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Defense allocation jumps 51% in 2025 budget | Julie M. Aurelio | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:20:00 PST | BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) docks at the former Hanjin Shipyard in Subic Bay, Zambales in this photo taken on May 24, 2022. —Philippine Navy
BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) docks at the former Hanjin Shipyard in Subic Bay, Zambales in this photo taken on May 24, 2022. —Philippine Navy
MANILA, Philippines — The Marcos administration is allocating P419.3 billion to the defense sector in the proposed 2025 national budget to boost its capabilities in upholding the country’s sovereignty and national territory amid recent developments in the West Philippine Sea.
In his 52-page budget message for the 2025 National Expenditure Program, which was transmitted to Congress on Monday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said this proposed funding for next year is 50.8 percent higher than the P278.1 billion given to the defense sector in 2024.
READ: House receives P6.352-T budget for 2025
He said the Department of National Defense will get P258.2 billion “to bolster our country’s defense capabilities” by acquiring and developing equipment and technologies and deploying adequate manpower “to secure the sovereignty of the state and the integrity of the national territory.”
In particular, the Armed Forces of the Philippines will receive P204.4 billion and the revised AFP modernization program will get P50 billion, or P10 billion more than this year’s allocation.
This is to “fulfill its mandate of developing the capability of the AFP to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, especially considering the recent developments in the West Philippine Sea,” Marcos said.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will get P31.3 billion, of which P386 million will go to the PCG Hospital.
As for funding for public order and community safety, the Philippine National Police will receive P206.2 billion, or P7.9 billion higher than this year’s P198.3 billion.
The President said P581 million will finance the creation of 2,000 new police officer positions to achieve a 1:583 police-to-population ratio, while P450 million will be used to construct 37 police stations nationwide.
“We are also investing in the PNP’s digitalization efforts at P5.7 billion,” he said.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency will get P4 billion. The Bureau of Fire Protection’s Fire and Emergency Management Program is allocated P26.3 billion to fund the construction of 40 fire stations and purchase 40 ambulances, 37 firetrucks, and 12 collapsed rescue trucks.
Meanwhile, the Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) will receive P7.8 billion for the construction of farm-to-market roads, school buildings, water and sanitation systems, health stations, and the electrification of 780 barangays that were declared free from communist rebels.
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This is apart from P5.3 billion for the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan Program for delivering socioeconomic services to conflict-afflicted and conflict-vulnerable areas.
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PBA: Ginebra puts young core to test in Macau friendly | Denison Rey A. Dalupang | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:05:00 PST | FILE–Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson gestures after hitting a 3-pointer against TNT in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
FILE–Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson gestures after hitting a 3-pointer against TNT in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Barangay Ginebra will have a chance to test-drive its new-look roster on Wednesday when it takes on the New Taipei Kings in an exhibition game in Macau.
Third overall pick RJ Abarrientos, Stephen Holt, Isaac Go, and even late draft pickup Paul Garcia joined the crowd darlings in its flight for the Chinese territory on Tuesday afternoon, hoping to get a feel of Tim Cone’s system and the squad’s tendencies in friendly that should help the Gin Kings in the season-opening Governors’ Cup that kicks off on Aug. 18.
“I’m glad,” Abarrientos, the highly touted guard from this year’s draft class, said of his first week training with the powerhouse club.
READ: Ginebra exec has high hopes with Abarrientos now on board
“The players, the coaches, and [the ball boy] have been joys to be with,” he added in a clip posted by Ginebra’s popular utility staffer Marious Atienza.
Abarrientos was a talent the Ginebra franchise tabbed following a deal that had the Gin Kings trading away MVP contender Christian Standhardinger and veteran guard Stanley Pringle to Terrafirma.
Also included in that swap were Holt and Go, two integral members of the Terrafirma squad that put together a franchise-best 5-6 record in the elimination phase of the last Governors’ Cup.
That deal infused a lot of young blood in the Ginebra roster.
Garcia, meanwhile, is a product of the Ateneo Blue Eagles program.
“When I visited practice, it was refreshing to see because there are new faces,” team governor and newly appointed PBA vice chair Alfrancis Chua said. “Whenever you have new guys, you get the feeling you can create something again,” he added.
“It’s just like having a new car—whenever you have a new car, you look forward to driving it, to modifying it.
If you have an old car, the aircon becomes fragile and it becomes tough to drive.“I just hope that [Barangay Ginebra] turns in a good showing, and so does San Miguel, and then Magnolia,” said Chua, also San Miguel Corporation’s sports director.
Ginebra brought along cornerstone Scottie Thompson to the trip but will continue to miss the injured Jamie Malonzo and resident import Justin Brownlee, who is neck-deep in helping Pelita Jaya to a title in the Indonesian Basketball League.
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The Governors’ Cup allows each team an import not standing more than 6-foot-6 and will, for the first time, divide the 12-team field into two groups for the elimination phase.
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PhilHealth not shouldering all meds, tests in dialysis package | Dexter Cabalza | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:35:00 PST | Inquirer file photo/Lyn Rillon
Inquirer file photo/Lyn Rillon
MANILA, Philippines — Amid controversy over its billions of pesos in excess funds, the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) has clarified it will not cover all medicines and laboratory tests under the “minimum standards” of its recently expanded benefits package for patients with failing kidneys.
In a July 21 advisory, PhilHealth CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. cited Table 2, Section V(F) of PhilHealth Circular No. 2024-014, which “reiterates that the provision of these services will depend on the patient’s status based on the healthcare provider’s clinical assessment and that these services are not intended to be provided per patient’s demand.”
READ: Patients express gratitude for increased PhilHealth dialysis benefit
The services refer to hemodialysis treatment sessions for end-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.
“Therefore, patients will only receive services that are clinically indicated and necessary for a given treatment session,” Ledesma added.
According to his June 28 circular—issued almost a month before the clarificatory advisory—the minimum standards are “based on clinical practice guidelines and aim to ensure good outcomes.”
On the circular, erythropoietin, iron sucrose IV, and heparin or enoxaparin are the minimum treatment standards for Stage 5 CKD (or CKD5) patients.
A CKD5 patient may also take “any or all, as needed,” eight laboratory tests—complete blood count (CBC); serum creatinine; hepatitis profile; alkaline phosphatase; potassium, phosphorus, calcium; serum iron/ferritin/transferrin; total iron binding capacity; and albumin.
The circular raises the package rate from P2,600 to P4,000—with P3,650 serving as a health facility fee and P350 as a professional fee—for each hemodialysis session to which a CKD5 patient is entitled.
Last year, PhilHealth expanded from 90 to 156 sessions, the maximum number of hemodialysis sessions for CKD5 patients, equivalent to a yearly benefit package amounting to P624,000 at most.
All accredited dialysis centers and laboratories, whether public or private, are prohibited from billing additional charges to CKD5 patients, even if the services they provide are beyond the P4,000 package, under the “no balance billing” system.
While the expansion of PhilHealth coverage might be of great help to patients, a group of private dialysis centers said this could lead to its members’ bankruptcy.
In his letter to Ledesma, Dialysis Coalition of the Philippines Inc. president Dr. Michael Manalaysay said the P4,000 reimbursement was way below the cost of hemodialysis, ranging from P5,200 to P6,000 per session.
The group said no-balance billing should only apply to public health institutions and not private facilities.
The state health insurer is in the middle of a controversy after the Department of Finance (DOF) directed PhilHealth to remit P89.9 billion of its unused subsidies from 2021 to 2023 to the national treasury to fund the government’s unprogrammed appropriations this year.
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Health stakeholders have urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to undo the DOF order, arguing that it violates the Universal Health Care Act of 2019.
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In Davao, P100,000 reward up for info on PH eagle shooter | Joselle R. Badilla | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:35:00 PST | APPEAL FOR HELP A social media card released by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources announced the P100,000 reward for leads on the identity of the shooter of Philippine Eagle “Mangayon” in Davao de Oro. —DENR Davao Facebook page
APPEAL FOR HELP A social media card released by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources announced the P100,000 reward for leads on the identity of the shooter of Philippine Eagle “Mangayon” in Davao de Oro. —DENR Davao Facebook page
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Wildlife conservationists have welcomed the offer of a reward for those who can lead authorities to the hunter who shot and killed a male juvenile Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) named “Mangayon” in Davao de Oro province early this month.
“Help us find justice for Mangayon! We will offer a bounty for any person who has viable information on Mangayon’s killer!” read a social media card released on Monday by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (Penro) of Davao de Oro, which announced the P100,000 reward.
READ: Philippine eagle killed in Davao de Oro
The Penro said information may be relayed through Jhonitz King Isaac at email [email protected], and mobile number 09276448394.The offices of Davao de Oro Gov. Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga and Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga each contributed P50,000 for the reward.
Dennis Salvador, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) executive director, said the reward is expected to boost the enforcement of laws on wildlife protection.
READ: Vets fail to save Philippine eagle Mangayon
“I think it’s a great step forward in enforcing our laws and hopefully towards prosecuting those responsible for atrocities against our wildlife,” Salvador told the Inquirer.
“We expect these actions to deter continued shooting, trapping and trafficking of wildlife across the country. These resources are our natural heritage and we owe it to our people to safeguard them so that future generations can enjoy them,” Salvador added.
The country’s endangered national bird is protected under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act, which provides a penalty of imprisonment for six to 12 years or a fine of P100,000 to P1 million for the killing of critically endangered species. According to recent estimates, there are only 392 Philippine eagle pairs in the wild.
Mangayon died on July 8 while being treated by veterinarians, who said that critical time was already lost before the raptor was brought to their care. The bloodied eagle was reported to PEF that same day after it was rescued from a Matigsalug tribesman by Army soldiers who were on foot patrol at Barangay Mangayon in Compostela town, Davao de Oro.
PEF biologist Dominic Tadena said the eagle “was probably not freshly caught” and could have been “kept for a couple of days” before it was discovered by soldiers.
Mangayon died from severe blood loss due to a wound on its left wing, most likely inflicted by an improvised gun that uses “jolen” or marbles as bullets.
Dr. Jayson Ibañez, PEF director for operations, said Mangayon was the fourth eagle hit by an improvised gun this year.
According to Board Member Marie Jude Lopoz, the Davao de Oro provincial board is drafting an ordinance setting “the necessary and the correct protocols on how to rescue and take care of any Philippine eagle and endangered wildlife species” found in the province.
Lopoz added that such an ordinance must “most importantly establish policies as well as penalties for violators who shoot, capture or abuse wildlife” with stricter penalties for violators who are government employees and officials.
“I just feel strongly about the passing away of Mangayon,” she said.
“I would like to apologize that Mangayon died despite all the efforts that we have done. But I vow that we will do our best so that the same incident will not happen again. Those three Philippine eagles (remaining in Davao de Oro) must be protected,” said Rita Fe Gunn, Penro chief in Davao de Oro.
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Gunn said they would set up an eagle rescue hotline to be managed by Penro, start a massive education drive next month about wildlife conservation and train locals on applying first aid, especially on raptors.
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Evacuees displace kids from classrooms amid clashes in Maguindanao | Drema Quitayen Bravo | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:30:00 PST | Inquirer files
Inquirer files
COTABATO CITY, BARMM, Philippines — Aside from floods that submerged several towns in the Maguindanao provinces in the previous weeks, recent skirmishes that displaced 3,000 people in four villages in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao del Norte also prevented students from returning to school on Monday for the opening of classes.
Minister Mohagher Iqbal of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) said at least seven elementary and secondary schools in Maguindanao del Norte remained closed on the first day of classes on Monday, due to the recent fighting in Datu Odin Sinsuat.
READ: In Bangsamoro, more kids seen going to school
Iqbal told the Inquirer that the classrooms could not be used by students as these served as temporary shelters for thousands of displaced residents avoiding the gun battle that started in Mompong village in the third week of July and continued in the villages of Badak, Linek and Kusiong for days.
The affected schools are Bai Hanina Sinsuat National High School in Kusiong village, Don Antonio Martinez Sr. Elementary School in Badak village, Mompong Primary School in Barangay Mompong, Linek Elementary School in Linek village, Sarilika National High School in Barangay Sarilika, Broce Elementary School in Broce village and Dinaig Elementary School in Barangay Dinaig, Iqbal said.
The Department of Education Maguindanao Division II announced the suspension of in-person classes in these schools on Monday and asked teachers to shift to alternative learning mode.
Ofelia Nasilu-an, principal of Don Antonio Martinez Sr. Elementary School which accommodated more than 120 displaced families from Badak village, said pupils and teachers in her school were still traumatized by the clashes near their homes, forcing them to flee.
“We’re providing adaptive learning materials to our learners as part of modular learning while normalcy is underway,” Nasilu-an said.
Mayor Lester Sinsuat of Datu Odin Sinsuat told a municipal peace and order council meeting over the weekend that most of the 3,000 displaced families came from the villages of Badak, Sarilika, Broce and Dinaig.
Sinsuat said the warring Moro groups were not residents of his town but he declined to identify them pending investigation.
Nashrullah Imam, the provincial disaster officer of Maguindanao del Norte, said they were still trying to determine the exact number of families and learners affected by the armed conflict.
Lt. Col. Roden Orbon, spokesperson for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said troops from the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion had been deployed to affected areas to help protect civilian communities.
Despite the disruption of classes, most schools in BARMM are trying to overcome challenges following the massive floods that submerged some public school buildings in the region in the past weeks.
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“In Matanog town, there’s one school entirely covered by the thick mud due to flash floods three weeks ago, but I instructed them to shift to a temporary learning shelter,” Iqbal said, referring to a makeshift classroom.
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Hot Plete finish good for two-shot Davao lead | Philippine Daily Inquirer | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:15:00 PST | Zero Plete: Two back nine bogeys. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Zero Plete: Two back nine bogeys. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Zero Plete bounced back from a lethargic start with a strong frontside finish to rescue a nine-over-par 81 and take a two-shot lead over Rose Wacan at the start of the girls’ 13-15 play in the ICTSI JPGT Mindanao Series 2 at South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estates in Davao on Tuesday.
Plete got off to a wobbly start on the back nine, shooting three straight double bogeys from No. 12, before coming home with a 38 that showed some maturity to her game.
“I want to make up for that (in the second round),” said Plete as she tries to fend off Wacan and Johanna Uyking, who shot an 84. “I’ll just take it shot-by-shot and not overthink. I will just try to have fun, and if I win, that would be a bonus.”
Meanwhile, three players from Del Monte made good on their vows to dominate the series ahead of their hosting of the third stop next week. The Batican siblings, Ralph and Rafella, took charge in the 10-12 division, and Alexis Nailga secured the lead in the boys’ 13-15 division of the event organized by the Philippine Golf Tour.
Ralph fired a 73 to lead Jared Saban by two shots, while Rafella signed for a 76 to also post a two-shot lead over Kimberly Barroquillo.
Kelsey Bernardino lost an impressive three-birdie, one-bogey card effort on the front nine, coming home with a 45 to be three strokes behind Rafella after a 79.
The last 18 holes are expected to be a thrilling final round as Davelyn Dy stayed within striking distance despite an 80.
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Fugitive nabbed in Benguet linked to fraud in China | Jun A. Malig | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:40:00 PST | FAKE IDENTITY Sun Liming, who introduced himself as Cambodian national Khuon Moeurn, was arrested during a Bureau of Immigration (BI)-led operation in Tuba, Benguet, on July 27. But the BI and PAOCC later verified Liming to be a Chinese fugitive wanted for fraud in China. He was also linked to a recently raided Pogo hub in Porac, Pampanga. —photo courtesy of PAOCC
FAKE IDENTITY Sun Liming, who introduced himself as Cambodian national Khuon Moeurn, was arrested during a Bureau of Immigration (BI)-led operation in Tuba, Benguet, on July 27. But the BI and PAOCC later verified Liming to be a Chinese fugitive wanted for fraud in China. He was also linked to a recently raided Pogo hub in Porac, Pampanga. —photo courtesy of PAOCC
MABALACAT CITY, PAMPANGA, Philippines — The Chinese man arrested in a house in Tuba, Benguet, on July 27 had defrauded his victims in China of 7.09 billion yuan (P57.3 billion) before escaping to the Philippines, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) disclosed on Tuesday.
