“Radiating positivity, creating connectivity”

CEBU April 27 - May 3, 2020 P15.00 BUSINESSVolume 2 Series 32 12 PAGES

Room 310-A, 3rd floor WDC Bldg. Osmeña Blvd., City WEEK You may visit Cebu Business Week Facebook page. LEADERS URGE: OPEN ECONOMY Need to balance fight vs. COVID-19 and saving businesses GOVERNMENT and in the same situation. For ex- economy afloat. “Once the business op- have not yet received it, Soco business leaders in Cebu ample, a small business can “We implement several eration resumes, you have to gave his employees his own have began to advocate only the pay the rent and pow- measures to fight Covid-19pay it. But where can you get company assistance, and opening of the once vibranter consumption if they have to prevent the people fromthe money when you have no granted them cash advance. local economy. sales, Espeleta said. dying, yet we should also notcash flow?” asked Soco. “Our priority is our em- Councilor Ray- “That situation happens allow our economy from col- If a big business firm has ployees. In fact, they are not mond Alvin Garcia said they in normal times. But at these lapsing,” Soco said. big savings, it’s easy to re- included in the social ame- are now balancing the fight abnormal times, they are on Soco cited that if a busi- sume business. If a compa- lioration program of the gov- against the coronavirus dis- the brink of collapse,” said ness is closed because of the ny has big debts, it will -borernment,” Soco said. ease or Covid-19 and reviving Espeleta, an immediate past Enhanced Community Quar- row money again for fresh Meanwhile, Jun Cubarol, the once vibrant Cebu econo- president of the Cebu Cham- antine (ECQ), this means capital. But how about the the president of the Visayas my which is on the brink of ber of Commerce and Indus- that business has no sales, MSMEs? Where do they get United Truckers Association collapse. try (CCCI). so no cash flow. Yet the busi- fresh capital? Inc. (VUTAI), said they con- “That is something we According to Garcia, nessman had already issued Soco who is also a busi- tinue to give salaries to their have to consider. We reopen while we are fightingchecks to pay for some obli- nessman has applied for cash employees and even extend- our economy otherwise sev- Covid-19, we also want gationsa safe, before the outbreak, assistance from the Depart- ed assistance to those who eral businesses will go bank- healthy Cebu City economichow can he possibly make ment of Labor and Employ- refused to work. rupt and workers will perma- activity. the checks good?” ment (DOLE). Although they “We released part of their nently lose jobs. At the same “We may open first the 13th month pay plus 25 kilos time, we continue some mea- offices, call centers, and rice per employee. We thank sures to eradicate Covid-19 take-out restaurants. We will God we were able to help our which is a real threat to pub - not yet open the malls and employees,” Cubarol said. lic health,” Garcia told Cebu non-essential industries. But Businessman Rey E. Business Week. I feel and I believe that we Calooy said that we need to Businessman Virgilio “No- should open an economic ac- balance health and wealth. noy” Espeleta, the chairman tivity no matter how small it He estimated that the 14.15 of the Economic Development is. We will open other indus- million employed people be- Committee (EDC) of the Re- tries gradually,” Garcia said. fore Covid-19 will become gional Development Council Cebu Board Member unemployed after the ECQ is (RDC), earlier said 90-95 - perGlenn Soco, on the other lifted. cent of Cebu’s economy consist hand, said he wished the Calooy cited a report of Micro, Small and Medium government will slowly re- that said nearly 60 percent Enterprises (MSMEs). turn the economic activity of people who have lost their If there are families who in the country because while jobs due to the coronavirus are on “hand-to-mouth” exis- we want to eradicate the- vi pandemic are women. ELIAS tence, there are also MSMEs rus, we also want to keep the O. BAQUERO 2 April 27 - May 3, 2020 Cebu Business Week LOCAL Business group wants low water rates

An association of Micro, to be low it can hamper the effects of the pandemic and Small and Medium Enter- program of the Department are facing higher water bills prises (MSMEs) has sug- of Agriculture (DA) to especially that water utilities gested waiving the payment encourage urban gardening. have some add-on fees. of water rates to those who “The people who have He said that should have minimum consumption agricultural spaces in the deferred payment schemes and discounts for those who city have stopped planting be allowed and discounts consume beyond it. due to lack of water. So, or reduced rates extended, Rey E. Calooy, chairman Board Member Glenn Soco consumer bills which would of the Filceb Business Club must also help ensure the have to be paid after the Inc., an association of abundance of water aside lifting of the Enhanced MSMEs with more than 200 from passing a resolution Community Quarantine may company members, however, bringing down water rates,” be lessened. said our main problem is low Calooy said. Soco likewise called upon water supply especially this Soco is set to file a REY E. CALOOY, Chairman of the Filceb Business Club Inc. the Local Water Utilities time of summer. resolution in the Cebu Administration (LWUA) He said that even if they Provincial Board calling means, among others, extend plight of the people affectedand other instrumentalities are nearer to Metropolitan independent water discounts, incentives and/ by Corona Virus Diseaserelated to and connected Cebu Water District producers, suppliers and or generally reduce water (Covid-19) resulting to loss withof water supply and (MCWD) wells in distributors Talisay to exhaustconsumption rate. income and jobs. distribution to explore and City, their water efforts supply in identifying is and Soco, in his draft Soco said hundreds implement measures in order still on rationing. exploring schemes in orderresolution, wants the Province of thousands of water to ultimately help reduce and Calooy said that if our to relieve the consumers of of Cebu to enjoin these consumers are struggling cut-down on water rates. water supply will continue water charges in all possiblecompanies to reconsider the with the negative economicELIAS O. BAQUERO Soco urges power utilities to cut rates Cebu Board Member rise significantly. During thesethis week praying that electric in identifying and exploring they pay for their electricity Glenn Soco has urged times, household appliances companies extend discounts ways and schemes in order usage; and the Macro, Small power utilities to provide and personal gadgets are and incentives to consumers to relieve the consumers and Medium Enterprises discounts and suspension or oftentimes being used. who are struggling with the of electricity charges in all (MSMEs) which have been moratorium of payments of Moreover, as the negative summer economic effects possible means, among others, affected. their consumers. season had commenced,of the Corona Virus Diseaseextend discounts, incentives He said the suspension Soco told Cebu Business frequent use of household(Covid-19) pandemic, yetand/or generally reduce or or moratorium and deferred Week that electricity is one ventilation/cooling appliances may be consuming higherdecrease electricity rates. payment arrangement of of the most important utility and devices are expected with household electricity charges. Soco added that the electricity charges offered by necessary in each home. the rising temperature. This, aside from suspendingelectric companies are some electric companies is a He said that in view of On the other hand, Soco and imposing moratorium on enjoined to feel keenly about welcome. It is duly recognized the strict implementation said electricity is likewise payment deadlines. and reconsider the plight and appreciated. However, it of quarantine protocols that considered a staple necessity Soco said the Province and circumstances of each would be of greater assistance forced everyone to stay at in most business operations. of Cebu calls on the different and every consumer who to consumers if electricity home; surge in the electricity Soco will file a resolution electric companies and power may have reduced income, or costs are significantly cut or consumption is expected toin the Cebu Provincial Board generators to exhaust efforts worse have lost their jobs, yet reduced. ELIAS O. BAQUERO DTI Cebu Province realigns measure 7 desalination deals in 2020 CHAIRMAN Joey Daluz Daluz said the Cebu City for free movement of goods of the Metropolitan Cebu water desalination