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Snakebitten Lakers

Considering how the 2023-24 campaign has unfolded, avid followers of the National Basketball Association (NBA) would not be wrong to argue that the Lakers are snakebitten. With cornerstones LeBron James and Anthony Davis largely available and on pace to notch the most number of games in a single season since donning purple and gold, the In-Season Tournament champions should have been primed to claim an outright playoff berth. Instead, they appear poised to go through the wringer simply to get the last spot.

For a while there, it seemed as if the Lakers would overcome their post-IST swoon and ride on momentum to go up to as high as sixth in the highly competitive West. Heading into a crucial match against the Timberwolves at the start of the week, however, they found themselves having to make do without James; the latter had been under the weather for the last fortnight, and flu-like symptoms finally caught up with him. Meanwhile, Davis suited up, but lasted just 24 seconds short of one quarter after being hit in the face and getting his eye poked by Kyle Anderson. The result: a double-digit loss that jeopardized their bid to improve on their ninth-place standing.

To add insult to injury, the Lakers then lost to the 10th-running Warriors the other day. Davis was actually at Crypto.com Arena in a valiant attempt to play, but he had to be ruled out due to lingering effects of Anderson’s uncalled foul. James did manage to burn rubber, but he didn’t even get to warm up after having arrived at the venue a mere hour before tipoff. Given his condition, he did well to put up 33 (on 22 shots), seven and 11. That said, he failed to make a positive influence on the result: yet another double-digit loss that could conceivably have them trading places with the Warriors (who hold the tiebreaker).

It bears noting that the Lakers did try their best against both the Timberwolves and the Warriors, but it clearly wasn’t good enough. Theirs is a top-heavy roster that collapses in the absence of either James or Davis. And, yes, they are often their worst enemies. The other day, for instance, they hung around until late in the third quarter, only to be undone by their lack of esprit de corps. They were down by a manageable seven when James left the floor for his customary rest with three and a half minutes left in the period. A subsequent 12-0 run by the blue and yellow with him on the bench all but made the outcome a foregone conclusion.

In the aftermath of the defeat, Lakers head coach Darvin Ham made mention of the NBA being “a make or miss league.” And he’s right; his charges lost because they couldn’t keep up with the ridiculous shooting of the Warriors. That said, he did them no favors by continually employing uneven lineups that defy logic. Take the aforementioned sequence that sealed their fate; for some reason, he relied on three point guards to hold the fort — a recipe for disaster. Considering that it was the first time they shared the court, the ill-advised one-on-one forays were, perhaps, to be expected.

Now, the Lakers need to close out their regular season with wins on the road and, at the same time, cross their fingers the Warriors will drop at least one contest to avoid dropping to 10th. It’s stress they have to deal with, but stress they could have avoided altogether. And while James has underscored the importance of fitness over seeding, their situation begs the question: What if they’re not healthy still?

 

Anthony L. Cuaycong has been writing Courtside since BusinessWorld introduced a Sports section in 1994. He is a consultant on strategic planning, operations and human resources management, corporate communications, and business development.

Opposition win in South Korea election to deepen policy stalemate for Yoon

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. — REUTERS

SEOUL — South Korea’s liberal opposition parties scored a landslide victory in a parliamentary election held on Wednesday, dealing a resounding blow to President Yoon Suk Yeol and his conservative party but falling just short of a super majority.

The Democratic Party (DP) was projected to take 175 of the 300 seats in the new assembly, data from the National Election Commission and network broadcasters showed with all votes counted as of 10:32 a.m. (0132 GMT).

A splinter liberal party considered allied with the DP was expected to take 12 seats, projections showed, leaving the bloc short of the 200 seats needed for a super-majority. Mr. Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) was set to win 108 seats.

DP leader Lee Jae-myung, who led a combative campaign against Mr. Yoon, said the top priority now was to work for an economic recovery that is palpable for the average consumer. “The ruling and opposition parties must join forces to overcome the crisis in consumers’ economic livelihood,” he said.

The bitterly fought race was seen by some analysts as a referendum on Mr. Yoon, whose popularity has suffered amid a cost-of-living crisis and a spate of political scandals.

Mr. Yoon, who took office in May 2022, was not up for election this time but his ability to pass legislation is likely to be further inhibited by the PPP’s poor showing.

He has suffered low ratings for months, hamstrung in implementing his pledges to cut taxes, ease business regulations and expand family support in the world’s fastest ageing society.

Opposition control of parliament will continue a government stalemate in areas where Mr. Yoon has clashed with the liberals on policies that require legislation, such as tax incentives for businesses and whether to tax capital gains on stocks, analysts said.

