- tine in Metro Manila. and showers to provide some normal. From June 7 to August 7, 2020, new SKY Fiber, SKY- latter’s Brigada Eskwela ini- tending to their requests to challenging for the company as tions, the company will make Similar to the Metrotent level of comfort to the stranded cable or SKYdirect postpaid plan subscribers via mysky.com. tiative, where the private sec- include Knowledge Chan- it experienced financial losses. further announcements regard- project for the staff of The passengers. ph can enjoy discounts of up to P400 on their next purchase tor is invited to help public nel materials in these con- The COVID-19 outbreak has ing the selling of its goods on air Medical City, bullpup tents “We were advised to pro- of protective gear, cleaning materials, grocery staples and other schools prepare for the com- textualized LCPs. taken and will continue to take and online. ACJ O will continue and 100 sets of foldable mat- duce a shower van for LSIs items on the online shopping platform. The offer is SKY’s way Ana Jean Gasita (left) and her province mate Mary Ann de Asis are among the ing school year. Aside from television and a toll on the business this year. to serve its customers as best it tresses complete with pillows who were staying under the of helping subscribers deal with the transition to digital plat- individuals who make use of the facilities from the Lopez Group Over the years, KCFI has online resources, KCFI is ABS-CBN’s partner, CJ ENM, can despite the reduction in man- and blankets were provided to flyover of NAIA Terminal 3. forms necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. All quali- donated educational TV pack- also offering the Knowledge has also decided to move its power in the next few months. the LSIs affected by COVID- Thankfully, the Lopez Group fied SKY subscribers during the promo period will receive two ages via the Gift of Knowledge Channel portable media li- 19 travel restrictions. these materials delivered at the coordination for the delivery donated these two container Shopee voucher codes within three to five days from successful as well as provided essential brary, an external hard drive virtual annual meeting dates “Recognizing the need to act earliest schedule possible,” said and installation of the conva- shower vans plus 100 units installation. Each code will enable the subscriber to enjoy 10% training to teachers. that contains more than 1,500 quickly to provide comfort to First Balfour head of procure- lets. of folding mattresses and 28 off their purchase on Shopee, capped at P200, upon checkout. August 28: Rockwell Land Corporation, 9 a.m. As each DepEd division curriculum-based video les- these individuals, we extended ment Randolf Rellera. Ana Jean Gasita and Mary tents,” said MIAA assistant Those who are interested in SKY and Shopee’s latest deal can September 24: ABS-CBN Corporation, 8 a.m. was given the liberty to pre- sons aligned with the MELC all networks and supplier re- First Balfour project manag- Ann de Asis, who are both general manager for engineer- apply for SKY’s services via mysky.com.ph/skyfiber, mysky. pare its own contextualized of the LCP. To be conducted virtually by means of remote communica- lationships to source and have er Emmanuel Casimiro led the bound for Negros Occidental, ing Ric Medalla. com.ph/skycable and mysky.com.ph/skydirect. For more de- tions or, if prevailing circumstances will allow, at Dolphy tails, visit http://bit.ly/skyshopeepromo. Theater for ABS-CBN. Follow us @lopezlinkph on Twitter and Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/lopezlinkonline   Lopezlink July 2020 Lopezlink July 2020 THE GOOD... helped us serve the Filipinos “Every reporter, writer, pro- “Sa panahon ngayon na grabe to act in accordance with what it has a total of 11,071 workers Spotlight from page 1 through the years. ducer, anchor, every editor in po ang krisis na dinadaanan na- believes is right under the law. with 5,918 hired by ABS-CBN “And we are proud of the the newsroom knows that what tin, na pinalala pa ng pandemya “Sa mga pagkakataong may Corporation. AND so it came to pass. Law- genuine love and support we we do is not just a job. It is a re- ng COVID, ito yung bilyon na mga kasong humantong sa korte, He added that based on BIR makers on July 10, 2020 shot continue to receive from our sponse to a call to tell the truth pwede mawala rin in the next tutuparin lagi ng ABS-CBN reports 1604-CF and 1604-E, Jake Almeda Lopez: ‘We deserve down ABS-CBN’s hopes for kababayans all over the world. and work for a cause greater 10 or 25 years, na supposedly ang pinal na desisyon ng korte,” the group had paid over 20,000 a fresh franchise, shuttering “We remain hopeful that than ourselves,” Reyes said in na papasok sa ating pambansang he said. workers and suppliers in 2019, the renewal of our franchise’ the Kapamilya network for the better days are ahead for the her opening statement. ekonomya,” Zarate said. He also underscored that the estimated number of jobs it PHOTO FROM: NEWS.ABS-CBN.COM FROM: PHOTO second time in 48 years. network. This