projects Water District (MCWD) told will have a lower water rate if Pursuant to Executive Order No. 5-Q or Van Cebu Business Week that Labella will allow the use of of the Cebu Provincial Government, DTI c. Company ID of one (1) Driver and one they closed seven water deals the properties. Cebu Provincial Office is now re-aligning (1) Assistant per Truck or Van to email: within this year as expected “With these projects, its processing of certifications for the For Manufacturing: by the people. we will surely have enough unhampered movement of cargoes of basic [email protected] Daluz, who is also the water. We will do it and essential goods (raw materials, semi- cc. [email protected] special assistant to Cebu simultaneously with water processed and/or finished products). [email protected] City Mayor Edgar Labella,pipe laying,” Daluz said. Qualified exempt enterprises will have For Retailers: said that the seven water He said that it is to apply and register online and submit the [email protected] desalination projects are unfortunate that they scanned copies of documentary requirements* cc. [email protected] three for City could and not yet start the using GMail accounts to the email addresses For Logistics Services: four for Cebu City. projects because of Corona of DTI focal staff applicable to business sector. [email protected] He said the four Virus Disease (Covid-19), Step 1: To access the online registration cc. [email protected] desalination water projects prompting Labella to issue form, accounts must be registered in GMail. The office is maintaining a skeletal for Cebu City are two for the Enhanced Community Step 2: Fill-out registration form: tinyurl. workforce under the period of Enhanced South Road Properties (nearQuarantine (ECQ) until May com/dticargocebu. Community Quarantine and electronic mailing Il Curso Mall) and two for15, 2020. Step 3: Submit clear copies of the shall be applied on queries and concerns. North Reclamation Area Despite of that, Daluz following documentary requirements*: Certifications shall be sent thru email upon (across Cebu Port Authority).is confident that they could a. Business Permit review/approval of applications and are subject Both are properties of thestart the water projects this b. LTO C.R. and O.R. per Delivery Truck to local issuances. Cebu City government. year. ELIAS O. BAQUERO Cebu Business Week April 27 - May 3, 2020 3 NEWS Duterte extends lockdown to May 15 PRESIDENT Rodrigo Presidential Spokesman Negros Occidental, Negros risks are advised to stay at of other manufacturing, Duterte, through a nationwideHarry Roque read the gov- Oriental, Siquijor, Davao Delhome electronics and exports, telecast on Friday, ernment April taskforce’s 24, decision. Sur, Davao Oriental, Sultan Curfew for non-workers e-commerce and delivery extended the Philippines’ “We are all at risk but Kudarat, Lanao Del Sur Workers in low-risk for essential and non- lockdown to May 15.do not increase the odds All other provinces industries not can continue to essential items, repair and The enhanced communityor chances of getting itincluded in the list willwork be or operate in phases. maintenance services quarantine was extended(COVID-19),” for Duterte said in under general community The general population Food manufacturing and 15 days up to Maya televised15 address.in Metro quarantine (GQC), can only leave their homes supplyto chain opening, which Manila and in the Dutertefollowing also announced Roque said Duterte ap- access basic necessities. include ink, packaging, provinces: NCR that • starting Benguet May 1,”low-risk” proved all the recommen- Opening of priority and raw material, food retail, • Pangasinan • Bataanand “moderate” • areas will be dations by the government’s essential construction projects supermarket, restaurant Bulacan • Nueva under Ecija general • community coronavirus task force. Public transport to takeout and delivery only, Pampanga • Tarlac • quarantine,Zambales which means Experts have warned operate at reduced capacity hospital, logistics, water, • Batangas • Lagunapeople • areCavite allowed to go against lifting quarantine Partial mall opening for energy, internet, telecoms, • Rizal • Oriental out Mindoro of their homes • to accessmeasures and social non-leisure shops media and other services Occidental Mindoro • basicAlbay necessities.• Public distancing rules too early, as High school and higher Opening up to 50 percent Catanduanes transportation will resume at it could lead to “higher spikes education institutes may be on-site work and 50 percent “High risk” areasa “reduced” like capacity. in positive cases.” allowed “to finish and givework from home of financial Cebu, Antique, and Iloilo Areas under in general com- Guidelines for areas credentials to students” services, BPO, other non- the Visayas; and Davaomunity quarantine del are Abra, under the general Re-prioritizing of cash leisure whole sale and retail Norte, and Davao City and Ilocos Norte, La Union, Cagay- quarantine: assistance from the social trade, and other non-leisure Davao de Oro in Mindanao an, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, All ports and airports will amelioration program to services will likewise be extended Marinduque, Camarines Sur, open only for transportation ECQ areas Priority and essential to May 15. The high-risk Aklan, Capiz, Samar, Western of goods 100 percent opening of construction projects may assessment for these areas Samar, Zamboanga Del Sur, Children from 0 to 20 agriculture, fisheries andresume in accordance with would be reviewed and may Lanao Del Norte, Misamis years old, seniors 60 and forestry Department of Public Works change before April 30. Occidental, Misamis Oriental, above and those with health 50 to 100 percent opening and Highways guidelines. PSA lists over 1M businesses in PH: Fajardo PROFESSOR Fernando enterprises constitute of economy are foregone. past president of the Cebu “Perry” Fajardo of the 88.45 percent (87,272) of He also asked if the people Chamber of Commerce and University of San Carlos total MSME establishments,believed that, according to Industry (CCCI) and now the (USC) said that the 2018 followed by small enterprises Department of Finance (DOF) chairman of the Economic List of Establishments of the at 10.58 percent (106,175) Secretary Carlos Dominguez Development Committee Philippine Statistics Authority and medium enterprises at III: GDP or economic growth (EDC) of the Regional (PSA) recorded a total of 0.49 percent (4,895). will only go down to zero or Development Council (RDC). 1,003,111 business enterprises Now, Fajardo asked howminus one and the temporary Espeleta said that most of operating in the country. many MSMEs are no longerunemployed is only 1.2 the MSMEs were on ”hand-to- Fajardo, a former assistant operating because of the million. mouth” existence before the regional director of the National lockdown that is practically Earlier, businessman lockdown, considering that Economic and Development imposed nationwide for Virgilio “Nonoy” Espeleta they can only pay water and Authority (NEDA) 7, said more than a month now.said the MSMEs in Central power bills, and release the that of these, 998,342 (99.52 He asked how Visayas many are on the verge salaries of their employees if percent) are Micro, Small and MSME workers are outof collapse of following the they had sales in their stores. Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) job. And how much lockdown value as a result of Espeleta believed that and 4,769 (0.48 percent) are added contributed by the coronavirus disease orthere will be a huge economic large enterprises. the MSMEs to theCovid-19. Gross problem after the lockdown. He said that micro PROF. FERNANDO FAJARDO Domestic Product (GDP) Espleta or is the immediateELIAS O. BAQUERO Alvin urges partial return to business normalcy FORMER Cebu City now and to be extended forhave medium to low COVID He said that However, even he Spain clarified Mayor Alvin Garciaanother. How much longerinfections. has already loosenedthat heup is nottheir talking of the has recommended thedo we have to sacrifice? Can Garcia said that to order economy and business, and response to Covid-19. partial return to business our business and economy a lockdown is easy by just Singapore is only on a circuit “I’m suggesting that the normalcy while continuing in Cebu stand it? We are asking a the military to helpbreaker lockdown, not total. leadership should gradually to implement measures to progressive city; will we giveyou, but the plan for the “Actually I commend loosen the ECQ to CQ and curtail the spread of Coronaup our advantage?” Garcia return of the economy isthe leadership (led by Mayor should plan for the return Virus Disease (Covid-19). said. the mark of a true leader.Edgar Labella) for their of business to normalcy. Garcia made this statement President Rodrigo There may be no more smallresponse to Covid-19 but I’m also saying that our over his Facebook accountDuterte has extended the businesses to return to. I cannot understand why economy is suffering and last April 22, 2020, asEnhanced Community The former mayor they have not planned to the leadership should find a he seemingly expressed Quarantine (ECQ) until May said that he is saying that bring business back. The balance between protecting frustration over the closure15 in cities and provincesto ease our lockdown and employment must be back the people and at the same of several business firmsthat have high incidence ofstart some business already even gradually and plan to time protecting jobs and because of Covid-19. the infection while degrading especially construction and return to normalcy even small businesses and there “We have been into General Community manufacturing services by taking small, baby steps must be a way,” Garcia said. quarantine for over a monthQuarantine (GCQ) those amongthat others. forward,” Garcia said. ELIAS O. BAQUERO 4 April 27 - May 3, 2020 Cebu Business Week OPINION

