“Radiating positivity, creating connectivity” BUSINESS Room 310-A, 3rd floor WDC Bldg. Osmeña Blvd., You may visit Cebu Business Week WEEK Facebook page. February 1 - 7, 2021 Volume 3, Series 71 www.cebubusinessweek.com 12 PAGES P15.00 CHEAPER POWER FOR ISLAND SOON Advocate urges DOE to stop dealing with generation firm

POWER Advocate Ro- businessmen because they By: ELIAS O. BAQUERO gon urged all LGU officials to lesser cost. The private power meo “Butch” Junia said are subsidized by the Uni- support the submarine cable generator in Bantayan Island the Department of Energy versal Charge for Missionary Junia said that looking project, but the mayors of which BANELCO will sign a (DOE) should stop dealing Electrification (UCME). at the supply agreement in Bantayan town, Sta. Fe and contract for 15 years cannot with a private power gener- Junia said that UCME Bantayan Island, the ERC Madridejos endorsed this be judged as less cost because ation firm because an on-go- was authorized under Sec- approved the rate of P27 per P27 per kilowatt hour rate there is no competitor even ing submarine cable project tion 70 of the Energy Power kilowatt hour and the Ban- under a power supply agree- during public bidding. will bring cheaper electricity Industry Reform Act (EPI- tayan Island people will just ment for 15 years with a pro- Under the guideline of through interconnection be- RA). The law provides that pay P6.25 per kilowatt hour posed rate of P13.38,” Junia the competitive selection tween Bantayan Island and all electric consumers shall because of the UCME subsi- said. process, BANELCO must re- mainland Cebu. pay UCME. dy. “Why sign a 15-year con- ceive two or more bidders. The submarine cable was Junia explained that This means that Ban- tract when the submarine ca- If only one bidder shows a project of the late Cebu 4th all power consumers in the tayan Island people will be ble interconnection is ongo- up. BANELCO must declare District Congressman Ben- main grid are paying UCME subsidized at P20.75 per ing? If they will interconnect a failed bidding and invite hur Salimbangon who died to subsidize electricity in kilowatt hour by power five years from now, they will more bidders and call for an- last December 24, 2020, and Bantayan Island at 11.56 cen- consumers of Visayas Elec- continue paying higher pow- other bidding. now monitored by Benhur’s tavos per kilowatt hour. This tric Company (VECO) and er rate for another ten years.” Junia said that an EPI- wife, incumbent Rep. Janice is separate from the petition Manila Electric Company Junia urged DOE to stop RA provision stated that Z. Salimbangon. of National Power Corpora- (MERALCO) and the rest of contracting private power UCME will be phased out If the interconnection tion (NPD) asking ERC for the country. generator with high power three years after the law is project will be realized, the an increase to 20.7 centavos “This is immoral, illegal rate. adopted. EPIRA took effect Bantayan Island power rate per kilowatt hour for the year and unfair,” Junia said. If DOE will allow new in 2001; hence UCME should will be the same as the rate in 2021. “The late Rep. Salimban- contracts, it should be at a have become non-existent by mainland Cebu which is P7 2004 or 2005. per kilowatt hour. Junia said that in Janu- Before he died, Salim- ary 2019, DOE Secretary Al- bangon called Cebu Busi- fonso G. Cusi issued a guide- ness Week and said that his line that in six months, DOE, submarine cable project will NPC, and other agencies connect Bantayan Island to involved in collecting and Cebu-Negros-Panay (CNP) disposing UCME shall make power grid to decrease the a system that power con- electricity cost in the island sumers should not anymore with an estimated 150,000 shoulder the cost of UCME people. and just charge it from gov- At present, the power ernment tax collection. rate in Bantayan Island is But there is still no con- high but there is no serious crete result of the 2019 concern from Bantayan Is- guideline issued by Cusi until land government officials and now. 2 February 1 - 7, 2021 Cebu Business Week NEWS Balance needed to fight Covid, revival of economy: Rama CEBU City Vice Mayor by DOH for the purpose of Michael “Mike” Rama said catering Locally Stranded In- the government must bal- dividuals (LSI) and Overseas ance the revival of the once Filipino Workers (OFWs), strong economy and the fight who should observe strict the Covid-19 pandemic so protocol compliance,” Rama the people will not suffer fur- said. ther. Rama also said that they “We should be mindful must encourage the mem- that the health challenge is bers of the Cebu Chamber not only Covid-19. We are of Commerce and Industry also looking at other infec- (CCCI) to take a look for the tious diseases like tuber- second time at the project culosis, dengue, and polio. “Balik Buhay.” These are health cases that “We should always make everybody must be mindful,” Bunny Pages who owns Mabatid as vice chair. prays to God that he (Label- a balance between the econ- Rama said. restaurants and a school; and Mabatid, chairperson la) will completely recover omy and public health. We Earlier, Businessman businessman Felix Taguiam, of the Cebu City Coopera- soon so he can be available at should all be mindful that Rey E. Calooy, chairman of president of the Cebu Cham- tive Development Council his office. health challenges do not only the Filipino-Cebuano Busi- ber of Commerce and Indus- (CCCDC), is also advocating “We will have to look for- involve Covid-19 but other ness Club (FilCeb); Busi- try (CCCI), said that another food production as one way ward that we have days to aspect of infectious diseas- nessman Philip Tan, man- lockdown and the economy of surviving Covid-19 pan- combat the continuing rise in es. Tuberculosis, dengue and agement representative to will collapse. demic. Covid-19 cases. But optimis- polio, among others are ma- the Regional Tripartite Wag- Rama is the chairman Rama said that while tically, we see that all our fa- jor concerns that we cannot es and Productivity Board of the Committee on Health Cebu City Mayor Edgar La- cilities, hospital occupancy, ignore,” Rama said. ELIAS O. (RTWPB) 7; Businessman with City Councilor Prisca bella is working at home, he all rules that are accredited BAQUERO Register with SSS app, members urged ALL members of the Store if the cellular phone is without going to the office or SSS will send the employer the Department of Labor Social Security System (SSS) IPhone. lining up there,” Sacay said. the demand letter otherwise and Employment (DOLE) so are urged to register with the Once downloaded, Sacay He said that we can he will be fined or imprisoned he can get “unemployment SSS Mobile App so they can said click the application to also update our contact through a competent court. assistance” from SSS. view their SSS account using SSS Mobile App. But one of information through SSS If an employee was Sacay added that families cellular phone. the requirements is that a Mobile App. We can also terminated from his job of all people who have paid Keith Michael Sacay said member must have already see our entire contributions’ because of redundancy and contributions to SSS will that if a member of SSS will registered with the SSS web. breakdown. This means if a after checking with the SSS receive burial assistance. have this mobile app, they And should already have an worker will see his account mobile app he found out that “Even if a person has paid can access all information ID and password. through mobile app, he will there were some unremitted contribution and has stopped regarding their account “This SSS Mobile App know if his employer has contributions, the employee paying several years ago, he anytime, anywhere. is the most convenient in remitted all the contributions can file a complaint with the will receive burial assistance Sacay said that a member generating PRN to present to SSS which were deducted SSS. of a minimum of P20,000 of SSS may download the to Bayad Center in paying from payroll and employer’s Meanwhile, if an employee and a maximum of P40,000 application from Google contribution to SSS. By