JOKO WIDODO ARRIVES IN MANILA FOR 3-DAY OFFICIAL VISIT

MANILA -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo arrived in Manila on Tuesday for a 3-day official visit as the Philippines and Southeast Asia’s largest economy gear up to mark the 75th anniversary of their formal diplomatic relations this year.

Widodo landed at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City minutes past 8 p.m. aboard an Indonesian-flagged plane.

Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., along with other Philippine officials, greeted the Indonesian leader upon his disembarkation from the plane.

Widodo is scheduled to travel to Malacañang on January 10 for a bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The two presidents’ meeting "is anticipated to take stock of the progress in Philippines-Indonesia relations," the Presidential Communications Office said in an earlier statement.

"The two leaders are also expected to reaffirm their commitment to deepening and expanding Philippines-Indonesia ties, especially as the two countries will celebrate their 75th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations in November 2024," the statement read.

Ahead of Widodo’s arrival, Philippine and Indonesian foreign ministers inked a deal to further strengthen the ties between the two countries through economic partnerships, and cooperation in resolving regional issues including woes in the South China Sea.

Widodo’s official visit comes about a year and a half since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. flew to Jakarta for a similar function.

STRONG LABOR MARKET SEEN LIFTING PH ECONOMY IN 2024, BUT RISE INFLATION POSES RISK

The Philippines' strong labor market will power the Philippine economy in 2024, pushing it to post the second fastest growth rate in ASEAN, ana analyst said on Wednesday.

Aris Dacanay, HSBC Global Research's ASEAN Economist, noted that the country's jobless rate has fallen, even as the labor force participation rate grew, pointing to the strength of country's labor market.

"We're pretty confident that the Filipino citizens will lift the Philippine economy up throughout the year," Dacanay said in an interview with ANC.

With inflation easing, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is also expected to begin cutting rates this year.

But unlike the forecast of Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno for the BSP to cut rates by 100 basis points this year, Dacanay said the central bank is more likely to limit this to just 75 bps.

He said the BSP needs to keep pace with the US Federal Reserve to protect the peso from volatility. HSBC expects the Fed to start with a 25 bps cut in the second quarter, followed by more 25 bps cuts in the succeeding quarters.

Rice prices however remain a threat a growth, as international prices of the commodity are hovering at their highest levels since 2008, Dacanay said.

The Philippine Statistics Authority recently noted that rice inflation has been quickening.

BLACK NAZARENE RETURNS TO QUIAPO CHURCH AFTER ALMOST 15 HOURS

The image of the Black Nazarene has returned to the Quiapo Church after nearly 15 hours.

The image of the Black Nazarene crossed the threshold of the church around 7:45 p.m.

Authorities said over 6.5 million people attended the procession, which started at around 5 a.m. from Quirino Grandstand.

The crowd at the Quiapo Church was also estimated at 1,398,500 as of 6 p.m. Tuesday.

It is the first time the traditional parade featuring the life-sized statue has been held since 2020, after the COVID-19 pandemic forced officials to drastically downsize the event.

The original wooden statue was brought to the Philippines in the early 1600s when the nation was a Spanish colony.

Many Filipinos believe it got its dark color after surviving a fire aboard a ship en route from Mexico.

The Philippine National Police earlier said this year’s Traslacion was "generally peaceful" and "better coordinated" than in previous years.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Tuesday noted that this year’s Feast of the Black Nazarene was "generally peaceful" and "better coordinated" than in previous years.

Police Maj. Gen Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., NCRPO chief, said this was due to better coordination between security forces and stakeholders.

"We laid down a plan to implement, and we gave the church basically kung ano ang gusto nila. Thankfully, we were well prepared and hopefully magtuloy hanggang matapos," Nartatez said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) estimates that, as of 5 p.m., around 3.5 million devotees had participated in the Traslacion since it began at 4 a.m.

There were more than 300 injuries reported, mostly lacerations and puncture wounds, caused by walking barefoot in concrete streets.

"Next year, we will plan it to be much smoother, see things we can improve on," Nartatez said.

He also noted the quicker pace of the procession, crediting the coordination between stakeholders like the LGU of Manila, devotees, and the church.