New normal coming

The debate now in- volves when we shall lift the Enhanced Commu- nity Quarantine (ECQ) or shall we implement a gradual relaxation of the lockdown. Whatever the leadership adopts, one thing is certain. A new normal comes with the post COVID-19 crisis scenario. Weekly Notes The so-called new normal shall involve Emmanuel Nacorda Mongaya continuing social distan- cing, the use of masks by everybody going out of the house, constant handwashing and use of alcohol. This will mean no more sitting side by side in restaurants and transportation. I expect a city nightlife that ends at 10 pm at the latest. Will this mean a higher fare? Maybe. But there will be pressure for faster implementation of such transport system as the Bus Rapid System (BRT) for cheaper public rides. Remnants? However, there might be remnants of the old messing up the new normal. For instance, our politicians might find it extremely difficult shedding off their traditional ways. During the 2019 elections, the Labella campaign hit Tomas Osmeña’s CONGESTED CEBU CITY JAIL BMO. I sided with the former mayor then. However, I told myself one positive development of a Labella victory would be the dismantling of the BMO and finally use of the elected barangay captains. I never expected Mayor Edgar Labella would chew Editorial and swallow his words by forming MILO. When the COVID-19 crisis began, I thought he was not lying in saying “no politics.” No time to wait MILO, as witnessed in the different barangays in Cebu City, muddled distribution of relief and the quarantine One thing different with trepreneurs will not last long. City leadership may not passes in addition to the confusion created by DSWD. the present crisis, COVID-19 Many might just go bank - be slacking, in normal Come to think of it, actively enlisting political enemies and the people’s hunger does rupt. Mayor Edgar Labella times. But today we face an in the anti-COVID-19 operations would have removed not wait for our leaders to do cannot dismiss as differences abnormal, strange crisis. An confusion and increased Labella’s political stock. Today, the right things. in opinion the raised voice ECQ extension should give I can only speculate how the chaos in the distribution For example, we could of his own ally, Vice Mayor Mayor Labella fresh wind in contributed to today’s sudden rise of persons positive have been prepared for the Mike Rama. moving faster than he has with COVID-19 in Cebu City. outbreaks in Sitio Zapatera, For Labella, the continued ever done. So Slow Barrio Luz, and the Cebu rise in COVID-19 cases We look at the fast- As the Freestyle song conveys, a man ideally moves City jail had the quarantine justifies an extension of the moving mayors like Mayor slow in turning on a woman. However, after promising centers been finished as ECQ by two weeks to a month. Vico Sotto of Pasig, Mayor to build a quarantine center in 10 days at the North promised. The distribution For the growing Isko Moreno of Manila, Reclamation Area (NRA), finishing the facility in over a of food and the quarantine impatient public, an ECQ Mayor Inday Sara Duterte, month is a record in government delay. Incompetence? passes should have been extension is more than just Mayor Benjamin Magalong They say we are in a crisis. The situation had become entrusted to our barangay staying at home. With the of Baguio and Mayor Jerry triply critical because of the outbreak in Barrio Luz and captains, not MILO, to lessengovernment’s record delays Treñas of Iloilo for inspiration the Cebu City jail. However, Mayor Edgar Labella had to the confusion. in securing resources and and best practices. They did be asked to dispense with formal opening of the facility. Leaders of some quarters distributing relief, the publicthe rights things the first Concern who had been patient have faces the prospect of hunger.time fast. Mr. Mayor, going after critics like Bambi Beltran begun showing disappoint- Our point: there is no The Cebu City govern- won’t divert the attention of Cebuanos. Even your team’s ment. The resources of many more time to wait. ment must triple time. We gaffes like attributing stolen FB photos to the wrong news of our even prosperous en- The speed of the Cebu have no time to wait. outlets are now gaining attention.

“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 CEBU contents of this newspaper are placed online through Cebu Business Week Facebook page. Emmanuel “Anol” Mongaya Bebie Hiñola Baquero BUSINESS Editor Marketing Manager email: [email protected] Keres H. Aviles Emmanuel R. Espina Room 310-A,3rd floor WDC Bldg. WEEK Writer Production Head Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City Cebu Business Week April 27 - May 3, 2020 5 OPINION IMF says half the world has asked for a bailout countries should receive their the pandemic is “effectively Navy aircraft carriers – thethe spread of coronavirus requested financial lifelines contained around the world” USS Theodore Roosevelt, measures following a surge in by the end of April. (CNN) by the end of the third the USS Ronald Reagan, thecases. Harbin now has China’s oOo quarter of this year. USS Carl Vinson and the USSbiggest Covid 19 outbreak The Philippine economy For the “best case” Nimitz – have reported casesafter the highly contagious may lose between P276.3 billion scenario, where the pandemic of coronavirus, crimping virus was first detected in and P2.5 trillion depending on is assumed to be contained their operation. Wuhan province late last how the coronavirus pandemic globally by the end of the The Roosevelt, now year.dock A new cluster of at least develops in the next few second quarter, economic in Guam, has been hit70 cases the has been linked to BIZBITS months, according to a state- losses amount to P276.3hardest by the virus, witha 22-year585 old student who Manny de los Santos Rabacal run think tank. billion. (BusinessWorld) cases of its crew of moreunknowingly than spread the killer A discussion paper by oOo 4,000 people. Most of bug them after returning from New the Philippine Institute for A Chinese naval flotillahas been move ashore onYork, the officials say. The city Development Studies (PIDS)headed over the Pacificisland and work is going on was already battling a wave of Half of the world’s titled “Projected Diseaseover the weekend, evidenceto disinfect the ship, delaying new cases involving infected countries have approached Transmission, Health Systemthat the People’s Liberationits ability to deploy. The citizens who had arrived from the International Monetary Requirements, and theArmy Navy has done muchPLA Navy has no such issue, neighboring Russia. Fund for emergency loans Macroeconomic Impacts of thebetter job controlling theChinese military experts told Harbin, the provincial to weather the financialCoronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) coronavirusin then the USthe Global Times. capital of Heilongjiang and its crisis sparked by the globalthe Philippines” estimated theNavy according to a story “Through the voyage, biggest city, has banned entry coronavirus pandemic. trajectory and the magnitude postedof on the PLA’s English-the Liaoning showed that the to residential zones by non- More than 100 countries the outbreak in the Philippineslanguage website. Chinese People’s Liberation locals and vehicles registered so far have asked for emer- under various