this, counterpart. will be separated from the job depending on the number Play if their mobile phone we can transact with SSS If the employer did not not of his own making, he of his contributions,” Sacay is Android, and from App using our cellular phone remit the contribution, the can get a certification from said. ELIAS O. BAQUERO Barili infirmary opened: Flores THE newly completed among others. The mayor added that they can save time, money, the town’s mayor by succes- 30-bed Infirmary Hospital in The building alone is P15 while the Barili District Hos- and effort,” Flores said. sion. This was the reason why Barili, Cebu at the total cost million and P15 million for pital which is owned by the He said that the infirmary he initiated a supplemental of P30 million was formally medical equipment. Cebu Provincial Government was the brainchild of the late budget of P 9 million a year opened last January 15, 2021 The Barili Municipal Gov- still exists, the infirmary is Marlon Garcia who died last for salary so the infirmary will with four doctors and eight ernment has budgeted a total owned and managed by the year. The inauguration was be in operation. nurses to cater the medical of P9 million for the personal Barili Municipal Govern- attended by Cebu Governor “We can ask for more needs of the townsfolk. services of four doctors, eight ment. and 3rd funds for the operation of In an interview with Cebu nurses, nursing aide and “If a Barili resident has a District Congressman Pablo the infirmary from DOH Business Week, Barili Mayor pharmacists. monthly check-up at Vicente John Garcia who were also and other government agen- Julito “Julie” Flores said the “With this, the infirmary Sotto Memorial Medical Cen- instrumental in the construc- cies. As a matter of fact, hospital was approved by the hospital attends to the medi- ter (VCMC), this time that can tion of the building. DOH and the Department Department of Health (DOH) cal needs of our constituents be done in the Barili infirma- Flores said that when of Public Works and High- with complete laboratory like without going to Cebu City for ry. So, if the people can avail Mayor Marlon died, he being way (DPWH),” Flores said. ECG, x-ray, and ultrasound medical treatment,” Flores. such service at the infirmary, elected vice mayor became ELIAS O. BAQUERO Cebu Business Week February 1 - 7, 2021 3 BUSINESS Cebu tourism lost P25B in 2020 PROVINCIAL Board pandemic recent im- come development not just Member Glenn Soco said like hotel, provement by the business sector and that for the first semester resort and in Covid-19 the Cebuano workforce. of 2020 alone, the hospital- restaurant. situation, The Hotel, Resorts and ity and tourism industry in Soco and in Restaurants Association of Cebu Province reported an said that anticipa- Cebu (HRRAC), headed by estimated revenue of P25 while the tion of the its President Carlo Suarez, Billion due to the Covid-19 world con- forthcom- expressed concerns for the pandemic. tinues to ing vac- tourism and hospitality Meanwhie, the Cebu fight and cine, Cebu sector because of the con- Provincial Board passed survive Province tinued distress experienced a resolution authored by against industries by its members. Even es- Soco strongly appealing to the dead- are slow- tablished, corporate giants all Local government Units ly virus, ly regain- did not survive in the pan- (LGUs) and relevant Na- economies ing their demic. It is alarming and at tional Government Agencies around the foothold the same time an eye-open- (NGAs) to intensify pro- world suf- KAWASAN FALLS. ONE OF THE TOURISM DRAWS IN CEBU THAT’S amidst er that the economy should grams and implement mea- fer along BEEN AFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC. losses and not take a back seat in the sures that could revive the with it. difficulties priority programs of the ailing economy. He added that in Cebu All tourism sites and they had to endure to sur- government despite the Soco, chairman of the Province alone, businesses attractions, hotels, resorts, vive. The strong stand of continued struggle against Committee on Enterprise, are closed, from major in- and other accommoda- the Provincial Government Covid-19 and the fear of said the tourism industry dustries and even in diverse tion-businesses closed at of Cebu in giving priority the emergence of the new is mostly affected by lock- business sectors, causing the height of pandemic. and importance in support- COVID strain/variant. downs because of Covid-19 economic recession. He said that with the ing the economy is a wel- ELIAS O. BAQUERO GOCC spends P119.1B on pandemic cash aid A TOTAL of P119.1 bil- and P52.59 billion in 2019,” spread of COVID-19,” Tionko lion or three-fourths of the the CAG headed by Finance said. P157 billion in cash divi- Undersecretary Antonette Tionko said the top 10 dends remitted by govern- Tionko said in a report to dividend contributors, led by ment-owned and controlled Finance Secretary Carlos the Bangko Sentral ng Pili- corporations (GOCCs) in Dominguez III. pinas (BSP) with P40.53 bil- 2020 partly funded the gov- Tionko added that P119.1 lion, and the Philippine De- ernment’s social ameliora- billion of the GOCCs’ divi- posit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) tion program (SAP) during dend remittances contribut- with P17.98 billion, remitted the COVID-19 pandemic. ed to the government’s un- 87 percent of the total divi- The Corporate Affairs programmed revenues. dends collected in 2020. Group (CAG) of the Depart- “These GOCC dividends This year, Tionko said ment of Finance (DOF) said were primarily utilized for the CAG will continue to in- the P156.97 billion in divi- the Social Amelioration Pro- still fiscal discipline among dends remitted last year by of Republic Act (RA) No. dividend collection in 2019, gram (SAP), which provid- GOCCs, especially those with 57 GOCCs to the Bureau of 7656 or the Dividends Law in inclusive of the dividend ed emergency assistance to existing arrears, to ensure the Treasury (BTr) was the 1994. foregone. Without dividends low-income families to help their compliance with the highest amount ever collect- “This is also more than foregone, cash remittances tide them over during the Dividends Law and its im- ed since the implementation twice of the P69.17 billion is P135.08 billion in 2020, strict lockdowns imposed plementing rules and regula- earlier last year to curb the tions (IRR). PR Civil Registration Month observed THE Philippine Statistics civil registration services are ous activities to raise aware- mobile registration initiat- Corazon Aquino declaring Authority (PSA) 7 celebrates geared towards making our ness and promote the legal, ed by the Local Civil Reg- February of every year as the its 31st Civil Registration processes more convenient administrative, and statis- istry Offices across Central Civil Registration Month. Month (CRM) this February and safer for our clients. We tical values of civil registra- Visayas, CRM quiz bee, TV He said that this is to 2021. continuously explore new tion, and campaign the im- and radio interviews through remind the Filipino citizens Engr. Ariel E. Florendo, and innovative ways to bring portance of adequate fund- virtual or physical, will still of their duty to register, at- PSA 7 director, said the CRM our civil registration services ing for the enforcement and be in place while observing tend events concerning sta- theme this year is: “Strength- and vital statistics more ac- administration of civil regis- minimum health and safety tus of persons and enhance ening Civil Registration and cessible to the public,” said try laws. protocols. nationwide awareness and Vital Statistics’ Digital Infor- Undersecretary Dennis S. In addition, Florendo Florendo said CRM is appreciation of the legal, mation: The Ways to Manage Mapa, National Statistician said the usual hanging of celebrated by virtue of Pres- administrative and statis- the New Normal.” and Civil Registrar General. CRM streamers, lectures on idential Proclamation No. tical values of civil registry “Given the new normal, This year’s 31st CRM civil registration, informa- 682 signed on January 28, documents. PR/ELIAS P. our efforts in improving our (#CivilRegMonth) has vari- tion drive, participation to 1991 by the late President BAQUERO 4 February 1 - 7, 2021 Cebu Business Week OPINION

