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Why Ed Sheeran’s court victory sounds good for the music industry

ED SHEERAN

THERE’s a good chance you’ve heard a song by Ed Sheeran called “Shape of You.” It’s been streamed over 3 billion times on Spotify and viewed over 5 billion times on YouTube.

The song “Oh Why” by Sam Chokri is less well known. But Chokri claimed that Sheeran had copied it when composing his hugely successful track.

That long-running claim has now been dismissed after a judge decided that, while the two songs are similar, Sheeran had “neither deliberately nor subconsciously copied” Chokri’s composition. The verdict was no doubt a relief for Sheeran, and should be celebrated by anyone who values creativity.

It was also a good chance for the music industry, which has changed so much in recent years, to get a clear sense of what is (and what isn’t) protected by a law that is often misunderstood.

Put simply then, the test for copyright infringement has two parts. The first (in a music case) is about whether the alleged infringer has heard the piece of music they are accused of copying. After all, you can’t copy something you haven’t heard. But it is very hard to present actual evidence that someone has heard a song before, so the legal standard is set quite low.

In fact, this test has been overcome in other situations, such as a case in the US where 3.8 million views on YouTube was considered enough to assume that the singer Katy Perry had heard a song.

In the Sheeran case, Chokri’s side argued in court that Sheeran habitually and deliberately copied and concealed the work of other songwriters. Chokri’s lawyer said: “Mr. Sheeran is undoubtedly very talented, he is a genius. But he is also a magpie. He borrows ideas and throws them into his songs, sometimes he will acknowledge it but sometimes he won’t.”

They claimed Sheeran could have heard their song via social media, through music industry contacts, or simply through his own interest in the UK music scene.

Sheeran said that to the best of his knowledge he had never heard Chokri’s song before, but when questioned in court, he couldn’t completely rule out the possibility. “That is why we are here,” he said.

This highlights a problem with this part of the legal test, since music is so easily and widely disseminated thanks to streaming technology and social media. It is hard for anyone to deny the possibility that they have heard any song before.

But the judge decided that despite Chokri’s “undoubted” talents, and efforts by his management team to create some hype around the 2015 release of “Oh Why,” the song had enjoyed “limited success.” As a result, the likelihood that Sheeran had heard it was not that great.

The second part of the copyright infringement test is about how similar the songs are — and this is where things get complicated, because copyright law is not supposed to protect ideas, it only protects original expressions of ideas.

Essentially this means that common musical elements are freely available for everyone to use and draw upon, allowing the creative process to flow. But this has to be carefully balanced against giving copyright protection to artists for their original creations so that they can protect, control and be paid for their work.

In the Sheeran case, both sides presented expert evidence from musicologists about how similar — or dissimilar — the songs were. Chokri’s side highlighted the tune, vocal phrasing, harmonies and the fact that the lyrics “Oh I” (Sheeran) and “Oh why” (Chokri) were used as part of a “call and response” in both songs.

Sheeran’s side pointed out differences such as the mood, differences in the harmonies and the response, both melodically and rhythmically. They also argued that the parts which are similar are so common in music that it was merely a coincidence.

The judge agreed with Sheeran, noting the similarities but also significant differences. The similarities, he said crucially, were “commonplace.” Commonplace elements are not — and should not — be protected by copyright, so cannot be infringed.

The 11-day trial which led to the judgment in Sheeran’s favor would have been an expensive and stressful experience. But on the plus side, as such a high-profile case, it has helped to update the role of UK copyright law in the modern music industry.

The first part of the copyright test was considered in the context of music streaming, which makes it harder to prove you’ve never heard a song before. And the second part of the test, about the similarities between songs, clarified what parts of musical expression are protected, and what is available for everyone to use.

The law must strike the right balance between protecting and encouraging creativity. In recent years there has been a growing trend of accusations over copying, which has become a major concern for songwriters. Sheeran has even said he now records all his songwriting just in case a claim is made later so that he can prove how he came up with his own song.

Copyright is supposed to encourage artistic endeavor, not stifle it. Thankfully, the outcome of this case puts the balance back where it belongs, only protecting original expressions of creativity. It should come as a relief to songwriters — and the music fans who enjoy their work.

 

Hayleigh Bosher is a Senior Lecturer in International Property Law at the Brunei University London.

Duterte extends franchise of Smart Broadband, five others

PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte’s office on Monday released approved laws extending the franchise of Smart Broadband, Inc. and five other telecommunication firms.

Mr. Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11678, which extends for another 25 years the franchise given to Smart Broadband, Inc., a subsidiary of Smart Communications, Inc., which is chaired by Manuel V. Pangilinan.

Smart Communications is the wireless subsidiary of PLDT, Inc, one of the country’s major telecommunication providers.

Mr. Duterte also renewed for another 25 years the franchise granted to Odiongan Telephone Corp., Mati Telephone Corp., Bicol Telephone and Telegraph, Inc., Marbel Telephone System, Inc., and Yulo Telephone System, Inc.

Mr. Duterte also signed laws approving the franchise bids of Capricom Broadcasting Network, Sulu-Tawi-Tawi Broadcasting Foundation, and Southern Luzon State University.

In July 2020, his allies in Congress rejected the franchise application of ABS-CBN Corp., the largest television network in the Philippines.

Last year, the media giant announced a partnership with rival TV5 Network, Inc, which is owned by Mr. Pangilinan’s MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., to allow more of its content to air on free television across the country.