scenarios. The aircraft carrier (PLA) has done a great job elsewhere, state media said. gency assistance, Kristalina The country’s economic Liaoning led the group which in the epidemic prevention It had already ordered Georgieva, IMF managing - di losses are estimated to reach included two guided-missiles control work and and Covid-19 isolation for those arriving rector, told a meeting of G20P2.5 trillion under a “worse destroyers, two guided-missile has not have an impact on its from outside China or key finance ministers and centralcase” scenario, where it is frigates and an auxiliary deployment and operation,” epidemic areas. The province bank governors on Wednes- assumed that the pandemic is ship, according to the report the story says citing Xu has been in the forefront day. She said that the IMF isnot contained around the world by state-run tabloid Global Guangyu, a senior adviser to of China’s latest efforts to ready to use its “full tool boxand that the global economy Times. It cited Japanese andthe China Arms Control and identify infected citizens and its $1 trillion firepower”will fall into a recession. Taiwanese reported and notedDisarmament. (CNN) arriving from Russia with of lending capacity, noting Meanwhile, losses are the PLA did not confirm. oOo which it shares a border, to that 10 countries have so farprojected to total P1.5 trillion The report said that the A City with 10 millon curb the spread of the virus. received emergency funding, under a “moderate case,” Chinese was carrying outpeople in China has imposed (mannyrabacal1144@ and half of the remaining wherein it is assumed that this operation while four USnew lockdown to prevent gmail.com) Congressional districts of Cebu City ed an ordinance appended composed of the followingtionary President Corazon as Associate Justice of the or attached to the proposedbarangays: Babag, BasakCojuangco Aquino. The Sec- Court of Appeals in 2002. 1987 Constitution. It appor- Pardo, Basak San Nicolas,retary General was Flerida He was also Presiding Judge tioned the seats of the HouseBonbon, Buhisan, Bulacao,Ruth P. Romero while theof Branch 22 of the Regional of Representatives of the Pardo, Buot-Taup, Calamba,Vice President was Ambrosio Trial Court of Cebu City. Congress of the Philippines Cogon Pardo, Duljo-Fatima,B. Padilla. Another Bisaya, Atty. to the different legislative Guadalupe, Inayawan, Kalu- There were Cebuanos Adolfo S. Azcona, was also districts in the provinces andnasan, Kinasang-an, Pardo,who were appointed by Pres- appointed commissioner of cities and the Metropolitan Labangon, Mambaling, - Pa ident Aquino as Commis- the Constitutional Commis- Manila Area. hina San Nicolas, Pamutan,sioners of the 1986 Constitu- sion. Cebu Legal Cebu City was divided Pardo, Pasi Abuno, Sibugay,tional Commission. Publish- The session of the 1986 Pedia into two districts, the firstPunta Princesa, Quiot, Saner Napoleon Genson Rama, Constitutional Commission Atty. Clarence Paul V. Oaminal district (also called the NorthNicolas, Sawang Calero, - Sinson of Don Vicente Rama was conducted at the Plenary District), it is composed of thesin, Suba Pasil, Sudlon,- was Sa the Floor Leader of the Hall, National Government following barangays: Adlaon, pangdaku, Tabunan, Tigbao,Constitutional Commission. Center, Quezon City. Agsungot, Apas, Bacayan, Tisa, ang Toong. Other Cebuanos who The first to be elected Banilad, Budla-an, Busay, With Cebu City havingwere part of the 1986 Con- in the two congressional Cebu City from 1907 to Cambinocot, Camputhaw, two new districts, the secondstitutional Commission were districts of Cebu in 1987 were 1972 belonged to the Second Capitol Site, Carreta, Centralcongressional district was Atty. Hilario G. Davide, Jr. Raul Chiong Veloso del Mar Congressional District of Proper, Cogon-Ramos, Day-apportioned with the follow- who later became Commis- (son of the legendary Spanish Cebu. The other componentsas, Ermita, Guba, Hipodro- ing components: , - Dasioner of the Commission on language journalist and of the old 2nd Congressio- mo, Kalubihan, Kamagayan,laguete, Alcoy, , Os- Elections, Associate Justice writer, Jose del Mar) of the nal District of Cebu were Kasambagan, Lahug, - Lo lob, Santander, , Gi- of the Supreme Court then to North District. He is a lawyer Mandaue (formerly spelled rega, Lusaran, Luz, Mabini,natilan, ,Alegria, become its Chief Justice. and a graduate of the Ateneo as Mandawe), , Mabolo, Malubog, PahinaBadian, , Alcantara, The other Cebuano de Manila and Antonio Veloso Liloan, Compostela, Cordo- Central, Paril, Pit-os, PulangRonda and . Commissioner was Atty. Cuenco (son of Dr. Manuel va, and Lapu-Lapu City (for- Bato, Sambag I, Sambag II, The President of the 1986 Regalado Estrella MaambongAlesna Cuenco, Post War merly called the Municipali- San Antonio, San Jose, SanConstitutional Commission who was assemblyman ofCebu the Governor and son of ty of Opon). Roque, Sta. Cruz, Sirao, was T. Cecilia Munoz PalmaRegular Batasang PambansaGovernor/Congressman and Three days after the Con- Padilla, Talamban, Taptap,(who later became Justicein 1984 up to its Senate abolition President Mariano stitutional Commission ad- Tejero, Tinago and Zapatera.of the Supreme Court). in The 1986. Atty. MaambongJesus Cuenco). Cuenco is a opted the 1987 Constitution The second district alsomembers of the commissionwas appointed by Presidentlawyer and a graduate of the on October 12, 1986, it enact- called the south district were is appointed by Revolu- Gloria Macapagal ArroyoAteneo de Manila 6 April 27 - May 3, 2020 Cebu Business Week OPINION Chinese invasion to the land of the free although the figures ofcalled from Manhattan told vehement opposition. the virus to spread. And the recovery is promisinghis father that they might They simple refuseindeed it did affect the rich but it does not erase thenot be seeing each other to give up their libertiesand affluent and the poor fact that nearly millionsas the National Guards in exchange people’s alike. of Americans got infected has sealed off their entire survival. It’s a question of Why does this virus with the virus. compound. A neighbor their freedom and the righthas invaded much of the America’s advance across them died due to of other people to live.Americans City than in weaponry and technologythe virus while most of But simply, government the Asian Countries? One becomes pedestal with theirthis neighbors already was just asking its people analyst reported that unseen yet very fatal enemy displayed the common to stay at home for self American still cannot do with no cure or vaccine at symptoms of the CORONA. quarantine, wear face away their parties and The Legal Front sight to end this pandemic. Can not imagine how mask, exercise socialgatherings. They still go out Atty. Gerry Carillo There is no guarantee that our superpowers have distancing and washingunrestricted and refused American morgue will not to kneel to this unseen of hand and sanitationto wear mask and exercise litter with dead bodies in enemy. exercises. social distancing, hence, the coming days. Chinese But why this virus But a lot of people are the outbreak. America has beenvirus has indeed invaded spreads like wild fire in the opposed to the idea. They If indeed China shaken. An enemy the has American soil. United States particularly believe this is communism intentionally did these, invaded its shore as it With New York New York? and diminution of their then America has been conquered the financialtopping the list with While the rest rights. They choose their caught unprepared in a capital of the United 253,565 State infected and of the world already individual rights over that fight it cannot win. A battle of America– New York City. 19,693 fatalities, America’s implementing lockdowns of the public welfare. from within. It is an unimaginable when economy seemed to especially the Asian When the outbreak the world’s superpower crumble. Stocks country, fells American to still in Wuhan begun, many succumbs to an invisible the lowest ebb, propertiesgo out to party and enjoy Americans mock the Atty. Gerry Carillo foe which has causeddropped below to a level lavish lifestyles. They Chinese and the Asians is a Cebu City confusion, chaos and not seen in its great crises. stubbornly refuse the in general for this virus. division among them. Indeed, Trump did not suggestion of the many to In fact, many of them consultant on Just this day, Unitedexpect this coming as he implement lockdowns as it still continue to party, disaster. He is a States has more thankeeps mocking and naming would hurt the economy. display of their lavish 813,589 COVID19 positive this virus as the “Chinese Some residents went as and expensive gatherings former Cebu City and 45,013 deaths byVirus”’. far as carrying firearms without knowing it councilor reason of the pandemic A daughter friend who do demonstrate their provides an avenue for