Mr. Yoon had “humbly accepted” the result of the election and pledged to renew his administration, his chief of staff said.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and other senior aides had also offered to resign after the election defeat, Yonhap news reported.

Political science professor Lee Jun-han of Incheon National University said the poll had all the characteristics of a midterm election, with voters delivering a message that the government’s economic policies were failing.

“With the opposition with nearly 190 seats or more, I think the difficulties with legislation, budget, and state administration will continue in the future,” he said.

Analyst Kim Young-hwan of NH Investment & Securities said “expectations were inevitably weaker” for implementing Mr. Yoon’s push to enhance the value of corporate stocks considered to be trading at a discount compared to global peers.

In early trading on Thursday, some stocks that had rallied on optimism around the government’s so-called Corporate Value-up Programme, such as financials and automakers, fell on expectations the DP will likely block any tax cuts for corporations and wealthy investors.

‘JUDGEMENT’
“Judgement” was the common theme running through comments by opposition victors, many of whom had campaigned heavily focused on what they said was Mr. Yoon’s mismanagement of the economy and his refusal to acknowledge his wife acted improperly when she accepted a Dior bag as gift.

First lady Kim Keon Hee has not been seen in public since Dec. 15 and was absent when Mr. Yoon voted, reflecting the view by some analysts and opposition party members that she had become a political liability for the president and his PPP.

The election also brought the return of some of Mr. Yoon’s foes, including former Justice Minister Cho Kuk leading a splinter third party, former PPP leader Lee Jun-seok who had split with Yoon in a feud, and Choo Mi-ae, who as former justice minister clashed with Mr. Yoon when he was the top prosecutor.

Mr. Yoon is, however, likely to avoid the super-majority of a two-third opposition control that could break presidential vetoes and pass constitutional amendments.

But nearing the end of the first two years of his five-year single term allowed by the constitution, Mr. Yoon was likely to slip into a lame duck status, some analysts said.

Mason Richey, a professor at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, said Mr. Yoon might focus more on his overseas agenda now, though those plans could also be at risk if the opposition seeks to cut budgets.

“Given his likely lame duck status, the temptation for Yoon will be to focus on foreign policy where he will still have statutory power,” Mr. Richey said. — Reuters

Voters in many countries now skeptical of democracy, poll shows

RAWPIXEL.COM-FREEPIK

STOCKHOLM — Voters in many countries are suffering a crisis of faith in their democracies and institutions, a survey by a governance watchdog showed, painting a bleak picture in a year in which more than half of the world’s population holds elections.

With the United States, India, Britain and the European Union going to the polls in 2024, the report published on Thursday by the International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) offers a somber snapshot of the perceived health of many democracies.

The results show that voters in 11 of the 19 countries surveyed, which included the US and India, fewer than half of the people believed the most recent election was free and fair.

Only voters in Denmark believed courts ‘always’ or ‘often’ provide access to justice, while in 8 of 19 countries, more people had favorable views of “a strong leader who doesn’t have to bother with parliament or elections” than had unfavorable views.

“Democracies must respond to the skepticism of their public, both by improving governance and by combating the growing culture of disinformation that has fostered false accusations against credible elections,” International IDEA Secretary-General Kevin Casas-Zamora said in a statement.

This year’s presidential election in the United States is likely to see incumbent Democrat Joseph R. Biden faces off again against ex-president Donald Trump, who falsely claimed widespread voter fraud when he lost the presidency in 2020.

The survey showed that only 47 per cent of respondents in the United States expressed faith that the country had credible electoral processes.

Elections for Europe’s parliament which take place in June could see big gains for the far-right and impact policy from support for Ukraine in its war against Russia’s full-scale invasion to measures to address climate change.

In February, the parliament condemned what it called Russian attempts to undermine European democracy.

The survey, conducted between July 2023 and January 2024, polled about 1,500 people in each of 19 countries including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, The Gambia, Iraq, Italy, Lebanon, Lithuania, Pakistan, Romania, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Korea and Tanzania. — Reuters

China tried to meddle but Canadians decided the last two elections, says PM Trudeau

PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU — REUTERS

OTTAWA, — China tried to meddle in the last two Canadian elections but the results were not impacted and it was “improbable” Beijing preferred any one party over another, Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau told an official probe on Wednesday.

In sworn testimony before a commission conducting a public inquiry into alleged foreign interference in the 2019 and 2021 Canadian elections, Mr. Trudeau answered questions about intelligence briefings he had received and asserted the elections were “free and fair.”

Mr. Trudeau set up the commission last year under pressure from opposition legislators unhappy about media reports on China’s possible role in the elections.

Erin O’Toole, who led the main opposition Conservative party during the 2021 campaign, has estimated Chinese interference cost his party up to nine seats but added it had not changed the course of the election. Mr. Trudeau’s Liberal Party won both the elections.