In 2021, Mr. Duterte said he would bar ABS-CBN from using free TV and radio frequencies even if it gets a fresh franchise from Congress. — Kyle Aristophere T. Atienza

HolyWeek/EasterNews (04/12/22)

Richmonde Ortigas Easter Break Escape

Chapel holds novena masses starting Easter Sunday

OUR Lady of the Rosary Chapel in Barrio San Miguel, Manila — the home of Nuestra Señora del Rosario — will commemorate Our Lady of the Rosary’s feast day on April 16 with a series of Novena prayers. Being a Black Saturday, however, the Novena will have to be prayed in private. But Novena Masses will be held the next day, April 17, Easter Sunday, at 9 a.m. On succeeding days from April 18 to 23, the Novena Masses start at 5:30 p.m. until the following Sunday, April 24, at 10 a.m. The capillita is open to whoever wishes to join the Novena Masses. To reach the white chapel, traveling north on Ayala Bridge, turn left at its foot on Carlos Palanca Street (formerly Echague). The white capillita is 200 meters away on the right-hand side at 505 Carlos Palanca St. in Manila.

Some Robinsons Malls open this Holy Week

FIVE Robinsons Malls will remain open during Holy Week (April 14, Maundy Thursday and April 15, Good Friday). These are: Robinsons Tagaytay which will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Robinsons Luisita, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Robinsons Place Antipolo, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Robinsons Place La Union, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on April 14 and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 15; and Robinsons Starmills in San Fernando, Pampanga from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on April 14, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on April 15. Some Robinsons Malls will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Maundy Thursday, but will be closed on Good Friday. These are: Robinsons Galleria South, Robinsons Place Ilocos, Robinsons Place Lipa, Robinsons Place Naga, Robinsons Place Palawan, Robinsons Place Pangasinan, Robinsons Place Santiago, Robinsons Place Tuguegarao, Robinsons Angeles, Robinsons Place Dasma, Robinsons Place Gen Trias, and Robinsons Place Malolos. The following malls will be closed on both days: Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Magnolia, Robinsons Place Manila, Forum Robinsons, Robinsons Place Las Pinas, Robinsons Novaliches, Robinsons Otis, Robinsons Sta. Rosa, Robinsons Cainta, Robinsons Place Imus, Robinsons Town Mall Los Banos, Robinsons Town Mall Malabon and Robinsons Metro East. They will reopen on April 16 (Black Saturday).-

Alabang Town Center holds Easter Academy

FOR the month of April, the Alabang Town Center will hold The Easter Academy, a month-long calendar of fun, educational, and physical activities for children. The Easter Academy kicks off on April 16 and 17 with The Easter Cup, a challenging obstacle course that teams (groups of five) can compete on. There will be two divisions: Peewee for ages four to seven, and Junior for ages eight to 12.  On April 17 there will be an Easter Egg Hunt. Search for the Golden Egg for a chance to win a gift certificate from TimeZone worth P1,000. There will be five hunting schedules and three divisions: Toddlers, Peewee, and Junior. Individual activities are available, too. On April 23, the Alabang Town Center will celebrate World Book Day with an entire afternoon of activities for kids and the kids-at-heart. Donate a book to join the storytelling and art workshops by Southville International School, plus a chance to meet TAYO, the friendly bus. For more details and the mechanics for joining the activities, visit  https://facebook.com/AlabangTownCenter/photos/pcb.10159784283665813/10159784280830813

Summit Hotels offer Easter treats

ROBINSONS Hotels and Resorts’ Summit Hotels chain is offering a number of deals for this holiday. In Tagaytay, the Summit Ridge Hotel has special room packages for as low as P5,000++ which come with two tickets to Easter activities such as a magic show, egg hunting, and loot bags for kids while a Special Easter Lunch Buffet will be offered at Café Summit. Over at Summit Greenhills, families will be able to avail of an Easter Holiday package at P3,288 net for its deluxe rooms inclusive of breakfast for two plus two tickets to Easter Wonderland where kids aged six to 12 will be able to enjoy egg hunting, egg painting, and bunny hat making. Themed lunch and snack buffets await tourists and locals at Summit Hotel Naga, Summit Galleria Cebu, and Grand Summit Hotel General Santos. Summit Hotel Naga offers a deal of P888 net per person and P388 net for children with activities such as egg hunting and an egg painting contest, plus sweet treats and giveaways for kids. At Summit Galleria Cebu, deals at P850 net per person and P388 net for children are up for grabs. Kids get to bring home free donuts, plus a chance to join in egg hunting, face painting, and Egg Wizard activities. At Grand Summit Hotel General Santos, the Easter Lunch Buffet rate is P880 net per person and P440 net for children. For more deals and information visit www.summithotels.ph

Lenten, Easter Activities at Sheraton Manila Bay

IT’S going to be a restful Holy Week capped by an activity-laden Easter Sunday at Sheraton Manila Bay. Avail of the Easter Room Package for a staycation at a Deluxe Room for two adults and two kids below 12 years old, inclusive of breakfast buffet, lunch or dinner at Pacific Lounge, P500 worth of food and beverage credit at the Pool Bar, special turndown amenity, and late check out up to 2 p.m. Stay period from April 9 to 17, On Easter Sunday, April 17, the Pacific Lounge will hold a Spacestastic Easter Party which includes an Easter brunch buffet for P1,200++ per adult and P600++ per child aged six to 11 years, arts and crafts activities, parlor games, loot bags, and access to the Easter egg hunt where kids can get a chance to win prizes and giveaways from sponsors.  Meanwhile, for those who wish to celebrate at home, there is the Easter Surprise Basket for P750. To order, visit the Sheraton Kiosk located at Robinsons Place Manila, Padre Faura Wing, Mall Entrance or call the Culinary Courier for delivery at 0917-583-7294, 0917-583-7326 or e-mail sh.mnlsb.fnb@sheraton.com. The Pacific Lounge is at the 21st floor, Sheraton Manila Bay, M. Adriatico cor. Gen Malvar Sts. Malate, Manila. For reservations call +632 5318-0788 or e-mail reservations.manilabay@sheraton.com.