Summer of discontent plods on health official warned onthe same time,” he said.capacity of 20,000. mid-March in efforts to Tuesday that a new wave Having two “I think it’s doable but curb the spread of the viral of coronavirus hitting thesimultaneous respiratory we need ‘yung allowance disease. US next winter could outbreaks be would put ng May 1 to 15 in order Leachon, however, “even more difficult” forunimaginable strain onto achievethe this particularwarned that a sudden America to deal with thanhealthcare system, he goal,” told the COVID-19 relaxation of quarantine the current outbreak. the Post. task force adviser said. measures “before a strong And in a double blow for “Mass testing, eto angsystem is in place” may the prospect of ending the Lockdown extension gamechanger natin (this causeis a “resurgence” or This Business coronavirus pandemic, a for another two weeks our gamechanger) based onsecond wave of COVID-19 US trial of the controversial CNN Philippines, several reference models infections. of Living treatment Donald Trumpreports the COVID-19 like South Korea, Vietnam, The fate of the Emm R. Espina has referred to as “likelockdown a in Metro Manila— and New Zealand.” quarantine, however, lies miracle” has produced poorthe region hardest-hit by Leachon added otherin the hands of President results. the infectious disease in parts of Luzon can opt Rodrigo for Duterte. The Robert Redfield, the country— should be a modified quarantine, chief executive is expected As the summer director of the Centersextended for two weeks particularly for provinces to make the decision on of discontent in the for Disease Control and to pave the way for mass considered as COVID-19 Thursday. Philippines plods on, this Prevention (CDC) federaltesting, a special adviser to hotspots outside the metro. To date, the country being the second week of agency, warned that a wavethe national task force said Not all parts of Luzonhas recorded 6,599 cases a summer expected to help of coronavirus next winterWednesday. have this problem. Thereof COVID-19, including flatten the curve of the would coincide with the Health reform advocate are certain areas that654 recoveries and 437 dreaded coronavirus, does normal influenza season. Dr. Tony Leachon suggested he called hotspots likefatalities. not seem to have any effect. “There’s a possibilitythat the community qua- Calabrzon and Central In Cebu, lockdown Considered as to slowly that the assault of the virusrantine imposed in the Luzon. Perhaps, this isenters its 6th week with the curb the spread because onof our nation next wintercapital region, initially set where we’ll see the modifiedprovince not showing signs the contention that the hotwill actually be even more to end on April 30, should quarantine. of increased rate, but the weather will kill the virus.difficult than the one we remain in place until May Quarantine measures inCity of Cebu, in particular, Even more frighteningjust went through,” he said, 15 so officials can further Luzon and other regions —Barangay Luz, has become is the Guardian’sin an interview with the elevate healthcare capacity. which restrict movement ofthe epicenter of the virus Report that the wave Washington of Post. He added the extension people except for essentialas it surged to more coronavirus in the winter “We’re going to have will be a huge help for workers as well as stopped than 203 positive cases. would coincide with the theflu flu epidemic and the the government’s target public transport operation emmanuelbernespina@ season. A leading US publiccoronavirus epidemic at to reach a daily testing — were first put in place gmail.com Cebu Business Week April 27 - May 3, 2020 7 BUSINESS

LILU ALIÑO: Rotary Governor by 2022-23 COVID positive appeals District 3860 governorship of Mary Ann Alcordo against discrimination Solomon for RY 2016-2017. Aliño, an active A LAPU-LAPU City well. All of them were whenfound they leave the hospital, member of Cebu Chamberofficial and COVID-19NEGATIVE of the virus,”COVID-19 survivors will be of Commerce and patient Industry has issued an Cuizonappeal continued. welcomed back warmly in (CCCI), expressed happinessagainst discrimination in a “I also learned their that neighborhoods and about the developmentplea over in Facebook Live from families of COVID-19workplaces. Social acceptance his letter to fellow herRotarians, hospital room. patients are being subjected will go a long way to help family and friends. Annabeth Cuizon, OIC to different degrees of them rebuild their lives “I am overjoyed by your of the Lapu-lapu City Social discrimination in theirand continue their positive congratulatory messages Welfare and Development neighborhoods, even whilecontributions to society. and words of wisdom. Office, tested positive overthey are on quarantine. Finally, A I would like THE District Nomi- As I continue my role a as week ago. She went lot on of misunderstanding to appeal to all concerned nating Committee (DNC)District Rotary Foundation Facebook Live and also wrote has been going around,regarding the plight of of Rotary InternationalCommittee Chair (Rotary an appeal in an FB post. resulting in victims’ families our frontliners. Please, do (RI) District 3860 headedYear 2019-2022) of “It saddened me to learn being subjected to hurt and not deprive them of basic by Immediate Past DistrictDistrict 3860 and assume that one of our social workers humiliation,” she said. services such as public Governor Benjamin Garcia as District Governor … was denied access by her She pleaded, “please transportation. Further, let has appointed Lilu Aliño as Nominee-Designate (RY barangay official to a service remember that patients and us make way for these people District Governor Nominee- 2022-2023) it behoovesvehicle that she was supposed their families have the right at ATM or grocery queues and Designate for Rotary Year me to reflect on theto use innew distributing Social to live with dignity and honor. the like so that their work of (RY) 2022-2023. paradigm brought aboutAmelioration card forms due They deserve compassion, saving us from further harm Incumbent District by Corona Virus Diseaseto the fact that I, as her office not physical, moral or verbal will not be hampered. Governor Philip Tan (Covid-10) pandemic,” head has tested positive of maltreatment. Just like Frontliners have done officially announced Aliño’s Aliño said. COVID-19,” she said. everyone else, they must so much for all of us, even new appointment to more “We are and will be “I want to assure be accorded with love and risking their own lives just than 2,000 Rotarians in facing unprecedented everyone that shortly after respect instead of being so that we may live. Let our District 3860. challenges but as I waspeople tested, Cityof Mayor ostracized or criticized.” salute and admiration for Aliño, of St. Theresa’s action imbued with Ahong a Chan great immediately She continued: these selfless people be more College, is the past sense of responsibility for took action and had our “I likewise hope than that just lip service; let us president of Rotary Club of humanitarian service, we social workers tested as more than being applaudedhelp them help us.” Cebu Gloria Maris, a baby will achieve great things. club of Rotary Club of Cebu Let’s work together in East. Aliño has also served becoming more relevant District 3860 in various to make a big difference. Andrew Tan continues to donate capacity. Thank you for your She was the district expressions of support. to COVID-19 warchest secretary during the Grateful!” Aliño said.PR THE 10th richest Filipino donation to “Projectmedical frontliners and in 2019, tycoon Andrew Tan Ugnayan,” which was usedgrocery bags for poor France tests nicotine vs COVID 19? donated over P603 million to distribute food voucherscommunities in Metro Manila to various efforts in the to thousands of urban poorby Resorts World Manila and A NEW research in France is that nicotine could stickPhilippines’ fight against families in Metro Manila; its various partners; may suggest that nicotine to cell receptors, thusCOVID-19 and continues its P250-million worth P3-million worth of food could protect people from preventing the virus fromsupport to the government. of disinfectant alcoholand groceries for healthcare contracting the coronavirus entering cells and spreading “Along with our distributed to various and security frontliners, and and could be used to prevent in the body. healthcare