“Nothing we have seen and heard despite, yes, attempts by foreign states to interfere, those elections held in their integrity. They were decided by Canadians,” he said.

Asked about an intelligence report about Chinese officials in Canada expressing a preference in 2021 for a Liberal minority government due to the perception that minority governments would be more limited in enacting anti-China policies, Mr. Trudeau said the report had not reached him.

“While individual (Chinese) officials may well have expressed a preference or another, the impression we got and consistently would get is that … it just would seem very improbable that the Chinese government itself would have a preference in the election,” Mr. Trudeau said.

On Monday, Canada’s domestic spy agency told the commission that China “clandestinely and deceptively interfered” in both the elections, the firmest evidence so far of suspected Chinese meddling in Canadian politics.

A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Canada said Mr. Trudeau “slandered” China during the inquiry hearing, and that “China strongly deplores and resolutely opposes this.”

The spokesperson said some politicians have attempted to target China in the public investigation. The testimony was full of specious words, and no substantive evidence had been produced, according to a statement on Thursday.

“China has never had any interest in interfering in Canada’s internal affairs,” the spokesperson added.

Beijing has previously denied all allegations of meddling in Canadian affairs and said it had no interest in doing so.

The elections were conducted amid high tensions between the countries over the arrest of an executive of the Chinese company Huawei Technologies in Canada, followed by the arrest of two Canadians on spying charges in China. All three were freed in 2021.

The commission will complete an initial report by May 3 and deliver its final report by end-2024. — Reuters

Over 700 brands at franchise expo

Over 700 brands are expected to participate at Franchise Asia Philippines, Asia’s biggest franchise show, at the SMX Convention Center Manila on April 12 to 14.

Aside from franchise opportunities, the expo will also feature highly franchisable concepts and business solution providers.

The event organized by the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) will bring together a diverse range of homegrown and global franchise brands, offering a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and aspiring franchisees to explore innovative business concepts and investment opportunities in food, retail and service.

“This year, Franchise Asia Expo will feature international exhibitors from Korea, Singapore, Thailand, US and more will introduce their well-established and successful franchises to the Philippine market, providing local entrepreneurs with access to a wide array of business models and strategies from across the globe. There’s even a concept that offers the possibility of getting a US investor visa,” PFA chairman Chris Lim said.

Lim said in addition to the showcase of international franchise brands, the event will feature a series of seminars and workshops tailored to provide invaluable insights and practical knowledge for entrepreneurs and prospective franchisees. The seminars will cover various topics essential for building and managing successful franchise businesses, offering participants the chance to learn from industry experts and network with like-minded individuals.

Now on its 31st year, Franchise Asia Philippines Expo is PFA’s flagship activity to promote franchising as a tool to create businesses and jobs. It has been averaging 50,000 visitors every year, which is a testament to the Filipinos continued confidence in franchising as a way to start a business.

Franchise Asia Philippines 2024 is Co-Presented by PLDT Enterprise and Powered by SM Supermalls and GCASH; and supported by Platinum Partners 7-Eleven, Caltex, Concepcion Industries, Megaworld, Seaoil, The Generics Pharmacy, Jollibee; Gold Partners Francorp, Gateway Mall 2, Potato Corner, Robinsons Malls, Qualiplus, Globaltronics; Silver Partners K2 Pharmacy, LT & G Credit Line, BBK, Famous Belgian Waffles, Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Living Water Station, Goldilocks, Master Siomai, Max’s, Purenectar, Grainsmart, Shawarma Shack, Pheonix Super LPG, Mitsubishi, Unionbank, Oryspa; Bronze Partners Alipay, BPI, Coolaire, Fruitas, Macao Imperial Tea, Mister Donut, Shakey’s, Julie’s, Unioil, Yale Smart Shop, Mr. Quickie, Waltermart & Bench.

Event Partners: KFC, Hungry Pita, Generika, BO’S Coffee, Carrier, Condura, Midea, Otis, Chowking, Greenwich, Mang Inasal, Red Ribbon, UFranchise, Action Coach, TPB, BCS Heritage, Balay Baler, and Jimac.

Media Partners Net 25 Eagle Broadcasting Corp., BusinessWorld, Business Mirror, Mega Mobile (Inquirer Mobile), Asia Journal / Balikbayan Magazine, The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Daily Tribune & Media Blitz.

 

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Biden and Japan’s Kishida forge new partnership, eyeing China and Russia

COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG

WASHINGTON – US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday unveiled plans for military cooperation and projects ranging from missiles to moon landings, strengthening their alliance with an eye on countering China and Russia.