Galleria hotels offer Easter packages

THE HOTELS at the Robinsons Galleria area are offering Easter Festival in Galleria packages. Offers start at P5,500 net for an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room at Crowne Plaza or P4,500 net at Holiday Inn with tickets to the Easter Festival. Enjoy the Easter Festival’s different activities: arts and crafts, singing, dancing and Easter egg hunting. Complete the Easter Festival with a special lunch buffet for four persons at Seven Corners Restaurant. For inquiries and reservations contact: Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria at 8790-3100 or e-mail cpgm.reservations@ihg.com, and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria at 8790-9400 or e-mail higm.reservations@ihg.com

Century Park Hotel’s Easter party returns

CENTURY Park Hotel will hold a live Easter Sunday celebration on April 17, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Grand Ballroom. A yearly tradition (which was on old for the two years of the COVID-19 pandemic), children and parents alike can look forward to Easter Sunday’s games, raffle, egg hunting and other activities. This year’s Easter Carnival 2022 is open to children under 12. There will be giant inflatables, face painting, a photo booth, raffle and games, a magic show, and an egg hunt. The event includes a set meal plus an array of food cart treats (popcorn, ice cream, French fries, and hotdog on a stick) that can be availed for a nominal fee. Kids get to take home a special loot bag courtesy of Century Park Hotel’s Easter partners. Tickets are available for P1,500 net which includes a loot bag and set meals for one adult and one kid.  Extra tickets can be purchased for P1,000 for one person (kid or adult) which comes with a set meal and a loot bag. To purchase tickets, call or send a message via SMS at 0917-633-2545 or e-mail sales9@centurypark.com.ph. The hotel also has an Easter Staycation Package available from April 11-18. The Easter Carnival Room Bundle comes with a complimentary Easter Carnival 2022 ticket good for one adult and one kid. The packages (Deluxe Room, P5,500 net/night; Park Tower Suite, P6,500 net/night; Premier Suite, P7,500 net/night) each come with breakfast for two, access to the pools and jacuzzi plus a 50% discount on the Churrasco-style Buffet at Café in the Park upon presentation of the Easter ticket (one ticket/person and one-time use only). There is also the Easter Week Getaway packages (P5,000 net/night for a Deluxe Room, P6,000 net/night for Park Tower and P7,000 net/night for a Premiere Suite) which come with set breakfast for two, and use of the pools and jacuzzi. For reservations, contact 0956-523-2880 or e-mail reservations@centurypark.com.ph.

Easter packages, parties at Richmonde Hotels

THIS Holy Week, the Richmonde Hotels have a number of Easter offers. Richmonde Hotel Ortigas has the Easter Break Escape promo until April 17. The room rate can be as low as P3,000 net per night for a two-night stay inclusive of daily breakfast at the Richmonde Café for two adults and two children aged five years old and below, and use of the Health Club’s gym and heated indoor pool. In addition, all in-house guests on April 14, 15, and 16 will enjoy complimentary Afternoon Snacks at the café from 2 to 4 p.m., and Ice Crushers at the poolside at 10 and 11 a.m., and 1 and 5 p.m. For guests who wish to stay for just one night, rates start at P3,200 net with breakfast buffet for two, and P2,600 net without breakfast. Eastwood Richmonde Hotel has special room packages for as low as P4,500 net for two adults and two children 5 years old and below, including a breakfast buffet at Eastwood Café+Bar. Those checked in on April 14, 15, and 16 can enjoy a free afternoon snack buffet. Walk in guests can enjoy the merienda for P500 net per person. At rates starting at P5,900 net, the Easter Celebration Package on April 16 or 17 includes room accommodations, breakfast buffet for two, late check-out at 5 p.m., and two tickets to the hotel’s Easter Fun Fair Party on April 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grand Ballroom. There will be an Easter egg hunt for children two to six years old and seven to 12 years old, live music and dance entertainment, a magic show, various game booths, a kiddie lunch buffet, food carts, a photo booth, glitter tattoos, loot bags, and raffle prizes. All attendees are encouraged to wear their most creative Easter Hat or Fun Fair costume for a chance to win gift certificates for hotel accommodation. The Best in Costume awards will be given to one child and one adult. Tickets are priced at P950 net per head (adult or child). Children under the age of two can participate for free if accompanied by a paying adult. Richmonde Hotel Iloilo has its Easter Eggsclusives promo packages available until April 17, with discounted rates as low as P3,780 net (Sunday to Thursday) and P4,050 net (Friday and Saturday), when staying for two nights or more. All rates come with a breakfast buffet for two adults and two children ages five and under at The Granary, and use of the Fitness Center’s gym and outdoor pool. To reserve or inquire, call Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638-7777 or 0917-859 7914 or e-mail stay@richmondeortigas.com; Eastwood Richmonde Hotel at (632) 8570-7777 or 0917-521 6867 or e-mail stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com; or Richmonde Hotel Iloilo at (6333) 328-7888 or 0917-563-3558 or e-mail stay@richmondeiloilo.com.

