Category: Business Mirror

The Meat Importers and Traders Association (Mita) called on the Department of Agriculture (DA) to cease its pork import safeguard probe due to ‘lack’ of evidence that the arrival of foreign products injured the domestic hog industry.

Mita President Emeritus Jesus Cham made the pronouncement after the DA initiated an investigation into preliminary safeguard measures on imported pork, which may result in additional tariffs or import restrictions to protect the domestic hog industry.

In a letter to the DA dated October 16, Cham said the DA should terminate the investigation, noting the lack of prima facie evidence that pork imports caused injury to the hog sector.

‘While Mita supports the local swine industry’s long-term rehabilitation, the legal and

economic prerequisites mandated under RA [Republic Act] 8800 to establish prima facie evidence-specifically, a recent, sharp, and significant import surge directly causing serious injury-are absent,’ his letter read.

He added that imposing provisional safeguard duties would ‘unnecessarily reignite’ consumer food inflation, destabilize raw material pipelines for local food manufacturers, and undermine the policy stability under Executive Order (EO) 62.

The Philippine Statistics Authority reported recently that inflation rate in September surged to 7.2 percent from 1.7 percent a year ago. Its data showed that 11 of the 13 commodity groups monitored by the agency recorded faster price increases during the period led by food and non-alcoholic beverages, for which inflation accelerated to 6.7 percent from 4.6 percent and accounted for 73.4 percent of the month’s increase.

Further, Mita also called on the DA to refrain from recommending or applying provisional safeguard duties and maintain the existing tariff rates under EO 62.

Cham added that this would protect consumer purchasing power and maintain raw material security for food manufacturing.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Tiu Laurel Jr. said in his October 19 letter to Department of Foreign Affairs (DOF) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro that ‘the DA determined that prima facie evidence exists to warrant initiating the preliminary safeguard measures investigation to establish the existence and extent of serious injury or threat thereof, and the causal link between increased imports and injury.’

The investigation covers shipments of fresh, chilled and frozen pork, as well as offals and fats, under HS codes 0203, 0206, and 0209 from 2021 to August 2026.

The agency said its initial assessment identified several indicators of potential harm to the local industry.

This includes declining farmgate prices and producer income, shrinking market share and self-sufficiency, rising import penetration, and growing commercial inventories.

‘These findings could strengthen the case for safeguards, but the investigation must establish whether increased imports are sufficiently linked to the reported injury,’ the DA said.

‘The initiation itself does not constitute a final determination that foreign shipments are responsible, nor does it automatically impose additional duties or other restrictions.’

FOLLOWING a series of high-profile escapes by fugitives evading arrest-including businessman Charlie Ang alias Atong and Sen. Ronald dela Rosa alias Bato-Malacañang said on Wednesday that there is an urgent need to ‘recalibrate’ government border control and security.

‘It should have been done a long time ago. Because the Philippines is surrounded by sea, one can slip through backdoor routes unnoticed,’ Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in Filipino during a press briefing.

Castro added that authorities should initiate a crackdown on individuals colluding with fugitives.

Her statement came after the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported that Ang-who faces charges over the disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts (sabungeros)-had already left the country through ‘backdoor’ routes and was spotted in Cambodia.

Castro noted that Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla has already briefed the President on Ang’s status.

‘At this time, I cannot disclose what was discussed between Secretary Remulla and the President. Furthermore, any operations to be carried out by the DILG and our other law enforcement agencies cannot be revealed to the public,’ Castro said.

She stated that authorities are currently determining if Ang’s escape can be attributed to law enforcement lapses.

‘We cannot immediately conclude that there is a culprit or that someone was negligent. Let us allow the investigation to take its course so we can determine who is truly at fault,’ Castro said.

Despite the incident, Castro emphasized that Remulla continues to enjoy the full trust and confidence of the President.

Aside from Ang, other high-profile figures who have managed to evade arrest include former Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co of Ako Bicol, who was implicated in the flood control controversy, and dela Rosa.