painful develop- She also stressed that as He added that the loom- ABS-CBN has been consistent- generates yearly. ABS-CBN vice chairman ABS-CBN president Carlo ment will only make us stronger professional journalists, they ing layoffs in ABS-CBN this ly honored as a good employer, He also explained that the Atty. Augusto “Jake” Almeda L. Katigbak (CLK) and chair- and better. have strived “to keep biases in August does not only mean job with award-giving bodies rec- ABS-CBN Group is composed Lopez appealed to Congress man Mark L. Lopez (MLL), “We will never give up on check and to report on news- losses but also lost income tax ognizing it as “Asia’s Best Em- of 17 companies, including to recognize the value and in statements released the day our mission. We will never give worthy events, persons and remitted to the government. ployer,” “Top Ten Companies to ABS-CBN Corporation which the major contributions of after, expressed gratefulness for up on our nation. issues in an accurate, fair and Meanwhile, Bureau of Inter- Work For,” “Best Companies to provides backing to its subsidiar- ABS-CBN and its 11,000 the opportunity to air their side “Mahal na mahal namin ang balanced manner. nal Revenue (BIR) assistant com- Work for in Asia,” “Philippines ies, and nonrenewal of its broad- workers to the country. in 13 hearings conducted for the Pilipino. Mahal na mahal namin Reyes said truth-telling and missioner Manuel Mapoy stood Best Employer Brand” and casting franchise will diminish “Can you give me another renewal bid. ang Kapamilya.” public service is the goal of ev- by the previous statement of BIR “Most Distinguished Employer its capacity to give support. two minutes? You know we CLK said: “We are deeply The rest of the ABS-CBN ery journalist as they brave every large tax payers audit division 3 of The Year.” “Dahil sa financial, opera- are fighting for our lives,” hurt that the Committee on franchise renewal team joined disaster to provide news and head Simplicio Cabantac Jr. that “Mahalaga ring banggitin ang tions at content support na na- said Almeda Lopez during Legislative Franchises has de- CLK, MLL and chairman emer- information that can save lives, ABS-CBN has been regularly award na ‘Valuable Partner in tatanggap ng 16 kumpanya mula the House panel committee nied the franchise application itus Eugenio Lopez III over the or when they tell the stories paying its corporate taxes for the Education’ at ang ‘Outstanding sa ABS-CBN Corporation, ang hearing on the franchise re- of ABS-CBN. We believe that course of 13 hearings to explain behind the statistics, and give past years. In fact, ABS-CBN Corporate Governance Award’ operasyon ng karamihan sa kanila newal of ABS-CBN. we have been rendering service sundry issues and defend the voice to Filipinos in need. paid P15,382,423,364.16 in taxes bilang katangi-tanging media ay matindi rin mapipinsala at sa “We deserve the renewal that is meaningful and valuable network before the Joint Com- According to her, these are from 2016 to 2019. network na kinilala na may out- kalaunan, hindi nila maiiwasang of our franchise, and that if Atty. Jake Almeda Lopez (right) with ABS-CBN’s Kapitan, Eugenio Lopez Jr. to the Filipino public. Never- mittee on Legislative Franchises the things they are struggling to In terms of violations or is- standing corporate governance magtanggal din ng manggagawa,” you don’t renew our franchise theless, we would like to thank and Good Government and do after two cease and desist or- sues related to ABS-CBN’s pay- sa hanay ng mga publicly-listed he pointed out. you’re going to deprive the He likewise mentioned the country,” he said. the Committee for allowing us a Public Accountability. ders issued against ABS-CBN ment of taxes, Mapoy said “there companies sa Philippines,” he CLK echoed this, saying, public of so much entertain- how ABS-CBN Founda- Almeda Lopez, who joined chance to air our side on all the Responsible content producer on May 5 and on June 30. is no outstanding delinquent said. “the joint impact of COVID ment, news, and more or less tion Inc. has been providing ABS-CBN in 1961, formally issues raised against us. Chief operating officer of In the performance of their account as we speak.” In the same hearing, Labor together with the cease and the building of culture,” he relevant public service pro- retired from the Lopez Group “ABS-CBN would like to broadcast Cory Vidanes had duty, Reyes admitted they also He added that among the Usec. Ana Dione said ABS- desist order is going to make it said. grams, as it has been “the first in 2008. He received a lifetime thank all the congressmen who assured lawmakers that the make mistakes, which they im- country’s top taxpayers, ABS- CBN was fully compliant with impossible for us to keep all our Almeda Lopez empha- responder or one of the first achievement award during the stood by their bills to renew our network will would continue mediately correct. She added that CBN ranked 65th in 2016, 275th the directives of the Depart- employees.” sized that ABS-CBN is responders to any disasters in 2016 Lopez