Farm-tastic Easter Weekend at Crimson Hotel

CRIMSON Hotel Filinvest City Manila offers itself as a Easter weekend destination with its “egg-citing” activities, staycation packages, and dining offers. The hotel’s Easter Staycation packages from April 16-17 have rates starting at P7,700 net for a Deluxe Room which includes access to the hotel’s exclusive amenities, breakfast buffet at Café Eight, two tickets to the Farm Easterville event, and complimentary late check-out. Farm Easterville, a farm-themed Easter Sunday event, will be held at the Crimson Grand Ballroom. In addition to an egg-hunt and afternoon snacks, participants can join the live entertainment, interactive games, and an egg-decorating contest. Each participant can take home Easter chocolate and other giveaways too. The rate per person is P1,100 net. Café Eight is hosting a lavish buffet brunch with international and local dishes on April 17 for P1,900 net per person. Meanwhile, Baker J’s has an Easter Gourmet Box filled with uniquely-shaped chocolates from gigantic eggs to farm animals and Easter bunnies, a roll of beef and lamb sausage, a loaf of artisan bread, and a bottle of wine. Available from April 11-17 for P2,500 per box. Baker J also has an array of chocolate candies that come in different shapes such as eggs, chicken, bunnies, and mini fish. To get tickets to the Farm Easterville event, visit https://bit.ly/farmeastervilletickets. For more information or room reservation, visit www.crimsonhotel.com/manila.

Easter treats, activities at City of Dreams Manila

CITY of Dreams Manila highlights activities at DreamPlay, and a collection of artisanal chocolates and confections at Café Society for Easter. There is DreamPlay’s Ultimate Easter Eggstravaganza on Easter Sunday, where a VIP Pass (P2,399 net per person) gives pass holders all-day access to all the play space’s attractions, a make-your-own Easter egg activity, Easter egg cookie baking, an egg hunt at 3 p.m. with special freebies and chocolates to be awarded to winners, and an Easter parade at 5 p.m. The participants walk through City of Dreams Manila’s The Shops at The Boulevard retail strip as they fill their loot bags with Easter goodies from restaurants along the strip and from participating retail shops such as Boss and Furla. VIP Pass ticket holders are also entitled to the following freebies: an Easter tote bag, one scoop of bubble gum ice cream at Chez Gingy, and special DreamShop items from DreamWorks’ How To Train Your Dragon movie. DreamPlay’s regular tickets with access to all the play space’s attractions are also available on the day at P1,500, while non-participating tickets can be purchased for P250. Guests can hop over to Café Society which is brimming with chocolate indulgences until April 17: Easter bunny and duck chocolates, colorful eggs with eight egg pralines, small bunny chocolates in white, dark, milk or ruby variants, Easter chocolate chicks, chocolate eggs in a meringue nest, Easter cookies and cream tiles, Easter cherry gianduja bars, among others. Other Easter-themed confections include bunny face cookies, egg chocolate sugar cookies, bunny green tea and white chocolate mousse cake,  among others. For inquiries, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com.

The Pen holds Easter Egg hunt again

AFTER sheltering at home these past two years, The Peninsula Manila is inviting guests back to celebrate Easter Sunday on April 17 with a variety of activities and experiences for the whole family that include splashing in the pool or enjoying classic holiday traditions such as Easter Egg Hunts and special meals together as a family. There is the Easter Egg Hunt at The Conservatory where children enjoy activities while filling their Easter baskets with eggs at The Peninsula Candyland Adventure and Egg Hunt. This year, they can choose one of two sessions for the hunt, with a morning session taking place from 10 a.m. to noon, and another in the afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. The Peninsula Candyland Adventure and Egg Hunt activities include: Felt Eggs decorating; Craft Lollipop decorating; Papier-mâché Bunny, Bear, and Chick painting; the Candy Jenga Corner; the Ice Cream Stacking Corner; a Playground; and the Easter Egg Hunt. Only guests availing the Easter room package or Escolta restaurant’s Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet will enjoy complimentary access to the Peninsula Candyland Adventure and Egg Hunt. Only one accompanying adult per one child 10 years old and below. Throughout the Easter holiday weekend, from April 14 to 16, young guests can try Easter painting kits, playtime in bubble baths and in the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, breakfast buffets in Escolta, and a fun Easter experience in the Peninsula Candyland Adventure and Egg Hunt on April 17, Easter Sunday, when their parents book the It’s Hip to Hop to The Peninsula this Easter room package. Rates start at P10,000 for a Deluxe Room (exclusive of taxes) and include a breakfast buffet in Escolta for two adults and two children, one Easter painting welcome amenity kit, and one passport to the Peninsula Candyland Adventure and Egg Hunt. Stay dates are April 14, 15, and 16. There is also an Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet in Escolta on April 17, noon to 3 p.m. (P4,300 for adults, and P1,700 for children under 12). The buffet features a spread that includes soups and mixed salads, fresh seafood, a variety of cheeses, pasta creations, a carving station, breakfast specialties, and a dessert buffet. Children under six years old get one passport to the Peninsula Candyland Adventure and Egg Hunt (only one complimentary passport per one adult and one child 10 years old and below availing of Escolta restaurant’s Easter Sunday Brunch). Meanwhile, seafood lovers can gather in Escolta and choose from a varied menu featuring the ocean’s bounty on April 15 and 16, 6:30-10 p.m. (P3,500 for adults; P1,400 for children under 12). This Easter weekend, the hotel will offer afternoon tea at The Upper Lobby. Tuck into macarons and chocolate cake and French pastries, in addition to the usual suspects of smoked Scottish salmon sandwiches and hot scones. There will also be a live station featuring fresh crepes and Filipino merienda specialties such as bibingka and puto bumbong. Afternoon tea will be offered on April 14, 15, 16, and 17, 2:30-5:30 p.m. (P3,000 with one flute of Champagne, P2,400 without). Finally, visit The Peninsula Boutique at the basement arcade where Easter-themed treats will be available from April 5 to 17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For inquiries or reservations on The Peninsula Manila’s Easter room packages and culinary experience, call 8887-2888 (ext. 6630 for Rooms Reservations or 6694 for Restaurant Reservations), or e-mail reservationpmn@peninsula.com or diningpmn@peninsula.com.