CCMC inauguration “An inauguration is a ceremony that for- mally marks the start of something. ... In- auguration can refer to a formal ceremony, such as one marking the start of a new term in office or the - open ing of a new wing in a museum, but it can be used more broadly to Weekly Notes describe a less formal Emmanuel Nacorda Mongaya beginning.” I copy-pasted this when I Googled the meaning of in- auguration. Apparently, this is not the meaning of inau- guration in the mind of Cebu City Mayor Edgar Labella. After the December 29, 2020 inauguration of three floors of the new Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC), he already knew the hospital would still be closed. I would not be- lieve his people misinformed him. Or did they? Until this writing, which is over month after, the new CCMC build- ing remains closed. Cebuanos remembered very well Labella’s campaign promise about finishing the CCMC within 100 days of his term. Last year, he promised to open the new building before 2020 ends. Yes, he inaugurated the building. But it seems he only engaged in an expensive damage control maneuver. Aside from the opening ceremonies, Labella wasted whatever credibility he had left. Editorial Today, Cebu is giving him the benefit of the doubt when he insists of only suffering from an ear infection. While he could very well rest and allow Vice Mayor Mike Rama to act as mayor, Labella persists on a work at home arrangement. Make Cebuanos understand I can only guess of concerns for the mayor’s eyes only, not for City Administrator Floro Casas alone, nor that of Another spike in Covid-19 they prefer to risk getting the need to control the popula- the vice mayor. cases in Cebu City triggered disease than die of hunger. tion to stay at home because Carbon Mayor Edgar Labella to in- Besides, why the prevalence he fears a higher spike in What prompted the undue haste in Cebu City’s de- crease the penalty for quar- of disbelief in the existence Covid-19 cases. His reason in- cision to approve the P5.5 billion joint venture with antine violators. For Labella, of the disease? The may- cludes the fear of hurting the Megawide-GMR to develop the 7.8 has Carbon market? I a fine of P500 or communi- or should also see if most of economy. am not asking how much, lest I be accused of libel. I am ty service has not deterred those arrested can afford the “Mao hangyoon tamo, concerned because the joint venture committee at Cebu many Cebuanos from violat- P1000 fine. mga kaigsuonan. Kay kung City Hall allegedly failed to give the CFI Cooperative ing quarantine protocols. The Many have noticed that mobalik ta sa ECQ, simbako, enough time to challenge Megawide. The Carbon vendors local police arrested 2,000 the Labella administration magkalisod na sab ta. Trans- likewise complained of having been ignored. violators in January. prefers punishments rath- port wala na sab. So, I think Thus, I fervently await the announced plan of CFI Coop An ordinance imposing er than addressing the rea- duna pay higayon. Time is head Winston Garcia to go to court. At the very least, this a fine of P1,000 will soon be sons for going out amid the of the essence, let us be vigi- should remove the shroud of secrecy surrounding the deal. implemented. Covid-19 threat. lant,” the mayor said. How- Digong’s Butt Before the mayor push- Constituents also ask ever, with most customers President should have remained es on with this, perhaps he about the extent the Labella at home, who will buy goods silent why he does not want to be photographed being ought to look at the reasons of administration has engaged and avail of commercial ser- vaccinated. Today, the president has become the butt of most violators. in a comprehensive informa- vices? How can the poor earn jokes. But then, unlike past presidents especially Ferdi- Don’t they live in small tion and education campaign money to be able to buy? nand Marcos, Digong is not particular about appearing and crowded dwellings unlike down to the grassroots. The How can the population good before the public. Ok ra niya magpalubot. the mansion-like building the kneejerk always involves po- understand the need to stay (Emmanuel Mongaya is the co-founder and director for Labella family built in Mabo- lice action and punishments. at home while keeping the Strategic PR of PRWorks Inc. He is also a member of the lo? Were they not desperate But then, the mayor must economy alive? Political Officers League of the or POLPhil. on what to feed their families refine his messaging. Please make us under- DM him @anol_cebu in Twitter) for their next meal? Perhaps, For example, he sees the stand.

“Radiating positivity, creating connectivity” Atty. Gerardo Carillo Emmanuel delos Santos Rabacal Cebu Business Week is published every Chairman President week by Cebu Newsmakers Forum, Inc. All contents of this newspaper are placed online CEBU through Cebu Business Week Facebook page. Emmanuel “Anol” Mongaya Elias O. Baquero BUSINESS Editor VP-Finance email: [email protected] Keres H. Aviles Bebie Hiñola Baquero Room 310-A,3rd floor WDC Bldg. WEEK Writer Marketing Manager Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City Cebu Business Week February 1 - 7, 2021 5 OPINION Britain seeks Asia-Pacific free trade bloc membership ary 01, 2021. The applica- month, Tesla started deliv- announced any such plan, make internet giants pay tion to join the CPTPP will ering its Model Y to Chinese many of his supporters have news outlets for content come one year after Britain customers from its Shang- championed the idea of a but failed to persuade them formally left the European hai factory. Western brands new so-called Patriot Party. to change policy, the coun- Union following more than are aggressively targeting As Forbes reported, George try’s Treasurer said on Sun- 40 years of membership. China, where EV sales are Papadopoulos has said on day (Jan 31). Zuckerberg Negotiations between the expected to grow strongly. Twitter that the Patriot Par- reached out to talk about UK and the partnership are Volkswagen said it would ty will be a viable third par- the code and the impact on expected to start this year, soon begin delivering vehi- ty, Fox Business’ Lou Dobbs Facebook and a construc- BIZBITS the trade department said. cles produced at two new- has suggested the name has tive discussion followed Manny de los Santos Rabacal Truss, who has touted the ly-built Chinese factories a great ring to it, while far- last week between the social prospect of British mem- dedicated to electric cars. right social media personal- media billionaire, Austra- bership of the bloc as the China is the world’s big- ities such as Lin Wood have lian Treasurer Josh Fryden- UK agreed post-Brexit trad- gest car market with more circulated logos featuring a berg and communications Britain will apply to ing arrangements with Ja- than 20m vehicles sold lion for a party of that name. minister Paul Fletcher. Aus- join the Pacific free trade pan and Canada among oth- each year. Ford is also hop- Google searches for Patriot tralia intends to introduce a area, the Comprehensive er members of the CPTPP, ing to capitalise on China’s Party have soared in recent law that would force Face- and Progressive Trans-Pa- said joining would offer economic recovery and the days, with more interest in book, the world’s largest cific Partnership (CPTPP), enormous opportunities. Chinese government’s push the term than the Republi- social media platform, and the UK said Saturday (Jan (CNA/AFP) for more electric cars on its can Party or the Democratic internet search giant Goo- 30), under its post-Brex- oOo roads. Party. But Patriot Party is gle to negotiate payments it plans. Britain’s Inter- Ford is to start build- oOo already a registered trade- to media companies whose national Trade Secretary ing its iconic Mustang cars Unverified rumors mark and one which is not content drives traffic to Liz Truss is to formally re- in China for the first time. says Donald Tump could held under the name Don- their websites. If the parties quest UK membership of The US carmaker said its be about to launch a new ald Trump. cannot agree on payments, the free trade bloc, which Mustang Mach-E will start political party have been oOo a government-appointed represents 11 Pacific Rim being produced there later growing since he promised Facebook CEO Mark arbitrator will set the fees nations including Australia, this year as it looks to tap a comeback as he left the Zuckerberg called Austra- for them. (CNA/Reuters) Canada, Chile, Japan, Mex- into China’s electric vehicle White House. While the lian lawmakers last week mannyrabacal1144@ ico and Vietnam, on Febru- (EV) market. Earlier this former president has not to discuss rules that would gmail.com