Agents of the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) intelligence division and PAOCC operatives conducted a joint operation at a house located at Block 23, Lot 37 inside Pinewoods Subdivision in Tuba, and arrested Chinese woman Wang Keping, 35, and supposed Cambodian national Khuon Moeurn, 37, an undocumented alien.
READ: Roque admits to partly own ‘raided’ house in Benguet
However, on Monday afternoon, PAOCC executive director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz disclosed that Moeurn is actually Sun Liming, a Chinese fugitive, using fake Cambodian documents.
Wang and Sun were found in the house owned by a corporation that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said he had an interest in.
In a separate statement on Tuesday, Cruz said the Chinese government, through the Shenzhen police, had frozen the about 64.9 million yuan (P525 million) account of Liming.com, “the financial platform of Sun and his cohorts where they ask their victims to deposit their investments.”
“Mr. Sun escaped to the Philippines and has reinvented himself as Mr. Khuon Moeurn, a Cambodian national. He has been identified as a financier and operator of several scam farms in the country, one of which is the raided Porac scam hub,” Cruz said.
Cruz said Liming.com’s 64.9 million yuan account was just a small fraction of the proceeds of its scam.
“By the time that the massive fraud was discovered on July 17, 2023, their scam had already defrauded their victims to the amount of 7.09 billion yuan,” he said.
Cruz said Sun and his cohorts were able to dupe their victims into believing that their company had multiple contracts with the Chinese government.
He said Sun had been formally charged by the BI for violation of immigration laws and declared an undesirable alien.
“Likewise, the Chinese Embassy has formally requested that he be transported back to China once they formally present his warrant of arrest for large-scale fraud in their country. At present, he is in the physical custody of the PAOCC,” Cruz added.
The BI, in a statement on Sunday, said that the July 27 operation stemmed from information that a Chinese woman being sought by the PAOCC for her involvement with Zun Yuan Technology, a Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) in Bamban, Tarlac, might be hiding in the house in Benguet.
The PAOCC said the BI mission order was issued against Wan Yun, alias Yun Wan, who was allegedly found to be an illegal entrant in the Philippines. Only Wang and Sun, however, were found in the house.
Wang, who had a valid working visa, “may be charged with violation of immigration laws for harboring an illegal alien,” the BI said.
In the latest Senate committee hearing on Pogos on Monday, Roque admitted that he partly owned the house where the BI mission order was served in the upscale 220-hectare Pinewoods Golf and Country Estate in Tuba.
He said he used to live in the house that belongs to PH2 Corp., which is, in turn, owned by Biancham Holdings and Trading Inc., where he is a shareholder.
“In fact, in the near future, I am concluding a transaction for me to take over the entire corporation that owns the house,” he said in the Senate hearing.
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Roque said the house was being rented by a Chinese named Wan Yun, who had presented a valid working visa when she entered into a rental agreement with PH2 Corp.
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US to provide $500-M military aid to PH | Nestor Corrales | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:50:39 PST | [From left to right] United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken, PH Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, and PH Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. join hands during a photo opportunity before the start of ‘4th Philippines-US Two-Plus-Two Ministerial Consultations’ at the Tejeros Hall in Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City on July 30, 2024. —Ryan Leagogo/INQUIRER.net
[From left to right] United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken, PH Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, and PH Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. join hands during a photo opportunity before the start of ‘4th Philippines-US Two-Plus-Two Ministerial Consultations’ at the Tejeros Hall in Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City on July 30, 2024. —Ryan Leagogo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — The United States is providing $500 million (P29.2 billion) in military assistance to the Philippines, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III announced on Tuesday following the 2+2 meeting with their Filipino counterparts at Camp Aguinaldo.
“We are now allocating an additional $500 million in foreign military financing to the Philippines to boost security collaboration with our oldest treaty ally in this region,” Blinken said at a press briefing, adding that Washington’s relationship with Manila “is the strongest that it has ever been.”
The assistance, according to him, is “a once-in-a-generation investment to help modernize” the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard, the US foreign secretary said.
READ: US, PH top execs hold defense meet amid West Philippine Sea tension
According to Austin, “this level of funding is unprecedented” and “sends a clear message of support for the Philippines” from the United States.
“We are working with the US Congress to allocate $500 million in foreign military financing into the Philippines,” Austin said.
He added that US President Joe Biden had included in this year’s budget “more than $128” million to fund important infrastructure projects under Washington’s Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) with Manila.
Austin said the United States was committed to “double our investments” for the Edca sites agreed with the Philippines under the 2014 agreement.
Under Edca, the United States is allowed to operate and enhance military facilities in the Philippines with the approval of its government.
In April last year, Malacañang named Camilo Osias Naval Base in Sta. Ana town and Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo town in Cagayan province; Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela province; and Balabac, the southernmost island in Palawan province, as the four additional Edca sites.
The other Edca sites are at Basa Air Base in Pampanga province, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija province, Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro, Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, and Mactan Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the US funding, including those for Edca, would “serve to secure the Philippines’ credible deterrent posture” against “unlawful foreign aggression.”
“Every peso or dollar spent on hardening Philippine capabilities to defend itself and to deter unlawful aggression will be a plus against any threat actor whether it be China or anyone,” Teodoro said in the same press briefing together with his American counterpart, Austin, and Blinken.
He said the “investments” would not only be for defense but also for civil defense purposes such as humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
The Edca sites would also serve as venues for joint cooperation and interoperability between the United States and the Philippines and multilateral exercises with like-minded nations, Teodoro said.
“So these are not monodimensional but multidimensional investments that will help the development of the country and help to deter unwanted and unlawful aggression by building a credible deterrent posture,” he said.
Blinken said Manila and Washington both share concerns regarding Beijing’s “escalatory actions in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, and elsewhere.”
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“We stand by our ironclad defense commitment to the Philippines under [our] mutual defense treaty. That extends to armed attacks on Filipino Armed Forces, public vessels or aircraft, including the Coast Guard, anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea,” he said.
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Sec. Angara bids goodbye to former Senate colleagues | Charie Abarca | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 01:11:45 PST | Official Facebook page of DepEd and Senate PRIB
Official Facebook page of DepEd and Senate PRIB
MANILA, Philippines — It was a bittersweet moment at the Senate’s plenary hall when Sonny Angara faced his former colleagues.
Angara, concurrent head of the Department of Education, was given the opportunity to speak before his former co-senators on Tuesday.
“I am so touched to be honored while I still have a pulse, while I’m still breathing—it is an honor that not many get to enjoy. I thank you, it is not during necrological that these kind words are said for me,” said Angara.
Senators during the chamber’s proceedings took turns in saying their goodbyes to their former colleague. They showered Angara with words of admiration as well as messages of good luck for his new post.
READ: ‘Mabait wag lang gutumin:’ Senators praise Angara, share anecdotes
“It’s a really bittersweet moment but I don’t want to speak too long. I prefer to remember the sweet over the bitter because there has been much more sweet than bitter,” Angara said.
The former senator proceeded to enumerate one by one his ex-colleagues, thanking them for shaping his years as a lawmaker.
In the end, the somber mood at the hall even became more somber when Angara delivered the last paragraph of his speech.
“Whenever I go, wherever I am, wherever we are, I carry you with me. We have a bond that will forever be ours and can never be taken away,” said Angara.
Angrara officially replaced Vice President Sara Duterte in heading DepEd last July 19.
He earned his law degree at the University of the Philippines, Master of Laws degree at Harvard University and economic degree at the London School of Economics.
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His father–late Senate President Edgardo Angara–is also a well-known figure in the education sector being the former president of the University of the Philippines.
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House approves proposed Medical Cannabis Act | Jeannette I. Andrade | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:40:00 PST | File photo
File photo
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed on the third and final reading, a measure legalizing the medical use of marijuana.
On Tuesday’s plenary session, 177 lawmakers voted to approve House Bill No. 10439 or the proposed Access to Medical Cannabis Act, while nine of their colleagues thumbed down the draft measure and nine others abstained.
READ: Advocates hopeful law on medical cannabis to be passed this year
HB 10439 would allow the use of medical cannabis (marijuana), make it accessible to qualified patients, and create a Medical Cannabis Office as a regulatory body.
Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, one of the sponsors of the measure, emphasized that the bill was only intended to allow patients to have access to marijuana, similar to making pharmaceutical products available to them.
READ: DOH: Law on medical marijuana must be science-based
The chair of the House committee on dangerous drugs said, “By no means is this bill a gateway to the recreational use of cannabis,” as marijuana would remain on the list of dangerous and illegal drugs.
HB 10439 would legalize the use of marijuana for qualified patients with debilitating or nondebilitating medical conditions or symptoms, with access only available through prescription and supervision of an accredited physician.
The draft measure would set the regulations for medical cannabis cultivation, manufacture, and distribution for medical and research purposes, as well as its prescription and dispensation to patients.
The Medical Cannabis Office, which would be under the Department of Health, would oversee implementation, including licensing and enforcement, and work with the Dangerous Drugs Board to ensure compliance with safety and security requirements to prevent the nonmedical or recreational use of marijuana.
A similar measure, the proposed Philippine Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act, was passed on the third and final reading by the House in January 2019, during the 17th Congress.
But after then President Rodrigo Duterte changed his mind about supporting such a bill, the Senate did not pursue its version of that measure.
Last February, the Philippine Medical Association expressed its opposition to HB 10439, saying it would “open the floodgates for the legalization of recreational marijuana.”
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Health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon also opposed that bill, saying that it was being “railroaded without listening to the medical community.” —with a report from Inquirer Research
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Escudero backs proposed Senate lawsuit vs Guo | Philippine Daily Inquirer | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:45:00 PST | Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero —Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau
Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero —Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau
MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Francis Escudero on Tuesday supported Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian’s proposal to sue suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo for continuously disregarding the order of the Senate for her to attend its hearings on Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos).
As earlier raised by Gatchalian, Escudero agreed that Guo may be held liable for flouting Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code, which imposes a six-month jail term on individuals found guilty of “disobedience to summons issued by Congress.”
READ: Senator mulls filing criminal case vs Guo, others
The Senate leader, who is also a lawyer, said Gatchalian or any other senator who has “personal knowledge” of the mayor’s refusal to comply with the chamber’s order should file a formal complaint before the Office of the State Prosecutor.
READ: Epic fail? Escudero says it’s ‘embarrassing’ PNP can’t locate Guo, Quiboloy
“If [Gatchalian] recommends it, the Senate legal [office] can look into it,” Escudero told reporters. “But there should be a complaint-affidavit from an individual who will take an oath because the Senate cannot do it (as a juridical entity),” he added.
Guo, who has been in hiding since the Senate ordered her arrest on July 11, skipped for the third straight time the legislative body’s investigation of the raided illegal Pogos in her town. —Marlon Ramos
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Nesthy Petecio advances to boxing round-of-16 with dominant win | Francis T.J. Ochoa | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:40:20 PST | Team Philippines’ Nesthy Petecio celebrates after winning against India’s Jaismine in the women’s 57kg preliminaries round of 32 boxing match during the Paris Olympics 2024 at the North Paris Arena, in Villepinte on July 30, 2024. (Photo by MOHD RASFAN / AFP)
Team Philippines’ Nesthy Petecio celebrates after winning against India’s Jaismine in the women’s 57kg preliminaries round of 32 boxing match during the Paris Olympics 2024 at the North Paris Arena, in Villepinte on July 30, 2024. (Photo by MOHD RASFAN / AFP)
SCHEDULE: Team Philippines at Paris Olympics 2024
Team Philippines’ Nesthy Petecio toyed with Indian rival Jaismine in the 2024 Paris Olympics women’s 57-kilogram boxing tournament at past midnight Wednesday (Manila time), coasting in the final round to save something for her next bout.
Petecio advanced to the round-of-16, where she will face hometown bet and No. 3 seed Amina Zidani, who drew a bye in the opening round.
Switching stances, the unseeded Petecio kept Jaismine in check in the first two rounds, settling for accurate counter-punching against the Commonwealth Games and Asian championships standout to jump ahead in their bout.
The taller Indian attacked urgently in the last round, but Petecio held her ground and sealed the boud against Zidani, who is expected to be backed by a loud home crowd in their Saturday (Manila time) duel.
Petecio, the silver medalist in the Tokyo Olympics, will advance to the quarterfinals with a win over Zidani.
Three judges scored it 30-27 for Petecio while the other two had it 29-28, also for the Filipino.
Zidani is a European Games gold medalist in 2023 and also won a bronze in the 2023 World Championships in New Delhi.
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Paris Olympics: Kiyomi Watanabe ‘no regrets’ after early exit | Rommel Fuertes Jr. | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:16:37 PST | China’s Tang Jing and Philippines’ Kiyomi Watanabe (Blue) compete in the judo women’s -63kg round of 32 bout of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, in Paris on July 30, 2024. (Photo by Jack GUEZ / AFP)
China’s Tang Jing and Philippines’ Kiyomi Watanabe (Blue) compete in the judo women’s -63kg round of 32 bout of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, in Paris on July 30, 2024. (Photo by Jack GUEZ / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines—Team Philippines’ Kiyomi Watanabe said she had no regrets despite a quick end to her campaign in the women -63kg judo at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Watanabe was no match for China’s Tang Jing in their round of 32 match at Champ-de-Mars Arena, where the Filipino-Japanese lasted just 51 seconds.
“I knew she was strong. I wanted to see how far I could hold out what I’ve learned,” said an emotional Watanabe, a two-time Olympian.
“I’ve had a lot of support and it’s pretty tough to get so I have no regrets.”
The match was like a repeat of what happened at the Tokyo Games.
Back in Tokyo, Watanabe was beaten by Spain’s Cristina Cabaña Perez in just 38 seconds also in the round of 32 in th same class.
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DepEd recommends PISA task force members to Marcos | Luisa Cabato | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 17:24:05 PST | | PHOTOS: Official Facebook page of DepEd and Senate PRIB
| PHOTOS: Official Facebook page of DepEd and Senate PRIB
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has recommended to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the members of a task force that aims to improve Filipino students’ performance in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said it at the Brigada Pagbasa Partners Network Launch in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday.
READ: PISA results mirror PH education’s lost days, ‘grave crisis’
“We have an idea of who we want. We have recommended it to the Office of the President. We’re waiting for the final approval,” he told reporters.
According to Angara, the task force will be composed of DepEd officials and education experts from the private sector.
READ: Filipino students rank poorly in Pisa 2022 report on creative thinking
The initiative to create a task force on PISA follows Marcos’ directive to improve Filipino learners’ ranking in international assessments.
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Trillanes: ICC requests Interpol blue notice for PNP execs linked to drug war | Tetch Torres-Tupas | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 18:31:36 PST | MANILA, Philippines — The International Criminal Court (ICC) has already asked Interpol to issue a “blue notice” against five former and current high-ranking officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) tagged in the Duterte administration’s war on drugs, former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV said Wednesday.
Trillanes said the “blue notice” request came after the ICC asked the Philippine government to interview the five ranking police officers.
The five former and current ranking police officers are Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa who served as PNP chief under the Duterte administration, former PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde, former PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) chief Romeo Caramat, Director of PNP’s Drug Enforcement Group Eleazar Mata, and National Police Commission (Napolcom) Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo.