Achievement franchise, or who spoke out on to embody Filipino values in its the company has mechanisms in 2017 and 339th in 2018. ment of Labor and Employ- “Sa panahon po ng pandemya, more than just TV channel 2 this country.” Awards, where Lopez Group our behalf during the hearings. programs and hads committed for handling mistakes such as an Fully compliant with labor ment pertaining to labor and mahirap talagang makahanap ng and DZMM AM radio and Almeda Lopez also cited chairman Manuel M. Lopez We are forever grateful. to make changes in its program- independent network ombuds- standards occupational health and safety panibagong trabaho. If you are that it has made key contri- the foundation’s Bantay Bata (MML) acknowledged him as “We also thank everyone ming if were it is granted a man that receives, investigates ABS-CBN is fully compli- standards after the agency con- retrenched and laid off, I think butions to the nation such as program that rescues and pro- a mentor. who expressed their support and broadcast franchise. and makes recommendations on ant with general labor standards, ducted a routine inspection on you will have to deal with the fear the Knowledge Channel. tects Filipino children from “Kapamilya talaga yan, offered their prayers for us. We “Rest assured po na iisa po ang complaints against news person- occupational health and safety the network’s premises in July to and uncertainty of not knowing “Knowledge Channel is a abuse, the Pasig River cleanup tried and tested,” MML said. could not have gotten to this ating layunin na mapangalagaan nel, and a standards and practices standards, and security of tenure, September 2018. how to provide for your family. very important public service program and medical missions Eugenio Lopez III, then point without you. ang moral at spiritual values ng unit that ensures journalists ad- according to the company’s head “ABS-CBN has fully com- Most of our employees are go- we are providing. It was even rendered “in the service of the chairman of ABS-CBN, “We remain committed pamilyang Pilipino. We tell po here to their own code of ethics of transformation Mark Nepo- plied with all the findings and ing through with this right now. cited and awarded by the Filipino.” added: “Nobody else can talk to public service, and we hope stories that teach life lessons and and observe the highest profes- muceno. violations that have been found I wish we could give them the United Nations as one of the “So I plead to the mem- about ‘In the Service of the to find other ways to achieve our stories po embody Filipino sional and ethical standards. At the House panel hearing out during the inspection,” she assurance that everything will most effective public service bers of Congress to give Filipino People’ in such an our mission. Together with our values, like hard work, honesty, Former ABS-CBN News on June 29, Nepomuceno said said. be okay, but that power rests in programs in the country,” he ABS-CBN a chance to show intimate and selfless way the employees and our audiences all respect, resilience and, most of anchor and reporter Kata Ino- ABS-CBN’s full compliance is Meanwhile, Nepomuceno Congress,” CLK had said at the said. its worth and contribution to way Atty. Jake could.” over the world, we share in your all love for family, country and cencio testified to the integrity the result of the company’s efforts said the ABS-CBN Group hearing. sadness over this setback. We God, dahil ang sentro ng aming of the news organization she look forward to the day when mga kwento ay ang pamilyang was a part of for 15 years from Timeline we can again reunite under our Pilipino,” said Vidanes at the 1986 to 2001. broadcast. Mga Kapamilya, thank 12th legislative hearing on July “We have never been in- you for keeping the faith with us. 6. structed to play favorites nor to “Kapit lang, muling magli- When asked about the social slant stories in favor or against The ABS-CBN franchise hearings liwanag ang kwento ng bawat relevance and redeeming social anyone, nor to play partisan Pilipino.” value of its shows, Vidanes said politics. We exercise our duty MLL, for his part, said: “To- that the network has continued as broadcast journalists based SOME five weeks after the sues, including the interpreta- roes in on his citizenship imprimatur for the return of the with AMCARA Broadcasting responds to allegations that it day is a sad day for the entire to work on improving its content on the ethical standards and re- first hearing, Rep. Lito Atienza tion of the 50-year franchise June 11 possession of ABS-CBN of its Network which allowed ABS- uses ABS-CBN Foundation ABS-CBN family and for the as it values its audiences and sponsibilities expected of a pro- called the inquiry into ABS- limit and ABS-CBN’s issuance At the fifth hearing, CLK real estate, properties and broad- CBN to continue broadcasting Inc. and Big Dipper Digital millions of Filipinos who are strives to serve the needs of the fessional journalist who is sworn CBN’s bid for a new 25-year of Philippine Deposit Receipts explains that the sale of the cast