MERALCO POWER RATES RISING SLIGHTLY IN JANUARY

MANILA — Power rates will see a minimal increase in January due to higher electricity prices in the spot market, Meralco said on Wednesday.

The utility distributor said there would be an upward adjustment of P0.08 per kiloWatt-hour (kwh) in the electricity rate this month.

This means the the total electricity bill may go up by around P17 for customers consuming 200kWh of electricity, P25 for those consuming 300 kWh, P34 at 400 kWh, and P42 for those who consume 500 kWh a month.

In December, Meralco dropped power prices by nearly P0.80 per kWh, after prices decreased in the spot market.

NO IMPERATIVE TO BUY CHINESE JEEPNEYS: DOTR

A transportation official reiterated Wednesday there is no government imperative that cooperatives participating in the PUV modernization program should only buy modern jeepneys made in China.

"Sa parte ng DOTR, dito sa akin sa OTC, we never said na dapat made in China. Lagi po naming sinasabi, nasa kamay ng mga kooperatiba, ng mga korporasyon, ang pamimili ng modern vehicles. It's their choice, maraming choices," said Jesus Ferdinand "Andy" Ortega Jr., chairman of the Department of Transportation Office of Transportation Cooperatives.

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez earlier directed the House Committee on Transportation to immediately look into reports that corruption may have tainted the conceptualization and planned implementation of the PUV modernization program.

“The reports allege that existing transport officials are in cahoots with previous officials in negotiating for the imported modern jeepney units that will replace the old units," Romualdez said in a statement.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on Tuesday clarified it could not dictate the brand or model of jeepney units the cooperatives and operators will acquire in compliance with the government's PUV modernization program.

In the interview, Ortega said groups opposing the PUV modernization could be behind statements that China-made mini-buses will be favored for the program.

"Walang nakalagay na dapat made in China, pati 'yung design wala ring nakalagay na dapat minibus. Depende sa manufacturer, depende sa kooperatiba kung ano ang gusto nilang piliin," he said. "

"Meron kaming bagong guidelines, kalalabas, ine-encourage namin na magkaroon ng iconic jeepney design yung mga vehicle.

Pag-acquire ng modern vehicle, it will take years. Meron pang panahon 'yung mga kooperatiba o 'yung mga nag-consolidate to strengthen their groups, pagandahin yung pagpapatakbo ng kanilang negosyo, then later on na yung kailangan nilang bumili ng modern, safe, reliable vehicle."

2023 HOTTEST RECORDED YEAR AS EARTH NEARS KEY LIMIT

PARIS, France - In 2023, the Earth recorded its hottest year, approaching the critical 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold, per EU climate monitors. The Copernicus Climate Change Service reported a global temperature increase of 1.48 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, attributing heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires to climate change. Nearly half of 2023 surpassed the 1.5-degree limit, heightening the risk of self-reinforcing and catastrophic climate impacts. Despite the potential breach in 2024, meeting the Paris Agreement's target requires consecutive years above 1.5 degrees, with provisions for temperature reduction post-"overshoot."

The year saw severe fires, extreme droughts, and unprecedented heatwaves worldwide, emphasizing the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels. Professor Ed Hawkins stressed the worsening impact until achieving net-zero emissions. Copernicus' findings align with the recent COP28 climate agreement, advocating for a gradual shift away from fossil fuels. Professor John Marsham underscored the need for swift fossil fuel reduction to safeguard a livable climate for future generations. Additionally, Copernicus predicted that the 12-month period ending in early 2024 would exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

BIR WAIVES ANNUAL REGISTRATION FEE FOR BUSINESS TAXPAYERS

MANILA — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced on Tuesday that it has scrapped its annual registration fee (ARF) paid by business taxpayers.

According to an advisory signed by BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui on January 8, business taxpayers are no longer required to pay the P500 ARF starting January 22.

The BIR said the change complies with the Republic Act No. 11976 or the "Ease of Paying Taxes Act,” signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on January 5.

The Ease of Paying Taxes Act has simplified the tax payment process, enabling taxpayers to file their tax returns electronically or manually, streamlining procedures for greater convenience.

Businesses with a current BIR certificate of registration (COR) that covers the registration fee will maintain the validity of their COR, according to the tax bureau.