“Kasabay nitong pagbigay ng dokumento na ito sa Philippine government ng ICC ay meron din silang request sa Interpol na isama itong limang ito doon sa blue notice kung saan maaari silang ihold sa mga iba’t ibang immigration counters kung saan man silang bansa lalabas,” he said.
(In addition to submitting this document to the Philippine government, the ICC has requested Interpol to include these five individuals in the blue notice, which could cause them to be held at various immigration counters wherever they may travel abroad.)
Blue Notice is an alert circulated to help law enforcers in member countries share information about a particular person’s activities. The subject of the Blue Notice is either a convicted or charged person, a suspect, or a witness to a crime.
Trillanes said the request of the ICC prosecutor to interview the five police officials is equivalent to a summons.
“Kung ‘di sila magko-cooperate, therefore, ‘yung ebidensya laban sa kanila ay ‘yun ang mananaig at hindi nila mabibigay ‘yung kanilang side doon sa kaso,” he said.
(If they do not cooperate, then the evidence against them will prevail, and they will not be able to present their side of the case.)
Although the Philippine government still insists that the country is no longer under the ICC’s jurisdiction, it said the ICC prosecutor could come and interview the suspects.
READ: PH gov’t can’t stop ICC from probing drug war suspects – SolGen
However, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said they are not legally bound to assist the ICC.
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“The Philippine government cannot stop him from proceeding any way he wants. He can directly interview persons of interest online, through phone, by email, face to face, subject to the consent of these persons,” Guevarra told reporters.
He added: “But the ICC prosecutor cannot expect that the Philippine government will facilitate it for him.”
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5 fashionable Filipino musicians to follow | No author found | 2024-07-21T04:57:47+00:00 | In today’s music scene, more and more Filipino artists are proving that killer tracks and killer style go hand-in-hand. It’s no longer just about the music—it’s a full sensory experience that includes artful visuals and fashion.
These talented local musicians are redefining what it means to be a modern artist, crafting hit after hit all while pushing the boundaries of style. Get to know more about the artists setting the trends and what they love most about dressing up.
A post shared by ena mori (@enamorimusic)
This Filipino-Japanese pop artist has an eclectic sense of style that is just as dynamic and quirky as her music. Ena Mori’s fashion is deeply rooted in her Japanese heritage, reminiscent of the ’90s Harajuku style as she mixes and matches vintage pieces that are normally sourced through ukay. “I strive to be an antique kawaii librarian,” she says, citing Japanese stylist Yuri Nosho and Icelandic artist Björk as her style icons.
A post shared by ena mori (@enamorimusic)
For Mori, fashion plays a huge part in her live performances, with her colorful, sometimes outlandish clothing being a vital source of confidence and energy during gigs. Think big tops, velvet fabric, fun headgear, and vibrant skirts—only fun pieces for a fun artist.
A post shared by Paul Pablo (@itspaulpablo)
If you’re on the lookout for the next big local pop star, Paul Pablo is it. Proudly queer, this Davao-born singer is a huge fan of showcasing his vivid personality via his clothing choices, mentioning that fashion is vital to his artistry. “Whether it’s a bold outfit or a simple printed shirt, my style reflects who I am. I love a Y2K revival with a modern twist,” Pablo shares.
A post shared by Paul Pablo (@itspaulpablo)
When it comes to his stage outfits versus his everyday style, Pablo’s daily wear still mirrors that of his more curated and thoughtful performance wardrobe, albeit being more relaxed. His statement piece of choice? Printed shirts with loud messages. “I wore a shirt with ‘bayot’ printed on it when I won my second Awit Award,” he says. “It was a bold reminder that a ‘bayot’ or gay artist made it.”
A post shared by zild (@zildbenitez)
What makes Zild one of the most exciting young Filipino musicians to follow right now isn’t just his evolving sound but his style as well. We’ve seen him grow from his ’70s disco roots during his IV of Spades days to his all-black gothic fashion from last year’s “Medisina” album release. With yet another new album coming next month, Zild now dons colorful track jackets and jerseys a la Blur. After all, he does describe his own sense of style as “inconsistent and impulsive.”
A post shared by zild (@zildbenitez)
Contrary to popular belief, there is no deep meaning behind his erratic fashion. Zild simply wears what he wants, being a fan of constantly shifting his wardrobe. Style-wise, he also collaborates often with photographer Shaira Luna, whom he enjoys shopping with at ukay-ukay stores or receives clothing recommendations from over Carousell.
A post shared by CARELESS (@carelessph)
R&B artist August Wahh, also known as Abs Haw, finds herself drawn to streetwear and loud prints, textures, and colors—items that make a statement and hit as hard as her soulful music. Recently, she hasn’t just been putting her creativity into songwriting but also into creating her own pieces, such as chopping up her old pants and using the bottom ends as leg warmers and sleeves.
A post shared by August Wahh (@augustwahh)
“I kind of build around [my style] with accessories and layers. I still definitely need to be comfortable, so I like pieces that I can move around in,” says Abs, whose fashion is the perfect blend of chill yet chic. Currently, Abs enjoys getting her clothes from local artisanal brands and loves chokers and belt chains.
The first time anyone watches a Kindred show, it is 100 percent guaranteed that the general reaction will always be something like, “Damn, these guys are pretty f*cking cool.” All eight members make one hell of an entrance every time, donned in bright jumpsuits. Kindred member Jaime says, “We’re like the Generation Z (+1 Millennial) Power Rangers. On stage, we morph into our colorful alter egos and combine to become a Popstar Megazord.”
Kindred’s one-of-a-kind stage outfits are actually custom made by local designer Salad Day, working with their stylist Paul Jatayna. They accessorize their clothing further with their own personal add-ons like bracelets crafted by member Punzi’s younger sister, rings they’ve bought at gigs and events, and shoes gifted by brands like Nike. Their secret to cool fashion? Authenticity. “We dress for ourselves the same way we make music for ourselves,” says Jaime. “We want to be as authentic as we can.”
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Andrea Brillantes appalled by death of abandoned pets during Carina | Jessica Ann Evangelista | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 18:27:04 PST | Andrea Brillantes expresses sympathy for abandoned pets during typhoon Carina. | Image: Instagram/@blythe
Andrea Brillantes expresses sympathy for abandoned pets during typhoon Carina. | Image: Instagram/@blythe
Andrea Brillantes is belatedly weighing on abandoned pets that were left to die in the floods at the height of typhoon Carina.
In her Instagram, Brillantes blamed “irresponsible pet owners” as she shared images of her pets, as well as those of dogs and cats in cages submerged in flood and freezing in the rain, or one that has been dug up dead in the mud by rescuers. The images were supposedly those of the dogs at the San Juan City pound, taken by the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).
Brillantes also shared art cards for donation drives for the recovery of other animals, as to assist those who were left homeless due to Carina.
“Rain or shine, I can never leave my pets behind. They are more than just pets; they are companions, partners, and friends. They are family… I am saddened by the fur babies whose lives were taken away by this typhoon due to irresponsibility. People caged them, tied them up, and abandoned them,” continued the actress.
A post shared by Andrea Brillantes (@blythe)
Brillantes stressed that people should take responsibility for their pets in times of calamity.
“If you cannot take responsibility for the lives of your pets, then please don’t let them suffer like this. My heart also goes out to everyone who was affected by the typhoon, both humans and pets. At the end of this slide, there are donation links where we can all help those who suffered from this typhoon,” adding that people should have accountability and help each other.
Another celebrity fur mom, Heart Evangelista, also gave assistance to dogs and cats that were left homeless or abandoned due to Typhoon Carina, on top of participating in relief efforts for the people affected by the calamity.
“What better way to reach out to as many abandoned pets as possible than through and with PAWS Philippines. They have always been part of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, rescuing animals left behind in times of calamities,” wrote the actress-fashion icon on Instagram.
The PAWS earlier condemned the San Juan City pound for its negligence and mistreatment of the animals in cages under its care.
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Playful nostalgia fuels Neil Felipp and Kelvin Morales’ upcoming collab | No author found | 2024-07-02T09:48:43+00:00 | While many of us leave simple toys behind in our childhood years, designers Neil Felipp San Pedro and Kelvin Morales are using it to create nostalgia-inducing wearable art. Inspired by one of everyone’s favorite games, the “Jackstone” collaboration features the combined talent of both designers that puts the toys front and center.
Consisting of 10 pieces, the upcoming collaboration uses literal jackstones handcrafted from metal which are carefully bound in gold and silver. The jackstones are then transformed into earrings, chokers, cufflinks, and even accent handles for minaudierès.
Design duties for the collection were shared by San Pedro and Morales, who both possess a whimsical creative spirit. Both designers’ strengths are proudly showcased in each piece, with San Pedro being known for his intricate and elegant metalwork, while Morales has been celebrated for his avant-garde and contemporary approach to design.
“For me, the collection was a great way for us to revisit our childhood, as we remember the simple things that gave us joy. One of them was jackstones. Its simple design and myriad of colors immediately attracted me as a child. Though, it was also used to tease me as a LGBTQIA+ member,” says San Pedro.
“But we do hope through this collection, that even as we grow up, we would like for our audience and clients to remember their inner child. The inner child who reminds us of the simple joys in life and to see the world with wonder,” he adds.
“The Jackstone Collection [was inspired by] a simple toy that evokes childhood nostalgia and brings back memories of innocence and wonder. Working with Neil, we both collaborated on ideas, and we share a deep understanding of craftsmanship and artistry,” says Morales.
The collection will be available exclusively at the soon-to-open Neil Felipp boutique at The Peninsula Manila and online at neilfelipp.com on Aug. 19.
Photos courtesy of Neil Felipp and Kelvin Morales
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Xian Gaza nakisawsaw sa isyu ni Sandro, tahimik sa break up? | No author found | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:07:32 PST | MAGING ang social media personality at self-proclaimed “Pambansang Marites na Lalaki” na si Xian Gaza ay nakisali na sa usapang pananamantala sa baguhang aktor ng dalawang TV executives.
Bagamat wala pang inilalabas na paglilinaw ay marami nang naglalabasang chika na ang timutukoy na baguhang aktor ay si Sandro Muhlach.
Ngayong araw, nag-post si Xian sa Facebook patungkol sa isyung mainit-init na topic ngayon sa social media.
“Ang chesmes ay ito palang pamangkin ni Aga Muhlach ay inaya sa isang after party noong GMA Gala.
“Tara doon sa hotel namin. After party! Maraming pupuntang artista,'” paanyaya raw ng dalawang executive ayon sa kwento ni Xian.
Baka Bet Mo: #JusticeForSandro trending, banta ni Niño: Inumpisahan n’yo, tatapusin ko
A post shared by Bandera (@banderaphl)
Ngunit pagdating raw ng biktima sa naturang suite at nagulat ito dahil tatlo lamang sila.
“Pagdating ng biktima sa suite eh laking gulat niya na tatlo lang pala sila. Itago natin sa pangalang Sandro Muhlach, Jojo Nones at Richard Dode,” buong tapang na pagpapangalan ni Xian.
Sina Jojo at Richard ay mga kilalang TV writer.
“Bilang mga Executive ng GMA7 at bilang close friend ni Big Boss Annette Gozon, hindi makasibat ang Sandro bilang respeto sa dalawa,” pagpapatuloy na kwento pa ni Xian.
Habang nasa loob daw ng suite ay nag-uusap at nagtsi-tsikahan lang ang tatlo.
“Napilitang umamats si lalaki tapos noong anes na eh dinala siya sa kwarto ng dalawang GMA Executive. Doon na nangyari ang malagim na krimen,” sey ni Xian.
Kalaunan ay pumutok ang balita sa pamamagitan ng blind item sa social media.
Chika pa ni Xian, “Matapos pumutok ang issue sa bansa, agad-agad na dineny ng GMA7 si Richard at Jojo. Sila daw ay mga independent contractor lamang.”
Hindi tuloy maiwasan ng social media personality na kwestyunin ang pangyayari.
“Kapag may nagawang krimen, ang tawag do’n ay ‘independent contractor’? Pero kapag nakasungkit ng parangal o gantimpala, ang tawag do’n ay ‘Kapuso’?” intrigang tanong ni Xian.
Nagpahaging rin ito sa entertainment site na na diumano raw ay pagmamay-ari raw ng GMA.
Sabi ni Xian, “Ayon sa PEP . PH — tinangka daw anuhin ng dalawang GMA independent contractor si Sandro Muhlach. Take Note: ‘Tinangka’ at ‘Independent Contractor’.
“Napag-alaman ng ating team na ang totoong may-ari pala ng PEP ay GMA7 kaya ginagamit nila ito upang i-manipulate ang katotohanan.”
Dinamay pa ni Xian ang slogan ng Kapuso network.
“Walang kinikilingan!
Walang pinoprotektahan!
Serbisyong totoo lamang!
“Ayan kayang slogan ng GMA News ay maipaparanas kay Sandro upang mabigyan siya ng hustisya?
“Abangan ang susunod na kabanata dito sa Facebook page ng Pambansang Marites ng Pilipinas!” hirit pa ni Xian.
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Una naman nang naglabas ng pahayag ang GMA hinggil sa pangyayari.
“Online articles and posts have recently circulated regarding an alleged incident involving an artist and independent contractors of GMA Network.
“We have yet to receive a formal complaint from those allegedly involved in the issue. Should one be filed, the Network is committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation. We assure the public that GMA Network takes such matters with utmost seriousness.” | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391413/xian-gaza-nakisawsaw-sa-isyu-ni-sandro-tahimik-sa-break-up?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0JwlhcQSdfsz_CYjMGLaF7uZamGRnx8SlZBBGfm3RyGF2oZVZomr_ZMP0_aem_6uoIEVGHaQTjUD63bg0OxQ | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Misis ni Niño Muhlach binantaan ang mga ‘nambaboy’ sa anak | No author found | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 15:02:14 PST | Niño Muhlach, Diane Abby Tupaz, Sandro Muhlach
Niño Muhlach, Diane Abby Tupaz, Sandro Muhlach
Trigger warning: Mention of ‘kababuyan’, ‘pinagsamantalahan’
“HINDI KAMI MAKAKAPAYAG NA HINDI NAMIN MAKAKAMIT ANG HUSTISYA!” Yan ang nanggagalaiting pagbabanta ng asawa ni Niño Muhlach na si Diane Abby Tupaz.
Ito’y sa gitna ng kontrobersiyang pinag-uusapan ngayon sa social media hinggil sa isang blind item tungkol sa baguhang young actor na pinagsamantalahan umano ng dalawang “powerful gay executive” mula sa isang TV network.
Wala mang binabanggit sa mga naglabasang report sa mga news publication at online entertainment sites, kalat na ang balitang ang tinutukoy umamo sa blind item ay ang anak ni Niño na si Sandro Muhlach.
Baka Bet Mo: #JusticeForSandro trending, banta ni Niño: Inumpisahan n’yo, tatapusin ko
A post shared by Bandera (@banderaphl)
Sa pamamagitan ng Facebook, nag-post ang asawa ni Niño at stepmother ni Sandro ng mahabang mensahe para sa mga taong nangwalanghiya sa isa nilang kapamilya na hindi niya binanggit ang pangalan.
Ayon kay Diane, gagawin nila ang lahat para makamit ang hustisya at maparusahan ang mga taong nambaboy sa kanilang anak. Narito ang buong FB status ng misis ni Niño.
“PINALAKI AT ININGATAN NAMING MABUTI ANG AMING MGA ANAK NA PUNO NG PAGMAMAHAL AT PAG AARUGA TAPOS WAWALANG HIYAIN LANG NG MGA KUNG SINONG TAO NA NILAMON NG KADEMONYOHAN SA KATAWAN PARA MAGAWA YUNG GANUNG KLASENG KABABUYAN!