A joint news conference at the White House reflected the growing importance of Japan on the world stage and to the United States, as the two leaders weighed in on Gaza and Israel, Ukraine and Russia, North Korea and other world flashpoints.

Mr. Biden and Mr. Kishida brushed off a dispute over Nippon Steel’s offer for US Steel, saying the issue was not a major factor in their discussions on a day of White House pomp and pageantry that culminated in a lavish state dinner.

“This is the most significant upgrade in our alliance since it was first established,” Mr. Biden said after about two hours of talks that focused on the restive Indo-Pacific region and China’s actions.

The United States and its allies, including Japan, have been bolstering their militaries to counter what they see as a growing threat from China in the South China Sea and the East China Sea, and to deter any attempt to seize Taiwan, a self-ruled Island that Beijing considers its own.

Mr. Kishida said the two leaders discussed tense relations between Taiwan and China, and pledged to uphold international order based on the rule of law. Chinese leader Xi Jinping recently said outside interference could not stop the island’s “family reunion” with mainland China.

“Unilateral attempts to change status quo by force or coercion is absolutely unacceptable, wherever it may be,” Mr. Kishida said. The US and Japan will continue to respond to such actions, including challenges from China, he said.

“Regarding Russia’s aggression of Ukraine … Ukraine today may be East Asia tomorrow,” Mr. Kishida said.

Mr. Biden also vowed to keep open lines of communication with China and said the US- Japan alliance was defensive in nature. He spoke to Chinese President Xi Jinping last week.

 

JOINT MILITARY STRUCTURE

The announcements from Mr. Biden and Mr. Kishida brought the two World War Two enemies into the closest collaboration they have had since they became allies decades ago.

Mr. Biden said their militaries will cooperate with a joint command structure and they will, together with Australia, develop a new air missile defense network. The two leaders also announced that Japanese astronauts will participate in NASA moon missions.

Overall, the US and Japan have hammered out about 70 agreements on defense cooperation, including moves to upgrade the US military command structure in Japan to make it better able to work with Japanese forces in a crisis.

Japan, often described as the US’s most important Asian ally and its largest source of foreign direct investment, is taking on a stepped-up global role after a series of security law changes in the past decade that have transformed its pacifist constitution.

Mr. Kishida will address the US Congress on Thursday and join Mr. Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for a meeting expected to focus on Beijing’s South China Sea incursions.

The meeting took place as China steps up pressure on the Philippines in the South China Sea over areas Beijing claims but that international law says belong to the Philippines.

China is attempting to isolate Japan and the Philippines, a US official said. By meeting the leaders of those two nations this week in Washington, Mr. Biden is aiming to “flip the script and isolate China.”

Fitch cut its outlook on China’s sovereign credit rating to negative on Wednesday, citing risks to public finances as the economy faces increasing uncertainty in its shift to new growth models.

On Thursday, Mr. Biden will also hold a bilateral meeting with Mr. Marcos, whom he welcomed in Washington just last year, before the pair join Mr. Kishida for a trilateral summit.

The visit may give a political boost to Mr. Kishida, whose popularity has waned at home.

He is being greeted with great fanfare, with Japanese flags on display throughout Washington ahead of the glitzy state dinner where guests included former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actor Robert De Niro, Amazon.com’s Jeff Bezos and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

Musician Paul Simon provided the entertainment after the dinner, opening his set with a performance of “Graceland.”

Overshadowing the visit is a controversy over the planned $15 billion acquisition of American steel maker US Steel by Japan’s Nippon Steel, a deal some say is “on life support” after criticism by Mr. Biden and former President Donald Trump, his rival in November’s US election.

Mr. Kishida, asked about the deal, said he hoped discussions about it would bear fruit.

“We wish to cement this win-win relationship,” he said.

Mr. Biden said he stood by his commitment to union workers on the issue. – Reuters

Save the date and savour the flavors: The 16th Philippine Food Expo opens this April 12

With just one week until its grand opening, the 16th Philippine Food Expo is gearing up to be the culinary exhibition of the year, promising an unparalleled showcase and experience of the country’s vibrant food and beverage industry. Set to take place from April 12 to 14, 2024 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, excitement for the “Only All-Filipino Food and Beverage Show” is running high as over 300 exhibitors prepare to impress visitors with a flourishing array of local products, produce, services, and innovations.

This year’s 3-day event will feature a concoction of dedicated pavilions that cater to the needs of all visitors from the everyday Filipino consumer to international traders and importers, each highlighting different facets of the food industry:

Exporters Pavilion: From premium dried fruits to artisanal delicacies, explore a treasure trove of Philippine culinary delights destined for global markets as exporters showcase the best of Filipino flavors.