Dela Rosa faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his role in the former Duterte administration’s drug war, which claimed over 6,000 lives.

Co is currently applying for political asylum in France, while dela Rosa was reportedly spotted in Mindanao, according to Remulla. The DILG chief noted that authorities are trying to negotiate dela Rosa’s peaceful surrender, as the lawmaker is currently being protected by an armed group.

Castro urged dela Rosa to surrender to prevent potential violence.

‘Just surrender so that no more blood is shed. And to those providing shelter: the law must be upheld, so do not serve as instruments for individuals who ought to be held accountable,’ she said.

However, Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said on Wednesday that he could not confirm reports that Ang had fled the country, noting that the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has no official exit record.

billboards do the job socmed

‘I cannot confirm that he is already out of the country because we rely on our immigration records, and based on those records, we have no entry that he left,’ Vida said during an ambush interview.

Vida added that he was unaware of the source of Remulla’s information.

Despite the conflicting reports, Vida assured the public that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will continue prosecuting the murder cases tied to the missing sabungeros.

‘Because of the nature of these cases-these are murder charges-we will pursue our mandate. Our prosecutors will continue presenting relevant evidence before the court,’ Vida said.

‘Although we see these developments as challenges, they are not fatal to the case. We will move forward with the prosecution.’

In transfer pricing, companies are often characterized as limited-risk distributors, routine service providers, contract manufacturers, or entrepreneurial entities. However, these characterizations should not simply be labels assigned through intercompany agreements or transfer pricing documentation. They must reflect the actual functions performed, assets employed, and risks assumed and controlled by the entity.

This article challenges one fundamental assumption: Does calling a company a limited-risk entity automatically make it one?

1. The problem with labels

If you’re one of those ’90s or Gen Z kids who grew up watching TVCs and spent whole afternoons glued to the television screen, you’ve probably heard of Nido’s famous commercial, ‘Check the Label.’ It was a powerful message promoting consumer vigilance. Although I wasn’t a fan of Nido growing up-I was more of a Bear Brand fan, especially when snacking on it straight from the packaging-the campaign stayed in my childhood memory. (Okay, I was probably already a grown adult then, but no one’s asking, so yeah, that ‘childhood’ stays.)

But no, I’m not here to debate which powdered milk brand is better. Apparently, checking the label doesn’t apply only to consumer choices. It applies to transfer pricing as well.

In transfer pricing, we often encounter ‘labels’ such as limited-risk distributor, routine service provider, contract manufacturer, and entrepreneurial entity. These labels describe companies’ roles within their groups. But have we ever stopped to ask whether they accurately reflect what the companies actually do?

After all, calling a company a limited-risk entity does not automatically make it one.

2. Understanding entity characterization: More than just a label

There’s a colder and much longer term for ‘labels’ in transfer pricing: entity characterization. And no, this isn’t just a name without relevance. Just as we distinguish brands by their labels, we can gain an initial understanding of a company through its characterization.

Unlike consumer labels, entity characterization is established through functional analysis, commonly referred to as functions, assets, and risks (FAR) analysis. This involves examining each entity’s responsibilities, resources contributed, and risks assumed in a controlled transaction.

The analysis seeks to answer fundamental questions. Does the entity merely carry out orders from another entity that’s calling the shots, or is it the other way around? Does it own valuable assets such as intellectual property, technology, or customer relationships? More importantly, who controls significant risks and bears the consequences when things go wrong? And who benefits when things go well?

These considerations help determine whether an entity performs routine functions or undertakes more complex, entrepreneurial activities.

A routine entity generally performs straightforward functions and assumes limited risks, while an entrepreneurial entity may perform more complex activities, control significant risks, and make unique or valuable contributions.

Entity characterization also helps us see the bigger picture beyond the label itself, including which entity may be more appropriate to test (recall my article on selecting the tested party-the less complex entity is generally preferred).

This is why assigning labels carelessly can be dangerous. It’s like passing judgment without due process. Under the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines, these characterizations are not rigid classifications; their appropriateness depends on the facts and circumstances of each transaction.

billboards do the job socmed

Entity characterization should be the result of a functional analysis, not a predetermined conclusion that the analysis is expected to support.