“HINDI KAMI MAKAKAPAYAG NA HINDI NAMIN MAKAKAMIT ANG HUSTISYA! HABANG BUHAY NA DADALHIN NG ANAK NAMIN YUNG KABABUYAN NA GINAWA NYO SA KANYA!
“WALA KAMING PAKIALAM KUNG SINO KAYO O KUNG SINO ANG POPROTEKTA SA INYO!
“SISIGURADUHIN NAMIN NA PAGBABAYARAN NYO YUNG GINAWA NYO! HINDI NAMIN HAHAYAAN NA MAY MABIKTIMA PA KAYO NA IBA!
“ITUTULOY NAMIN ANG LABAN! MANAGOT ANG DAPAT MANAGOT! NAKAKA NGINIG KAYO NG LAMAN!” ang matapang na pahayag ni Diane gamit ang hashtag #JUSTICESHOULDPREVAIL.
Nauna rito, nag-post din ng cryptic message si Niño sa kanyang FB page na pinaniniwalaang para sa mga taong nasa likod ng panghahalay sa kanyang panganay na anak.
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Sabi ng dating child wonder, “INUMPISAHAN NYO, TATAPUSIN KO!”
Ni-repost ito ng ilang kapamilya nina Niño, kabilang na ang aktor na si Andrew Muhlach at anak nina Aga Muhlach at Janice de Belen na si Luigi Muhlach. | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391403/misis-ni-nio-muhlach-binantaan-ang-mga-nambaboy-sa-anak-2 | null | null | null | null | null | null |
PH gov’t should use buildings that housed Pogos – Villanueva | Charie Abarca | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:04:04 PST | SHUTDOWN A Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) hub operating behind the town hall of Bamban in Tarlac province has been shut down following a government raid in March due to human trafficking, online scams, and other illegal activities. —RICHARD A. REYES
SHUTDOWN A Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) hub operating behind the town hall of Bamban in Tarlac province has been shut down following a government raid in March due to human trafficking, online scams, and other illegal activities. —RICHARD A. REYES
MANILA, Philippines — What would happen to buildings that housed Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) now that they are banned in the country?
For Sen. Joel Villanueva, the government should use the buildings for the benefit of Filipinos.
“So what do we do now with the buildings? I was the one who mentioned it could be used as housing. Second, evacuation centers. Because what they build is strong. There’s even a tunnel, right?” he said in Filipino.
According to Villanueva, he talked to former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Sen. Nancy Binay regarding the matter after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the Pogo ban.
Villanueva also filed a resolution seeking to repeal the law taxing Pogos. If given the chance, he would ask Marcos to consider his bill as a priority measure.
READ: Villanueva files bill to void pogo tax law
Under the bill, Pogos will have 30 days from the effectivity of the proposed measure to cease their operations.
“Failure or refusal of the firms to close operations shall subject the responsible officers to imprisonment of 12 to 20 years or a fine of P100 million or both, and will subject the foreign offenders to deportation after service of sentence,” the bill reads.
The bill also stated that the Bureau of Internal Revenue will still have the authority to collect unpaid taxes from Pogos even after the repeal of Republic Act 11590 or the Act Taxing Pogo, which was signed into law in 2021.
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By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. | Inquirer | https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1968062/ph-govt-should-use-buildings-that-housed-pogos-villanueva?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2FB5mqsuP6TRDTvyOe5OHv15WPhSGfwbCIUbnh0VZ6cv6dFizXP9tkZW0_aem_FgJ57OjiIDfZzgpk_Ju6aw | null | null | null | null | null | null |
PH lawmakers expect strong US ties regardless of election outcome | Gabriel Pabico Lalu | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:49:50 PST | MANILA, Philippines — Expectations of strong relations between the Philippines and the United States (US) regardless of who wins in the 2024 American presidential polls are a good indication, as Filipino lawmakers in the House of Representatives said this would be key in maintaining the country’s sovereignty.
Deputy Speaker David Suarez, Manila 1st District Rep. Ernesto Dionisio, and Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers on Wednesday all agreed that the ironclad commitment between the two countries should be maintained whether it will be a Democrat or Republican victory this November.
“Number one, we’re happy because we know that there will be an election in the US this November, and we do not know what its results would be between the two parties vying for the presidency, but what’s important here is that whatever the outcome may be, the position of the US and our country which has been ironclad for the past decades should not change,” Suarez said in Filipino.
US Defense chief Lloyd Austin III and Secretary of State Antony Blinken made the assurance that presidential elections would not change US-Philippine ties after the 2+2 dialogue in Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday.
Austin and Blinken met with their Philippine counterparts, Defense Chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, to discuss policy directions on the Enhance Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) sites and more military support amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
READ: Election outcome unlikely to affect US support to PH – officials
During this event, the US officials also committed to providing a $500 million (P29.3 billion) worth of military and security support for the Philippines — dubbed as an “unprecedented” and “once in a generation” investment, amid shared concerns regarding China’s aggressive actions.
READ: US to allocate $500 million in foreign military financing for PH
Dionisio and Barbers said that military aid from the US is a big deal as it would boost the capabilities of agencies and offices securing the country’s territorial integrity.
“Any addition is positive so you know it’s a welcoming thing that America will donate P29 billion that can really be used to upgrade the capabilities of teams securing the West Philippine Sea, like the Coast Guard and the Armed Forces and it also shows that the bond of the Philippines and US, like what Deputy Speaker Jay-jay Suarez said, that it’s ironclad,” Dionisio said. “It’s a very important thing that regardless of who is seated, the practice of helping each other remains.”
“This will benefit our Philippine Coast Guard and we all know that our Coast Guard has had some problems regarding its capability, and now these funds that will be extended to the Philippine Government will purposely upgrade the capability of our Coast Guard,” Barbers added.
Furthermore, Barbers said that the US assistance may allow the Coast Guard to monitor other areas aside from the WPS, putting into reality his goal of having the eastern seaboard protected, too.
“Maybe they can, with that amount of money, not only secure the West Philippine Sea. I’ve been calling for a presence in the eastern seaboard of our country as I said, the eastern waters are equally important, and that traverses the Pacific Ocean from the north of our country down to Midnanao in Surigao City,” Barbers said.
“That’s why we want to have the capability to protect the Philippine territory and our EEZ in that area, so again with this development, this is good news that regardless of whoever wins in Washington by November, ties would remain strong,” he added.
Manila and Washington have enjoyed good relations under Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and US President Joe Biden. However, as early as February 2024, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez was quoted as saying that the Philippine government has been monitoring the presidential race.
Biden was seeking reelection in 2024, but he eventually backed out last July 22 and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris instead.
READ: Biden ends his reelection bid, endorses Kamala Harris
In April, before Marcos, Biden, and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio held a trilateral summit, Romualdez said that he believed nothing much would change should former US President Donald Trump win in November.
Romualdez — who was already US ambassador when Trump was in office — explained that some of the policies implemented by the Biden administration regarding the Indo-Pacific region started when from 2017 to 2021, the former president was at the helm.
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READ: US official: PH can count on stronger ties, support while Biden is president
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EU gives P76M in aid for flood victims in Mindanao | Dianne Sampang | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 18:35:03 PST | MANILA, Philippines — The European Union (EU) has donated €1.2 million, or over P76 million, in humanitarian aid for flood victims in Mindanao.
The donation will be for food assistance, access to safe water and sanitation facilities, and other essential services.
“The beginning of this year’s monsoon and typhoon season is proving very hard for people in the Philippines, and the EU is stepping up its assistance to the most affected populations. This funding will help provide much-needed relief to people in Mindanao,” said EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič in a statement on Tuesday.
In February, the EU donated €500,000, or over P36 million, to flood victims in Mindanao.
READ: NDRRMC: 36 dead from Carina, habagat and tropical depression
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Wednesday reported that 5,263,531 individuals or 1,421,224 families have been affected by the onslaught of Typhoon Carina, the southwest monsoon, and Tropical Depression Butchoy.
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has the third-highest number of affected individuals. At least 552,971 individuals or 110,874 families in the region were affected by the typhoon.
READ: EU gives donation of P36 million to flood victims in Mindanao
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The making of Bini’s ‘Pantropiko’ | No author found | 2024-07-31T11:38:58+00:00 | 2024 has been quite the year for Bini so far. Since their hit single “Pantropiko” rose to the top of the charts, the eight-piece girl group has broken barriers and records—from performing on the Chinese reality program “Show It All” to becoming the most streamed OPM artist on Spotify Philippines.
More recently, they also made history as the first P-pop group to perform at the KCON Los Angeles pre-show.
While much of their success can be attributed to the virality of the summer hit and the popularity of their other songs such as “Salamin, Salamin” and “Karera”—not to mention the growing following of each of the group’s members—in reality, those behind the scenes are deserving of just as much praise.
READ: BINI delivers sweetness, spice with new single ‘Cherry on Top’
Behind each great singer is a group of songwriters, composers, and producers. And in Bini’s case, it is local production house FlipMusic, particularly Jumbo “Bojam” De Belen, Pow Chavez, and Angelika Samantha Ortiz, the primary producers and songwriters of “Pantropiko.”
They are not only behind the summer hit and the whole “Talaarawan” EP but also the ones responsible for further building the group’s bubblegum pop sound.
According to De Belen, the president and head producer at FlipMusic, “Pantropiko” began with an instrumental he made. “I usually produce beats on a regular basis. We have what we call ‘vacant beats’ for songwriters to write on.”
De Belen credits the tropical sound associated with the local hit to DJ/producer Mat Olavides who he enlisted to hop on the track for his expertise in tropical house.
As for the rest of the track, much of it began at a song camp FlipMusic conducted. During this, they invite several songwriters to collaborate with their pool of producers. “It took us about four months to come up with a bunch of songs that we presented for Bini and ‘Pantropiko’ was one of them,” says De Belen.
He also explained that the whole camp was specifically directed to craft songs for the girl group. “We came up with 12 to 16 tracks and they chose six, which eventually made up the entire ‘Talaarawan’ EP.”
In that same song camp, De Belen invited and asked Ortiz to write what would eventually become “Pantropiko.” And though this was the first-ever song written by the 22-year-old senior from CIIT College of Arts and Technology, it apparently only took her five days to write the demo track. Ortiz credits the presence of De Belen, Olavides, and Chavez whose veteran expertise guided the young talent.
Ortiz, under the stage name Angelika Sam, is also an artist under FlipMusic. She also just recently released her debut single “Ningning,” which, according to her, refers to the feeling of being transported into outer space whenever you look at the one you love. The song was composed by Ortiz, John Michael Conchada, and De Belen.
“The original version was simple because Angelika was not used to making vocal arrangements for groups so I asked Pow to help us out,” says De Belen.
Chavez, a partner at FlipMusic and the secondary songwriter for “Pantropiko,” first gained popularity when he finished in the top five of the first season of “Philippine Idol” in 2006. After pursuing a solo career, he started FlipMusic in 2011 together with De Belen, who he had been working with since 2007, and CEO Jellica Mateo who also participated in the same season of “Philippine Idol” Chavez was in.
A post shared by Angelika Sam (@angelikasam_)
“Especially for a group song, Bojam is very particular na kailangan malagyan ng harmonies—kasi walo yan—kailangan makakanta lahat. It has to be balanced as well,” explains Chavez.
As the song’s secondary songwriter, Chavez primarily handled vocal arrangements as well as added the various adlibs scattered throughout the track. His most important contribution according to him was the “Pantropiko, pantropiko, oh” in the post-chorus.
“I felt that it was something I could add because initially, it wasn’t there. It was originally all instrumental.” Chavez adds, “In a regular gig that I would do live, I would normally hype people in between those lines. That’s how it came about.”
Working with eight voices too was a challenge on its own. With a song only lasting for so long, part of the problem was figuring out how to ensure everyone got sufficient exposure. Those versed in the K-pop scene would understand how it feels for your bias to have barely any lines on a comeback.
But beyond each member’s screen time, another thing to consider was the kind of lines they would get. Jhoanna, Maloi, and Colet are known for their powerful vocals. Meanwhile, Gwen, Aiah, Stacey, and Sheena have softer tones. Not to mention, Mikha has a thick and rich vocal. Part of a producer’s responsibility is carefully picking the lines that best match each member’s strengths. After all, you wouldn’t assign Mikha to sing Jhoanna’s parts. It’s not like she can’t, it just so happens it’s a better fit for Jhoanna.
“It’s really challenging working with eight voices kasi kailan mo sila palilitawin. And we have to find out what the range is and even who is good at adlibs. It’s important to be familiar with those,” says Chavez.
As the primary songwriter, Ortiz also recounts some of her key contributions to the track. “My phrasing before was more on the past tense, so ‘Felt like summer when I’m with you,’ which became ‘Feels like summer when I’m with you.’ So more on the present, which is much better to say especially for those listening—mas ma-fe-feel nila at the moment ’yung meaning nung kanta.”
She also points out that the “Oh, shucks” in “Oh, shucks, ito ba’y pag-ibig na?” was added because she ran out of ideas for the song, and that she didn’t expect it would make the final cut.
Chavez recalls that they once had difficulty pitching songs to other artists and management teams. He remembers even being told, “Hindi pa ready ang mga Pinoy para diyan.” And while he never believed such a sentiment, there was truth to it.
“There was a time na puro ballad—I’m sorry, but it’s just facts.” But in that same breath, he explains, “There were also a lot of covers when we know that people are hungry to release their original songs. And there are people out there who are hungry for new music, who are hungry for something they can dance to.”
The rise of Bini and several other groups and artists, and the growing popularity of P-pop, rap, folk, and other genres that weren’t historically associated with OPM indicates local music’s ongoing evolution. It’s not to say the typical ballads and love songs will go out of style. No, it’s an indication that the public is finding a greater appreciation for artists who venture into the arenas of internationally loved talents without being called baduy or try-hards.
OPM will always have its fair share of belters and lovesick romanticists to fill the charts. But in truth, who expected today’s top Filipino artist to be an eight-member girl group with a bubblegum pop sound?
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PH bet Kayla Sanchez vows to work harder after Paris Olympics stint | Lance Agcaoili | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:36:11 PST | FILE–Team Philippines’ Kayla Sanchez. (Photo by MANAN VATSYAYANA / AFP)
FILE–Team Philippines’ Kayla Sanchez. (Photo by MANAN VATSYAYANA / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines —Team Philippines’ swimmer Kayla Sanchez vows to bounce back stronger after her 2024 Paris Olympics campaign ended early Wednesday morning (Manila time).
Sanchez placed 15th overall in the women’s 100-meter freestyle semifinals after clocking 54.21 seconds to finish seventh in her group. Only the eight fastest swimmers in the two semifinal legs advanced to the medal round.
Despite not making it to the final, the Filipino-Canadian swimmer remained proud of her Olympic debut for the Philippines and she looks to make the most of her upcoming break to recharge and bring honor to the country in her future international tournaments.
“It’s been a long season. Asian Games in September and the World Championships in February. Now, it’s my summer break so I can kind of take my time to reflect and to refresh the mind and body before the next season,” said Sanchez in an interview with Olympics broadcaster One Sports.
“Never give up on your dreams and surround yourself with people that love you. Tuloy ang laban (Keep on fighting),” she added.
The 23-year-old Sanchez reset the Philippine record in Heat 4, finishing fourth with a time of 53.67 to enter the semis.
Sanchez hopes her hard work will bring her back to the Olympic podium someday with the Philippines. She won a silver medal in the Tokyo Games three years ago as part of Canada’s 4x100m freestyle team and a bronze as part of the 4×100 medley.