Retailers Pavilion: Discover the latest trends and offerings from the Philippines’ leading grocery chains and specialty stores. From traditional favorites to innovative new products, retailers will offer a diverse selection to satisfy every palate.

Franchisors Pavilion: Explore exciting opportunities in the world of franchising and entrepreneurship, and become part of popular food franchises and learn firsthand from industry experts.

Equipment, Packaging, & Tech Pavilion: From state-of-the-art kitchen appliances to advanced packaging machinery, get a glimpse of cutting-edge technology and equipment revolutionizing the food industry.

A celebration of Philippine cuisine and the ingenuity of its food industry players make up the 16th Philippine Food Expo, concocting the most comprehensive platform for information exchange, market opportunities and the latest in the food and beverage market trends. With co-located special events, including fiery culinary competitions, live cooking demos, food tastings, technical seminars, and business sessions, visitors can expect an immersive experience that delights the senses and inspires the palate.

Don’t miss out on the 16th Philippine Food Expo serving an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate the rich diversity and innovation of Philippine cuisine. Mark your calendars for the grand opening on April 12, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and visit for the rest of the weekend, April 13 to 14, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Philippine Food Expo 2024 is co-presented by the Department of Agriculture and is in cooperation with the Department of Tourism, the Department of Trade and Industry, the Export Development Council, the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc., and UnionBank of the Philippines. It is supported by GS1 Philippines, Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industries Philippines, Inc., La Camara, Philippines Norway Business Council, German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chamber of Herbal Industries of the Philippines Inc. (CHIPI), Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association, Inc. (PAGASA), Hotel And Restaurant Chefs’ Association Of The Philippines (HRCAP), Council of Hotel and Restaurant Educators of the Philippines (COHREP), Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), Philippine Association of Food Technologists, Inc. (PAFT,Inc), Food Caterers Association of the Philippines (FCAP), and Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP).

The 3-day exhibition is in partnership with the University of Santo Tomas, College of Tourism and Hotel Management, Merit Stainless Steel, Everest Appliances, Waters Philippines, and Camel. Its Official Media Partners include the Inquirer Group of Companies, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer.net, Megamobile, BusinessWorld, Chinese Commercial News, Business Mirror, Pilipino Mirror, Philippine Graphic, COOK Magazine, SunStar Cebu, Exhibits Today, Digiboards, Inc., WhenInManila.com, Village Pipol Magazine, and DiscoverMNL.

For event updates, follow #PhilFoodExpo2024 on Facebook and Instagram. For any event inquiries, contact the official event manager at info@eventsbycut.com or through direct lines 8363-5192 / 8363-4900 / 8362-2266.

 

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North Korea leader Kim Jong Un says now is time to be ready for war, KCNA says

KREMLIN.RU/EVENTS/PRESIDENT/NEWS/60363/PHOTOS-COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG

SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said unstable geopolitical situations surrounding his country mean now is the time to be more prepared for war than ever, as he inspected the country’s main military university, KCNA news agency said on Thursday.

Mr. Kim gave field guidance on Wednesday at Kim Jong Il University of Military and Politics, named after his father who died in 2011, which KCNA said is the “highest seat of military education” in the country.

North Korea has stepped up weapons development in recent years under Kim and has forged closer military and political ties with Russia, allegedly aiding Moscow in its war with Ukraine in return for help with strategic military projects.

Mr. Kim told university staff and students that “if the enemy opts for military confrontation with the DPRK, the DPRK will deal a death-blow to the enemy without hesitation by mobilizing all means in its possession,” KCNA reported.

DPRK is short for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the North’s official name.

“Outlining the complicated international situation … and the uncertain and unstable military and political situation around the DPRK, he said that now is the time to be more thoroughly prepared for a war than ever before,” KCNA said.

Earlier this month, Mr. Kim supervised the test launch of a new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile using solid fuel, which analysts said would bolster the North’s ability to deploy missiles more effectively than liquid-fuel variants.

North Korea has accused the United States and South Korea of provoking military tensions by conducting what it called “war maneuvers” as the allies have conducted military drills with greater intensity and scale in recent months. – Reuters

Amazon owes $525 mln in cloud-storage patent fight, US jury says

REUTERS

Amazon.com’s Amazon Web Services, the world’s largest cloud-service provider, owes tech company Kove $525 million for violating its patent rights in data-storage technology, an Illinois federal jury said on Wednesday.

The jury determined that AWS infringed three Kove patents covering technology that Kove said had become “essential” to the ability of Amazon’s cloud-computing arm to “store and retrieve massive amounts of data.”

Representatives for Amazon did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the verdict. Kove’s lead attorney Courtland Reichman called the verdict “a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of protecting IP rights for start-up companies against tech giants.”