EDSA Shangri-la celebrates easter

JOY, music, and laughter are part of the Easter celebration at Edsa Shangri-La’s La Casita Madrigal. With an interactive mini-musical by Clowning Around plus activities for the family the celebration will be on April 17, 2-5 p.m., at the Isala Grand Ballroom. Registration starts at 1 p.m. with rate set at P2,500 net per person. The price is inclusive of access to all entertainment and activities, snacks, and drinks. For tickets, visit bit.ly/ESLLaCasita or e-mail events.esl@shangri-la.com. In addition, HEAT will offer an “egg-stra” special Easter Lunch buffet that feature international and Asian cuisine. Specialties include its signature 36-hour roasted Angus beef leg, Japanese and Chinese favorites, Indian fare, Mediterranean dishes, and heirloom Filipino recipes. The Easter lunch buffet is P2,950 net, and is available on April 17 from noon to 2:30 p.m. Meanwhile, an Easter Afternoon Tea set is available daily at P1,450 net from 2 to 6 p.m. for the whole month of April. The Bakeshop also offers Easter treats, like its Easter Cake (P1,450 net) and Easter Hamper (P2,800 net) which are available until April 30. Japanese restaurant Senju will have a buffet on April 17 for P2,800 net. For home celebrations, there are the Easter Take-Me-Home sets for P5,500 net (good for five persons). Order a home feast from April 11-17. For takeaway and delivery orders, a 24-hour notice is needed. For inquiries and reservations, call 8633-8888, or e-mail manilaedsa@shangri-la.com. For takeaway and delivery, visit https://bit.ly/eslshangshop.

Celebrating Easter at RWM

EASTER is being celebrated at Resorts World Manila (RWM) through hotel offers and dining deals. International hotel brands, Marriott Hotel Manila and Sheraton Manila Hotel, offer Easter Room Packages that include an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast for two plus additional dining credits. Book the special offer until April 17. At the Holiday Inn Express Manila-Newport City, an overnight stay in a Superior Room with breakfast for two comes with a free Easter Carrot Cake for rates starting at P5,246 net until April 13. Kids can enjoy Marriott Cafe’s Easter Holiday Buffet with Egg Hunt and Dessert Table for P3,188 net on April 16-17. Hilton Manila’s Madison Lounge & Bar’s offers Easter egg kits, carrot cake, and hot cross buns in a special Easter bundle that also includes lamb chops and an 11-Spiced Spring Chicken. Order a set for the family from April 14-17. Feast with the family at Casa Buenas with the Seafood Fiesta for P1,999 net that features octopus and coconut kilawin, gambas al ajilo, wood oven roasted salmon with adlai and mixed vegetables, and garlic baked oyster. The Seafood Fiesta menu is and Easter Hamper (P2,800 net) which are available until April 30. Japanese restaurant Senju will have a buffet on April 17 for P2,800 net. For home celebrations, there are the Easter Take-Me-Home sets for P5,500 net (good for five persons). Order a home feast from April 11-17. For takeaway and delivery orders, a 24-hour notice is needed. For inquiries and reservations, call 8633-8888, or e-mail manilaedsa@shangri-la.com. For takeaway and delivery, visit https://bit.ly/eslshangshop.

Top 4 contenders UP Fighting Maroons battle NU Bulldogs

UP MAROONS’ ZAVIER LUCERO — THE UAAP FB

By John Bryan Ulanday

UNSCATHED leader Ateneo is determined to maintain perfection against rival La Salle while University of the Philippines (UP) and National University (NU) tussle in a bid to stay inside the top four as teams begin to jockey for playoff positions in the pivotal UAAP Season 84 second round at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Enjoying a lone view at the summit with a pristine 7-0 card and a 33-game win streak since 2018, the reigning champion Blue Eagles collide with the third-running Green Archers (5-2) at 7 p.m. with hopes of mirroring their 74-57 win in the first round to sustain their drive for a fourth straight University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) diadem.

The Fighting Maroons (6-1), for their part, seek to stay within striking distance from pacer Ateneo against the No. 4 Bulldogs (4-3) in the curtain raiser at 10 a.m. of the four-game bill that also features crucial duels between struggling squads.

Lurking behind the Final Four with a 3-4 slate, Far Eastern University (FEU) locks horn with Adamson (1-6) at 12:30 p.m. followed by the 4:30 p.m. clash of Santo Tomas (2-5) and winless University of the East (UE) (0-7).

But all eyes will be on Ateneo, which clipped its first-round challengers by an average winning margin of 15.6 points — making its target on the back way bigger this time around.

“Every game in the second round is really going to be a dog fight. We’re not looking at our record or how many wins we have,” said deputy Sandy Arespacochaga as Ateneo gets another crack at La Salle with fans in attendance this time after playing behind closed doors in the first round.

The same goes for UP and La Salle, which have been tagged as the strongest threats to Ateneo’s reign, as they eye revenge after bowing in the first round to stay on the coattails of their rival.

“We have to get as many wins as we can. So far, we have five. We want to stay on the path as we’re trying to catch up with Ateneo and UP,” said La Salle coach Derrick Pumaren.

“It doesn’t matter where we are in the standings right now. What’s important is staying prepared and ready to battle. The desire for us is to unleash our best every game,” noted UP tactician Goldwin Monteverde.

The UAAP will take a break after Tuesday’s lone playdate for the Holy Week before plunging back to action next Tuesday.

ACEN to refinance unit’s loan, reinvest in renewables

AC ENERGY Corp. (ACEN) signed an amended and restated omnibus loan and security agreement with its wholly owned subsidiary South Luzon Thermal Energy Corp. (SLTEC) to increase its existing loan to P13.7 billion from P11 billion.

The loan facility will be used to refinance the existing loan and fund ACEN’s partial redemption of capital in SLTEC, with the proceeds of the equity redemption to be used for renewable energy project investments.

The lenders of the energy transition financing include Bank of Philippine Islands and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.