Sergio Osmeña’s letter to Gov. Marapao and his appointees

ed leader, for the way the pointed Acting Vice Mayor io Gono, Romualdo Cucil, Victorino Fortich, Eleu- people of Bohol have faced of Duero, Bohol, October Patricio Timbal, Tito Pieras terio Dempor, Silvestre the emergency. Loyalty and 15, 1945. and Perfecto Castro, ap- Salnosab, Quitero Dango, courage were their armor, Juan Cadao, Juan Ma- pointed Acting Councilors Anacleto Sarigumbo and and with bravery and de- drona, Victoria M. Salaan, of Guindulman, October, Florencio Palapar, ap- termination they faced the Cayetano Abueva and 15, 1945. pointed Acting Councilors enemy. As a Cebuano, I am Nemesio Bernil, appointed Hugo Dano, appointed of Loboc, Bohol, November also profoundly grateful for Acting Councilors of Due- Acting Vice Mayor of Se- 14, 1945. the generous hospitality of ro, Bohol, October 15, 1945. villa, Bohol, November 9, Felipe Galagar, ap- the province in giving shel- Simon Balatoro, ap- 1945. pointed Acting Vice Mayor Cebu Legal ter to the many evacuees pointed Acting Vice Mayor Simeon Digal, Pon- of Garcia-Hernandez, Bo- Pedia from Cebu. That is a debt of of Dimiao, Bohol, October ciano Oracion, Wenceslao hol, November 14, 1945. Atty. Clarence Paul V. Oaminal gratitude that will never be 15, 1945. Mosqueda, Juan Agad, Ju- Pio Pagoran, and Cruz forgotten. I also say hope Eugenio Arocha, Per- lian Esteves and Catalino G. Galacio, appointed Act- because I am confident that fecto Hamlag, Rosendo Bumapak, appointed Act- ing Councilors of Gar- the long dark night of cap- Hamili, Cipriano Visarra, ing Councilors of Sevilla, cia-Hernandez, Bohol, No- tivity is almost over. The Sixto Sale and Honorato Bohol, November 9, 1945. vember 14, 1945. United States, speaking Apalisok, appointed Acting Amado Agpasa, ap- Baldomero Renega- through its great President, Councilors of Dimiao, Bo- pointed Acting Vice Mayor do, appointed Acting Vice President Osmeña is has promised the Filipi- hol, October 15, 1945. of Maribojoc, Bohol, No- Mayor of Cortes, Bohol, the only president who no people that they will be Jose A. Lofranco, ap- vember 9, 1945. November 14, 1945. made as his office. liberated from the invader; pointed Acting Vice Mayor Longino Avergonza- Basilio Garrote, Pedro This was after the Leyte and the present successful of Inabanga, Bohol, Octo- do, appointed Acting Vice Ligan, Ramon Echaves, Eu- Landings on October 20, operations in Leyte under ber 15, 1945. Mayor of Talibon, Bohol, lalio Uy, Placido Horajan 1944. Reproduced are ex- the command of General Jose Petalcorin, Aga- November 9, 1945. and Bernardo Cabang, ap- cerpts of a letter from the MacArthur are the sure be- ton Aparicio, Bernabe Es- Filomeno Gonzales, pointed Acting Councilors president dated December ginning of our liberation.” tillore, Jose F. Jumamoy, Demiterio Parandista, Ig- of Cortes, Bohol, November 16, 1944 addressed to a fel- List of officials: Romualdo Cempron and nacio Evangelista, Lazaro 9, 1945. low Bisaya, Gov. Condrado Abundio Jabines, Man- Serafin Anrano, appointed Avorda, Ernesto Flores and Antero Rivay, Pio Irig D. Marapao: uel Rabuya, Jacinto Rubil- Acting Councilors of In- Federico Aguhar, appoint- and Genaro Lamay, ap- “I wish to take advan- lar, Telesforo Descallar, abanga, Bohol, October 15, ed Acting Councilors of pointed Acting Councilors tage of this opportunity to Hospicio M. Descallar and 1945. Talibon, Bohol, November of Corella, Bohol, October ask you to convey to the Honorata Arcaba, appoint- Hermogenes Olsao, ap- 9, 1945. 15, 1945. patriotic people of Bohol, ed Acting Councilors of pointed Acting Vice Mayor Brigido Jala, appoint- Perfecto Bon, appoint- as their governor, my mes- Maribojoc, Bohol, Novem- of Guindulman, Bohol, Oc- ed Acting Vice Mayor of ed Acting Councilor of sage of gratitude and hope; ber 9, 1945. tober 15, 1945. Loboc, Bohol, November Pangiano, Bohol, Novem- gratitude, as your elect- Abundio Gulay, ap- Nesterio Salazar, Alip- 9, 1945. ber 9, 1945. 6 February 1 - 7, 2021 Cebu Business Week OPINION

Res Ipsa Loquitor God on his patient’s fate. Dr. Orlino Hosaka. They Rogelio Ramos that some- the High Court. In ROGELIO E. RAMOS soon agreed to be operated thing went wrong during The Supreme Court ap- and ERLINDA RAMOS v. on June on June 17, 1985 at the intubation. Doctors plied the Latin maxim RES COURT OF APPEALS, DE- 9:00 A.M. Dr. Hosaka de- Gutierrez and Hosaka were IPSA LOQUITOR which LOS SANTOS MEDICAL cided that she should un- also asked by the hospital means “the thing or the CENTER, DR. ORLINO dergo a “cholecystectomy” to explain what happened transaction speaks for it- HOSAKA and DRA. PER- operation after examining to the patient. The doctors self.” The phrase is a maxim FECTA GUTIERREZ, G.R. the documents presented explained that the patient for the rule that the fact of No. 124354. December 29, to him. Rogelio E. Ramos, had bronchospasm. Erlin- the occurrence of an injury, 1999 the High Tribunal however, asked Dr. Hosaka da Ramos stayed at the ICU taken with the surrounding The Legal Front has reminded the Medical to look for a good anesthe- for a month. On November circumstances, may per- Atty. Gerry Carillo Practitioners the Hippo- siologist. Dr. Hosaka, in 15, 1985, the patient was mit an inference or raise a cratic Oath. turn, assured Rogelio that released from the hospital presumption of negligence. Erlinda Ramos was, un- he will get a good anesthe- a coma. This makes out a plaintiff’s til the afternoon of June 17, siologist. After agreeing On 8 January 1986, pe- prima facie case and for the 1985, a 47-year-old robust on the professional fee of titioners filed a civil case defendant to explain. It af- woman except for occasion- the doctors they proceeded six for damages with the fords reasonable evidence, al complaints of discom- with the operation sched- Regional Trial Court of in the absence of explana- The Hippocratic Oath fort due to pains allegedly ule. City against herein tion by the defendant, that mandates physicians to caused by the presence of a A day before the sched- private respondents alleg- the accident arose from or give priority to the health stone in her gall bladder. uled date of operation, she ing negligence in the man- was caused by the defen- and welfare of their pa- She sought profession- was admitted at one of the agement and care of Erlin- dant’s want of care. tients. If a doctor fails, he al advice and was advised rooms of the DLSMC, lo- da Ramos. In ruling this case the is made accountable for his to undergo an operation cated along E. Rodriguez The Court of Appeals court found that the re- acts. A mistake, through for the removal of a stone Avenue, Quezon City. How- ruled in favor of the plain- spondent is wanting of care gross negligence or incom- in her gall bladder. She un- ever, something happened tiff and held responsible and management in the petence or plain human er- derwent a series of exam- during the operation that Dr. Hosaka, the anesthe- medical of ERLINDA RA- ror, may spell the difference inations which indicated complicates the surgery of siologist Dr. Gutierez and MOS hence was held liable. between life and death. In she was fit for surgery. Erlinda Ramos. the Hospital. The respon- Write us at carilloger- this sense, the doctor plays They were referred to Dr. Hosaka informed dents raised the matter to [email protected].