3. The dilemma: A limited-risk distributor that isn’t so limited

Consider a Philippine subsidiary of a Singapore-based multinational group. Under its intercompany agreement, the Philippine company is characterized as a limited-risk distributor, while its Singapore parent acts as the principal entity.

The arrangement appears straightforward. The Singapore parent develops pricing strategies, determines marketing policies, manages inventory risks, and makes significant business decisions. Meanwhile, the Philippine subsidiary performs routine distribution activities and receives a relatively stable operating margin consistent with its limited functions and risks.

On paper, everything appears reasonable. But what if reality tells a different story?

Suppose the functional analysis reveals that the Philippine company independently negotiates prices and commercial terms, develops its own marketing initiatives, and makes significant inventory purchasing decisions. It also bears losses from unsold inventory, assumes customer credit risks, and exercises substantial discretion in managing collections. Over time, it has developed valuable customer relationships with limited involvement from its Singapore parent.

Can we still characterize the Philippine company as a limited-risk distributor?

The answer isn’t necessarily straightforward.

A distributor may perform certain commercial functions without automatically becoming an entrepreneurial entity. For instance, negotiating discounts within parameters established by the parent company doesn’t necessarily mean the subsidiary controls the group’s overall pricing strategy. Similarly, managing inventory or collecting receivables doesn’t automatically establish that it controls the associated economically significant risks.

What matters is the extent of the Philippine company’s decision-making authority, its actual control over those risks, and its financial capacity to assume them.

However, if the Philippine company independently makes significant commercial decisions, controls economically significant risks, and performs functions beyond those contemplated under its agreement, its characterization may warrant reconsideration.

The issue isn’t simply whether the Philippine company performs additional functions, but whether those functions and the risks it controls remain consistent with its assigned characterization.

4. When the label doesn’t match reality: Why mischaracterization matters

Inaccurate labels can have serious implications, not just for milk choices but for transfer pricing as well. And mischaracterization should definitely not be on your bucket list when facing a BIR examiner during a tax audit.

First, mischaracterization may lead to an inappropriate benchmarking analysis. If a Philippine company is characterized as a routine distributor, its financial results may be compared against independent companies performing similar functions and assuming limited risks. However, if it actually performs more complex activities or owns valuable marketing intangibles, those comparables may no longer be appropriate.

It’s like comparing SandR membership shopping with your friendly neighborhood sari-sari stores. Their business models and margins are definitely different.

Consequently, even a properly computed arm’s length range may not provide a reliable basis for assessing the transaction.

Second, mischaracterization may result in an inappropriate allocation of profits. A routine entity generally earns remuneration consistent with its functions, assets, and risks. However, if it performs significant value-creating activities or controls economically significant risks, its compensation may need reconsideration. This doesn’t automatically mean it should earn entrepreneurial profits. Rather, profit allocation should reflect the parties’ actual contributions.

Third, mischaracterization may increase exposure during a BIR audit. Tax authorities may examine whether the company’s characterization is consistent with its agreements, actual operations, decision-making processes, and financial results. Material inconsistencies may raise questions about the reliability of the transfer pricing method, comparables, and ultimately, the arm’s length nature of the transaction.

A company may fall comfortably within the established arm’s length range, but that conclusion becomes difficult to defend if the range itself is based on a characterization that doesn’t reflect economic reality.

5. Final thoughts: Characterization should follow reality, not the other way around

Entity characterization influences the selection of the appropriate transfer pricing method, comparable companies, and arm’s length remuneration. However, characterization should not begin and end with what’s written in an intercompany agreement or transfer pricing study.

Businesses evolve. Functions change, responsibilities expand, and risks may shift between entities. A characterization that was appropriate several years ago may no longer reflect the company’s actual operations.

This underscores the importance of periodically revisiting the functional analysis, particularly when material changes occur in the company’s functions, assets, or risks.