Both companies also forged an administration and management agreement giving ACEN full control and management of SLTEC’s two-unit, each with 135 megawatts (MW), SLTEC circulating fluidized bed thermal power plant, as well as an operations and maintenance agreement.

In pursuit of the listed energy platform’s goal of 100% renewable energy-backed generation output by 2025, its 244-MW capacity coal-fired power plant in Calaca, Batangas is planned for decommissioning 15 years ahead of the end of its technical life.

This action follows the energy transition mechanism (ETM) spearheaded by the Asian Development Bank in South Asia and Southeast Asia to provide low-cost capital to coal-fired power plants accelerating their retirement and strengthening the presence of clean and renewable energy in the process.

“In leading the energy transition, enabling mechanisms such as the ETM help accelerate our shift to a low carbon growth path and unlock new renewable energy investments,” said ACEN President and Chief Executive Officer Eric T Francia.

Mr. Francia also noted that the public and private sectors’ shared commitment of achieving a low carbon economy can “make an impact on our climate goals.”

At the stock exchange on Monday, shares in ACEN advanced by P0.01 or 0.12% to close at P8.55 each. — Ram Christian S. Agustin

Demand for condominiums in CBDs bounces back

BUILDINGS at the Makati central business district are seen in this file photo. — PHILIPPINE STAR/ MIGUEL DE GUZMAN
BUILDINGS at the Makati central business district are seen in this file photo. — PHILIPPINE STAR/ MIGUEL DE GUZMAN

DEMAND for condominiums and commercial properties in central business districts (CBDs) around the country have surged after the government and many companies implemented return-to-office orders, according to online real estate marketplace platform Lamudi.

In a statement, Lamudi said latest data showed that CBD-hosting cities in Metro Manila have recorded stronger demand for commercial property, while residential rental inquiries have also increased.

“In the financial capital of the country, Makati, the P100,000 to P200,000 price range attracted the largest share of leads for commercial properties to rent in Lamudi in Q1 2022. Offices followed by buildings and retail were the most popular commercial subcategories on Lamudi in the same period,” it said.

Lamudi noted demand for residential rentals in Makati City surged with leads jumping around 40% in the first quarter of 2022 from the fourth quarter of 2021.

“Inquiries from property seekers outside of the metro increased during this period, with seekers from Cebu City and Calamba joining Imus and Angeles as part of the top sources of leads for the city,” it added.

Leads for commercial properties in Pasig City also increased in the first quarter, Lamudi said.

“In terms of the most popular price segment for commercial properties for rent, the P100,000 to P200,000 generated the most leads in the first quarter of this year. In the same period, offices overtook warehouses as the most searched subcategory for commercial properties in the city. This coincides with an uptick in inquiries for residential rentals, which shot up by 28% quarter on quarter in Q1 2022,” Lamudi said. 

“The leads for commercial properties in Quezon City had a double-digit increase in percentage from Q4 2021 to Q1 2022, with commercial rental properties priced P100,000 to P200,000 garnering the most leads,” it added.

According to Lamudi, the increase in demand can be attributed to the recent government order for all Philippine Economic Zone Authority-registered information technology-business process outsourcing companies and business enterprises to conduct on-site work starting April 1.

Major Philippine companies have also expressed support for the return-to-office mandate, as they hope the increased business activity will drive economic recovery.

Metro Manila and other areas are now under the most lenient Alert Level 1, as the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections plunged and mobility curbs eased.

However, Lamudi noted commercial and office spaces should adapt to the so-called new normal in order to encourage employees to return to the office. Many workers have become used to work-from-home or hybrid work arrangements that were introduced when the pandemic began in March 2020.

“While (return to the office) offers promising opportunities for real estate players, it also presents challenges, primarily in making commercial spaces appealing to employees who have become used to working from home,” Lamudi CEO Kenneth Stern said.

“It’s essential to have value-adding amenities that promote work-life balance. These include daycare facilities that allow working mothers to bring their children to the workplace, and fitness centers that make it easy for professionals to embrace an active lifestyle,” he added. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave

Moody’s keeps stable outlook for Philippine banking system

BW FILE PHOTO

MOODY’S Investors Service kept its stable outlook for the Philippine banking system as their operating environment is expected to benefit from the reopening of the economy, but soured loans that remain above pre-pandemic levels will continue to pose risks.

Amid better economic conditions, Moody’s said banks’ profitability is seen to improve as loan loss buffers will likely go down.

“Loan-loss provisions as a percentage of gross loans will decrease to an average of about 0.8% in 2022 as asset quality stabilizes. Loan-loss provisions will still remain above pre-pandemic levels as banks continue to set aside provisions to cover lingering asset risks,” Moody’s said in a note on Monday.

Higher transaction volumes that will boost fee income will also be a boon for banks’ income, the debt watcher added.

“Net interest margins will be broadly stable even if interest rates rise because the repricing of loan rates and a gradual recovery in the origination of high-yield retail loans to pre-pandemic levels will offset increases in funding costs,” Moody’s said.

The credit rater expects non-performing loans to continue growing this year, although at a slower pace.

Moody’s said the lifting of regulatory relief measures is unlikely to lead to a sharp deterioration in the asset quality of lenders, as defaults by heavily affected small businesses and retail borrowers were mostly already recognized last year.

“Although conglomerates are a key source of systemic risk because bank loans are heavily concentrated among them, they will remain resilient because their diversified revenue sources will help avert a sharp drop in cash flow,” it said.

High default risk among small businesses affected by the pandemic such as those in the hospitality and retail sectors remain, but Moody’s believes the continued relaxation of mobility restrictions could help ease these.

Latest central bank data showed the banking industry’s bad loan ratio hit a three-month high of 4.24% in February. These borrowings increased by 2.38% to P472.664 billion from a year earlier.