equipment. And even the via ABS-CBN TVplus on the Content and Design Inc. as hoping for our return on-air. different members of the family. to tell the truth and nothing but franchise “among the longest.” (PDRs), at the second hearing ABS-CBN TVplus boxes is “in Supreme Court, one validating Channel 43 frequency is ex- tax shields “This is not the outcome we “We will continue to be re- the truth, to remain impartial, to May 5 June 3 compliance with the directive of the agreement to arbitrate and amined at the eighth hearing. July 2 have hoped for, but we remain sponsible content producers that air both and all sides as much ABS-CBN signs off after the ABS-CBN chairman emeritus NTC to migrate our broadcast another one for the factual cir- CLK says the cease and desist Tax issues are again brought grateful that we were able to make a positive influence in the as possible and as available, and airing of “TV Patrol” to com- Eugenio Lopez III (EL3), at to digital” by 2023, as stated in cumstances, lends constitution- order did not include Channel up at the 11th panel hear- participate in the process and lives of the Filipino. Maganda po to be fair and balanced in our ply with the cease and desist the third hearing, asserts that the framework for the digital ality to the return,” Atty. Arecio 43 ing clear the issues raised against ang hangarin namin. We want reporting,” she said. order issued by the National he is a natural-born Filipino as terrestrial television broadcasting Rendor Jr. points out at the sixth June 30 July 6 ABS-CBN. to entertain, inspire and give P71.5B in taxes in 17 years Telecommunications Com- both his parents are Filipino migration plan released in 2017 hearing focusing on the closure Labor issues are tackled at the Allegations of biased report- “We are very grateful for the hope to the Filipino audience,” ABS-CBN Group chief fi- mission (NTC) following the June 8 Additionally, ABS-CBN legal of ABS-CBN and its eventual ninth hearing, with network ing and questions about the unwavering support of all the Vidanes added. nancial officer Ricardo Tan said expiration of its congressional “When ABS-CBN was taken counsel Atty. Cynthia del Castillo return to the Lopezes after the executives answering ques- morality of its content are sponsors who authored our bills Vidanes vowed to work on that ABS-CBN and its subsid- franchise on May 4 off the air, over three million clarifies that ABS-CBN Corpora- fall of the Marcos dictatorship tions regarding program-based leveled against the network and to all the lawmakers who programs’ “imperfections” and iaries contributed P71.5 billion May 26 Filipinos no longer receive the tion and ABS-CBN Holdings are June 17 contracts and other practices at the 12th hearing believed we deserve a franchise. said that she will personally in taxes to the national economy ABS-CBN president Carlo signal that allowed them to be “two different companies and it is Former Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile unique to the industry July 9 “It was not an easy task, but supervise the network’s program within a period of 17 years. L. Katigbak (CLK) gives his informed about the issues that ABS-CBN Holdings that is the testifies at the seventh hearing, The network complies with A final hearing is conducted we drew strength from God and producers. “From 2003 to 2019, ABS- opening statement at the first beset the country… Those sig- one issuing the PDRs”; moreover, saying that while ABS-CBN’s an alias cease and desist order for the summation of the our people, and we remain in- ‘Journalism is a public service’ CBN as a group paid P71.5 hearing led by the Joint Com- nals we put in those areas will holders of ABS-CBN Holdings facilities were seized by the from NTC to cease and desist earlier hearings spired by them to continue our News head Ging Reyes billion in taxes,” Tan said at the mittee on Legislative Fran- not generate the kind of income PDRs are only passive investors Marcos government in 1972, from operating digital TV July 10 mission to be in the service of emphasized the importance of 10th hearing on July 1. chises and Good Government that will allow you as a busi- June 15 the titles remained with the transmission in Metro Manila Members of the House of the Filipino. journalism to Filipinos as she During the hearing, Rep. and Public Accountability nessman to have an adequate “Two administrations [Pres. company’s owners through Channel 43 Representatives vote 70-11 “Now, more than ever, we defended her news organization Carlos Zarate pointed out the sig- June 1 return,” EL3 says at the fourth Cory Aquino and Pres. Fidel June 29 July 1 to deny the network’s appli- feel proud of our company. We from allegations of media bias at nificant impact to the economy if CLK responds to various is- panel hearing, which again ze- Ramos administrations] gave The block time agreement At the 10th hearing, ABS-CBN cation for a new franchise PHOTOS BY: FERNANDO SEPE JR., MICHAEL BAGTAS, JONATHAN CELLONA, MARK DEMAYO/ABS-CBN NEWS are proud of everyone who have the July 6 hearing. ABS-CBN entirely shuts down.