“These taxpayers may choose to update/replace their COR at their convenience,” the BIR said.

The tax bureau said that businesses are encouraged to visit the revenue district office where they are registered on or before Dec. 31, 2024, and surrender their old COR for the needed updates to facilitate the procedure.

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NAVIGATING THE PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF AN AGING POPULATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

MANILA - The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) predicts that by 2030, the United Nations may classify the Philippines as an aging population due to an anticipated rise in the percentage of older citizens. As of 2020, individuals aged 65 and above accounted for 5.4% of the population, with projections suggesting an increase to 7% by 2030.

Bro. Clifford Sorita, a sociologist, highlighted potential issues associated with an aging population, particularly the strain on social security funds. He emphasized the reliance on migrant workers when a population ages, impacting the economic balance.

Sorita acknowledged that the Philippines' situation isn't yet alarming but pointed to factors influencing a slowdown in population growth. He outlined the "ABC" of fertility intentions—availability, belief, and cost—as key contributors. Changing beliefs among millennials about career priorities, coupled with economic challenges such as rising prices and educational costs, play a role in decisions about having children.

While Sorita stressed the importance of responsible parenthood, he also suggested the government consider raising the retirement age, aligning it with the capability and willingness of seniors who are still able to work.

Despite initial reports indicating a decrease in population projections for 2024, CPD director Lisa Grace Bersales clarified that the country's population is still growing. She expressed concern over a 35% increase in births from teenage mothers, emphasizing the need to sustain responsible parenthood and family planning policies.

In navigating these demographic shifts, Sorita urged the government to adopt a holistic approach, promoting responsible upbringing while considering adjustments to retirement age. The final population projections will be determined by the Philippine Statistics Authority's 2020 census, and the CPD emphasizes the continued importance of responsible parenthood initiatives.'

FILIPINO SAILOR RECEIVES NAVY, MARINE CORPS COMMENDATION MEDAL FROM U.S. NAVY

MANILA — There are so many sailors of Filipino descent within the ranks of the United States Navy.

One of them is Logistics Specialist 1st Class Acey Mateo from Angeles City, Philippines.

Last July 27, 2023, Mateo received a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal from Capt. Aaron Shoemaker, commanding officer, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, at the awards quarters in the P-8 hangar.

The commendation medal was for his tour at NAS Sigonella, which is an Italian Air Force base and a U.S. Navy installation located in Sicily, Italy.

NAS Sigonella’s strategic location enables U.S. allied and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

PHILIPPINES BANS POULTRY IMPORTS FROM BELGIUM, FRANCE TO HALT BIRD FLU SPREAD

MANILA — The Philippines’ department of agriculture said on Tuesday it has imposed an indefinite ban on imports of poultry and related products, including wild birds, from Belgium and France following a bird flu outbreak there.

“We’re doing this to protect the health of our local poultry population as well as poultry workers and consumers since H5N1 is a virus that can be transmitted to humans by infected animals,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said in a statement.

Bird flu, which is carried by migrating wild birds and can then be transmitted between farms, has ravaged flocks around the globe in recent years, disrupting supply, pushing up food prices and raising concern of a risk of transmission to humans.

France and Belgium, which share a border, reported the bird flu outbreak in their bird populations to the World Organization for Animal Health in November and December, respectively.

The Philippines’ import ban will also prevent traders from bringing in Belgian and French poultry products including poultry meat, day-old chicks, hatching eggs, and poultry semen into the Philippines, the Department of Agriculture said.

In 2023, the Philippines imported 426,620 metric tons of poultry meat, 3.78% higher than the previous year, with Belgium accounting for 0.59% and France 0.01%.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

'MY LONG-LOST FAMILY': SANDARA PARK EMBRACES PHILIPPINE ROOTS ANEW

MANILA — Homegrown star turned global pop icon Sandara Park finds her way back to the Philippines to partner with the country’s leading low-calorie beer, San Mig Light.

Sandara revealed in a statement sent to Philstar.com that the collaboration could not have come at a better time and that it feels like “finally meeting my long-lost family.”

“I’m really grateful to have such wonderful experience. It’s like being embraced by lightness and fun, just like the brand and just like me,” Sandara shared.