frontliners, hospitals, local governmentconstruction workers, as well or treat the deadly illness. The researchers are our government takes the units (LGUs), governmentas free transport for medical Zahir Amoura, the study’s awaiting approval from toughest job in saving more agencies and organizationsworkers by Megaworld co-author and a professor health authorities lives in against the virus,” throughout the country;Corporation and Megaworld of internal medicine, said France to carry out Alliance further Global Group Inc P60-million Foundation. cash that researchers at a topclinical trials. They (AGI) plan chief executive officer donation of Megaworld AGI said it has also Paris hospital examined 343to use nicotine patches(CEO) on Kevin Andrew Tan Corporation to Philippinedistributed over 100,000 coronavirus patients along health workers at the said Pitie- in a statement. Red Cross for the mealspurchase to of health care with 139 people infectedSalpetriere hospital in Paris, “Our companies are here 4 brand new COVID-19frontliners, test government with the illness with milderto see if it protectsto support them all efforts, and we laboratories that can workersconduct and urban families symptoms. against contracting the virus,are continuously looking for around 10,000 tests throughper day; McDonald’s “Among these patients,and on hospitalized patientsways on how and where we P65-million Philippines’ cash Kindness only five percent wereto see whether it helpscan reduce further extend help and donation to various LGUs Kitchen, the company smokers,” said Amoura. symptoms support,” he said. and non-government It has also waived Similar findings published However, experts are Sincenot the enhanced organizations for rental programs charges in various in the New England Journalencouraging people to pick community quarantine in related to COVID-19;Megaworld Lifestyle Malls of Medicine last monthup smoking or use nicotine Luzon in started mid-March, P125-million as its support worth to its tenants, suggested that 12.6 percent patchesof as a protective AGI’s donations include: of personal protective as most shops were ordered 1,000 people infected in Chinameasure against the virus. P100-million cashequipment (PPE) setsclosed. for were smokers. France is one of the Jean-Pierre Changeux, hardest hit countries by the a renowned neurobiologist coronavirus in Europe, with from Pasteur Institut ofmore than 21,000 deaths France and co-authored theand over 155,000 reported research, said the argumentinfections. 8 April 27 - May 3, 2020 Cebu Business Week BUSINESS ADB lends Ph $1.5B to fight COVID THE Asian Development ing three-year grace period “ADB is also preparing ects under ADB’s $3-billion year are the $1.2-billion South Bank (ADB) has approved a on repayment. The remaining additional financing for sociallending program this year, Commuter Railway Project, $1.5 billion loan to the Phil- $1 billion will have a five-year protection and health projectsincluding infrastructure ones, Angat Water Transmission Im- ippine government to finance maturity period, inclusive of a in April and May this year,- remains re “on track” and could provement Project ($126 mil- its fight against the coronavi- three-year grace period. spectively,” the statement read.all be approved by July. lion) and the Edsa Greenways rus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The Department of Fi- ADB Philippines Country “The pre-existing pro- Project ($130 million). “This assistance is our nance (DoF) said the first Director Kelly Bird said thegram associated with ‘Build, Other pipeline projects largest budget support loan tranche of $1 billion is Build, Build,” and other up this year are the Capital to the Philippines ever and- reprojected to be disbursed initiatives that we were Market Generated Infrastruc- flects our strong commitmentthis month, while the re- already engaged in is $3 ture Financing, Subprogram 1 to providing cornerstone as- maining amount may be billion. We’re certainly ($400 million); the Competi- sistance swiftly and effective- credited before June 20. committed in continuing tive and Inclusive Agriculture ly to help the country mitigate This ADB has also pre- the assistance… It’s a simi- Development Program, Sub- the pandemic’s devastating viously approved grants in lar situation in other coun- program 1 ($400 million); the impact on Filipinos, particu- March such as the $5 mil- tries, where the COVID-19Inclusive Finance Develop- larly the poor and vulnerable, lion used for food packages assistance is on top of- exment Program, Subprogram including women,” ADB Pres- to some 140,000 poorest isting program of engage- 2 ($300 million); the Disaster ident Masatsugu Asakawa households in Luzon, and $1.5-billion loan would be ment,” ADB Vice President Resilience Improvement Pro- said in a statement. the $3 million for the govern- the last for the Philippinesfor Operations 2 Ahmed Saeed gram ($500 million); the Ex- The $1.5 billion loan will ment’s purchase of medical under ADB’s $20-billion said during the online briefing panded Social Assistance Pro- a shorter tenor with the first supplies and establishment of fast-track facility program. on Friday. gram ($500 million) and the $500 million to have a matu- a new laboratory expected to However, Bird but as- The loans for infrastructure Local Government Property rity period of 10 years, includ- be fully functional by mid-May. sured that all pipeline - projprojects up for approval this Tax Project ($26 million). Rise in pandemic-related Cyber threats seen CYBER threats which markets,” he said. which they communicate, than in any other area acrossfrom charities, organizations, include malware, phishing Google’s machine-learn- like they know that theythe world. and even healthcare providers attempts and spam messages, ing classifiers have detected can mention coronavirus, The most common formdealing with the coronavirus related to the coronavirus about 18 million corona- COVID-19, selling masks of or cyberthreat uses the Worlddisease. disease (COVID-19) are on virus-related malware and selling hand sanitizers, awareHealth Organization to solicit Google is protecting the rise. phishing attempts and aboutthat these are such commonfraudulent donations or its users from such threats Mark Risher, senior 240 million spam distribute malware. through its built-in security director for Account Secu-rity, messages every day Other features in its products, Identity, and Abuse at Google, in the last month. common types of machine learning models in said new online attacks use Risher noted that COVID-19-related Gmail which detect and block COVID-19 messaging. the present cyber scams include pos- almost all spam, phishing, “Now, the attackers threat situation is ing as government and malware, among other know that anywhere around “unique,” compared institutions provid- mechanisms. the planet COVID-19 will to past public health crisisterms,” he said. ing information on stimulus “For people who are be recognizable and will events, as digital attackers “A lot of these COVID-19packages to lure small busi- working from home, we stimulate actions from and their victims can be fromattacks began in Southeastnesses; sending links to shady recommend you use official the victims, and soany part we’re of the globe. Asia,” Risher pointed. Hewebsites selling fakes of in-de- work-issued e-mail accounts seeing them applied pretty Perpetrators of onlinesaid there are more onlinemand products such as masks at your laptops and the consistently globally, and scams and malware “may cyber threats detected earlierand hand sanitizers; and configuration they have just translated maybe to local already have a language in in the Asia-Pacific regionsending notices supposedly given you,” he added. SEC names unlawful Higher demand for insurance seen investment schemes HIGHER demand for President and ChiefCOVID-19 protection and THE Securities and Ex- SEC has always beeninsurance policies to rise Executive Officer Antoniopersonal accident (PA) change Commission (SEC) relentless and proactive in with people becoming G. De Rosas said coveragethe firm for the first has identified four more unau- championing investor pro- more health conscious due has been prepping 500,000 up for users to register thorized investment schemes, tection. It has ordered a ceaseto the coronavirus disease the “new normal” followingtheir profile on their app including rackets possibly op- and desist order against Cash- 2019 (COVID-19). the outbreak, includingcalled Pulse from April 13 erated by previously flagged AB, CashOcean, KwikPeso, Allan M. Tumbaga, training their sales toagents May 13. The app, which groups under new