Chicago-based Kove sued Amazon in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in 2018. The company said in the lawsuit that it pioneered technology enabling high-performance cloud storage “years before the advent of the cloud.”

Kove alleged that AWS’ Amazon S3 storage service, DynamoDB database service and other products infringed the cloud-storage patents. The jury agreed with Kove on Wednesday that AWS infringed all three Kove patents at issue, though it rejected Kove’s contention that AWS violated its rights willfully.

AWS had denied the allegations and argued that the patents were invalid.

Kove also sued Google last year for infringing the same patents in a separate Illinois lawsuit that is still ongoing. – Reuters

South China Sea: Why are China and Philippines tensions heating up?

THE BRP SIERRA MADRE, a marooned transport ship which Philippine Marines live in as a military outpost, is pictured in the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. — REUTERS

MANILA – An escalating diplomatic row and recent maritime run-ins between China and the Philippines, a US treaty ally, have made the highly strategic South China Sea a potential flashpoint between Washington and Beijing.

The issue will be a focus of trilateral meeting between US President Joe Biden, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington on Thursday.

 

WHAT ARE THE FLASHPOINTS?

Central to recent standoffs between the Philippines and China are two hotly contested features located inside Manila’s 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone, but which Beijing claims as its own.

China uses the so-called nine-dash line that takes in about 90% of the South China Sea to assert its claim to sovereignty over the Scarborough Shoal, a submerged reef coveted for its bountiful fish stocks, and the Second Thomas Shoal, home to a small contingent of Filipino sailors living aboard a rusty warship that Manila intentionally grounded in 1999 to further its territorial claims.

 

WHY ARE THINGS HEATING UP?

The Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague ruled in 2016 that Beijing’s expansive claims via its nine-dash line had no basis under international law, handing the Philippines a landmark victory, but that has not stopped China, which rejects the ruling, from being more assertive.

Beijing has deployed hundreds of coastguard vessels to patrol those areas, alarming the Philippines, rival claimants and other states operating in the South China Sea, including the United States, which is wary about China’s growing military power and territorial ambition.

 

WHAT HAVE THE STANDOFFS ENTAILED?

Encounters between the Philippines and China in Asia’s most contested waters have grown tenser and more frequent over the past year as Beijing presses its claims and Manila refuses to cease its fishing and resupply activities to Filipinos at the two shoals. China considers those to be illegal intrusions and has tried to repel the vessels.

China’s coastguard has stepped up so-called “grey-zone” activities such as use of water cannon, collision and ramming tactics, and, according to Manila, use of a military-grade laser, to try to stop the Philippine resupply and patrol missions. It has also deployed an armada of fishing boats the Philippines and allies consider militia.

During the last two Second Thomas Shoal resupply missions, Philippine boats sustained damage and some crew were injured after use of water cannon. China has urged the Philippines to tow away the warship, saying it had promised to do just that, but Manila maintains no such agreement was made.

 

WHAT WAS THE GLOBAL REACTION?

China’s actions have drawn international condemnation and concern from major powers including the United States, Japan, Australia, France, and Britain.

Foreign journalists have joined some of the Philippine resupply missions and documented events at the invitation of the Philippines, which one security official said was aimed at “shedding light on China’s ‘grey zone’ tactics”. China has accused the Philippines of stirring up trouble and spreading misinformation.

China’s actions are “dangerous, illegal and they are destabilizing the region,” a senior US admiral said on April 9.

 

HOW IS THE PHILIPPINES RESPONDING?

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has adopted a tough line against what he sees as Chinese hostility and rejected its pressure, recently vowing to implement countermeasures against “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks” by China’s coastguard, upping the ante in the escalating row.

The Philippines has said countermeasures will be “multi-dimensional” and involve exhausting diplomatic options. Mr. Marcos has also called for stronger coordination on maritime security to confront “a range of serious challenges” to territorial integrity and peace.

 

COULD THE UNITED STATES GET INVOLVED?

The Philippines’ dispute with China coincides with an increase in security engagements with the United States under Mr. Marcos, including expansion of U.S. access to Philippine bases. Manila is also seeking close security ties with other allies like Japan and Australia. The engagements include joint patrols, which have frustrated China.

The United States has a Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines and has repeatedly made clear it would protect its ally if its coastguard or armed forces came under attack anywhere in the South China Sea, calling the agreement “ironclad”.

The treaty raises the stakes significantly in the Philippines-China dispute in the event of a miscalculation at sea. However, it could also limit how far China is willing to go to keep the Philippines at bay, wary of the risks of conflict and pressure to respond resolutely if there were direct US military involvement.