Attracting foreign investments United Nations Conference inated and where goods vice Act, the Retail Trade Rice Tariffication Law and on Trade and Development are reportedly cheap is not Liberalization Act, among the Ease of Doing Business (UNCTAD) reported. spared. others. Act”. “It aims to modern- To cushion the impact Apparently, for some Nevertheless, push- ize the Philippine econo- of the decline of the na- well-known economists in ing the enactment of laws my, generate several jobs tion’s economy, the Duter- the country, amending the that would attract FD than across the country, help te administration is work- Charter particularly on FDI opening the Charter is the solve societal issues on em- ing double time. restrictive economic pro- categorical stand of Sen- ployment, housing, trans- A positive economic visions during this time of ate President Pro-tempore portation, and safe and indicator among emerging pandemic and economic Ralph Recto. The fellow is secure travel”, the report Asian economies in its April contraction is not prudent. against amending economic The Labor Front added. 2020 survey, the World FDI plays only a minor provisions of the Charter. Art Barrit But the ill-effects of Bank revealed the Philip- role in the growth of high “I’d rather focus on Covid-19 pandemic put our pines was poised to weather performing economies. passing laws that would economy in shambles. Our the economic shock caused Among factors that affect help attract FDI and create economy registered a 9.5% by the Covid-19 better the investment decisions are jobs such as CREATE (The contraction for the entire some of its regional peers, adequate infrastructure, Corporate Recovery and 2020 as a result of the gov- including Thailand and In- skills level, quality of gen- Tax Incentives for Enter- While foreign direct in- ernment’s imposed strin- donesia. eral regulatory framework, prises), among others, Rec- vestments (FDI) in South- gent measures to contain Predicated on this, the clear rules of the game, to stated. east Asia were reportedly the health crisis. Duterte administration has graft and corruption, polit- As reported, the Trade contracted by 20% in the The Duterte adminis- vowed to resolve relent- ical instability, weak insti- Union Congress of the Phil- first half of 2020, FDI in tration has imposed one of lessly the financial conta- tutions, and the rule of law, ippines (TUCP) has urged the Philippines rose by Asia’s strictest lockdowns gion into an opportunity noted Dr. Florangel Rosa- the government to provide 20% during the same peri- in the country particular- for economic growth that rio-Braid, a columnist and a wage subsidy to work- od, mainly due to mergers ly Metro Manila, home to would boost business and a 1986 Constitutional Com- ers in order to keep people and acquisitions (M&A) most of the nation’s banks consumer confidence that mission Member. from starving and in order deals in agriculture and en- and businesses. are crucial to a robust eco- Verily, the administra- to keep businesses afloat, ergy. Nonetheless, no coun- nomic recovery. tion indicated those press- stated TUCP Vice President Thus, President Rodri- try is spared. It creates eco- Consequently, among ing issues are crucial to ac- Luis Corral. go Duterte’s administration nomic havoc worldwide. the legislative measures the celerate the country’s econ- The labor sector also launched the 2020 Invest- Countries such as the Unit- Duterte’s economic man- omy and sustain its recov- urged the government to ment Priorities Plan which ed States, Japan, the Eu- agers earnestly requested ery. “The measures com- take the lead in creating includes qualified activities ropean Union are not ex- Congress is to swiftly pass plement other approved job opportunities through relating to the Covid-19 empted. Even China where amendments to the FDI bills such as the “Build, a public job creation pro- pandemic response, the the Covid-19 virus orig- aside from the Public Ser- Build, Build’ program, the gram. Cebu Business Week February 1 - 7, 2021 7 NATION

prices. which hit the country in late Palace must expedite The House economic af- 2020. fairs committee in late 2020 HB No. 8059, or the pro- created a technical working posed Bayanihan to Rebuild group to reconcile two bills as One Act, on the other Bayanihan III passage in the House calling for a hand, seeks to provide P247 Bayanihan III law. billion to emergency re- PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. House Bill (HB) No. sponse and economic recov- Duterte must set the tone for 8031, or the proposed ery programs. his key allies in the Congress Bayanihan to Arise as One Asian Institute of Man- to focus the next package, Act, provides for an addi- agement Economist John which will likely be known as tional P400-billion stimulus Paolo R. Rivera said policy- Bayanihan III following the package to help people deal makers should “assess first naming conventions adopt- with the challenges brought the effectiveness of Bayani- ed in the first two rounds, on about by the pandemic, as han I and II” before dealing providing aid directly to the well as the series of typhoons with a Bayanihan III. people. Emmanuel J. Lopez, dean of the Graduate School of Colegio de San Juan de Congress to ratify Letran, said Instead of im- posing price controls, “the government should instead CREATE bicam report introduce a natural stimulus THE Bicameral Confer- of ITH and 5 years of SCIT, package that will create or ence Committee officially and 5 years of enhanced de- augment incomes.” approved the proposed Cor- ductions. He said the government porate Recovery and Tax In- The measure also imme- should extend assistance to PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE SIGNING THE BAYANIHAN II LAW. centives for Enterprises Act diately lowers the corporate the hardest hit sectors. (CREATE). income tax (CIT) to 25% Congress last year passed (Bayanihan II) provided structure and are willing to Senate Majority Lead- from the current rate of 30%. two laws ensuring funding P165.5 billion for measures start raising wealth and in- er Juan Miguel F. Zubiri Moreover, the bicam- for coronavirus response to boost the economy. A Pal- come taxes on the rich,” Son- said this measure reconciled eral panel agreed to retain measures worth hundreds of ace declaration of priority ny A. Africa, executive direc- the disagreeing provisions the Senate proposal to lower billions of pesos, status for such measures will tor of IBON Foundation, told of Senate Bill No. 1357 and the CIT further to 20% for Republic Act (RA) No. remove some procedural hur- said. House Bill No. 4157. micro, small, and medium 11469 or the Bayanihan to dles to their passage while He said a fresh stimulus The House of Represen- enterprises with net taxable Heal as One Act (Bayanihan likely mobilizing the Presi- program should include sub- tatives and the Senate are income below P5 million and I) reallocated about P275 bil- dent’s Congressional allies. stantial emergency cash sub- expected to ratify the report total assets below P100 mil- lion of the 2020 budget for an “Meaningful stimulus sidies to increase household today. lion. emergency subsidy program, is possible if the economic incomes and substantial ag- CREATE is the new ver- The bill also retained RA 11494 or the Bayani- managers stop fetishizing ricultural support to raise sion of the Corporate Income the P1-billion investment han to Recover as One Act creditworthiness and infra- productivity and lower food Tax and Incentives Rational- threshold for projects that ization Act (CITIRA), which will need to secure approval was revised to address the from the Fiscal Incentives economic impact of the pan- Review Board (FIRB). In- NEDA to brief Congress on demic. It will grant incen- vestment projects below P1 tives to exporters and “criti- billion will only be evaluat- cal” domestic enterprises for ed by investment promotion urgency of passing reform bills up to 17 years. agencies. THE National Economic should be passed this year as the passage of GUIDE and “The incentives scheme Enterprises that will fully and Development Authority these are “crucial in revving the Government Financial for registered enterprises relocate outside Metro Ma- (NEDA) said they will make up the Philippine economy” Institutions Unified Initia- under the Senate version nila will be entitled to ad- their pitch to Congress on and sustaining its recovery tives to Distressed Enter- would also be retained, save ditional three years of ITH, the urgency of passing eco- from the pandemic. prises for Economic Recov- for some changes in the in- while those that will locate in nomic reform bills before They complement oth- ery bill,” Mr. Chua said. centives to be granted for conflict- or disaster-stricken the legislature turns its at- er economic reforms and The GUIDE bill, which is both exporters and ‘critical’ areas will have two addition- tention to preparing for next programs such as the Build, expected to be passed by the domestic market enterpris- al years of ITH. year’s national elections. Build, Build infrastructure House plenary this month, es, and for general domestic The CREATE bill also “A few more months be- initiative and the strength- seeks