Ultimately, characterization should reflect economic reality rather than merely support a predetermined pricing arrangement.

Perhaps before asking whether a company’s profits fall within the arm’s length range, we should first ask a more fundamental question: Have we characterized the company correctly?

After all, in transfer pricing, the label should follow reality, not the other way around.

The author is a Senior Manager of the International Tax and Transfer Pricing Unit of Du-Baladad and Associates (BDB Law) (www.bdblaw.com.ph).

The article is for general information only and is not intended, nor should be construed as a substitute for tax, legal, or financial advice on any specific matter. Applicability of this article to any actual or particular tax or legal issue should be supported, therefore, by a professional study or advice. If you have any comments or questions concerning the article, you may e-mail the author at joannelesley.padilla@bdblaw.com.ph or call 8403-2001 local 310.

Leading US medical groups are urging people to get updated flu and Covid-19 vaccinations this fall, banding together Wednesday to issue shot guidelines-and highlight the science behind them-saying they hope to ease confusion caused by the Trump administration’s changing advice.

Flu vaccinations are beginning and Covid-19 shots are starting to arrive after the Food and Drug Administration approved this year’s updated versions last week. Exactly who should get one or all of these vaccines, and when?

That advice usually comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with help from its independent advisers. But despite no new scientific evidence, Trump health officials last year began pulling back on some longstanding recommendations for fall virus protection and routine children’s vaccinations.

Doctors’ groups are filling the gap: the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America each released vaccination guidelines for their patient populations.

‘There’s been a lot of confusion and chaos regarding vaccine recommendations,’ said Dr. Sandra Fryhofer, of the American Medical Association.

All the groups’ recommendations plus evidence on shot safety and effectiveness are being posted on websites so ‘the public has clear, consistent, science-based guidance even while the federal process is in flux,’ Fryhofer said.

Just about everyone should get vaccinated against flu

JUST about everybody starting at age 6 months needs flu vaccination, the medical societies agree. But flu is particularly dangerous for people 65 and older, pregnant women, young children and people of any age who have chronic health problems, including asthma, diabetes, heart disease and weak immune systems. The last two flu seasons were especially harsh, with unusually high numbers of child deaths-the vast majority of them in unvaccinated kids.

The vaccines don’t block all flu infections but they do help prevent the worst outcomes, decreasing older adults’ hospitalizations by 31 percent, according to the Vaccine Integrity Project, a public health group based at the University of Minnesota. Its analysis was published on Wednesday in the medical journal Jama.

Here’s how to pick from the multiple flu vaccine options

THREE ‘enhanced’ flu vaccines are designed to better protect seniors. The American Academy of Family Physicians urges them to choose one-‘but do not delay your vaccination if that one’s not available,’ said AAFP’s Dr. Sarah Nosal.

There’s a new choice this year for people ages 50 and older, the first flu vaccine made with the same mRNA technology that was key to ending the Covid-19 pandemic. One study found Moderna’s mFlusiva was 27 percent more effective against symptomatic illness among 50- to 64-year-olds than a standard shot. The FDA just approved the new option and the company expects some doses to be available soon at certain pharmacies.

The shot-averse could choose a nasal spray, FluMist, if they’re ages 2 to 49 and meet other health criteria.

The latest on COVID-19 vaccines

COVID-19 shots once were recommended for just about everyone by federal health agencies, but like last year, the FDA has only formally approved them for higher-risk people-those ages 65 and older or younger people with at least one health condition that increases their risk.

billboards do the job socmed

Still, family physicians recommend all adults get a Covid-19 vaccination, especially seniors and those with other risk factors. Adults 65 and older should get a fall dose and then a second dose six months later, as immunity wanes over time, Nosal said.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a Covid-19 shot for all children ages 6 months to 23 months, and for older kids with high-risk conditions. It also supports vaccination for any child whose parent wishes it.

With millions of shots administered, there’s no evidence that coronavirus vaccination during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage or other problems, ‘so please get the vaccine,’ said ACOG’s Dr. Christina Davidson.