In terms of capital buffers, Moody’s said lenders’ common equity Tier 1 capital ratio is likely to decrease to about 15% in 2022, which is still higher than the required minimum. Banks will likely use their capital to boost loan growth this year, it said.

Moody’s said banks’ funding conditions will be stable as they are largely backed by deposits.

“Loan-to-deposit ratios will rise to pre-pandemic levels as loan growth accelerates along with the economic recovery and deposit growth slows amid tighter liquidity in the system. However, banks will still have sufficient deposits to cover loan growth,” it said.

“Further, we expect the central bank to remain proactive in providing liquidity to the system to prevent any near-term liquidity stress that can result from a sudden change in economic conditions,” the debt watcher added.

Moody’s rates eight commercial banks and one state-led lender in the Philippines, which altogether account for about 82% of the industry’s total assets as of end-2021.

These are BDO Unibank, Inc. (baa2), Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (baa2), Land Bank of the Philippines (ba1), Bank of the Philippine Islands (baa2), Philippine National Bank (ba1), China Banking Corp. (baa3), UnionBank of the Philippines, Inc. (baa3), Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (ba1), and Security Bank Corp. (baa3). — L.W.T. Noble

College of St. Benilde collides with winless Jose Rizal Bombers in lone 97th NCAA offering

COLLEGE of St. Benilde Blazers’ Will Gozum (0) — NCAA/GMA

COLLEGE of St. Benilde (CSB) aims to keep its streak going while Jose Rizal University (JRU) fights for dear life as the two collide on Tuesday in the lone offering of the 97th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) basketball tournament at the La Salle Greenhills Gym.

The Blazers downed the Perpetual Help Altas, 83-73, on Saturday for their fourth straight victory and a 4-1 record and could stretch it to five with another win in their 3 p.m. duel with the Bombers, who remained winless in five starts.

It would also keep CSB’s stranglehold of the No. 3 spot and stay dangerously close to pace-setting Letran and San Beda, which are both unscathed in four outings.

While they appeared to be the favorites, neophyte CSB coach Charles Tiu was quick to defunct that notion.

“No team is easy picking, no games are easy. JRU doesn’t look like a winless team to me. I feel they had games when they probably deserved to win or should have won,” said Mr. Tiu.

The Taft-based dribblers are also eyeing to finish in the top two, which would give them not just an automatic Final Four berth but also a twice-to-beat advantage.

If it happens, they will be free from going to the complication of the play-in where the third to sixth placed squads will play each other in knockout showdowns for the right to claim the last two Final Four seats.

Mr. Tiu, however, prefers to take it a game at a time.

“We’ll just try to give it our best every game and we hope the results will follow,” he said.

MVP candidate Will Gozum is expected to lead the way anew for the Blazers along with AJ Benson, Robi Nayve and Miggy Corteza.

For JRU, it would need to sweep its last four games to have a chance at catching the last bus to the play-in. — Joey Villar

New York court dismisses complaint against Bloomberry Resorts

BLOOMBERRY Resorts Corp. announced on Monday that the New York court granted its motion to dismiss the complaint filed by Bangladesh Bank against its subsidiary, Bloombery Resorts and Hotels, Inc.

“The New York Court granted Bloomberry Resorts and Hotels’ motion to dismiss the complaint filed by Bangladesh Bank as against Bloomberry for lack of jurisdiction,” the company said in a disclosure.

The Solaire Resort & Casino operator said the decision and order was dated April 8 and was received on April 9.

The dispositive portion stated that the court granted Bloomberry Resorts and Hotels’ motion to dismiss the complaint. The court ordered that the complaint be “dismissed in its entirety as against the defendant, with costs and disbursements to defendant Bloomberry Resorts and Hotels,’ as taxed by the Clerk of the Court, and the Clerk is directed to enter judgment accordingly in favor of defendant.”

The complaint in the state court was for the conversion, theft, misappropriation; aiding and abetting the same; conspiracy to commit the same; fraud; aiding and abetting and conspiracy to commit fraud; conspiracy to commit trespass against chattels; unjust enrichment; and return of money received.

Bloomberry Resorts Corp. is a holding company for hotel and gaming and entertainment business companies.

Through its subsidiaries, the company is the owner and operator of Solaire Resort & Casino. Its other subsidiaries include Sureste Properties, Inc.; Bloomberry Resorts and Hotels, Inc.; Bloomberry Cruise Terminals, Inc.; Solaire Korea Co., Ltd.; and Bloomberry Resorts Japan, Inc.

Bloomberry Resorts Corp. reported that it trimmed its net loss for 2021 to P4.2 billion from a loss of P8.3 billion a year earlier.

Meanwhile, its consolidated net revenue in 2021 was up 24% to P22 billion from P17.8 billion in 2020.

At the stock exchange on Monday, Bloomberry Resorts Corp. shares were up 1.45% or P0.09 to close at P6.31 each. — Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson

Michael Buble finds a Higher calling on latest album

AFTER a 20-year career singer Michael Buble found a new focus for his 11th studio album, Higher.

“I was just so excited to, to try things to, to be things to not only to, to go to places where I might have feared to go earlier in my career or my life, but I was excited to rush in to the to the challenge.”

The Canadian singer said he strived to create innovative music.

“When I started, the goal was to make fresh music for an audience who, who had bought my records for 20 years. And I had no idea that by the end… it was fresh for me.”

The 13-track album was released on March 25 by Reprise Records, part of Warner Music Group, and features assists from Paul McCartney and Willie Nelson.

“Having someone like Paul, someone like Willie, take me under their wing and give me their blessing. Wow, hopefully, one day someone will think I’m one of those ducks too.”

Mr. Buble said his family inspired the album’s three original songs.