“A lot of emotions I get to have my family watching which is really important to me I know I have the support of all the Filipinos. I’m not super happy with the swim, to be honest. But all I can do is to look forward and just try to be better,” she said. “I just need more confidence in the race. I trained really hard and I’m hoping that it translates one day so I can be up there on the podium.”
“I’m super grateful for the opportunities that I received, I’m super grateful for all the support.”
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Awra Briguela reveals she doesn’t go out to party anymore | Hannah Mallorca | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:11:03 PST | Awra Briguela. Image: Instagram/@awrabriguela
Awra Briguela. Image: Instagram/@awrabriguela
Awra Briguela appeared to be turning a new leaf, saying she does not go to parties anymore, more than a year after getting involved in a brawl at a bar in Poblacion, Makati.
Briguela, who goes by the pronouns she/her, revealed this in response to one @pauchu05 who commented in her post that she should avoid partying in view of the altercation that she got involved.
The post showed the comedian posing with Nadine Lustre for a photo at a dance studio.
A post shared by AWRA (@awrabriguela)
“[For your information] po, I don’t party anymore. Opening po yan ng new dance studio ng A-Team/Zero Studio,” she said.
The netizen then wished Briguela the best in response. “A ok po. Ingat ka po lage (Oh okay, take care always),” @pauchu05 replied.
Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@awrabriguela
Briguela’s surprise revelation comes months after she revealed that she’s in a “better state” after owning up to the consequences of her controversial brawl and eventual arrest.
The actress made headlines in June 2023 after she was involved in a brawl outside a bar in Barangay Poblacion, Makati City for which she was arrested and detained. A few days later, she was released on bail.
Formal charges were filed by both camps against the other before the prosecutor’s office.
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A sun lover’s guide to protecting your skin | No author found | 2024-07-31T10:51:24+00:00 | The sun, like anything in moderation, has its wonderful benefits—better sleep, a healthy immune system, an elevated mood, and stronger bones to name a few. Too much of it (like those who love to tan) and you risk predisposition to premature aging. The latter gives me the chills.
Since I enjoy the sun—while I am that girl who loves the beach and prefers to sit alfresco—I am also one to like taking care of my skin. I may be a very hardheaded person, but after maturity and gaining some healthy self-awareness—and not to mention, becoming a little skin-conscious, I’ve learned to find a middle ground between my love for being under the sun and taking care of my skin.
Though I am my dermatologists’ nightmare, I see them as my skin ally. I regularly get monthly hydra facials at Belo, and daily, I have secret weapons that allow me to enjoy life exposed to the sun while protecting my skin from aging prematurely.
READ: Bedtime to beauty: My 5-step routine to wake up to my best skin
The first time I was introduced to Heliocare, I was in Carrefour in Sotogrande. I forgot to bring any SPF and my friend said this was a must-try brand. Try I did, and I was so happy with the product that the next day, I asked to be dropped off so I could hoard some for Manila.
Fortunately, it is now carried by leading dermatologists. Daily, I take Heliocare’s Pure White Radiant Pill. It reduces skin redness and helps protect against hyperpigmentation, keeping my skin flawless. Cellular damage ages skin fast and the pills also work to prevent it by acting as a barrier against the sun’s harmful rays.
Additionally, I apply Heliocare SPF 50 daily, and it goes well under makeup too. It is lightweight, protects against UVA and UVB, and is supercharged with antioxidants such as vitamin C and E plus green tea extract. Not to mention, it also has DNA repair enzymes.
There is nothing like hiding from the sun to keep your skin at its best—that’s the hard truth. But, I want to be able to enjoy and live life fully. For me, not having the sun gets in the way of having beautiful experiences. So I just learned how to combat its harmful effects, the best I know how.
Story originally from Ria Recommends
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Rice-for-All program available in 4 Kadiwa stores on August 1 | Dianne Sampang | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 17:42:21 PST | MANILA, Philippines — The Rice-for-All program will be available in four Kadiwa stores on August 1, Thursday, the Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday.
Under this program, rice will be sold to the public at P45 per kilo and initially offered in Food Terminal Incorporated in Taguig City, the Bureau of Plant Industry in Manila, Potrero in Malabon, and Caloocan. Each customer is limited to 25 kilos of purchase per day.
“It will be adjusted depending on the movement of rice prices, but it will definitely be lower than retail prices in general,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. in a statement.
READ: Affordable ‘Rice-for-All’ available soon, says DA
According to Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, the program aims to help Filipinos cope with the impact of inflation on the prices of goods.
De Mesa also said that the ‘Program 29’, the selling of rice at P29 per kilo for vulnerable households, is extended to Sta. Rosa Hall in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and Antipolo City, Rizal. The rice program is currently operating in 17 Kadiwa stores.
“Both the P29 Rice and Rice-for-All programs are designed to make this essential staple more accessible and affordable for every Filipino, in line with President Marcos’ vision of ‘Walang magugutom sa Bagong Pilipinas,’” said de Mesa.
READ: DA eyes one-year test run of P29 rice program
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Hergie Bacyadan second Filipino boxer to end bid in Paris Olympics | Francis T.J. Ochoa | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 18:48:43 PST | Team Philippines’ Hergie Bacyadan (in blue) fights against China’s Li Qian in the women’s 75kg preliminaries round of 16 boxing match during the Paris Olympics 2024 at the North Paris Arena, in Villepinte on July 31, 2024. (Photo by MOHD RASFAN / AFP)
Team Philippines’ Hergie Bacyadan (in blue) fights against China’s Li Qian in the women’s 75kg preliminaries round of 16 boxing match during the Paris Olympics 2024 at the North Paris Arena, in Villepinte on July 31, 2024. (Photo by MOHD RASFAN / AFP)
Team Philippines’ Hergie Bacyadan bowed to Chinese Li Qian in the women’s 75-kilogram round of 16 on Wednesday, becoming the second Filipino boxer to crash out of the medal hunt in the Paris Olympics 2024.
Li, a two-time Olympic medalist, worked her jab to the fullest and gamely engaged the power-punching Bacyadan in fierce exchanges, landing the scoring punches to keep her bid alive for a gold at North Paris Arena.
Li won a bronze in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and a silver in the Tokyo Games three years ago.
READ: LIVE UPDATES: Team Philippines at Paris Olympics 2024 July 31
Bacyadan, a world champion in vovinam who was recalled to the Philippine national boxing team, had earlier said she was going to charge early in her Olympic bouts.
She found a willing partner in Li, who wasn’t afraid to mix it up, but stealthily used her jab to set up more landing blows that resulted in a shutout in the first round in favor of the Chinese.
In sparing action in the second round, the same results emerged from exchanges, leaving Bacyadan with a lot of work to do in the third.
READ: Paris Olympics: Team Philippines’ Hergie Bacyadan faces tall order in boxing opener
But Li kept using the jab to blunt Bacyadan’s attack, and when the Filipino did get past that, she managed to win exchanges. But by then, Li had pretty much sewed up the win.
All judges scored it 30-27 for the Chinese.
Bacyadan’s result left Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam in the running, with the latter set to fight later Wednesday evening.
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Eumir Marcial was the first member of the Philippine vaunted boxing squad sent off after he lost his 80kg opener to Turabek Khabibullaev of Uzbekistan early Wednesday morning.
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Angara asks stakeholders to help raise 2025 PISA results | Luisa Cabato | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 22:04:54 PST | DepEd Sec. Sonny Angara —Inquirer photo/Niño Jesus Orbeta
DepEd Sec. Sonny Angara —Inquirer photo/Niño Jesus Orbeta
MANILA, Philippines — Education Secretary Sonny Angara on Wednesday sought help from various stakeholders in improving the performance of Filipino learners in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) in March next year.
This was in relation to the 2022 PISA results, which showed that Filipino students ranked sixth to the last in reading and mathematics and third to last in science among 81 countries.
READ: PH students still among lowest scorers in reading, math, science – Pisa
These results “were about the same” as in 2018, when the Philippines first participated in the assessment.
“I’ve read all the letters, I’ve seen all the pending memorandum on my desks of people, companies, organizations who want to help. In the coming days, months, weeks, we will come together and do what we may have neglected to do in the past,” Angara said in his speech.
READ: DepEd recommends PISA task force members to Marcos
“My immediate goal is to raise the PISA results in March, so please help me. Grades 7, 8, 9, and 10 are about 8 million students that we need to assist,” he continued.
The DepEd chief highlighted that the doors of the agency are always open for those who want to assist the government in improving the education sector.
“The doors of DepEd are open to anyone who wants to help, and these are not a few doors; we’re talking about 47,000 public schools, or 60 thousand schools in total. We’re talking about 200+ school divisions,” he said.
Angara noted that assistance from various stakeholders is crucial, as he recognized the problems faced by students in their education.
“Some of them don’t have computers, some of them don’t eat breakfast, and some of them get tired walking in slippers. These are the things that we have to address,” he said.
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NBI raids massage clinic offering ‘lingam’ as freebie | Leah D. Agonoy | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 22:21:02 PST | National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) operatives raid a massage clinic offering Lingam massage as “freebies” to clients, rescuing three therapists and arresting its manager (covered by green towel). Photos taken on July 30, 2024 in Pagadian City. —Leah Agonoy/Inquirer Mindanao
National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) operatives raid a massage clinic offering Lingam massage as “freebies” to clients, rescuing three therapists and arresting its manager (covered by green towel). Photos taken on July 30, 2024 in Pagadian City. —Leah Agonoy/Inquirer Mindanao
PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) here raided a massage clinic that offered “Lingam” massage as freebie to clients, rescuing three therapists and arresting its manager for violations of the anti-trafficking law.
NBI Pagadian district office chief Joey Moran said the massage clinic Vitalidad at Rizal Avenue, Gatas district here appeared to operate a “clean” business at first glance except for the unusual freebie it was offering to customers.
“Being a massage clinic, they offer a massage. But the twist is, they offer freebies like massage on private parts,” Moran said. “The bottomline is they arouse the customer by touching his private parts.”
READ: NBI, SEC nab 2 Ponzi-scheme operators in Pagadian City
Lingam is a type of tantric massage that focuses on the male organ. According to one of the rescued therapists, some customers sought the massage because of its claim as a cure for prostate cancer.
Moran said they received a report on July 22 about the massage clinic’s unusual freebies, prompting them to conduct an operation in the evening of Tuesday, July 30, with a poseur customer who tested the service using marked money and signaled to authorities to start the operation and rescue.
Among the three women therapists rescued by personnel of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), a 25-year old woman from Guipos town said they were giving the Lingam massage because of its claim to “prevent prostate cancer.”
All three rescued therapists denied they were giving “extra services to clients,” but confirmed that Lingam massage was part of the package of services they offered. At a price range of P700 to P2,000, customers can avail of a full body scrub inside the shower and Lingam massage.
“Even if they are massage workers accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda), offering Lingam services is not part of their job,” said Joefel Daquiag, CSWD sectoral division head. “They have no idea that the offered packages harass them as women. All they knew was it’s part of the package and it’s part of their job. It degrades them as women and they were unaware of it,” Daquiag said.
Only three therapists and the manager were around during the raid.
Moran said they arrested the massage clinic’s manager, identified as Nenita Batelo, since the owner was not in the area. Batelo and the owner—who is still at large—will be charged with violation of Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003.
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Moran said the NBI would also be looking into the operations of two other massage clinics in Zamboanga del Sur offering similar services.
The raided massage clinic, which opened in November last year, has around 20 branches all over Mindanao, according to Batelo.
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Paris Olympics: Carlo Paalam advances to boxing quarterfinals | Francis T.J. Ochoa | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 22:20:37 PST | Team Philippines’ Carlo Paalam celebrates after defeating Ireland’s Jude Gallagher in their men’s 57 kg preliminary boxing match at the Paris Olympics 2024, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/John Locher)
Team Philippines’ Carlo Paalam celebrates after defeating Ireland’s Jude Gallagher in their men’s 57 kg preliminary boxing match at the Paris Olympics 2024, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/John Locher)
SCHEDULE: Team Philippines at Paris Olympics 2024
Carlo Paalam came out smoking and did enough to hammer out a unanimous decision victory over Ireland’s Jude Gallagher in the men’s boxing 57-kilogram division Wednesday in the Paris Olympics.
Paalam advanced to the quarterfinals with the win, where he used his speed against the taller Irishman, who was surprisingly game and quick on his feet.
Both fighters willingly mixed it up in breathless exchanges and although Paalam landed huge shots, Gallagher managed to find his target every now and then.
READ: LIVE UPDATES: Team Philippines at Paris Olympics 2024 July 31
The scorecards certainly reflected the battle: Although Paalam won on all five judges’ scorecards, four judges had him ahead by just one round.
The Tokyo Olympics silver medalist thus got a taste of what awaits him as he seeks another podium finish while fighting in a bigger division.
Paalam was a flyweight when he won his silver three years ago. He’s campaigning against bigger and more natural featherweights at North Paris Arena because of the condensed divisions in the boxing event.
Paris Olympics: Team Philippines’ Carlo Paalam (boxing)
Still in the hunt along with Paalam are fellow Tokyo silver medalist Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas.
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Philippines returns to world’s largest bird fair after 15 years | Dianne Sampang | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 21:50:39 PST | Bird Finders Philippines at the Global Bird Fair 2024 held at Lyndon Top, Rutland, United Kingdom. (Photo courtesy of Bird Finders Philippines)
Bird Finders Philippines at the Global Bird Fair 2024 held at Lyndon Top, Rutland, United Kingdom. (Photo courtesy of Bird Finders Philippines)
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines made a comeback after a 15-year hiatus in the largest bird fair in the world last July 12 to 14, 2024 in Lyndon Top, Rutland, United Kingdom.
The British Birdwatching Fair which began in 1989 is held annually and is considered the largest bird fair in the world, attracting birdwatchers, bird photographers, and bird enthusiasts from around the world. It was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and later returned as Global Birdfair in 2022.
According to Alain Pascua, co-founder and president of the Wild Bird Photographers of the Philippines, the country can continue its participation in the birdwatching community through support.
“The Philippines’ rich avian biodiversity and the dedicated efforts of Bird Finder Philippines position the country as a must-visit destination for birding enthusiasts worldwide. With continued promotion and support, the Philippines can soar to new heights and gain a place of prominence in the global birdwatching community,” said Pascua in a statement.
READ: Birders find new role: Minimizing bird strikes
The Philippines participated in the 2024 fair through Bird Finder Philippines, an initiative specializing in bird photography tours and bird watching. The country first joined the bird fair in 2009, represented by the Department of Tourism and Wild Bird Club of the Philippines.
The Philippines is home to diverse species of birds. Last March, the spoon-billed sandpiper, the world’s rarest and most threatened migratory shore bird, was spotted in the country for the very first time at Balanga, Bataan.
READ: World’s rarest, most threatened migratory shore bird spotted in PH
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MMDA assures ongoing efforts with 101 NCR flood control projects | INQUIRER.net | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:29:21 PST | The MMDA conducts cleaning operations across Metro Manila on Thursday, July 25 to clear debris from Typhoon Carina’s flooding. | PHOTO: MMDA
The MMDA conducts cleaning operations across Metro Manila on Thursday, July 25 to clear debris from Typhoon Carina’s flooding. | PHOTO: MMDA
MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday said it has been actively working on various flood control projects to address the problem of constant flooding in Metro Manila.
MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Romando “Don” Artes said in a statement that the agency is working on an approved budget that includes P2.72 billion for flood control, P2.26 billion for capital outlay, and P395.57 million for the maintenance and operation of 71 pumping stations.
“The MMDA is working on the said budget to cover for the 101 projects across all NCR (National Capital Region) districts. As of July 2024, 56 are completed while 45 are ongoing,” Artes said.