to help strategically market enterprises,” Sena- will lower the minimum CIT fore the campaign season, ened anti-red tape law, he important firms by helping tor Pia S. Cayetano said in a to 1%, effective July 1, 2021 to we will work to get the rest said. them address any solvency statement. June 30, 2023, after which it of the bills passed. We will “What’s the point of low- issues. The Congress ad- Under the measure, four will revert to its original rate present to the Congress the ering the taxes, providing journs sine dine in June. to seven years of income tax of 2%. Nonprofit proprietary urgency of having economic infrastructure, the ease of The Senate lists the holiday (ITH) and 10 years educational institutions and bills passed because these doing business law if inves- amendments to the Retail of special corporate income hospitals will pay 1% CIT in were packaged,” Acting So- tors cannot come in because Trade Liberalization Act, or tax (SCIT) will be granted to the same period, instead of cioeconomic Planning Sec- there are restrictions?” he Republic Act No. 8762, and exporters and “critical” do- 10%. retary Karl Kendrick T. Chua said. to the Public Service Act or mestic enterprises identified “The passage of CREATE said. He said legislators could Commonwealth Act No. 146 by the National Economic will guide our economic re- Chua said the amend- help ensure the long-term among its own priority bills. and Development Authority covery, following the con- ments to the Public Service recovery of the economy by Senate President Vicen- (NEDA). traction of our gross domes- Act, Retail Trade Liberal- passing pending measures te C. Sotto III said the cham- Other domestic enter- tic product last year by 9.5%, ization Act, and the Foreign designed to attract more for- ber will exert “best effort on prises with investment cap- the worst on record since the Investment Act, which are eign direct investment. all bills addressing the econ- ital of at least P500 million post-World War II era,” Ms. all pending at the Senate, “We are now working on omy.” may enjoy four to seven years Cayetano said. 8 February 1 - 7, 2021 Cebu Business Week NEWS Malls go online as shoppers stay home MALL operators and re- malls President slowly coming ernment implemented an tailers are forced to speed up Steven Tan back to their enhanced community quar- their digital transformation, said. malls. “We are antine to curb the rise in even as they work closely “The take- now at 50-60% COVID-19 cases. together to offer personal up online is of pre-COVID “We look at the experi- shopper services, delivery still low. Digi- levels. We ence of our China malls for and curbside pick-up for cus- tal transforma- started low. inspiration on how we plan tomers who are still wary of tion is not just When we start- move forward from here to going inside the mall. about e-com- ed in May when a post-pandemic scenario. “We did a lot of innova- merce. It is also we reopened it In China, things are back-to- tion, like curbside pickup, innovation. was 18% of pre- normal and there is a surge call-to-deliver, as part of the You give (the COVID traffic in revenge spending as well (digital) transformation and customers) op- but right now as family events inside the pivoting… , they still tions, delivery, our footfall has malls. This is because they like interaction… For those curbside pick- increased to have innovated technology who really cannot come to up, cashless transactions. down restrictions, foot traffic 60%,” he added. to rebuild back better and the mall, we have a number This is what we are focusing at SM malls have yet to re- Shopping malls were become omnichannel. The they can call, and someone on right now,” he said. turn to pre-pandemic levels. shuttered March 17 to May brand has to be shoppable will assist them,” SM Super- Despite easing of lock- Tan said customers are 16 last year when the gov- and shippable,” Tan said. Peso remains stable among Asian currencies DESPITE the rising won and Japa- The coun- related to the size of the BOP risks in the global economy, nese yen which try generated surplus relative to GDP and heightened by the spread of appreciated by a BOP surplus the size of the GIR relative COVID-19, the collapse of 6.33%, 6.26%, of US$12.8B in to imports of goods and ser- global markets, the extreme 6.07%, and 2020, helped vices (see Table 2 for regres- volatility in currencies and 4.94%, respec- by slower im- sion results). the downgrading of credit tively. ports and The country had a BOP ratings of many economies, The pe- outward pay- surplus of US$12.8B in 2020, the Philippine peso remained so-dollar ex- ments. 3.5% of GDP and the highest firm, appreciating from year- change rate The GIR rose since 2010. end 2019 level. also remained to US$109.8B Despite the pandemic In 2020, the Philippine stable in 2020, in end-2020, and global economic con- peso was in the middle of the its coefficient up 21.6% from traction, strong macroeco- pack among the nine curren- of variation at US$87.84 the nomic fundamentals support cies in Asia that maintained 2.11%, in the middle of the also depreciated at a slightly year before. As a ratio of im- the country’s favorable finan- their value against the US pack of 12 regional curren- higher 0.11% average. ports of goods and services, cial footing. The BOP surplus dollar. During the year, the cies and an improvement The main reasons for the it rose to 11.7 months from in 2020 was the highest in peso appreciated by 5.18% against the 2.24% Asian av- peso’s continued strength 7.7 months in 2019. These in recent history. Manageable relative to the US$, in the erage. and stability are the coun- turn boosted the confidence budget deficits and prompt middle of the pack of nine The peso depreciated try’s strong balance-of-pay- in the Philippine peso. adjustment of monetary set- Asian currencies including slightly in the first month of ments (BOP) position and The exchange rate ad- tings in response to current the Taiwan dollar, Chinese 2021 but this is in line with rising Gross International justed for the GDP price developments help maintain yuan, Taiwan dollar, Korean regional currencies which Reserves (GIR). deflator is significantly- cor investor confidence. DOLE issues over 1K Certificates of Unemployment AS OF January 2021, the In his report, TCFO Chief Field Office (CPFO), covering give us an idea on the extent are covered by the grant of Department of Labor and Emmanuel Y. Ferrer cited the cities and municipalities of unemployment occurring unemployment insurance or Employment that since January 4, 2021, outside the cities of Cebu, in the different provinces in involuntary separation bene- (DOLE-7) had issued more their Office has already is- Mandaue and Lapulapu un- Central Visayas,” DOLE-7 fit may apply for DOLE Cer- than 1,000 Certificates of sued a total of 1,294 COUs der OIC-Vivencio Lagahid, Regional Director Salome O. tification of Involuntary Sep- Unemployment (COUs) to or Certificates of Involuntary registered only twenty-eight Siaton said. aration,” said the Regional affected workers in the Prov- Separation to affected work- COUs issued in January, cit- The issuance of COUs or Head. ince of Cebu and to those in ers. ing retrenchment or business Certificates of Involuntary Applicants must send the cities of Cebu, Mandaue Topping the list is re- downsizing; and Bohol with separation, is the DOLE’s as- one copy of their valid ID and Lapulapu. trenchment as the reason 55 COUs. The Field Offices of sistance to affected workers and a copy of the Notice of A big bulk of the COUs of involuntary separation, and who wish to apply for pay- Termination issued by the issued came from the Tri- closely followed by closure of are yet to finalize their re- ment of unemployment in- employer. In the absence of City Field Office (TCFO) business, redundancy, eco- spective data. surance or involuntary sepa- the Notice of Termination, which covers the three high- nomic downturn and disease “We are closely moni- ration benefit at the SSS. applicant my send instead ly urbanized cities where big or illness of workers. toring the turnout of COU “All employees including a duly notarized Affidavit of establishments are located. The Cebu Provincial applications because this will Kasambahay and OFWs who Termination of Employment. Cebu Business Week February 1 - 7, 2021 9 BOHOL PAGE LGUs can now avail of loans with Land Bank, DBP: Yap BOHOL Governor Ar- P100,000 that Yap will give to of the 3rd district mayors and thur “Art” Yap said Local each of the 1,009 barangays in barangay captains, they were Government Units (LGUs) Bohol is not enough. able to uplift the living condi- can now secure loans with “To give enough water to tion of the people by providing Land Bank of the Philippines all people in all barangays, we water system, good roads, and (LBP) or Development Bank are talking about tens of mil- livelihood. of the Philippines (DBP) for lions of pesos. We should give “When my term as con- infrastructure projects that so much attention. If there is gressman reached its lim- will benefit their constituents. a need for LGUs to provide it, only Mabini of the ten In an interview with Yag- funds, then they should spend towns of the 3rd district