 Lopezlink July 2020 LIFELONG WELLNESS BIZ EXCELLENCE Lopezlink July 2020  Is now a good time to get LASIK surgery? Special Feature By Charizze Henson EDC arranges homecomings for employees stranded due to pandemic By Frances Ariola LASIK (laser-assisted in situ a risk of virus transmission if maintain social distancing. Pa- Rockwell Center, Makati. keratomileusis) is a popular you keep touching your eyes tients move along faster now, Ang notes: “Location- wise, MORE than 150 employees and Agapinan led a team that was (IATF-EID), the requirements given the IATF limitations surgery performed to correct when you wear or remove from screening to the actual it’s very ideal. Patients don’t contractors of Energy Develop- assembled to orchestrate the ex- of different local government on physical movement,” said nearsightedness, farsighted- your contact lenses daily. To surgery.” have to worry about getting ment Corporation (EDC) found trication and return of stranded units and other guidelines re- Flores. “However, EDC’s agile ness, astigmatism and even avoid the hassles, risks and Asian Eye also takes pa- exposed to big crowds or sick themselves locked down away employees and contractors to lated to travel. way of doing things contributed presbyopia. inconveniences of eyeglass or tients’ safety and well-being patients. We’re also able to from home after community their hometowns. Ariel Rogel FOM admin heads Roderick a lot in facilitating this complex Dr. Robert Ang, Asian Eye contact lens wear, they turn to seriously. Apart from the minimize doctors’ exposure quarantine and strict travel re- Ampong, EDC operations ex- Flores, Jonah Carmen Facturan, operation.” Institute refractive/LASIK LASIK,” he explains. usual measures like taking to other patients since we’re strictions were imposed in parts cellence support head, was tasked Albenya Portia Saw and Edu- Geoscientist Roxanne service director and glau- But an important question temperatures, hand sanitation all exclusive to Asian Eye, of the country in mid-March. to formulate the transportation ardo Morales Jr. were tasked to Atayde was worried for her se- coma specialist, says: “These is: Is now a good time to get and COVID-19 screening, meaning that we don’t rotate EDC employees and contrac- plan and movement schedule secure the permits, authoriza- nior citizen parents in Bulacan eye conditions cause blurry vi- LASIK surgery? machines, exam rooms, wait- in hospitals or other institu- tors often travel to or are tempo- along with Josephine Ao and tions and clearances necessary at the start of the lockdown. sion. Normally, you only have According to Ang, it’s actu- ing areas and surgery rooms tions.” rarily assigned to different sites Mheryl Espinosa. for the transport of the stranded “I was relieved to know that to wear eyeglasses or contact ally a great idea. are disinfected thoroughly To get the best possible as part of their work programs. “It was truly a concerted ef- personnel. The final number of management was working on an lenses to see better, but others “We’ve seen an increase in and more frequently. visual outcome, find a LASIK “With electricity being an fort among several teams in the returnees was reduced to 54 extrication plan while I was also find it inconvenient performing the number of patients coming More importantly, Asian provider you can trust and be essential resource all the more company,” said Ampong. as some had decided to stay in kept very comfortable living in daily tasks and doing their hob- for LASIK since the lock- Eye’s LASIK room and other comfortable with. Price can be People now have more time to get LASIK, observes Asian Eye Institute’s Dr. needed now, the company The planning brought to- their current site. Leyte in the meantime. I am Employees and contractors on the plane that took them to Manila, Ormoc, Davao, bies like watching TV. Some downs were gradually lifted. operating rooms are equipped a consideration, but make sure Robert Ang doubled down on its commit- gether representatives from The day of return was set for really grateful to EDC for their Dumaguete and Legazpi also shared how hard and un- Before the COVID-19 crisis, with a laminar airflow system to do research about your doc- ment to keep uninterrupted, relevant operational units of May 25. A 46-seater, twin tur- genuine concern for the welfare comfortable it can be, especially everyone was busy with work, with HEPA filter. It’s one of tor and the eye center. lifesaving power flowing into the company, including secu- boprop aircraft chartered from of their employees,” she said. stantly communicated with us teamwork it inspired demon- in this time of the COVID-19 school and traveling. Even if the few stand-alone eye cen- Interested in LASIK? Get the grid, but we also had a duty rity, facilities operations man- AirSWIFT originating from Neil John Escalera, an and let us know of their plans strated that,” said Miguel de pandemic. they were interested in having ters in the country with this 15% off when you book your COVID-19 in PH to keep our plant employees agement (FOM) and Dr. Lina Manila flew a total of six legs, operations and maintenance to return