The agency identified outdated, inadequate drainage systems and a limited budget for flood control projects as major reasons for the flooding in Metro Manila when the southwest monsoon and Typhoon Carina hit the region last July 24.
READ: Carina floods leave PH capital in state of calamity
Furthermore, Artes factored in high tide, high water levels, and improper waste management as several factors that also contributed to the problem.
Currently, the MMDA is operating 71 pumping stations across flood-prone areas in Metro Manila and has implemented the Metro Manila Flood Management Project to restore existing pumping stations and create new ones.
However, Artes stressed that effective flood control requires not only flood management projects by the government but also the public’s help in their waste management efforts. — Arianne Denisse Cagsawa, INQUIRER.net intern
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Songwriters, interpreters show beauty of OPM in PhilPop Himig Handog 2024 | Hannah Mallorca | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 21:22:33 PST | The songwriters and interpreters included in the PhilPop Himig Handog 2024 competition. Image: Courtesy of NYOU Consultancy
The songwriters and interpreters included in the PhilPop Himig Handog 2024 competition. Image: Courtesy of NYOU Consultancy
In hopes of promoting the emerging OPM scene, composers and interpreters join forces to showcase the many colors of Filipino music through the 2024 edition of the Philpop Himig Handog songwriting competition.
The annual contest brings together the Top 12 tracks written by songwriters and their respective interpreters covering themes of love, mental health, society, and other topics. This year’s competition is a joint effort by the Philippine Popular Music Festival (Philpop) and Himig Handog to elevate Filipino music.
Compared to its previous inceptions, entries went through two rounds of screening from Philpop and Himig Handog before the final 12 entries were selected. This, according to ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo, was a “difficult process” for the selection committee as the songs went under the ringer before these were selected as the final entries.
“We couldn’t simply pick someone based on name value. They had to make sense in terms of style, the songwriter’s vision, and overall commitment to the song,” Manalo told reporters at a press launch.
Despite this, it was a process that allowed Philpop and Himig Handog to be open to each other’s differences, especially when it came to their respective tastes in music.
“Nadiscover namin sa process na ito kahit magkakaiba ang taste namin, we can actually agree on a good song. So, nagulat kami nung nag-tally kami kasi pare-pareho lang yung gusto namin (What we discovered throughout the process is even though we have different tastes, we can actually agree on a good song. We got surprised while tallying the entries because we had the same choices),” said Manalo.
This remark was seconded by songwriter Keith John Quito, who wrote the entry “Buhi,” who pointed out that OPM is bound to go through changes as sound will always remain “refresh.”
“Nababago rin ang taste natin (Our tastes change). I hope we go in that direction where we allow different languages and genres [in our music]. Music is freedom after all. I am still developing my own sound and style, and then I may shift to go into a different [genre and language],” he said.
Some of the biggest names included among the interpreters are returning contestants Ice Seguerra and Moira Dela Torre, while chart-topper Maki and P-pop boy group VXON joined the competition for the first time.
Anim kabilaan para sa #PhilPopHimigHandog!
Nandito na ang composers at interpreters para sa Top 12 songs 🎶
Suportahan ang kanilang pag-awit!
07.19.24 🇵🇭#PxHTop12 pic.twitter.com/GK84pACQ6I
— Philpop Foundation (@philpopmusic) July 17, 2024
Here is the list of song entries and their respective composers:
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Details of the Philpop Himig Handog 2024 finals are yet to be announced.
The winning songwriter and interpreter duo will win cash prizes worth P1,000,000 (first place), P500,000 (second place), and P200,000 (third place) in the culmination of the contest.
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Niño Muhlach’s wife calls for ‘justice to be served’ in cryptic post | Jessica Ann Evangelista | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:48:49 PST | Niño Muhlach with his wife Diane Abby Tupaz | Image: Facebook/Diane Abby Tupaz
Niño Muhlach with his wife Diane Abby Tupaz | Image: Facebook/Diane Abby Tupaz
Taking her cue from husband Niño Muhlach, his wife Diane Abby Tupaz also made a cryptic post on Facebook as she called for justice to be served on unnamed individuals who allegedly disrespected and did despicable things to their children.
Without mentioning names or citing a particular incident, Tupaz lamented that they showered their children love and care, only for them to be treated with disrespect by some people.
“Pinalaki at iningatan naming mabuti ang aming mga anak na puno ng pagmamahal at pag aaruga tapos wawalang hiyain lang ng mga kung sinong tao na nilamon ng kademonyohan sa katawan para magawa yung ganung klaseng kababuyan!” she said in her Facebook post.
(We raised and took good care of our children with love and care, only for them to be disrespected by people consumed by evil to commit such vile acts!)
Image: Facebook/Diane Abby Tupaz
“Hindi kami makakapayag na hindi namin makakamit ang hustisya! Habang buhay na dadalhin ng anak namin yung kababuyan na ginawa nyo sa kanya! Wala kaming pakialam kung sino kayo o kung sino ang poprotekta sa inyo!” further declared the non-showbiz mother.
(We will not allow this without getting justice! Our child will carry the trauma of what you did for the rest of their life! We don’t care who you are or who protects you!)
Tupaz further said that her family plans to go after these individuals so that they will get the punishment they deserve.
“Sisiguraduhin namin na pagbabayaran nyo yung ginawa nyo! Hindi namin hahayaan na may mabiktima pa kayo na iba! Itutuloy namin ang laban! Managot ang dapat managot! Nakaka nginig kayo ng laman!” she stated, adding a hashtag “justice should prevail.”
The post has been shared by some netizens who speculated that it was about her stepson Sandro, Muhlach’s child from his first wife Edith Millare, with many comments alluding to justice being served.
Image: Facebook/Diane Abby Tupaz
Aside from Sandro, Muhlach has another son, 14-year-old Alonzo, whom he shares with Tupaz. Alonzo also used to be a child actor on ABS-CBN, just like his father.
Muhlach first sparked intrigue among netizens after he posted a cryptic statement on his Facebook page, which received comments of support from the netizens for the family, especially his son Sandro.
The young actor likewise shared a religious quote on his Instagram stories about “God healing the helpless.”
Image: Instagram/@sandromuhlach
Speculations about a wrongdoing done on Sandro arose after a blind item came out on social media alleging that two TV consultants had sexually abused a young actor after a recent big network event at a hotel in Taguig.
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The rumor was further fueled by a post by show biz insider Ogie Diaz seemingly affirming that the abuse indeed happened.
Incidentally, GMA Network released a statement addressing rumors about two of its “contractors,” saying it is “committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation.”
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Manila Water releases desludging service schedule for August 2024 | INQUIRER.net | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 18:11:20 PST | Manila Water underscores the importance of regular desludging to maintain the efficiency of the waste management system at home.
Manila Water underscores the importance of regular desludging to maintain the efficiency of the waste management system at home.
There are many ways we can take care of our septic tanks at home. One of which is availing of the desludging services offered by Manila Water at no additional cost.
Manila Water underscores the importance of regular desludging to maintain the efficiency of the waste management system at home. As a septic tank’s primary function is to collect household wastewater, neglecting regular septic tank maintenance can cause serious problems.
“Septic tanks are a vital part of our homes but often overlooked. The accumulation of waste can hinder proper functioning and cause sewage backups or overflows. Overflows can result to untreated sewage to pollute nearby soil, groundwater, and water bodies, disrupting ecosystems and marine life. Dirt, viruses, and bacteria from the sludge can also pose risks to human health,” says Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director.
Every month, Manila Water’s desludging caravan goes around barangays in the East Zone to siphon household septic tanks of its customers.
In August, the company’s desludging caravan will be present in:
To know the exact schedule of the desludging caravan’s visit, customers can call the Manila Water Customer Service Hotline 1627 or coordinate with their respective barangay councils.
READ: Manila Water stresses importance of desludging for environmental, community health
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Folk singer Coritha baldado matapos ma-stroke, ‘di iniwan ng partner | No author found | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 13:43:57 PST | Coritha | Photo from Facebook, Julius Babao YouTube ‘UNPLUGGED’
Coritha | Photo from Facebook, Julius Babao YouTube ‘UNPLUGGED’
ANG sakit sa pakiramdam habang pinapanood namin ang panayam ni Julius Babao kay Luisito o Chito Santos, ang partner ng OPM icon na si Coritha.
Nakilala si Coritha sa mga classic OPM hits na “Oras Na”, “Lolo Jose”, “Sierra Madre”, “Gising Na O Kuya Ko” at marami pang iba.
Siya ay bedridden na ngayon at hindi nakapagsasalita matapos na-stroke ilang taon na ngayon ang nakararaan.
Isa rin siguro sa dahilan kung bakit na-stroke si Coritha ay sa dahilang ang minana niyang bahay sa ina sa Sacred Heart, Quezon City ay nasunog noong 2018 at ni isang gamit ay wala siyang naisalba.
Baka Bet Mo: Heart nag-donate ng P1.5-M sa SSFI; katas ng pagbebenta ng bag
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Hindi iniwan ni Coritha ang bahay nila kahit sunog na dahil doon siya natutulog gamit ang folding bed kahit walang kuryente pero may tubig naman base sa kuwento ni Chito.
Ayaw daw iwan ni Coritha ang lugar dahil ang lupang kinatitirikan ng nasunog na bahay ay gustong ibenta ng nag-iisang kapatid na sa kalaunan ay nangyari rin.
Dahil sa awa ay iniuwi na ni Chito ang babaeng hiniling niya sa Diyos na makasama sa buhay sa Tagaytay kung saan siya nakatira at malakas pa noon si Coritha dahil nakakapag-motor pa.
Masayahin din ang OPM legent at may mga pagkakataon pa na pinatatawag niya ang mga bata sa kapitbahay at magpapabili ng pagkain pagkatapos niyang mag-mini-concert.
“Nagkaroon ng mild stroke, kinain ‘yung dalawang guyabanong malaki pagdating ng madaling araw, sabi niya, ‘To nawiwiwi ako (tapos) pagka-ihi niya, nawalan na siya ng laban (lakas) tinakbo ko na sa hospital,” kuwento ni Chito sa “Unplugged” vlog ni Julius sa YouTube.
Emosyonal pang sabi ni Chito, “Mabuti mayroon kaming kapirasong lugar (maliit na bahay sa gitna ng maraming halamanan).”
Ipinakita sa video na nakahiga si Coritha at may nakalagay sa ilong na plastic tube na hindi makagalaw pero nakikita ang mga mata na nagre-react siya.
“Ayos naman siya hindi lang nakakapagsalita pero ‘yung pakiramdam niya matalas,” sambit ni Chito.
Kapag may gustong gawin si Coritha ay, “Pinapakiramdaman ko kung ano ‘yung kailangan niya kapag nawiwiwi, sigaw nang sigaw (tinig lang walang salita) pag basa ang diaper, ganu’n siya lagi.
“Naiintindihan niya kapag nag-uusap tayo (kahit sinong kausap) minsan bigla na lang umiiyak (nakita sa video) kapag naririnig niya ang mga malulungkot na kanta sa TV, yung kanta niya bigla na lang nag-iiyak,” sabi ni Chito.
Ang sanhi ng stroke ng sikat na mang-aawit noong dekada 70 hanggang 90 ay dahil sa diabetis na na-detect noong kinain niya ang dalawang malaking guyabano.
“Nu’ng dinala ko sa ospital at nu’ng makita ‘yung CT scan marami na pala siyang atake na hindi lang napapansin,” say ng partner ni Coritha.
Gustong operahan si Coritha pero tumanggi si Chito, “Hindi ako pumayag na operahan siya, sabi ko kausapin ko muna ‘yung kapatid kong doktora kasi wala akong alam diyan. Gusto nila lagyan ng tubo ayaw ng kapatid ko, sabi ‘kuya walang kasiguruhan ‘yan.’
“Mauubos pera mo at mahihirapan si Coritha kaya kung kaya mong iuwi na walang oxygen, iuwi ko na lang. Inuwi ko nu’ng nakita kong medyo okay-okay na at dito sa bahay ko na lang alagaan.
“Kaya dito (Tagaytay) ko dinala tapos nag-normal naman kasi wala na siyang oxygen kasi nu’ng inuwi ko dito naka-oxygen pa.
“Tapos sabi sa akin kung kaya kong tiisin, pababayaan lang siya matutulog na lang at hindi na gigising, e, ayaw ko (umiling) hindi ako pumayag,” emosyonal na kuwento ni Chito.
Sabi pa raw ni Chito kay Coritha ay mauna na siya kung hindi na kaya at okay lang na maiwan siyang mag-isa pero umiiling daw ang babaeng pinakamamahal na ibig sabihin ay gusto nitong magkasama pa sila.
Okay naman daw ang paghinga ni Coritha, “Minsan tawa nang tawa kasi naglalakad ako napatid ako tawa siya nang tawa. Malakas ang pakiramdam, ‘yun lang ‘yung memory nabawasan.”
Nabanggit din na anuman ang mangyari kay Coritha na kung hindi siya kukunin ng kaanak niya ay sa museleo sa Malabon daw ito dadalhin ni Chito o kaya sa probinsya nila sa Bikol.
Aminadong hindi naman sila sumasala sa pagkain dahil may mga nagpapadala, nahihirapan lang si Chito sa mga personal na pangangailangan ni Coritha tulad ng mga gamot, diaper at gatas na P2,000 kada 4 days.
Nabanggit din na may mga royalties na dapat matanggap pa si Cortiha sa Alpha Records pero hindi naman daw naibibigay pa kaya nanawagan siyang sana makuha na para pambili ng gatas.
Natanong ni Julius kung saan napunta ang perang napagbilhan ng lupang dating tinitirikan ng bahay nina Coritha, “Wala, nasa kapatid hindi naman nagbigay, bipolar ‘yun, eh,” kaswal na sagot ni Chito.
Naikuwento rin sa vlog na hindi nakapag-asawa si Coritha at walang may alam kung nagkaroon ng karelasyon dahil masyado raw itong malihim sabi ni Chito na after 30 years na muli niyang nakita ang babaeng nasa puso niya.
“Nu’ng ibinalitang nasunugan siya, doon ko lang hinanap, 30 years after. Kasi una kaming nagkita nu’ng tinulungan ko siyang makapag-concert, tapos no’n wala na kasi sumikat na siya, nagkapangalan na kaya naisip ko ang layo na (agwat).
“Pero hiniling ko siya sa Diyos, e, kaso sumikat nang husto, paano pa kami magkikita, e, heto nagkita na ulit,” balik-tanaw ni Chito.
At ngayong baldado at hindi na nakapagsasalita si Coritha ay nangako si Chito na kahit anong mangyari ay hindi niya iiwan ang babaeng hiniling niyang makasama sa buhay.
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Sa mga gustong tumulong kay Coritha ay makikita sa vlog ni Julius Babao ang mga detalye.
Sana gumaling si Coritha at marinig pang muli ang magaganda nitong awitin para makilala rin siya ng mga Gen Z. | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391396/folk-singer-coritha-baldado-matapos-ma-stroke-di-iniwan-ng-partner?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2MfN99Ca4VlzgXWoqfxfzoK1f9MVwoHjYHVAJyHWEKKw8EWSDTjSIJYBk_aem_Pz8fP2BdcVYQjUL_9tMa0Q | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Rep. Suarez notes drop in scam texts after Pogo ban | Gabriel Pabico Lalu | Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:49:24 PST | MANILA, Philippines — It appears that scam text messages, which claim the receiver won a raffle prize or direct them to shady websites designed to extract confidential information, have gone away after a total ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogo) was declared.
This was the observation made by Deputy Speaker David Suarez on Wednesday when he and other lawmakers were asked about the House of Representatives probe into crimes allegedly linked to Pogos.