Depending on age, people can choose a shot from Moderna, Pfizer, or the only non-mRNA version from Novavax and Sanofi.

Just like with flu vaccines, these shots are better at preventing severe disease than mild cases. The Vaccine Integrity Project said last fall’s Covid-19 shots cut the risk of hospitalization by 53 percent in seniors and slashed emergency room visits for very young children.

Common side effects for flu and Covid-19 vaccines are mild and temporary, such as sore arms, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, and mild fever. They occurred somewhat more often with the new mFlusiva than with standard flu shots.

HONOR Philippines has officially announced the lucky winner of its HONOR 600S PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo, awarding PHP 1 million worth of SM Shopping Spree to Mary Ann D. Asis from Bankerohan, Davao City.

The winner was revealed during the live raffle draw held today, marking an exciting milestone in HONOR’s celebration of the HONOR 600S launch in the Philippines.

Through the promo, HONOR gave customers who purchased or pre-ordered the HONOR 600S during the promotional period the opportunity to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping at SM Store.

Congratulations to Mary Ann D. Asis on this exciting win!

VIETNAMESE conglomerate Vingroup JSC (T?p doàn Vingroup-CTCP) plans to invest $500 million in an electric-vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced recently.

The construction is targeted to begin in the first quarter of 2027 and initial production capacity set at 200,000 vehicles annually, according to the DTI.

A statement issued by the DTI read that the facility is designed to serve both the domestic market and export destinations, while the group also plans to introduce electric scooters in the Philippines.

The project timeline calls for 12 months to 18 months of development, although the department did not identify the plant’s location or specify when production would begin.

According to the DTI, the plan was discussed by Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque and Vingroup Vice Chairman Nguyen Quoc Tuan. Key points in the discussion included available investment incentives, including tax provisions under the Create More law (Republic Act 12066) and expedited regulatory processing through the government’s Green Lanes program.

The announcement provides investment and production figures that had not been disclosed during earlier discussions between Roque and Vingroup representatives.

Before the meeting, Roque said the government’s immediate focus was to discuss EV manufacturing, while the company’s other potential Philippine ventures remained preliminary.

Vingroup had also expressed interest in entering the hospital and entertainment businesses, including possible theme park projects, Roque said previously. No investment amounts, locations or finalized projects for these sectors have been announced.

The EV plant’s proposed capacity of 200,000 vehicles a year would cover production for both Philippine buyers and overseas markets. However, the DTI statement did not specify how output would be divided between the two.

The planned investment comes as the government develops its ‘electric vehicle incentive strategy’ to support EV manufacturing.

Roque had earlier said the program’s implementing rules were expected to be completed soon, although she could not confirm the status of all remaining requirements.

The DTI has not disclosed the plant’s location, projected employment, local parts-sourcing targets or the specific export markets it intends to serve.

Vingroup subsidiary VinFast Auto Ltd. has sold 115 vehicles in the Philippines in 2025, according to data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. The company said it ranked as the country’s second-largest battery-electric vehicle brand that year.

Gumande Tires joined motorcycle riders and clubs at Makina Moto Tiangge in Filinvest Alabang on October 17-18, bringing its full tire lineup to the event and officially launching the KD02 Dual Sport tire on October 17.

The KD02 expands Gumande’s lineup with a dual-sport option for paved roads and light off-road use. Its launch took place alongside the brand’s participation in the two-day Tiangge, giving visitors the chance to see the new model alongside Gumande’s other tires.

A crowd highlight was the high-energy exhibition by the Traction Masters, whose performance drew cheers from riders and spectators. Motorcycle clubs and members of the moto community also joined the event, adding to the lively atmosphere around the Gumande display.

Riders showed strong interest in the full lineup, with purchases across Gumande models during the Tiangge. The response marked a proud moment for the brand, which officially launched in the Philippines nearly five months ago.

Gumande takes its name from ‘Strength in Rubber,’ a meaning reflected in its growing range of tires and its commitment to connecting with riders through events and the motorcycle community.