us home safely.” Vera, EDC sponsor of the ex- “We’ve heard stories about LASIK, they just didn’t have system. LASIK screening and surgery and contractors—our very own Rose Alcances, head of the all completed within a span resource support engineer sent “Throughout this pandemic trication project. glasses often getting fogged time. Now, many people are “Through this system, virus- from July 1 to September HERE’S how the Philippines six fatalities increase the death front liners—safe and support- company’s occupational health of 12 hours. Passengers who to EDC’s geothermal facility we have been guided by our He added: “For EDC to up while wearing a mask, on a work from home arrange- es, bacteria and fungi are effec- 30, 2020. Call 8898-2020 or fared in its fight against CO- toll to 1,303, while 243 new ed,” said Ana Marie Agapinan, and incident management alighted in Metro Manila were in Valencia, Negros Oriental, Lopez Values, in particular be able to fulfill its mission… the discomfort of wearing ment. Students are doing on- tively reduced or significantly 0918-8982020, or email eye- VID-19 in the past couple of recoveries are reported EDC’s extrication project team team. The team pivoted and also brought to their homes in said: “I was worried… since I the value of employee welfare and, at the same time, be able goggles or a face shield over line classes. So, they have more eliminated. So the air that goes [email protected]. weeks. July 7 lead. “We also knew that we had adjusted plans to consider the Makati, Mandaluyong, Bula- was not with my family during and wellness which has been to support, care for and keep its glasses, and the need to dis- time for screening and surgery around the laser room is clean,” To get to know Dr. Robert June 30 COVID-19 now infects to get our stranded personnel guidelines of the government’s can, Batangas and Ilocos Sur. this time of crisis. Fortunately, at the top of our list since the people safe through this tough infect glasses regularly since as well as healing and recovery. says Ang. Ang, visit asianeyeinstitute. At the five-month mark since 47,873 Filipinos after 1,540 home to their families as soon Inter-Agency Task Force on “At the start, the extrication the company did not let us feel pandemic started, and this time—I don’t think we could it serves as protection. For Plus, we’ve limited the number Asian Eye’s main and com/patient-services/the- its first case, the country- re new cases are tallied; those as we would be allowed to.” Emerging Infectious Diseases mission seemed impossible alone in this battle. They con- extrication project and all the have asked for more.” contact lens wearers, there’s of patients we see in a day to surgical facility is located in medical-team. cords 1,080 new cases to push who have recovered from the its total past the 37,000 mark, virus rise to 12,386 Seeds of Hope while the number of patients July 8 who have recovered from Breaking the July 5 record, 2,539 COVID-19 reaches 10,233 new cases of COVID-19 bump July 1 up the national total to 50,359 July 9 LGFI’s urban farming project springs back to life The Philippines adds 999 By Dulce Festin-Baybay patients to increase its total to A total of 1,396 infections are 38,511 confirmed COVID- reported, nudging the number 19 cases of confirmed cases to 51,754 DURING these times, with no sive project in- It was a success—after a few were expired. Later, I learned different locations (vacant lots, The general community July 10 coronavirus vaccine yet in sight, clude practitio- months, the harvest provided that to preserve the seeds, they rooftops, yards, greenhouses, quarantine (GCQ) in Metro Confirmed COVID-19 cases people are anxious regarding the ners of container vegetables for the canteen on have to be refrigerated.” etc.) under different manage- Manila is extended for an- reach 52,914 following the future of their health and assur- gardening like the 17th floor. Unfortunately, Sta. Barbara observes that ment systems (residential, com- other two weeks; also placed addition of 1,233 patients ances of a steady supply of food. Cedie Lopez- due to the lack of volunteers people feel discouraged to em- mercial, nonprofit, etc.).’” under GCQ are Benguet, July 11 What if there is another lock- Vargas, Rina to monitor future harvests, the bark on urban farming due to Tan further explains that “ur- Rizal and Cavite in Luzon There are now 54,222 cases in down and supply becomes un- Lopez Bautista, project was put on hold until the costs. How to address this ban farming has long existed but and eight areas in the Visayas the Philippines after an addi- certain? What if prices of food, Nardz Ablaza, LGFI restarted the project, one if one lives in a small house government has now recognized July 3 tional 1,387 patients contract especially vegetables, skyrocket? Monica Tan and building at a time, one employ- and wants to get into container multiple benefits from it: food With 1,531 new infections, the disease; the 807 new re- For food security Sta. Barbara, ee’s home at a time. Due to the gardening? What are the esti- security, improved nutrition, al- the Philippines logs a total of