was yagan program over DYRC money for it because water is a left as poorest,” he said. radio, Yap said the LGUs can right” Yap said. “Uplifting the living secure loans for water system He said water is very im- condition of the people so the people will not any- portant in sustaining the econ- will depend on the kind of more fetch water for several omy. Buenavista is studying leadership and the kind kilometers especially in far for a P6-million water project. of projects in the baran- flung areas. Jetafe is not interested to re- gays,” Yap said. He said that the LGUs ceive the P100,000 offered to At present, the PSA can always make as collateral each barangay. has categorized 15 Bohol the Internal Revenue Allot- He added that the spring towns as poorest, and ment (IRA) that the National project in Mabini, Bohol is his 13 of them belong to Government owed to them. priority because the municipality the Bohol 2nd District The IRA is now increased that was left in the top ten poor- under Rep. Aristotle based on the decision of the est towns in Bohol under him as Aumentado. This is Supreme Court. Bohol 3rd District congressman the reason why Yap As Bohol governor, Yap before he became governor. is eyeing massive has offered P100,000 to each He said that when he be- development in barangay for water system came congressman in 2010, al- this area to uplift because water is a right of the most half of the poorest towns the living condi- people. in Bohol as categorized by the tion of the people However, Yap said that Philippine Statistics Authority there. ELIAS O. for domestic water use, the (PSA) are poorest. With the help BAQUERO P2B of Bohol budget to come from IRA: Relampagos BOHOL Vice Governor vincial Government will and the years after is one “We must upgrade the Rene Relampagos said that also secure borrowings from way to survive this Corona delivery of health services of the P4.5 billion 2021 an- Land Bank of the Philip- Virus Disease (Covid-19) to the people especially nual budget of the provincial pines (LBP) and Develop- pandemic. during the time of Covid-19 government, P2 billion of it ment Bank of the Philippines Relampagos said that pandemic. So, massive wa- will come from the Internal (DBP) to finance some proj- he and Yap are closely coor- ter system, increased food Revenue Allotment (IRA). ects. dinating with each other to production, increased live- Relampagos told Cebu Relampagos added that increase food production to lihood, and improved health Business Week that aside the administration of Gov- attain food security and self services are the flagship pro- from IRA, the other funds ernor Arthur “Art” Yap, with reliance. grams of the administration will come from the locally the support of the Bohol Pro- He said that he and Yap of Governor Yap and me,” generated income like real vincial Board headed by him, VICE GOVERNOR are also maximizing the de- Relampagos said. property tax, hospital fees has flagship projects like RENE RELAMPAGOS livery of basic services by Bohol has 10 district hos- and other services where massive water systems in all lihood, and updated delivery improving the services of the pitals. The other two govern- the provincial government 1,009 barangays of the en- of health services. hospitals owned and super- ment hospitals are owned by can earn. tire province, increased food He said that increasing vised by the Bohol Provin- the Department of Health He said that Bohol Pro- production, sustainable live- food production this year cial Government. (DOH). ELIAS O. BAQUERO Thank Gov. Yap for effective anti-Covid response: Vice Gov BOHOL Vice Gover- the support of mayors and Bohol well,” Relampagos “I urge all the people to pagos said. nor Rene Lopez Relampa- barangay captains. said. follow health protocol by Relampagos is a bril- gos said that the Boholanos “We also thank God for He said that the peo- wearing face mask, washing liant Boholano leader who must thank the energetic allowing us to protect Bohol ple must remember that hands, and social distancing became board member, and innovative Bohol Gover- province from damages out Covid-19 will not disappear to protect not only ourselves vice governor, governor for nor Arthur Yap for prevent- of this Covid-19 pandemic. right away. This disease will and the entire community. three terms, and now vice ing the spread of Corona Vi- I am proud to report to the stay long and everybody We hope that 2021 will be a governor again. ELIAS O. rus Disease (Covid-19), with Boholanos That we manage must be vigilant to avoid it. much better year,” Relam- BAQUERO 10 February 1 - 7, 2021 Cebu Business Week THE ACADEME No hike in reimbursement for communication CITING limited funding statement following com- lowance and a lack of legal basis, the plaints from teachers over Under DepEd Order No. Department of Education the measly amount of the re- 38, issued last November, (DepEd) said it could not imbursement as well as the DepEd personnel may claim heed requests to increase the tedious process to get the re- a reimbursement worth amount allocated for per- fund. P300 per month for commu- sonnel as reimbursement Teachers ask DepEd nication expenses incurred for their communication ex- for quick reimbursement from March to December penses. of P300 communication al- 2020. In a statement, the de- partment said it acknowl- edged that P300 per month was not enough to repay communication expenses FUn TRiVIA of teachers and personnel as they implement distance Do you know that… learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. month was identified based Budget and Management n Russia was founded by a group of Viking traders “In as much as the De- on the cost estimates per (DBM) to give a communica- called the Rus. They initially settled the land to partment would want to available 2020 funds,” it ex- tion allowance to its person- create a series of trading towns between their reimburse their communi- plained. nel remains unanswered, the Scandinavian home and the Byzantine Empire? cation expenses for a higher The DepEd also said it agency said. n Between 1931 and 1969 Walt Disney collected amount, the Department has could not release the reim- “We hope for your un- thirty-five Oscars? its limitations, both in the bursement as an allowance derstanding as we provide n Your mouth uses 75 muscles when you speak? funding cover and legal ba- due to a lack of legal basis. what is due our personnel sis,” the DepEd said. The department’s re- within our budget,” it added. “The amount of P300 per quest to the Department of The DepEd made the BOC donates gadgets to DepEd THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) donated gadgets to the Department of Educa- tion (DepEd) on January 29, 2021for use in the online learning program. The turn-over was con- ducted at the Bureau of Cus- toms Situation Room in Ma- nila attended by Department n Ants can be found on every continent except of Education Secretary Le- Antarctica? onor M. Briones and Bureau n Trichophobia is the Fear of loose hair? of Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, with the virtual presence of Now you know! Department of Finance Sec- SUPPORTING ONLINE LEARNING. CUSTOMS COMMISSIONER retary Carlos G. Dominguez. REY LEONARDO GUERRERO (LEFT) TURNS OVER A LAPTOP COMPUTER AND A MOBILE PHONE TO DEPED SECRETARY LE- Also in attendance were ONOR BRIONES (RIGHT) IN A TURNOVER CEREMONY AT THE Best Quotes the Bureau’s deputy Com- BOC MAIN OFFICE IN MANILA ON FRIDAY (JAN. 29, 2021). (PHOTO missioners and represen- COURTESY OF BOC) from Successful People tatives of the Port of Clark headed District Collector the Customs Modernization men and women of the BOC “Follow effective actions with quiet reflection. Ruby Claudia M. Alameda. and Tariff Act (CMTA) and for their unrelenting ef- From the quiet reflection will come even more A total of 5,038 devic- with the approval of DOF forts to perform their func- effective action.” Peter Drucker es were donated to DepEd Secretary Sonny Dominguez, tions as well as initiatives composed of Oppo A9 and the donation is for the bene- to collaborate with other “A well-educated mind will always have more A31 mobile phones as well as fit of students affected by the agencies to better serve the questions than answers.” Helen Keller Huawei Mate mobile devic- Covid-19 Filipinos. es. The gadgets were part of Secretary Briones thanked As the country recovers “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do the apprehended items of the the Bureau and the Depart- from the impact of Covid-19, what you can.” Arthur Ashe Port of Clark which were be- ment of Finance for their con- the Bureau of Customs con- ing transported out of Clark tinuing support to DepEd in tinues to strive in providing “If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d Freeport Zone. furthering quality education. public service and support spend six hours sharpening my ax.” Through the provisions Secretary Dominguez to the public and the govern- Abraham Lincoln of RA 10863 also known as for his part commended the ment. Cebu Business Week February 1 - 7, 2021 11 WORLD NEWS West condemns Myanmar coup THE United Nations all government officials and The White House said democratic transition and towards