Philippine officials, including Marcos, have dismissed talk of invoking the treaty in the present situation, stressing it would be a last resort. – Reuters

What overcapacity? China says its industries are simply more competitive

REUTERS

BEIJING – The last day of US Secretary Janet Yellen’s trip to China coincided with the strongest retort yet from Beijing officials over her claims that China is flooding global markets with cheap goods, particularly in the new green industries.

As Ms. Yellen laid out plans to formalize dialogue with China over excess industrial capacity in electric vehicles (EVs), solar panels and batteries, saying Washington would not accept US industry being “decimated“, the Chinese finance ministry issued a statement saying it had already “fully responded” to her concerns.

Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, at a roundtable meeting with Chinese EV makers in Paris on Monday, said US and European assertions of excess capacity were groundless, adding China’s rise in these industries was driven by innovation and complete supply chain systems, among other factors.

China’s latest response, analysts say, centers on the idea that its production system is simply more competitive, a sharp change in tone from only a month ago when officials including Premier Li Qiang sounded their own warnings on overcapacity.

The strong pushback from Beijing contrasts with the generally warm interactions between Yellen and Chinese officials during her trip, leaving the two largest economies further apart on the hottest dispute in global trade, which could add to tensions.

“They cannot win the race, so they try to slow it down,” said Li Yong, chief researcher at D&C Think, a Chinese think tank, referring to the West’s rhetoric on overcapacity.

“We just do our things, they can do whatever they want — the knife is in their hands.”

Both sides believe they have solid, data-supported arguments not to back down.

The core criticism coming primarily from Washington and Brussels is that state-led support for manufacturers, coupled with depressed domestic demand, is pushing excessive Chinese supply onto global markets.

This drives down prices.

Consequently, it threatens US and EU firms which survive on profits rather than what Western officials argue is a drip-feed of state resources in China. And, it can complicate longer-term investment decisions.

While China denies subsidies and points to US and EU government programs to support their own industries, its critics take a wider view of state support that incorporates cheap loans, land use, huge infrastructure investment and other benefits that span across a fully-integrated supply chain.

EU trade officials have singled out the huge resources redirected by China’s state-dominated financial system from the ailing property sector to its sprawling manufacturing complex, as Beijing looks for other economic growth drivers.

For its part, China says industrial overcapacity is not unique to the world’s second-largest economy.

“The so-called ‘overcapacity’ is a manifestation of the market mechanism at work, where supply-demand imbalance is often the norm,” vice finance minister Liao Min told local media.

“This can occur in any market economy system, including in the United States and other Western countries, where it has happened multiple times in history”.

Industrial capacity utilization in China is lower than in the United States or Europe, but not by much.

Also, China asserts supply and demand should be viewed from a global perspective, particularly given Western criticism focuses on industries key to climate goals for the entire planet.

That argument resonates.

“I’m very skeptical about this idea of overcapacity,” Nicholas Lardy, senior fellow at Peterson Institute told a financial forum in Hong Kong.

“If you think about it, it means every country should only produce what it consumed itself. That means no trade. Where would we be if there was no trade?”

It’s not a new debate. More than a decade ago, Washington complained that the U.S. rust belt was crippled by Chinese overproduction of steel, which had forced China to dump it at very low prices.

But China can argue its output is more in tune with global demand than it was back then. China’s inventory levels have ticked up during the COVID-hit years, but remain well below levels seen in the 2010s.

China views the “new three” industries of electric vehicles, batteries and solar power as key for its development.

In 2023, exports of the “new three” totaled 1.06 trillion yuan ($146.6 billion), up 29.9% year-on-year, official data showed. But they accounted for only 4.5% of China’s total yuan-denominated exports last year, so those on Beijing’s side of the debate see the West’s focus on them as hypocritical.

“US and Europe have a bit of a gangster logic,” said Wang Jun, chief economist at Huatai Asset Management.

In the automotive sector, China argues overcapacity is concentrated in combustion-engine cars rather than EVs and says market mechanisms will eventually weed out weak players.

Moreover, some models by Chinese EV maker BYD sell in Germany for more than double their price in China – an argument that critics use against Europe’s concerns over unfair pricing.

China also says many of its firms are more innovative, hence more competitive. It can point to surpassing the United States as world leader in patent applications.

One industry where global demand does not keep up with Chinese production, though, is solar.

Xuyang Dong, China energy policy analyst at Climate Energy Finance in Sydney, estimates China’s wafer, cell and module capacity coming online in 2024 is sufficient to meet annual global demand now through to 2032.

“If you think of it from this perspective, the Chinese government is subsidising the whole world’s green transition,” said Yue Su, principal China economist at the Economist Intelligence Unit.

“Whether this is fair to EU manufacturers or workers is a different question.”