coveries, meanwhile, are a new In the past few weeks, many among others. pandemic, the time has indeed mated costs? ternative livelihood, urban resil- 40,336 COVID-19 cases; 400 record after July 5’s 489 ideas came up regarding food Success at the come for such a project, with the “The elements that are need- iency, physical activity, reduction recoveries tow the country past July 13 security. One suggestion stood rooftop national government addressing ed are the potting soil (roughly of wastes, and ecosystem services. the 11,000 mark to 11,073 The figures for July 12,- re out, especially for people living in U r b a n the need for food assurance. P250 per sack of 20 kilos), com- In Metro Manila, the 17 cities July 4 leased the day after, indicate crowded urban areas and high- farming as an “During the lockdown peri- post (for your garden to be or- and lone municipality have at The country slips past the that there are 2,124 new CO- rise condominiums. Articles have answer to food od,” says Sta. Barbara, “my fam- ganic) which can also be bought least one project on urban farm- 41,000 mark to 41,830 after VID-19 cases; this swells the been written about growing food security and ily and I had continuous supply from gardens that sell soil mix, ing. These projects are found in recording 1,494 new infections country’s total to 56,259 in cities, or what is called urban availability had of fresh herbs and other vegeta- pots and seeds, or you just can government properties such as The World Health Orga- July 14 farming and container garden- already been bles from my garden tower and do composting yourself,” ex- schools, open spaces, parks, etc. nization revises its chronicle of Eighty-eight patients are ing. Those who have been doing implemented at container garden for some of plains Sta. Barbara. You would On the private sector side, these the beginnings of COVID-19 added to the recovered list to it in their homes saw the useful- Rockwell Busi- our meals. When I started this also need lots of water, sunlight are found in community gardens to reflect that it was informed of bring up the total to 20,459; ness and practicality of container Ferdi Sta. Barbara’s garden tower is just one of his family’s ness Center urban gardening, I really did not and TLC (tender loving care). and individual spaces.” the pneumonia of unknown ori- on the other hand, confirmed gardening during the lockdown. sources of fresh veggies for salads and sinigang during the (RBC) in Orti- know anything about planting Sustainable cities With the pandemic still on- lockdown gin by its own office in China cases are at 57,545 after 634 Take the case of Ferdi Sta. gas years ago; it or farming nor do I have a green In her project brief, LGFI’s going, there is no better time to July 5 new cases are reported Barbara, compliance and assur- was spearhead- thumb, as they say. So when I Monica Tan writes that “devel- start container gardening or ur- The Philippines records July 15 ance executive at the corporate Foundation Inc. (LGFI). The ed by Dr. Therese Guia who got interested (because I want oping sustainable cities is a pri- ban farming. Look around the 44,254 COVID-19 cases The Philippines reports 1,392 ESH department of First Phil- project was initiated by LGFI tapped urban farming expert to eat fresh), I had to research ority on the national level as well neighborhood including your overall after adding 2,434 new new COVID-19 cases to bring ippine Holdings Corporation together with the HR, ESH and Dino Juan to conduct seminars and read all about how to plant, as the international level (see own home spaces, gather tips patients; 489 individuals get the country’s total number of (FPH). Walk the Talk groups; it was be- for FPH on how to go about germinate seeds. I had so many Sustainable Development Goal and begin planting your vege- well from the disease, hiking confirmed cases to 58,850 “If you want to eat freshly ing planned and was about to be this. The site chosen, upon get- experiments—some were suc- #11). One way of achieving table garden. You are then liter- recoveries to 11,942 Metro Manila remains picked veggies, try planting your presented to top management as ting the approval of the RBC cessful, some were not. I even this is by way of urban farming, ally planting your seeds to grow July 6 under GCQ until July 31, own,” says Sta. Barbara, one of a Lopez-wide employee under- building administration, First have records of how many seeds which is defined as ‘the cultiva- and feed your family today and The total jumps to 46,333 as alongside Laguna, Cavite and the core adviser-planners of the taking when the lockdown was Philippine Realty Corporation I germinated. There was seed tion of plants in cities as well as in the future, thereby lessening 2,099 new cases are logged; Rizal in Luzon container gardening and urban imposed in March. and the FPH-First Gen admin, germination that was not suc- the processing and distribution your anxieties in times of natu- farming project of Lopez Group The core officers of this -mas was the rooftop of the building. cessful simply because the seeds thereof, in a variety of ways in ral and man-made disasters.