names. and Little Cash alongsidesenior vice president and to offer products digitally. was launched on February, Pursuant to Republic Act their owners, CashAB Lend- chief marketing officer “We are now living offers health management No. 11469, or the Bayanihan ing Corp., Mimosa Credit Ltd.at Pru Life, said “I thinkin a new normal wherefeatures for both policy to Heal as One Act, individuals and Zamoya Credit Ltd. it may stimulate our digital is placed upfront. holders and non-policy and groups that may take The aforementioned enti- complimentary need for Before we started this holders. advantage of the COVID-19 ties have offered and provid- protection even more.” [lockdown], our work from Data gathered from pandemic to prey on the public ed loans to the public without “I think people are homenow capability was at the Insurance Commission through scams, phishing, a validly subsisting certificatemore open to exploring30% and now it’s at about showed that Pru Life is the fraudulent emails, or other of incorporation and certifi- getting insurance by 90%,” Mr. De Rosas said. country’s fourth biggest similar acts may face two- cate of authority to operate meansas of digital channels,” Amid the health insurer in 2018 with month imprisonment and aa lending or financing compa- Tumbaga said. threats due to COVID-19, P22.03 billion premium fine of 1 million pesos, or both.ny from the SEC. Pru Life UK Philippinesthe insurer offered free income. Cebu Business Week April 27 - May 3, 2020 9 BUSINESS ECQ impact on power sector, consumers sought SENATE Energy interest, penalties, fees, by around 30 percent during in transport, industrial, and Committee Chair Win and other charges shall be the enhanced community commercial activities in the Gatchalian filed Senate incurred for not settling bills quarantine as against the country, which consequently Resolution No. 361, which within the period.” same period in 2019. resulted in a decrease in seeks to determine the ERC also mandated All fee payments by current consumption. effects of the enhanced that consumers shall pay DUs to power generation “The continuous drop community quarantine on the total amount of electric companies (gencos) were in electricity consumption the country’s power sectorbills in four equal monthly also suspended by the ERCmight affect the country’s and its consumers installments. within the lockdown. energy security,” he said. The Energy Regulatory Gatchalian also seeks to Gatchalian wants to Gatchalian also said Commission (ERC) had know how the generation know if gencos can still Congress must resolve if ordered distribution utilities charge paid by customers sustain operations with thethere is a need to draft a (DUs) to provide a grace will be affected, if DUs suspension of both electricfinancial stimulus package period for bill payments fail to meet their required bill and DU payments. for the power sector, “with with due dates falling withinminimum energy offtake, The senator said that the end goal of ensuring the enhanced communitysince according to the with the implementation of a continuous and reliable quarantine period, from Department of Energy, the enhanced community supply of energy, while March 16 to April 30.electricity “No demand dropped SEN. SHERWIN GATCHALIAN quarantine, there is a decline protecting the consumers.” $100M loan for anti-COVID fight THE World Bank drugs, medical supplies, government has taken quickAROUND THE WORLD approved a $100 million laboratory equipment and and decisive action in the (P5 billion) loan to enhancetest kits. It will also supportfight against the COVID-19 the Philippines’ capacity the to supply chain and ensurepandemic and the WorldUAE ease lockdown restrictions counter the corona-virusequipment will reach theBank is proud to support its pandemic. facilities without delay. efforts,” World Bank Acting THE United Arab Emirates decided to ease lockdown According to World The World Bank furtherCountry Director for Brunei, restrictions, reopen malls, cafes and restaurants on the Bank, the loan will stated support that the loan will Malaysia,also Philippines and occasion of Ramadan. the COVID-19 Emergencysupport the preparation of Thailanda Achim Fock said. An official statement by WAM news agency, said curfew Response Project of standard the design for isolation The World Bank earli- will be from 10 pm to 6 am while malls will be allowed to Department of Health (DOH)facilities and treatment er approved a $500 million operate for 10 hours daily starting from midday on Friday, which aims to improvecenters. the Expansion andfinancing to strengthen the the first day of the Muslim fasting month. delivery of critical medical retrofitting of key referencecountry’s coronavirus re- Dubai government, in a statement said that family services. laboratories are also part of sponse. The Finance Depart- entertainment facilities will remain shut while restaurants, The project will focusthe project. ment said it was looking into hotels and cafes are not permitted to serve shisha or buffet on providing personal “Boosting the country’s added financing to augment dining and customers must observe social distancing. protective equipment suchcapacity to respond to its COVID-19 war chest. Supermarkets, food outlets, groceries and pharmacies will as goggles, gloves, gowns, COVID-19 will save lives. The be allowed to operate round the clock. Public transport including metro is also allowed to resume services from April 26. Mosques will remain close during the holy month. However people must wear face masks at all times and violators will be fined 1,000 dirhams ($272). The move comes as Muslims prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, during which believers fast from dawn to dusk and traditionally gather around a family or community meal each evening. The emirate of Dubai has the most diversified economy in the Gulf which heavily depends on trade, retail, tourism and real estate. 1,300 Cameroon prisoners freed

IN A decisive move to ease overcrowding and restrain the spread of the new coronavirus, Cameroon has freed more than 1,300 prisoners in its two main cities, officials said. President Paul Biya in April signed a decree to commute sentences and free some prisoners as part of measures to combat the pandemic. Cameroon has a prison population of around 30,000 with more than half of those awaiting their sentences and the Ministry of Justice said more prisoners in other areas are set to be released. Overcrowding, poor hygiene conditions and a high rate of illnesses such as tuberculosis, cholera and AIDS make the prison populations vulnerable. Cameroon has officially registered 1,163 infections and 42 deaths from the coronavirus pandemic, the second most affected country in sub-Saharan Africa after South Africa. 10 April 27 - May 3, 2020 Cebu Business Week BUSINESS Gradual resumption of economic activities proposed PRESIDENTIAL Adviser precautionary protocols and economic activities can be intact,” Razon said. on Entrepreneurship Joey restaurants can also open resumed while the public “We are really, Concepcion proposed to but with limited seating and private sectors ramp up proverbially, between a rock President Rodrigo Dutertecapacities, he said. mass testing to curtail the and a hard place. It’s a tough the gradual reopening ofHe also suggested spread of COVID-19. choice. We let the economy shopping malls, publicthe partial resumption Even billionaire Enrique die or we let the people die. transit, and other selectof some modes of mass Razon said businesses that It’s really a terrible choice to services regardless whetherpublic transport at lessened can test their employees make,” he said. the government will capacity. lift for COVID-19 and bring Razon controls port or extend the enhanced “We have to be prepared them to work should be operator International community quarantine. to coexist with what we allowed to reopen including Container Terminal Services Concepcion said his have,” Concepcion said, manufacturing, hotels and Inc and casino business recommendation was saying that, “In the coming construction. Bloomberry Resorts. aimed to allow days, thethe Presidentcountry’s will think A second lockdown The country is in anxious economy to bounce back. through this very well... I’m will be “disastrous” anticipation and whether Duterte Shopping malls can sure the President will make government will have decides to to extend or modify resume operations with the right decision.” JOEY CONCEPCION Presidential spend an additional the Luzon P1 lockdown which is shoppers following the same Concepcion said Adviser on Entrepreneurship trillion “just to keep set thingsto end on April 30.