With the KD02 now part of its lineup, Gumande continues to build its presence among Filipino riders.

Cadmium is not the only potentially harmful substance found in vape aerosols. Other chemicals, including benzene, diacetyl, and acrolein, can also pose serious health risks.

Amid these concerns, parents, schools, and members of the religious sector are urging Congress to prioritize the proposed Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill (House Bill No. 9603) to strengthen protection against tobacco smoke and vape emissions, particularly for children and young people.

Parents call for safer learning environments

Agnes Aliparo, president of the SPTA District 2 Federation in Quezon City, called on parents to support the proposed measure and work with schools to protect students from exposure to tobacco smoke and vape emissions.

‘We support the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill because our children deserve to learn and grow in environments free from tobacco smoke and vape emissions. I encourage fellow parents to support HB 9603 and join efforts to protect the health and future of our children,’ Aliparo said.

In Cebu, Velez College underscored the role of educational institutions and future health professionals in advancing public health protection.

Atty. Ebenezer Daryl P. Manzano, dean of medical technology at Velez College, emphasized the importance of combining education with effective policies.

‘Schools help shape the habits and values of young people. Educating students about the risks of tobacco and vaping must go hand in hand with policies that protect them from exposure to smoke and vape emissions,’ Manzano said.

Faith communities promote health protection

Members of the religious sector also emphasize care for others, responsibility, and respect for life and health.

Pastor Manuelito Lim, senior pastor of Blessed in Christ By Grace Church and a member of the Parents Against Vape (PAV) board, encouraged families and communities to work together to protect young people.

‘Our bodies are precious, and caring for them is part of honoring the life we have been given. Whatever our faith tradition, we share a responsibility to guide our young people toward healthy choices and protect them from harm,’ Lim said.

Youth vaping and secondhand smoke exposure

The 2024 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) found that 12.8 percent of Filipino students aged 13 to 15 currently use e-cigarettes.

The survey also found that 61.1 percent of students were exposed to tobacco smoke in enclosed public places, while 42.5 percent were exposed at home. These findings highlight concerns about young people’s exposure to tobacco smoke and the need for effective protections.

billboards do the job socmed

Advocates urge Congress to act

Parents Against Vape, together with the Philippine Smoke-Free Movement, is calling on Congress to prioritize HB 9603. The proposed measure seeks to strengthen smoke-free and vape-free protections, including expanding the areas where smoking and vaping are prohibited.

PAV also continues to advocate for a total ban on vaping, calling for stronger government action to prevent young people from accessing and using vaping products.

FORMER senator Ramon Revilla Jr. is seeking the immediate dismissal of the malversation through falsification of public documents filed against him by the Office of the Ombudsman before the Sandiganbayan.

Revilla, on Wednesday, asked the Sandiganbayan Third Division to allow him to file a demurrer to evidence on the ground that the prosecution’s evidence against him is weak.

A demurrer to evidence is a motion filed by an accused in a case to dismiss the charges on allegation that the prosecution’s evidence is not sufficient to render a guilty verdict.

Revilla, who is currently out on bail, is facing malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents filed against him by the Ombudsman over his alleged involvement in the P92.8-million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.

In his 24-page motion for leave to file demurrer to evidence, Revilla pointed out that the prosecution’s own documentary evidence show that he did not participate in the preparation, processing, verification, approval or execution of the documents pertaining to the implementation of , and disbursement funds for, the Pandi project.

In particular, Revilla said the prosecution failed to present evidence that would prove his involvement in the facilitation and inclusion of the project in the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and receiving kickbacks or advance commission.

‘Clearly, accused Revilla cannot be held liable in any purported conspiracy to commit the crime charged. In the absence of proof that he facilitated or caused the inclusion of the Subject Project in the 025 GAA, and received kickbacks therefrom,’ Revilla stressed.

‘Hence, if the prosecution’s evidence is insufficient to meet even the standard of strong evidence required to grant bail, it necessarily falls even further short of the higher standard standard of proof beyond reasonable doubt, required to convict.’