 Lopezlink July 2020 10 student docus to watch on iWant By Kane Choa

KNOWLEDGE Channel’s Here are the 10 must- from UMak, this documentary 5. The cultural signifi- Class Project: Intercollegiate watch Class Project winning shows the cultural heritage of cance of the betel nut in ‘City Mini-Documentary Competi- mini-documentaries: Kapampangans’ language and Painted in Red.’ “City Painted tion has served as a haven for 1. The dedication of ‘Titser precolonial writing system in Red” highlights the cultural aspiring documentarists in Gennie.’ It revolves around the called “Kulitan.” “Kulitan” won significance of chewing betel highlighting Filipino values story of Gennie, an Aeta teach- second prize in Class Project nuts or the traditional prac- and culture and telling inspir- er whose dedication to her pro- 2019. tice of northern tribes called ing stories. fession traverses heights, as she 3. Witness the determina- moma. On its third year, Class treks the trails of Sitio Tarukan tion of ‘Mga Batang Anipa.’ 6. Vash’s fast-paced adven- Project, in partnership with daily to teach Aeta children. “Mga Batang Anipa” follows ture in ‘Ang Munting Karera ni ABS-CBN, DocuCentral and “Titser Gennie,” produced by four children who battle the Vash.’ Follow the story of Vash, Philippine Association of Com- students from the University of surging currents of the river 8, in his adrenaline-packed munication Educators, again Makati (UMak), won first prize on a lifesaver in order to reach journey to becoming a pocket delivered 10 remarkable student in Class Project 2019. their school. The documentary, motorbike racing champion. documentaries that viewers can 2. Learn more about also from students of UMak, 7. The dreams of three of the Philippines University licensed foster parent, for her now watch on iWant for free! Pampanga’s ‘Kulitan.’ Also won third prize in Class Project scholars in ‘Iskolar ng Merka- Laguna shares the stories of temporarily adopted children. 2019. do.’ “Iskolar ng Merkado” tells grandmothers who spend their 10. The loyalty of ‘Hachiko The ABS-CBN Store Finds 4. Know the hardships of the stories of Mike, Irish and days in a home for the aged. ng Lapu-Lapu.’ In “Hachiko the Filipino farmer in ‘Binhi.’ Kyrell who work in the wet 9. Feel the affection of a ng Lapu-Lapu,” watch the true This Class Project 2019 finalist market to meet their needs and foster parent in ‘Aruga.’ A par- story of a street dog named Kit produced by students from Pal- help their families. ent’s love is immeasurable and and how he waits daily for the awan State University narrates 8. The stories of grand- unconditional, even if one is return of his best friend. the struggles of Mang Ariel, a mothers in ‘Hiling sa not blood-related to the child. Download the iWant app farmer from Taytay, Palawan, in Dapithapon.’ The documenta- “Aruga” proves this as it shows or visit iwant.ph to stream more providing for his family. ry from students of the Lyceum the affection of Nanay Nida, a documentaries for free! iWant unveils ‘Beauty Queens,’ ‘2gether’ and more Kapamilya gems

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Editorial Advisory Board Mike Lopez / Boo Chanco Maymay pays homage to ABS-CBN in ‘I Love You 2’ Executive Editor Carla Paras-Sison Contributing Editors MAYMAY Entrata gives a by many viewers as “Channel views on You- Yiessa Borbon (Lopez Holdings) Estela de la Paz (First Gen) timely tribute to her home net- 2.” Tube. The two Arlene Torres (SKYcable) Vienn Tionglico (Rockwell) Kane Choa (ABS-CBN) Dulce Baybay (LGFI) work ABS-CBN through her “I Love You 2” was com- also headlined Justin Convento (CPI) Jei-Jei Gertes (Third Gen Holdings) new single “I Love You 2,” re- posed by Joven Tan, arranged their first ma- Noella Fonbuena (CPI) Ceia Ylagan (CPI) leased under Star POP. by Tommy Katigbak and Trisha jor concert, Dimpy Jazmines (SKYcable) Frances Ariola (EDC) The acoustic track highlights Denise, produced by Star POP “M.E. and U,” Kamae Bulaquiña (EDC) Maymay’s pristine vocals as she head Rox Santos and executive last year. Circulation Kelly de la Paz takes listeners on a nostalgic produced by ABS-CBN Music L i s t e n Editorial and Layout Mousetrap Publishing journey of remembering some head Roxy Liquigan. as Maymay LopezLink is published by Lopez Holdings Corp. PR Group of ABS-CBN’s most memorable Maymay’s last release sings an ode 16/F North Tower, Rockwell Business Center - Sheridan shows and well-loved characters was 2019’s “Kakayanin Kaya” to ABS-CBN Sheridan St. corner United St. through the song’s lyrics. from her sophomore album in “I Love Mandaluyong City “I Love You 2” is a play “#M0806.” The music video of You 2,” out Tel. 8878-0000 ext. 2463 on the phrase “I love you too,” the song, which also starred her now on digital Available online at www.Lopezlink.ph which translates to professing love team partner Edward Bar- platforms. (K. love for ABS-CBN, referred to ber, recently reached 10 million Choa)