Suarez said in a press briefing at the Batasang Pambansa complex that the scam or phishing messages went away after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made the announcement to ban Pogos.
READ: Marcos: ‘All Pogos are banned!’
“I just want to add to what my colleagues have said, haven’t you observed, since it was announced by the President that Pogos are banned, we have not received any scam text? It drastically went down for me,” Suarez said.
“Before I used to have four or five scam messages, but now I do not receive any message asking people to click on a particular link and receive this reward. Haven’t you noticed that?” Suarez asked.
Despite the presence of the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Law, phishing attempts have been prominent, with anonymous cell phone numbers still being able to send messages.
READ: SIM registration law failed, says lawmaker
According to Suarez, this might be another indication that Pogos have been used for criminal activities.
“So, I think that is one clear example that what the President said is correct, that Pogos have already morphed into other illegal activities such as scam, prostitution, human trafficking, murder, and all sorts of other things that was not even within the realm of Pogo to begin with,” Suarez said.
“So, for me, if we need a law, I’m sure with the public opinion on our side, the support coming from the Senators and here in the House, we can pass a bill banning Pogos in our country,” he added.
Suarez’s comments came as the House committee on public order and safety as well as the committee on games and amusements held their third hearing on the problems brought about by Pogos. The hearing continued despite Marcos’ ban, as lawmakers believe those behind illegal activities must be held accountable.
READ: Pogo probe to continue despite ban: Violators should be held accountable
No less than Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez himself ordered House leaders and officials to quickly craft a bill that would ban Pogos so that the prohibition would stay even as President Marcos steps down from office in 2028.
READ: Total Pogo ban bill needed, Romualdez tells lawmakers
Several issues have been linked to Pogos, especially after authorities raided gaming hubs in Bamban, Tarlac and Porac, Pampanga earlier this year.
During the joint committee hearing last July 17, a Pogo worker rescued from Bamban identified as “Dylan” said that a friend invited him to celebrate the Chinese New Year last February 10 at the Baofu Land Development Inc. compound in the town.
However, his friend left him there to be sold for P300,000 to the Pogo under Zun Yuan, which sits on the Baofu compound. Pogo officials eventually said that Dylan would have to work there unless he could pay off the money used to buy him.
READ: Rescued Malaysian testifies Chinese sold him to Bamban Pogo for P300,000
Dylan was one of the 800 Pogo workers rescued in the Bamban hub, which has been linked to suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo. According to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Guo has business interests at Baofu, as she acquired eight parcels of land when she was president of the company.
Guo claims to have divested ownership of Baofu, but DILG believes the amount she divested it for — P2.5 million — was “grossly incongruent to her investment on Baufo which is approximately eight hectares of land.”
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READ: House bill filed to ban Pogos, revoke licenses
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Paris Olympics: Kayla Sanchez upbeat ahead of freestyle semis | Rommel Fuertes Jr. | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 23:49:27 PST | Kayla Sanchez, of the Philippines, prepares for her heat in the women’s 100-meter freestyle at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Nanterre, France. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)
Kayla Sanchez, of the Philippines, prepares for her heat in the women’s 100-meter freestyle at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Nanterre, France. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)
MANILA, Philippines—Team Philippines’ Kayla Sanchez said her performance in the women’s 100m freestyle heats at the Paris Olympics 2024 was a product of hard work in training.
Sanchez cracked the Top 16 to qualify for the semifinal after placing 10th, clocking in at 53.67 seconds to set the national record.
“My coach and I have been working really diligently on our plan. Every practice, we’re visualizing the race and how it’s going to help me perform better and I think that we were able to execute really, really well. I’m excited to have another opportunity,” said Sanchez in an interview with One Sports.
“I managed to squeeze through to the semifinals. It was a good swim and I’m excited for tonight.”
Sanchez, who also set a new personal time in the event, won’t have much time to celebrate or rest with the semifinal set at 3:40 a.m. (Manila time).
But the 23-year-old Sanchez is ready for the tougher challenge that awaits and is motivated to make her country and family proud.
“I think that’s the most special part for me. I’m now representing the Philippines. I have my family there and that makes me really happy,” said Sanchez, who was a former member of the Canadian national team.
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Joyce Ching, husband expecting baby girl | Anne Pasajol | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 17:09:46 PST | Joyce Ching (right) and her non-showbiz husband Kevin Alimon. Image: Instagram/@chingjoyce
Joyce Ching (right) and her non-showbiz husband Kevin Alimon. Image: Instagram/@chingjoyce
Joyce Ching could not seem to contain her elation after she knew that she and her non-showbiz husband, Kevin Alimon, will be welcoming a baby girl soon.
Ching and Alimon held an intimate gender-reveal party, as shown in a video on the actress’ Instagram page on Monday, July 29.
In the clip, the pair pulled a string to open a bear-shaped piñata that contained pink confetti, indicating that their first child is a girl.
Ching, who was “team girl,” was ecstatic as she waved her arms while laughing. Alimon, meanwhile, seemed surprised as he covered his mouth and paused for a few seconds.
“IT’S A—Halatang halata sino ang team boy at team girl,” Ching captioned her post.
“We love you, our Hawhaw,” she then addressed their child.
A post shared by Joyce Ching (@chingjoyce)
Ching’s fellow celebrities including Carla Abellana, Dingdong Dantes, Gina Alajar, Jason Abalos and Thea Tolentino then took to the comments section to congratulate the couple.
Image: Instagram/@chingjoyce
Image: Instagram/@chingjoyce
Ching, best known for her GMA TV series “Reel Love Presents Tween Hearts,” “Endless Love,” “Ikaw Lang ang Mamahalin” and “Anna Karenina,” tied the knot with Alimon in 2019 in a garden wedding in Baguio.
The couple announced Ching’s pregnancy last June.
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PhilHealth to recommend premium contribution rate cut to Marcos | Charie Abarca | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:12:55 PST | MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. said they would recommend to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the reduction of PhilHealth premium contribution rates.
At the Senate committee on health’s Tuesday hearing, Ledesma said they would raise their recommendation as soon as possible.
“Especially after this very nice hearing that just happened. We will do it immediately as early as this afternoon. I will convene our team and we will recommend for a reduction in the premium contribution rates to President Marcos, immediately,” said Ledesma after he was asked by Senator Bong Go whether or not PhilHealth would recommend the said reduction.
For his part, panel head Go said this would really help Filipinos, noting the importance of every peso.
“Mabigat po ang kontribusyon na ‘yan. Tapos makikita nila may natitira pang balanse,” said Go.
(That contribution is a burden for some. Then they will see that they still have a balance.)
The matter was brought up after it was revealed during the hearing that PhilHealth has an existing P500 billion reserve fund.
“Hindi maintindihan ng ordinaryong Pilipino po ‘yun na meron kayong pondo na P500 billion tapos ito, naghahanap pa sila ng tulong mula sa iba’t-iba. Dalawa lang ‘yan — taasan niyo ‘yung tulong niyo… then pag-aralan natin dito sa Senado, nandyan na ‘yung bill — for interpellation na — yung irereduce o isususpend [muna] ang pag-increase ng contribution,” said Go.
(Any ordinary Filipino wouldn’t understand why you have a P500 billion reserve fund and then they will still find help from others. There are only two solutions to this — increase the help you provide and then let us study it here in the Senate — the bill is already there and it’s already for interpellation — the reduction of suspension of the increase in contribution.)
READ: PhilHealth members’ contribution hikes to 5% this 2024
In January, PhilHealth announced that its members’ premium contribution will increase from four percent to five percent in 2024.
The increase is in line with the Universal Health Care (UHC) law, according to Ledesma.
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Paris Olympics: Joanie Delgaco out of medal race | Rommel Fuertes Jr. | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 17:07:43 PST | The Philippines’ Joanie Delgaco competes in the women’s single sculls repechages rowing competition at Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Centre in Vaires-sur-Marne during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on July 28, 2024. (Photo by Bertrand GUAY / AFP)
The Philippines’ Joanie Delgaco competes in the women’s single sculls repechages rowing competition at Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Centre in Vaires-sur-Marne during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on July 28, 2024. (Photo by Bertrand GUAY / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines—Team Philippines rower Joanie Delgaco struggled to keep up with the rest of the field as her medal campaign at the Paris Olympics 2024 came to an end on Tuesday (Manila time).
Delgaco crossed the finish line last with a time of 7:58.30, which was 24 seconds slower than the last semifinal qualifier at Nautica St – Flat Water.
New Zealand’s Emma Twigg topped the quarterfinal round, clocking 7:26.89 while Sweden’s Aurelia-Maxima Janzen (7:31.12), and Spain’s Virginia Rivas Diaz (7:34.01).
The 26-year-old Delgaco failed to advance on opening day but earned another shot after ruling the repechage.
Although Delgaco is out of the medal race, she is still set to compete in the classification round on Wednesday.
Delgaco takes on the classification race on Wednesday, according to the Paris Olympic website.
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PNR train-van collision victim in Albay dies | Ma. April Mier-Manjares | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:45:55 PST | INQUIRER FILES
INQUIRER FILES
LEGAZPI CITY — A 24-year-old man died on Tuesday, July 30, three days after a Philippine National Railways (PNR) train dragged the van he was in as it was crossing an intersection in Daraga town in Albay.
His family confirmed that John Carlo Olaybal died at 9:15 a.m. He was among the 12 passengers in the van that was dragged on Saturday, July 27, for almost 78 feet by the PNR train along the intersection in Barangay Gapo.
Some of the victims had severe head injuries and were being treated in different hospitals.
Lieutenant Ma. Isabel Nopia, information officer of Daraga police, earlier said that the van driver may not have heard the train horn while crossing the railroad.
Nopia said passengers rented the van for an outing in Pilar town in Sorsogon province.
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Marcos tells gov’t: Ensure Filipinos receive timely typhoon warnings | Zacarian Sarao | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:45:07 PST | President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inspects the Mauban Seawall and Mauban Port during the aftermath of Super Typhoon Carina on Friday, July 26, 2024, in Mauban, Quezaon province. The president also presided over the situational briefing with local chief executives with various heads of concerned agencies. (KJ ROSALES/PPA POOL)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inspects the Mauban Seawall and Mauban Port during the aftermath of Super Typhoon Carina on Friday, July 26, 2024, in Mauban, Quezaon province. The president also presided over the situational briefing with local chief executives with various heads of concerned agencies. (KJ ROSALES/PPA POOL)
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday directed disaster response agencies to ensure Filipinos receive early warnings against incoming typhoons.
Marcos made the pronouncement after a meeting with the officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
“The safety of our people is our top priority! I have directed our disaster response agencies to ensure Filipinos receive timely warnings about incoming typhoons, along with clear instructions on what actions to take and where to seek shelter or assistance,” Marcos’ Facebook post read.
“We are committed to developing technology to protect lives from future calamities,” he added.
READ: Marcos orders swift relief to typhoon victims
Last week, Super Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon battered several parts of the country, bringing heavy rains and causing severe flooding in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
The two weather systems left 36 people dead, six injured, and three missing.
READ: Marcos to agencies: Coordinate properly amid Carina onslaught
At least 4.5 million individuals were affected by the calamity.
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Gutierrez: VP Duterte’s reduced security still three times Robredo’s | Gabriel Pabico Lalu | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:06:54 PST | Then Vice President Leni Robredo and her spokesperson Atty. Barry Gutierrez in Quezon City after holding a news conference when the Supreme Court ordered the release of a committee report on the initial recount of the Marcos poll protest. INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO / Gabriel Pabico Lalu
Then Vice President Leni Robredo and her spokesperson Atty. Barry Gutierrez in Quezon City after holding a news conference when the Supreme Court ordered the release of a committee report on the initial recount of the Marcos poll protest. INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO / Gabriel Pabico Lalu
MANILA, Philippines — Even after the security force detailed to Vice President Sara Duterte was reduced, she still has three times the number of personnel that former Vice President Leni Robredo had in office, lawyer Barry Gutierrez said on Tuesday.
Gutierrez, a former lawmaker who was also a spokesperson for Robredo, said in an online interview with reporters that he does not see the point of Duterte complaining about her reduced security detail.
Duterte on Monday posted an open letter to Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, calling the removal of 75 police officers “political harassment.” However, Gutierrez pointed out that based on Commission on Audit reports, Duterte originally had 433 security officers, meaning that the “reduced” strength could still be over 350.
Robredo, on the other hand, had 108 in 2016, which was eventually reduced to 78.
“First of all, VP Leni started with a security detail of 108 in 2016. That’s the highest it has reached. Based on my understanding from articles that came out in 2022, VP Sara Duterte started with 433. That’s more than four times what VP Leni got. Now, that 108 was reduced to 83 in 2020 — 12 officers at 71 na enlisted,” Gutierrez said.
“At the end of her term in 2022, it was down to 78. But now VP Sara is complaining and making a big fuss of the 75 officers being reassigned — but when you deduct that from 433, that’s still 350, right? That’s still three times VP Leni’s biggest security detail. But we never complained about it, because we never thought that she needed that much security,” he added.
Gutierrez also clarified that Robredo’s 78 security staffers never provided security all at the same time, as different units were deployed to allow for day-offs and other duties of the officers.
But if Duterte still has over 350 officers in her security detail, Gutierrez said he does not understand how deployment works for her office.
“The reason why there are 78 officers is because there are shifts. But at any given time, I don’t think there were even 20 people assigned to secure her […] Usually that’s around ten or a dozen who will accompany her at any time, but definitely the entire detail does not go with her,” Gutierrez said.
“That’s why I cannot imagine how a security detail of 350 officer works, let’s say that one-third of the force is deployed to secure her at any given time, that’s over a hundred — I cannot imagine that you would have over 100 bodyguards with you, that might be more than the audience at some of your events,” he noted.
On Monday, Duterte released an open letter to PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, calling the removal of the 75 police security escorts a “clear case of political harassment.”
READ: Sara Duterte cries ‘political harassment’ as PNP security detail taken away
Duterte also claimed that Marbil was lying when he said that the withdrawal of her police protection detail was due to the PNP being short-staffed, noting that the security was pulled out when she resigned from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s cabinet.
Duterte made the revelation that 75 police officers were pulled from her security detail last July 23 — or a day after Marcos’ Sona. Marbil responded by saying that the officers assigned to Duterte were given another assignment to address personnel shortage within the police force.
READ: VP Duterte: PNP pulls out 75 cops assigned for my security
Marbil also said they saw no threat against Duterte, hence the reduction. He however clarified that Duterte was not singled out, as other retired generals’ security were also recalled.
READ: PNP: Sara Duterte not singled out in recall of 75 police details
Earlier, Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua urged Duterte to respect the PNP’s decision, noting that while Duterte’s security force was reduced, it was not entirely depleted.
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Chua noted that the reduction was meant to cope with the demands of additional police personnel in different areas.
Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., who was also present in the briefing, said that there were times that lawmakers’ security detail were also pulled out due to more pressing tasks for the police, noting that it is a reality that government officials must cope with.
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PCG: ‘Very minimal’ oil sheen along shoreline of Manila, other areas | John Eric Mendoza | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:22:55 PST | ENVIRONMENTAL THREAT An aerial image from environmental group Greenpeace taken around 4 kilometers off Hagonoy, Bulacan, shows the oil slick from a tanker, which sank on July 25 in Bataan due to bad weather.—NOEL CELIS/GREENPEACE
ENVIRONMENTAL THREAT An aerial image from environmental group Greenpeace taken around 4 kilometers off Hagonoy, Bulacan, shows the oil slick from a tanker, which sank on July 25 in Bataan due to bad weather.—NOEL CELIS/GREENPEACE
MANILA, Philippines — The oil sheens along the shorelines of Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, and Cavite are only “very minimal,” the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Tuesday.