In 2016 Mr. Buble and his wife, Argentine actress Luisana Lopilato, announced that their oldest son Noah, who was three years old at the time, had been diagnosed with cancer. He has been in remission since 2017.

The music video for the lead single, “I’ll Never Not Love You” was inspired by the singer’s love of cinema and features romantic scenes from popular movies.

The couple used the end of the video as a birth announcement that they are expecting a fourth child.

“For me, it was less about, it was less about the what could come back financially and more about how all I could to tell the story of what I think is the greatest record of my life.” — Reuters

Federal Land to launch 3 new projects

AN ARTIST’S PERSPECTIVE of Federal Land, Inc.’s Quantum Residences along Taft Avenue, Pasay City — BW FILE PHOTO

FEDERAL LAND, Inc. said it is on track to hit this year’s targets as it launches new projects in Marikina, Manila, and the Manila Bay Area.

“We are optimistic that the sector will see a significant rebound this year. This is the reason we remain aggressive in introducing new properties in key areas in the metro. As more people resume their previous routines, we shall provide them with living options that will fit their needs and respond to their demand for a holistic, sustainable lifestyle,” Federal Land Sales Group Head Margarita Saenz-Resurreccion said in a statement.

Federal Land is planning to launch new residential towers in Marikina with Siena Towers, Manila with Quantum Residences, and in the Manila Bay Area with Mi Casa.

“All these developments are strategically located in areas with various commercial and lifestyle choices, with nearby schools, hospitals, and major thoroughfares. They feature a wide range of amenities and access to the outdoor space that allow residents to lead an active, well-balanced life,” Ms. Resurreccion said.

Siena Towers, located along Sumulong Highway in Marikina City, takes inspiration from the rural charm of Siena, Italy.

“It is an ideal option for those looking for an upgraded suburban living and access to modern conveniences at a reasonable price,” Federal Land said.

Federal Land said Quantum Residences, its three-tower mixed use condominium in Taft Avenue, Manila, is seeing robust demand from buyers.

It is also developing Mi Casa, a vertical residence located within the Central Business Park island in the Manila Bay Area in Pasay City.

“Overall, these properties are good investment options for those looking for a place to live, rent out, sell, or unwind,” Ms. Resurreccion said.

Cabaret, Life of Pi triumph at London’s Olivier Awards for theater

Cabaret won seven awards at the Olivier Awards in London. — PHOTO FROM KITKAT.CLUB/CABARET-LONDON/

LONDON —  A critically acclaimed revival of musical Cabaret and a stage adaptation of hit novel Life of Pi were the big winners at the Olivier Awards on Sunday, scooping the top prizes in Britain’s biggest night for theater.

After a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the London theater community reunited for a glitzy ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall.

Cabaret had led nominations with 11 nods. It won seven awards, including best musical revival and prizes for actors Eddie Redmayne and Jessie Buckley.

“This is the dream… This was the part that I played when I was a kid at school, it was the thing that got my passion for theater really fueled,” Mr. Redmayne said.

“And getting to do it every night with that extraordinary group of people was dumbfounding.”

Cabaret also won best supporting acting awards for Elliot Levey and Liza Sadovy and best director for Rebecca Frecknall.

Originally produced on Broadway in 1966, with music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, Cabaret follows the lives of characters linked to a seedy Berlin nightclub during the rise of the Nazis.

Oscar winner Redmayne played the Kit Kat Klub’s master of ceremonies and Buckley portrayed Sally Bowles, an English singer with more ambition than talent.

Ms. Frecknall said the musical was poignant “now with everything that is happening internationally.”

Life of Pi, based on Yann Martel’s book about a boy stranded on a life boat with a tiger, won five awards, including best new play, best actor for Hiran Abeysekera, and best supporting actor for the seven performers portraying the show’s puppet tiger.

“The fact that we’ve been nominated for a puppet character… is phenomenal and a landmark moment for puppetry,” actor Fred Davis. “Hopefully it opens the door for more puppets in central roles in theater in the future.”

Back To The Future – The Musical, based on the hit 1985 sci-fi film, won best new musical while play Constellations, about a relationship between a quantum physicist and a beekeeper, took best revival and best actress for Sheila Atim.

Liz Carr won best supporting actress for The Normal Heart, a new production of Larry Kramer’s play about the 1980s AIDS crisis in New York.

Like other industries, London’s West End was badly hit by the pandemic when its theaters were forced to close their doors in March 2020.

They began welcoming back audiences last spring, albeit not all and those that did, returned with smaller productions and at 50% capacity. Bigger productions resumed shows in the summer.

Established in 1976 and named after actor Laurence Olivier, the awards are Britain’s most prestigious theatrical honors. — Reuters

And the winner is…

LONDON —  The Olivier Awards for theater were handed out in London on Sunday, with musical Cabaret and play Life of Pi the productions scooping the most prizes. Below is a list of winners in the key categories.

Best New Play: Life of Pi

Best New Musical: Back to the Future – The Musical

Best Musical Revival: Cabaret

Best Revival: Constellations

Best Entertainment or Comedy Play: Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort Of)

Best Actress: Sheila Atim, Constellations

Best Actor: Hiran Abeysekera, Life of Pi

Best Actor in a Musical: Eddie Redmayne, Cabaret

Best Actress in a Musical: Jessie Buckley, Cabaret

Best Actor in a Supporting Role: Seven actors who play The Tiger, Life of Pi

Best Actress in a Supporting Role: Liz Carr, The Normal Heart

Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Musical: Liza Sadovy, Cabaret

Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical: Elliot Levey, Cabaret

Best Original Score or New Orchestrations: Orchestrator Simon Hale, Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical

Best Director: Rebecca Frecknall, Cabaret — Reuters

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