“Having said that, even if the West increases tariffs, I still foresee that China is going to dominate in many of these industries.” – Reuters

Festive flavors await as the 16th Philippine Food Expo serves fiery culinary competitions, sumptuous cooking demos, and seminars for all

Food aficionados and culinary enthusiasts alike can look forward to the upcoming 16th Philippine Food Expo, a prestigious trade event showcasing the diverse and vibrant culinary landscape of the Philippines, as it caters to unique gastronomic cravings from April 12 to 14, 2024, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila.

Serving as a melting pot of flavors, gathering industry professionals, chefs, food entrepreneurs, and foodies alike, the expo will bring together over 300 food and beverage exhibitors serving the latest innovations, produce, products, and technology from across the country.

As the three-day event takes a further step in being true to its commitment as the “Only All-Filipino Food and Beverage Show,” everyone from the everyday Filipino consumer to international traders and importers of food products can look forward to highlights of the expo that include a series of technical and business sessions, product and cooking demonstrations, and other special events.

Heating the exhibition grounds is the highly anticipated Culinary Challenge Competition, where students and faculty members from 36 culinary schools and universities nationwide will go head-to-head in a friendly battle of skill, creativity, and talent.

With over eight categories to compete in including “PINASarap Breakfast,” “Kitchen Masters,” “Modern Filipino Dessert,” and Mystery Ingredient, visitors will definitely crave and cheer for more as they witness remarkable culinary prowess on display from the competition participants.

A series of captivating and fiery cooking demonstrations will also be featured on stage throughout the event, where renowned chefs showcase their techniques and share their culinary secrets with eager audiences.

Catch the “Bartending Show with Flair” by Evolve University Class or discover the “World’s First Adobo” by Executive Chef Christopher Carangian. Sweeten the deal with a cake decorating demo from content creator, Joycelyn Escarez of Cakes N’ Cookies by Joyce, or savor the experience of learning how to cook Paella de Benguet, Pinakbet Ratatouille, and Taro Salpicao with Chef Manuel De Leon of Hotel And Restaurant Chefs’ Association Of The Philippines (HRCAP).

From traditional Filipino delicacies to modern fusion cuisine, attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and gain insights into various culinary arts.

Looking for more? Attend a lineup of informative seminars and workshops simultaneous to the three-day event, including “Crafting Success: the Art and Business of Mixology and Bartending” by Evolve University Class, Calye Culinarya’s “Latest Trend in Healthy Filipino Beverages,” or join the Department of Agriculture’s Young Farmers Challenge and Agriculture Investment Forum to learn more about its  ongoing program that aims to provide financial grants to young Filipinos looking to start agri-fishery enterprises, and offer support through coaching, mentoring, and other development assistance.

Engage with industry experts, exchange ideas, and gain valuable knowledge to stay ahead in the ever-evolving culinary landscape of the Philippines.

The 16th Philippine Food Expo not only celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines but also serves as a platform for networking, collaboration, and inspiration within the food industry. With its engaging activities, mouthwatering offerings, and vibrant atmosphere, the Expo is expected to leave a lasting impression on all who are set to attend, reaffirming the Philippines’ position as a culinary destination of choice. Pre-Register online until March 29, 2024 to avail a discounted entrance fee or walk-in during the event days on April 12, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from April 13 to 14, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Philippine Food Expo 2024 is co-presented by the Department of Agriculture and is in cooperation with the Department of Tourism, the Department of Trade and Industry, the Export Development Council, the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc., and UnionBank of the Philippines. It is supported by GS1 Philippines, Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industries Philippines, Inc., La Camara, Philippines Norway Business Council, Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association, Inc. (PAGASA), Hotel And Restaurant Chefs’ Association Of The Philippines (HRCAP), Council of Hotel and Restaurant Educators of the Philippines (COHREP), Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), Philippine Association of Food Technologists, Inc. (PAFT,Inc), Food Caterers Association of the Philippines (FCAP), and Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP).

The three-day exhibition is in partnership with the University of Santo Tomas, College of Tourism and Hotel Management, Merit Stainless Steel, Everest Appliances, Waters Philippines, and Camel. Its official media partners include the Inquirer Group of Companies, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer.net, Megamobile, BusinessWorld, Chinese Commercial News, Business Mirror, Pilipino Mirror, Philippine Graphic, COOK Magazine, SunStar Cebu, Exhibits Today, Digiboards, Inc., Bitesized.ph, WhenInManila.com, Village Pipol Magazine, and DiscoverMNL.

For event updates, follow #PhilFoodExpo2024 on Facebook and Instagram. To participate as an exhibitor or for any event inquiries, contact the official event manager at info@eventsbycut.com or through direct lines 8363-5192 / 8363-4900 / 8362-2266.

 

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