a positive and led condemnation of Myan- civil society leaders and re- U.S. President Joe Biden had will take action against those peaceful outcome. mar’s military on Monday spect the will of the peo- been briefed on the deten- responsible if these steps are Malaysia and Indone- after it seized power, call- ple of Burma as expressed tions. not reversed,” White House sia shared Singapore’s call. ing for the release of elect- in democratic elections on “The United States op- spokeswoman Jen Psaki The detentions came ed leaders, including Nobel Nov. 8,” U.S. Secretary of poses any attempt to alter said. after days of escalating laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. State Antony Blinken said in the outcome of recent elec- Australian Foreign Min- tension between the civil- U.N. Secretary-General a statement. tions or impede Myanmar’s ister Marise Payne called on ian government and the Antonio Guterres said the the military “to respect the military after the Nov. 8 developments were a “seri- rule of law, to resolve dis- election in which Suu Kyi’s ous blow to democratic re- putes through lawful mech- National League for De- forms” and urged all lead- anisms and to release im- mocracy (NLD) scored a ers to refrain from violence mediately all civilian leaders landslide win. and respect human rights. and others” who had been The army on Monday The United States, detained. handed power to military Australia and Singapore Singapore’s Foreign chief Min Aung Hlaing and expressed grave concern at Ministry urged all parties to imposed a state of emer- the military’s declaration exercise restraint and work gency for one year. of a state of emergency and the detentions. The army said it had carried out the detentions in response to “election fraud.” “We call on Burmese military leaders to release

Saudi human rights under new spotlight in Biden era THE Trump adminis- UAE, pending a review. med Bin Salman, (known as tration, according to Presi- Saudi Arabia is America’s MBS) is clearly aware of the dent Biden’s campaign team, closest security partner in negative effect human rights “wrote Saudi Arabia a blank the Arab world, a vital stra- stories are having on the cheque.” It accused it of turn- tegic ally in confronting the country’s global image. ing a blind eye to human expansion of Iranian-backed “MBS”, says the British rights abuses and prolonging militias across the Middle MP Crispin Blunt, “is getting a disastrous war in Yemen East, and a major customer contradictory advice from where tens of thousands have for US arms sale. those around him but this been killed in six years of con- On human rights within [emphasis on human rights flict. man rights will now feature paign in Yemen. Already, after the kingdom, Saudi officials by Joe Biden] gives another The new team in the prominently. just one week into his term, point to a recent dramatic opportunity to help the prag- White House has promised President Biden has sig- the US has suspended billions drop in executions. The top matists advising him that a complete reset of relations naled he will end US military of dollars’ worth of arms sales team around the all-power- Saudi Arabia’s public image with Saudi Arabia where hu- support for the Saudi-led cam- to both Saudi Arabia and the ful Crown Prince Moham- matters.” Facebook suspends Israeli PM Netanyahu-linked chatbot FACEBOOK has deleted from Netanyahu. said, that “under our privacy Netanyahu’s Likud par- vaccinated so that we can a post by Israeli Prime Minis- “If you have friends or policy we do not allow con- ty issued a statement in re- open up the economy and ter Benjamin Netanyahu and family members aged 60 or tent that shares or asks for sponse, saying the aim “was be the first in the world to suspended a chatbot linked to over who have not yet been people’s medical informa- to encourage Israelis over the emerge from the coronavi- his account for violating the vaccinated, you can write tion.” age of 60 to get vaccinated to rus.” company’s privacy policy. a response here with their Facebook had “removed save their lives, after Prime Netanyahu, who faces a Visitors to the PM’s FB name and phone number, the offending post and tem- Minister Netanyahu brought fourth election in two years page, who clicked on a link and I may call to convince porarily suspended the Mes- vaccines to every Israeli citi- in March, has made Israel’s about the coronavirus, re- them!” the message read. senger bot, which shared this zen.” world-leading vaccination ceived an automatic mes- Taking action and re- content, for breaking these The party said they are program the central message sage, purporting to come moving the items, Facebook rules.” calling “on everyone to get of his re-election campaign. 12 February 1 - 7, 2021 Cebu Business Week BISAYA EDITION BAN SA FACE-TO-FACE NGA

KAMPANYAANG Commission on SA ELEKSIYONingon man ang pag-adto sa Elections (Comelec) nagpla- mga balay balay hayan nga no nga idili o i-ban ang face- idili na. to-face nga pangampanya al- Ang Comelec makig co- ang sa umaabot nga bugnong ordinate sa Inter-Agency lugaynon sa Mayo 2022 Task Force (IATF) for the nunot sa padayong hulga sa Management of Emerging Covid-19. Infectious Diseases alang Si James Jimenez, tig- niining butanga, dugang ni pamaba sa Comelec, nitataw Jimenez. nga aduna gyud kausaban Subay niining posibleng sa paagi sa kampanya alang kausaban, si Jimenez miin- sa.umaabot nga eleksiyon. gon nga ang Comelec nag- Matod ni Jimenez, ang dasig sa online campaigning mga kalihokan sama sa pag- aron masiguro nga luwas ang panghatag og campaign ma- mga botante ug mga kandi- terials, pag-pulong-pulong, dato taliwa niining pande- face-to-face nga kampanya mya. DMDP giawhag pagpahigayon og virtual job fairs ANG Department of nisira na, apan dunay sab mga padayon sa ilang pagbisita sa Manpower Development and kumpaniya nga padayon sa 80 ka barangay sa siyudad Placement (DMDP) giawhag pagdawat og mga trabahante aron pagpahigayon og mga sa usa ka konsehal sa Siyudad ug ngani nigamit sa virtual livelihood training ngadto sa sa Sugbo sa pagpahigayon og platforms aron pagpangita sa mga walay trabaho ilabi ma virtual job fairs alang sa mga mga tawo nga haom sa po- niadtong nawad-an og trabaho molupyo. sisyon nga bakante. atol sa pandemya. Sa usa ka resolusyon nga Matod ni Dizon, ang Si Shiela Daluz, pangu sa gipasar sa , si DMDP makahimo og virtual DMDP, niingion nga gihata- Konsehal Alvin Dizon nipaday- job fair aron pagseguro nga lu- gan nilag pagtagad ang mga ag nga ang mga molupyo nangi- was ang mga aplikante ingon nawad-an sa trabaho, mga solo nahanglan og daghang kahigay- man ang mga employer. parents, mga asawa ug uban onan sa panarbaho nunot sa da- Ang DMDP giawhag sa pa nga maka benepisyo sa pro- kung epekto sa ekonomiya nga pagpakig partner mga priba- grama sa DMDP. nahimo niining pamdemya. dong kompaniya alang sa vir- Nanghinaut si Dizon nga Si Dizon niingon nga sam- tual job fair. hangpon sa DMDP ang sugyot tang adunay mga negosyo nga Sa ilang bahin, ang DMDP sa konseho. Virtual nga kasaulogan sa ika- 84 nga Charter Day ANG Siyudad sa Sugbo Sa usa ka press confer- nition o pag-ila pagahimuon nar ang pagka COVID-free. sa kasaulugan sa Charter Day magpahigayon gihapon og ence, niadtong Pebrero 2, si nga virtual karong tuiga.tun- Giawhag ni Labella ang mga i-livestream sa mga so- mga kalihukan atol sa ika-84 Mayor nipa- god sa pandemya. mga Sugbuanon sa pagtan-aw cial media accounts. nga kasumaran sa Charter hibaw nga padayon gihapon Agig pagtuman sa iyang Day apan pagahimuon sa vir- ang siyudad sa pag-ila sa out- saad sa milabayng tuig, si tual nga paagi. standing nga mga employado Labella niingon nga ang kag- Liquor ban sa Ang ika-84 nga Char- ingon man mga indibidwal amhanan sa siyudad moila ug ter Day sa Siyudad sa Sugbo nga nakatampo sa kauswagan mohatag og ganti nga P100, karong Pebrero 24 usa ka sa siyudad. 000 cash incentive ngadro sa Siyudad sa Sugbo special non-working holiday. Apan ang maong recog- 11 ka barangay nga naminti- GIDILI na ang pag serve Covid-19. og ilimnong makahubog sa Apan gitugtan ang mga mga pangpublikong lugar sa hotels, resorts ug ubang ac- Minimum height pagka pulis gi us-usan tibuok Siyudad sa Sugbo. commodation establishments ADUNA nay paglaom ka- odnon nga nag-us-os sa min- Ang maong balaodnon Si Mayor Edgar Labella nga modalit og ilimnong maka- doing gusto magpulis apan imum height requirement sa nag-us-os sa minimum niluwat sa Executive Order hubog sa ilang mga kliyente. kulang sa height. Dili na buot mosud sa pwersa sa ka- height requirement sa mga No. 117nga nagmando sa li- Wala sab gidili ang pag- babag ang suliran sa gitas-on pulisan. aplikante sa pagka pulis, quor ban sa siyudad isip usa baligya og ilimnong maka- sa tinguha nga mahimong Si Representante Pablo pagka bombero ug pagka jail sa mga safety precautionary hubog ang mga grocery, sa- magbalantay sa balaod. John Garcia sa tersero distri- officer. measures nunot sa pagsaka ri-sari stores ug convenience Gipasar na sa House of to sa Sugbo maoy nangamah- Mahimo nang mo-apply pag-usab sa mga nag positibo stores, apan dili mahimong Representatives ang bala- an sa House Bill 8261 ang adunay gitas-on nga 5’1. sa coronavirus disease kun imnon gawas sa mga tindahan.