The malversation case against Revilla pertains to the release of approximately P76 million for the supposed construction of a flood control project in Purok 5, barangay Bunsuran, Pandi, Bulacan, which turned out to be nonexistent.

Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, one of the state witnesses in the flood control scandal, claimed that he delivered P125 million to Revilla’s residence in 2024, and another P250 million delivered by his staff before the 2025 elections in exchange for facilitating or endorsing flood control projects.

Revilla has since denied the allegations, claiming that he was just being used ‘to muddle the truth’ in connection with the flood control mess.

‘Accused Revilla humbly submits that an examination of his Demurrer to Evidence shows that a verdict of acquittal is warranted in this case, without need for him to present his evidence, because of insufficiency of the prosecution’s evidence to prove his guilt beyond reasonable doubt,’ the motion read.

Taipei, Taiwan – Five people have been indicted in Taiwan on charges they tried to injure a comedian who mocks the Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Communist Party in his performances.

Comedian Huang Yihao told Taiwan’s Central News Agency that he had parked his scooter in an alley last month when a car suddenly swerved toward him, striking him and his scooter. He escaped severe injury, but said his initial thought was ‘could this be the CCP coming after me?’ Then, he said, the people in the car got out and apologized, and invited him to sit in their vehicle, which he turned down.

The five suspects, who are all Taiwanese, are accused of accepting 450,000 New Taiwan dollars (US$13,900) to ‘break arms and legs’ of Huang so he couldn’t perform on stage, New Taipei District prosecutors said Wednesday.

The five suspects, identified only by their surnames Zheng, You, Huang, Fan and Liao, received directions and funding from someone nicknamed ‘K’ from mainland China, the prosecutors’ statement said.

‘K’ asked Zheng to collect the comedian’s personal information and to injure him badly enough to require hospitalization and prevent him from performing as scheduled on September 20.

Zheng installed a tracking device on the comedian’s scooter and followed him during July and August. He received NT$250,000 ($7,700) after passing the information to ‘K.’ Zheng and You then planned to a staged car crash to injure the comedian, assigning the task to another man surnamed Huang, who recruited Fan and Liao to help, according to the statement.

On the afternoon of September 11, the suspect Huang drove the car while Liao filmed from the passenger seat and Fan watched in an alley. Huang stopped the car after hearing the comedian scream, but the comedian was not seriously injured. Dissatisfied with the outcome, ‘K’ refused to pay the remaining NT$200,000 ($6,200), the statement said.

Prosecutors are seeking prison terms ranging from two years and seven months to five years and six months.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Before the alleged attempt in September, charges of intimidation endangering public safety and property damage were filed against two other people who allegedly spread paint and human waste in May outside a comedy club in Taipei where Huang performed, according to local media reports.

China claims Taiwan, an island about 160 kilometers (100 miles) off its east coast, as its territory. The two split during the civil war that brought the Communists to power in China in 1949, with the losing Nationalists setting up their own government in Taiwan.

In one video clip that Huang shared on his YouTube channel, he compares Xi to Winnie the Pooh and criticizes the CCP for imposing Hong Kong’s national security law and Covid-19 lockdowns across China.

‘If people are already being treated this way for criticizing the CCP even before it has come to rule Taiwan, how can we possibly expect to retain our current freedom of speech should the CCP ever gain control over Taiwan?’ Huang said in a post on Wednesday on his Facebook page, commenting on the case.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called such violence ‘a malicious attempt to enforce political silence’ which meant to ‘create a chilling effect’ to ‘erode the space for free expression and public discourse.’

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council ‘strongly condemned’ the use of ‘transnational repression’ to harm people in Taiwan and warned there would be ‘absolutely no leniency’ for those who participate in such acts.

billboards do the job socmed

In 2022, five men accused of acting on behalf of the Chinese government have been charged with brazen and wide-ranging schemes to stalk and harass Chinese dissidents in the United States, including by seeking to derail the election bid of a little-known congressional candidate, according to the US Justice Department.

#/