Sandara’s career started in the Philippines when she appeared in the pilot season of the reality-based talent search "Star Circle Quest," where she finished as a runner-up in the competition. She rose to fame soon after, starring in multiple box-office movies and producing a platinum-selling album.

In 2007, Sandara moved back to her home country of South Korea where she later joined the K-pop girl group 2NE1 which produced chart-topping hits such as “I Am The Best," “Fire," and “Come Back Home." The group was pivotal in bringing the music industry from South Korea to the world stage becoming one of the leading figures of the Korean Wave.

During this time, Sandara admitted missing a lot of the things that comforted her during her stay in the Philippines, one of them is her favorite San Mig Light. “Parati kong hinahanap ang San Mig Light every time I go back to the Philippines,” she recalled. “I really missed it, like all the time. San Mig Light is my favorite because its light, fun, and it gives off an easy vibe. Perfect for me!”

Being San Mig Light’s newest brand ambassador comes at a fitting time for the artist as she embarks on her first solo music endeavor in six years with the recent release of her

self-titled mini-album “Sandara Park." Similar to the brand, Sandara believes that staying positive and worry-free is essential in her line of work. She bared that keeping a light vibe and a bright personality are some of the things that she purposely maintains as an artist and celebrity.

DID SARAH LAHBATI JUST UNFOLLOW HER HUSBAND RICHARD GUTIERREZ AND HIS WHOLE FAMILY ON INSTAGRAM?

MANILA -- Eagle-eyed netizens noticed some changes in the Instagram account of Sarah Lahbati amid rumors of her separation with her husband, Richard Gutierrez.

One of these is that the actress no longer follows Gutierrez on Instagram, as well as other members of his family -- his mother Annabelle Rama, his sister Ruffa, and his twin brother Raymond.

She has also changed the name on her profile page to "Sarah Lahbati" from the previous "SLG" which includes Gutierrez, her married name.

Lahbati spent last year's Christmas with her two sons, Zion and Kai, as well as her family. Gutierrez, on the other hand, welcomed the New Year in Tokyo, Japan with the rest of his family.

Gutierrez's mother, Annabelle Rama, earlier spoke about her son and Sarah's marriage. She said her son had been living with her this past month, and that she was not on speaking terms with her daughter-in-law.

In an exclusive interview with ABS-CBN News, Rama revealed that Gutierrez intends to move back in to their family home for good, but declined to categorically confirm if the "Iron Heart" star and Lahbati have parted ways.

SPORTS

NBA SCORES OF GAMES PLAYED ON JAN 8, 2024

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Celtics

28-8

34        34        33        30        131

Pacers

21-15

33        26        44        30        133

Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

J. Brown BOS SF

40 PTS , 5 REB , 2 AST

B. Mathurin IND SF

26 PTS , 4 REB , 3 AST

Final/OT

1          2          3          4          OT       T

Bulls

17-21

24        27        32        24        12        119

Hornets

8-26

25        18        33        31        5          112

Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

C. White CHI PG

27 PTS , 6 REB , 5 AST

T. Rozier CHA SG

39 PTS , 3 REB , 8 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Thunder

24-11

36        31        35        34        136

Wizards

6-30

30        31        36        31        128

Capital One Arena, Washington, DC

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

S. Gilgeous-Alexander OKC SG

32 PTS , 6 REB , 5 AST

J. Poole WAS SG

24 PTS , 5 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Rockets

18-17

27        32        23        31        113

Heat

21-15

34        25        32        29        120

Kaseya Center, Miami, FL

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

F. VanVleet HOU PG

32 PTS , 5 REB , 7 AST

T. Herro MIA PG

28 PTS , 3 REB , 3 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Jazz

18-20

41        36        23        32        132

Bucks

25-12

23        23        44        26        116

Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

L. Markkanen UTA SF

21 PTS , 14 REB , 2 AST

G. Antetokounmpo MIL PF

25 PTS , 10 REB , 11 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Suns

19-18

31        32        28        20        111

Clippers

23-13

34        37        30        37        138

Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

K. Durant PHO PF

30 PTS , 7 REB , 2 AST

P. George LAC SF

25 PTS , 7 REB

INDICATORS

FOREX $1 = P 55.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done. - Henry W. Longfellow