Loan guarantees for MSMEs mulledAffected rice farmers THE government is debt obligation in of case a wage the subsidy like considering the possibilityborrower fails to repayany country the that does it of providing loan guarantees loan. now is to keep and retain to get P5K aid each to micro, small and medium “There was alsoemployment,” an Chua said. DEPARTMENT of Agri- “The production of the enterprises (MSMEs) dealing announcement last week The Social Security culture (DA) Secretary cards were delayed because with zero income or zero by DOF (Department of System (SSS) has already William Dar said about it has limitations. What we profits amid the enhanced Finance) that they are goingsent out emails informing 591,000 rice farmers affecteddiscussed last week is we’ll community quarantine. to allow net operating loss those who qualified thatby the COVID-19 pandemicdo it over the counter in “We are considering carry over so that the lossesthey can now apply for thenationwide may avail of Landbank branches all over guarantees for loans of that business this year can begovernment’s wage subsidy. P5,000 cash aid from the the country,” Dar said. micro, small and medium credited or carried over to “Even before the small government. Farmers mot included in enterprises (MSMEs) might the next year to reduce theirbusiness wage subsidy, Dar reported that asthe agency’s of list of beneficia- take because of a need of tax payments,” Chua added. we already deferred or Wednesday, April 22, ries 22 may approach their local a working capital,” Acting The government earlier gave a grace period forpercent tax of qualified governmentsrice which would in Socioeconomic Planning decided to provide small payments, for rentals, for farmers who cultivate oneturn incorporate them in the Secretary Karl Kendrick businesses with a wagepayment of loans, for credit hectare and below in social 34 welfare department’s Chua said. subsidy in response to calls card, and so on,” Chua said. provinces have availed of cashthe assistance program, Dar A loan guarantee is to include the middle class in Chua added that financial assistance. said. a contractual obligation the cash assistance program. businesses actually benefited between the government, “One condition there is from wage subsidy because private creditors, and that the employer cannot that created additional a borrower. Under layoff the the workers and the liquidity or funds to pay their contract, the governmentemployee cannot resign workers and meet their other will cover the borrower’sbecause the main purposeobligations.

Photo Gallery of Cebu Business Week readers

CBW readers hold hard copies of Cebu Business Week and enjoyed reading its contents which are all positive news. Left to right: Businessman Mike Jude D. Logarta, Engr. Boy Capitan a Balikbayan from the United States, Dr. Choi Hoon of Korea. Cebu Business Week April 27 - May 3, 2020 11 LIGHTER SIDE FUn TRiVIA

Do you know that… 1. Bin Laden’s death was announced on 1st May 2011. Hitler’s death was announced on 1st May 1945? Both of these cruel leader’s deaths were announced on the same day, but due to the time difference, Bin Laden actually died on May 2nd. 2. A company in Taiwan makes dinnerware out of wheat, so you can eat your plate! Not only do they make plates out of wheat, but spoons, bowls, and chopsticks as well. The dishes can be kept for months as long as they stay dry! 3. Marvel Comics once owned the rights to the word “zombie.” 4. A group of iguanas is called a slaughter. 5. Vitricophobia is the Fear of stepfathers. Now you know!

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Visit us at Unit 302 3rd Floor Mango Square Mall or Call us up for your orders at 0908-662-2226. Door to door delivery! 12 April 27 - May 3, 2020 Cebu Business Week SPORTS Sisi gets support in fundraiser CEBUANA star and athlete received support Beach Volleyball Republic, former University of from Santo fellow UST athletes will send personal protective Tomas (UST) celebrity Mark Sisi Nonoy, Renzo Subido, equipment to Cebu. Rondina launched a Imee fund Hernandez, Milena More jerseys will soon drive to raise funds to Alessandrini, Rhenz Abando, be available for auction, purchase personal protectiveand Ysa Jimenez, who all including that of last season’s equipment for frontliners in volunteered their jerseys for Rookie of the Year, Eya the coronavirus (COVID-19)- the auction. Laure. hit Barangay Luz in Cebu City. Rondina will auction Rondina revealed that The UST volleyball three of her own UST Junejerseys Mar Fajardo of San and basketball players are and some pairs of shoesMiguel, as who she is distantly auctioning off their jerseyswell. related to, has confirmed his and shoes to to support The Season 81 Most support. Rondina’s cause. Valuable Player said Charo The San Miguel center is SISI RONDINA The Compostela, Cebu Soriano, the founder of also a Cebuano. Professional sport returns in South Korea WITH the easing of Fans were barred and who are watching from their outdoor sport to resume exchange high-fives, while coronavirus restrictions, reporters were not allowed to homes,” said LG Twins media behind closed doors with spitting a is prohibited. professional sport returned approach the players. Sports officer Kim Kwang-hwan. steady decline in new virus South Korean football to South Korea on Tuesday. fans watched the game South Korea suffered one cases. Strict health guidelines clubs are also expected to be Baseball is the favorite sportthrough live streaming. of the worst early outbreaks were being enforced. back in action soon and the in South Korea and the game “Although it is being of the disease outside China, Players must have their Korea Ladies Professional Golf between Seoul-based Doosan held behind closed doors, I but it brought the outbreak temperature checked twice Association Championship Bears and LG Twins was playedthink it’s good that we can under control. before the games and misted. would begin on May 14 in inside an empty stadium hold these games for the fans Seoul said it would allow They do not shake hands or Yangju, east of Seoul. TNT’s Vargas as Executive of the Year Pinay fencer sets up THE Philippine Basket- Elmer Yanga of the RFM fundraiser for frontliners ball Association (PBA) franchise was the first to win Press Corps voted Ricky the award for two straight Philippine team fencer Vargas as Executive of the years from 1993 to 1995. Maxine Esteban launched a Year for bringing stability Previous recipients of fundraiser for the country’s to the league as chairman the awards were San Miguel frontliners because of shortage of the PBA board for three team owner Ramon S. of supplies. consecutive years. Ang, TNT owner Manny V. “We heard about the short- This is the second time Pangilinan, Alaska owner age of supplies for the frontlin- Vargas will be given the Wilfred Uytengsu, Rain ers so we decided to assemble award. He first bagged the or Shine co-team ownersface shields here at home to be coveted honor in the 2006- Raymund Yu and Terrydonated Que to hospitals. Then we heard that many frontliners and 2007 season. RICKY VARGAS among the few. MAXINE ESTEBAN communities have scarce re- sources especially in food, and dren’s Hospital, Pasig City we felt that what we’re doing is Children’s Hospital, and Na- Alapag in all-time FIBA Asia starting 5 not enough,” she said. tional Bureau of Investigation, FORMER Gilas Pilipinas what he’s done for the “I saw ate Hidilyn as well as the affected commu- captain Jimmy Alapag was Philippines, holding it downDiaz do a fundraiser so my nities in San Juan City. included by Indonesian for us in Southeast Asia sisters -- and I decided to do The 19-year-old UAAP point guard Mario Wuysang the little guys, you know?”our own project hoping to Season 81 Rookie of the Year in his all-time FIBA Asia added the sports icon. raise funds and buy rice for and Most Valuable Player said Cup starting five. Wuysang also included the frontliners and affected they are also planning to sell Wuysang was a China’s Yao Ming and communities,” she added. the paintings that she and her stronghold in their JIMMYnational ALAPAG Iran’s Hamed Haddadi The Ateneo stunner sisters made to help the cause. team, and he led his team to in the group, along with launched the fundraiser called “The project is still ongoing a silver medal inparticularly the for 2017former Gilas Lebanon’s Fadi El-Khatib, ‘A Small Thing Goes A Long and we are hoping to receive Southeast Asian Games,Pilipinas captain Jimmy whom he called “probably Way’ with her siblings last more donations. We plan to put where they lost Alapag to going the as far as taking the best player I’ve ever April 10. They have now raised 10 of our paintings for auction/ Philippines in the infinals. the “Mighty Mouse” in seen in Asia.” The last P500,000 including 50 pieces sale and donate all proceeds Wuysang said his best FIBA he collection. spot, he said, was a toss-of Uratex COVID-19 pillows. to the project. These paintings has a healthy respect “I have tofor put Jimmy up between Jordan’s Sam Beneficiaries of Esteban’s were made by me and my Philippine basketball Alapag and in there,” Wuysang Daghles and Iran’s Samad project include UST Hospital, sisters during the quarantine for the Filipino said. players, “A great leader and Nikkah Bahrami. UERMMMC, National Chil- period,” she said.