In a statement, the PCG said it conducted an aerial survey and “observed very minimal and unnoticeable oil sheens” along the shoreline.
Fishers’ group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas on Monday said the oil spill had already reached the shorelines of Tanza.
READ: PH Coast Guard verifying reports that oil spill reached parts of Cavite
According to the University of the Philippines’ Marine Science Institute, the oil spill trajectory model indicates that the oil slick would reach Metro Manila by Tuesday.
However, the PCG said the “social media reports showcasing videos and pictures of oil sheen/oil spill were unindicative to the actual aerial view.” It cited the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited.
MT Terra Nova was carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel when it capsized and eventually submerged off Bataan last July 25. A crew member also died.
The PCG has since sealed most of the ships’ valves and deployed oil dispersants and barriers to contain the spillages.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has not yet implemented a fishing ban in adjacent waters, saying these areas are still “unaffected” by the oil spill.
READ: BFAR: No fishing ban in waters unaffected by Manila Bay oil spill
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However, PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said fishing in areas affected by the oil spill in Manila Bay is not advisable.
READ: Coast Guard: Fishing in Manila Bay unsafe due to oil spill
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Leonardo ‘Remy’ Monteverde, husband of Mother Lily, dies at 86 | Anne Pasajol | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:06:50 PST | Leonardo ‘Remy’ Monteverde. Image: Instagram/@motherlilymonteverde, @dondonmonteverde
Leonardo ‘Remy’ Monteverde. Image: Instagram/@motherlilymonteverde, @dondonmonteverde
Leonardo “Remy” Monteverde, husband of Regal Entertainment founder Lily Monteverdo, has died at the age of 86, his family confirmed.
Lily, fondly known in the Philippine movie industry as Mother Lily, confirmed Remy’s passing through an obituary card shared via her Instagram page on Tuesday, July 30.
Remy, a former basketball player, passed away on Monday, July 29. The cause of death was not immediately known.
A post shared by GR Rodis (@motherlilymonteverde)
Director Erik Matti and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) chairperson Joey Reyes were among those who paid tribute to Remy through their respective Facebook pages.
“To the Monteverde family—Lily Monteverde Meme, (children) Roselle Monteverde, Dondon Monteverde and Goldwyn, our deepest sympathies for the passing of Father Remy Monteverde,” Matti wrote. “His legacy and contribution to Philippine cinema through Regal Films will always be remembered and recognized.”
Matti further credited Remy for having “championed Filipino Action movies and defined it for so many decades with such icons Lito Lapid and Ace Vergel headlining the marquee.”
“Rest in peace, Father,” Matti concluded.
Reyes, for his part, recalled how Remy had always been a “Father” to those who grew with them in Regal Entertainment.
“He has always been the strong silent figure beside the gregarious Mother Lily. Now he has gone home to the waiting arms of our Big Father. And he will be missed as much as he was and will always be loved,” Reyes said. “Rest in eternal peace, Father Remy Monteverde.”
Other celebrities who extended their condolences were Laurice Guillen, Joel Lamangan, Ricky Davao and Aster Amoyo, among others.
Screenshot from Mother Lily’s Instagram page
Remy’s wake will be held in the family home on 38 Valencia Events Place in Quezon City from Tuesday, July 30, to Friday, August 2.
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Imee Marcos slams PNP chief, wants return of VP Duterte’s security | Charie Abarca | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:04:43 PST | MANILA, Philippines — Senator Imee Marcos condemned the removal of Vice President Sara Duterte’s 75 police security detail, demanding that it be reinstated as soon as possible.
In a statement posted on her social media account on Tuesday, Marcos explained why Duterte’s security detail should be brought back.
“First, she is the second highest elected official in the country whose safety must never be compromised. Second, she is a Duterte, who, like her father, is a staunch defender of law and order, hence topping the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army’s order of battle,” said Marcos.
The senator then proceeded to lambast Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rommel Marbil, who ordered the transfer of 75 police officers from Duterte’s personal protection detail to other assignments, particularly in Metro Manila.
READ: Sara Duterte’s PNP security reduced as no threat seen on VP – Marbil
“At sino naman ‘yang Rommel Marbil? Ni hindi ko nga ‘yan kilala,” said Marcos.
(Who’s this Rommel Marbil? I don’t even know him.)
Duterte earlier described the recall of her security detail as a “clear case of political harassment.”
To recall, the country’s second top official posted a four-page letter on her Facebook page slamming Marbil for allegedly lying about the withdrawal of her police protection detail.
READ: Sara Duterte: Removal of my PNP security a ‘political harassment’
For his part, Marbil maintained that Duterte’s security team was reduced because no threat against her had been observed.
This, however, did not sit well with Duterte, who proceeded to ask the PNP chief how he defines a threat.
“Ano ba ang ibig sabihin ng ‘threat’ sa iyo? Ang banta ba ay maaari lamang magmula sa mga external elements? Hindi na ba ‘threat’ kung ang harassment ay nanggagaling mismo sa mga tauhan ng gobyerno?” Duterte asked.
(What does “threat” mean to you? Can threats only come from external elements? Isn’t it a “threat” if the harassment comes from government personnel?)
“Tandaan mo, pagdating sa seguridad ng aking pamilya, ako ang magsasabi kung sino ang karapat-dapat, hindi ikaw. Batas ka lang, hindi ka Diyos,” she added.
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(Remember, when it comes to my family’s security, I get to say who deserves it, not you. You are just the law, not God.)
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Next GEA to include integrated renewable energy, storage system | Philippine News Agency | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:45:46 PST | Department of Energy facade from DOE / FILE
Department of Energy facade from DOE / FILE
MANILA — The Department of Energy (DOE) on Tuesday announced that it will conduct the fourth round of Green Energy Auction (GEA-4) in the last quarter of the year.
The DOE said the GEA-4 will cover an integrated renewable energy and energy storage system (IRESS), a comprehensive energy solution combining RE technology and energy storage technologies like batteries, flywheel or pumped storage hydropower systems.
“This integration allows renewable energy plants to optimize their operations by storing excess energy generated during peak production periods and utilizing it when needed, thereby reducing the required capacity from the grid,” it said.
The agency added an IRESS enhances the stability and reliability of the energy system, enabling a more efficient power supply.
Moreover, the DOE is also considering including liquefied natural gas (LNG) technologies in the next round of GEA.
It is currently studying the pricing, dispatch, contracts, energy, and capacity for LNG technologies.
A notice of auction (NOA) will soon be issued by DOE.
“In the last two years, the DOE has conducted two rounds of auction which generated a total of 5,306 megawatts of RE capacities committed to deliver power in 2024 to 2026. Additional capacities will be auctioned for the 3rd Auction Round within the third quarter this year,” DOE said.
GEA-3 covers non-Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) eligible RE facilities such as geothermal, impounding, and pumped-storage, as well as run-of-river hydro which is a FIT eligible technology.
DOE’s GEA program facilitates the contracting of clean energy supply to qualified customers through a competitive process.
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Condo ni Basil Valdez tinirhan ng mga multo, tinaboy ni Fr. Roque Ferriols | No author found | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 10:11:13 PST | Basil Valdez, Wilson Flores at Eddy Cobankiat
Basil Valdez, Wilson Flores at Eddy Cobankiat
MULTO sa condo!? Yan ang naranasan ng premyadong OPM legend na si Basil Valdez sa tinitirhan niyang unit ilang taon na ngayon ang nakararaan.
May mga ligaw na kaluluwa o masasamang elemento raw ang nakapasok at nanggugulo sa condo unit ni Basil kaya kinailangan niya itong ipa-exorcise.
Isa ang nakakatakot na pangyayaring ito sa mga napag-usapan sa ginanap na symposium kamakailan para sa pagdiriwang ng ika-100 kaarawan ng yumaong Father of Filipino Philosophy na si Fr. Roque J. Ferriols.
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“Basil Valdez once called for help, feeling spirits haunted his condo,” ang pagbabahagi ni Prof. Dr. Manuel Dy sa naturang symposium na ginanap sa Ateneo de Manila University.
May mga pagkakataon daw na talagang nararamdaman ni Basil ang presensiya ng mga nasabing elemento kaya naiingayan, naguguluhan at nai-stress na raw siya.
A post shared by Basil Valdez (@mrbasilvaldez)
Kuwento ni Dr. Dy, kahit daw nasa retreat nu’ng panahong iyon si Fr. Ferriols ay talagang nagtungo ito sa bahay ni Basil para itaboy ang mga gumagalang espiritu sa lugar.
“Fr. Ferriols, despite being on retreat, went and blessed Basil’s condo, and the spirits disappeared,” sabi pa.
One hundred years old na sana ngayong 2024 ang itinuturing na pioneer ng Filipino philosophy na si Fr. Roque Ferriols na pumanaw noong August 15, 2021 sa edad na 96.
Ang legendary Ateneo de Manila University professor, ay nagbigay din ng inspirasyon sa maraming estudyante, kabilang na sina TV5 President and CEO Manny V. Pangilinan, Cardinal Tagle, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, at marami pang iba.
Samantala, ang naganap na symposium na pinamagatang “The Story of the Wheelwright: The Influence of Chinese Philosophy on the Thought of Fr. Roque Ferriols”, ay co-organized ng Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), sa pangunguna ni President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro na hindi nakadalo but represented by EVP Victor Lim.
Ayon sa ilang nakakakilala kay Fr. Ferriols, ang rebolusyonaryong hakbang nito noong 1969 na magturo ng pilosopiya sa Filipino noong panahon na ang Ateneo ay pinangungunahan ng mga American Jesuit at ang mga klase ay nasa Ingles ay isang matapang na pampulitikang pagkilos.
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At ang kanyang pagsasama-sama sa Eastern and Western philosophies, lalo na ang kanyang pagpapahalaga sa karunungan ng tao, ay nagpayaman sa kanyang mga turo ng pilosopiyang Pilipino.
Gustung-gusto rin diumano ni Fr. Ferriols ang musika, grabe ang paghanga nito sa Beatles, at ang kantang “Let It Be” ang isa sa sa kanyang mga paborito.
Ang FFCCCII ay business and civic organization na sumusuporta rin sa pagpapaunlad ng kulturang Pinoy, tulad ng The EDDYS awards ng Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd), at pinararangalan din ang mga natatanging artistang Pilipino na may pamana ng Tsina tulad ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining na si Ricky Lee, singer and composer na si Jose Mari Chan at beauty queen-actress na si Michelle Dee.
Samantala, nakausap din ng ilang members ng entertainment media sa naganap na pocket presscon ng naturang samahan ng mga Filipono-Chinese businessman sa Kamuning Bakery si FFCCCI Public Information Committee Co-Chairman Eddy Cobankiat.
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Si Mr. Eddy ang may-ari ng Eslite S-Acetyl Glutathione na ine-endorse ng Kapuso actress na si Sanya Lopez. In fairness, five years nang brand ambassador ng naturang brand ang dalaga at super loyal pa rin siya rito. | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391263/condo-ni-basil-valdez-tinirhan-ng-mga-multo-itinaboy-ni-fr-roque-ferriols?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2Z-QD31HMOrzANOtrhUt09YIBGzfbYLiltcjFADMSSo44qIVJyZXQMr_Y_aem_TqzstTfiX_IvwAyGoUf3lw#ixzz8hQewJgxU | null | null | null | null | null | null |
DepEd: 77% of learners so far enrolled for School Year 2024-2025 | Luisa Cabato | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:06:21 PST | | PHOTOS: Official Faacebook page of DepEd and Senate PRIB
| PHOTOS: Official Faacebook page of DepEd and Senate PRIB
MANILA, Philippines — More than 77 percent of learners from elementary, high school, and alternative learning systems (ALS) levels have so far enrolled for School Year (SY) 2024-2025, data from the Department of Education (DepEd) showed.
As of 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, a total of 21,563,642 out of 27,722,835 students enrolled for the current school year, which officially began on Monday in most schools nationwide.
READ: Over 1,000 schools rescheduling start of classes – DepEd
The number is still expected to go up until the end of the enrollment period on Sept. 16, the DepEd said.
SY 2024-2025 will end on May 16, 2025.
However, there are still 841 schools from the National Capital Region and Regions 1, 3, 4A, and 12 that postponed their class opening due to the ongoing cleanup and repair activities in the areas.
READ: DepEd eyes Saturday classes to make up for lost school days
In an interview with reporters on Monday, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said schools that postponed their class opening may conduct Saturday classes to make up for lost school days.
“It’s usually like that; it’s necessary to do make-up classes on the weekend when classes on weekdays are suspended,” he said in Filipino.
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2 anak ni Ruffa makadurog-puso ang mensahe para kay Alexa Gutierrez | No author found | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:07:54 PST | Alexa Gutierrez, Elvis Gutierrez at ang mga anak kasama sina Ruffa Gutierrez, Venice at Lorin Bektas
Alexa Gutierrez, Elvis Gutierrez at ang mga anak kasama sina Ruffa Gutierrez, Venice at Lorin Bektas
DUROG na durog ang puso ngayon ng pamilya Gutierrez sa pagpanaw ng asawa ni Elvis na si Alexa Uichico Gutierrez matapos makipaglaban sa leukemia.
Napakaraming nakikiramay at nakikisimpatya ngayon kay Elvis na nangakong patuloy na ipagdarasal ang kanyang pumanaw na misis, pati na rin ang kanilang mga anak.
Nauna nang nagbahagi ng mensahe sa pamamagitan ng social media ang kapatid ni Elvis na si Ruffa Gutierrez hinggil sa payao ni Alexa, na sinundan ng isa pa nilang kapatid na si Raymond.
Bukod dito, pinaiyak din ng mga anak ni Ruffa na sina Lorin at Venice Gutierrez Bektas ang mga netizens sa kanilang naging message para kay Alexa.
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Post ni Lorin sa kanyang Instagram Story, “My sweet. smart, loving, hilarious, one of a kind tita alexa, my heart has been broken since the day you were diagnosed because you have always deserved nothing but the best this life has to offer.
A post shared by Bandera (@banderaphl)
“You fought a courageous battle and handled every hardship with so much grace, positivity, and faith in the Lord. you have been a consistent supporter,
confidante, mentor, and auntie and never wanted to know a world without you. you are so easy to love.
“Which made saying goodbye to you the hardest thing i have ever been through. i missed you the second you left,” pahayag ni Lorin.
Patuloy pa ng dalaga, “Our family wont be the same without you, and we are all so broken from this its impossible to express.
“I promise to do my best to take care of your daughters, my sweet baby cousins, and remind them every day that their mommy is an angel who loves them so much.
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“I have so much i want to say but no words can encompass how massive of a loss this is for anyone who knew your beautiful spirit.
“I will do my best to continue making you proud and thank you for being there for me every step of the way. i love you i love you i love you so much. I’ll think about you everyday i have left on this earth, till we meet again tita alexa,” ang madamdaming mensahe pa ng anak ni Ruffa para kay Alexa.
A post shared by Elvis Gutierrez (@life.of.guti)
Narito naman ang post ni Venice, “My dearest Tita Lex, nothing could have prepared me for how much I’ll miss you. It has been a privilege to have known you and been loved by you.
“I will pray every day that you are resting easy, I will pray for the kids and Tito Elvis, and I will make sure to be the best ate to your girls.
“Your passing has left a hole in this family that nothing will be able to fill. I am so grateful for all the memories we’ve shared.
“From you babysitting me since ‘07, introducing me to Nicki Minaj, and inspiring me to be the super cool teenage girl just like you when I was a little girl.
“I would do anything to relive those moments again. Thank you for taking care of me and mentoring me through hard times when I had nobody else to turn to.
“You always took the time out of your day to help and guide me through whatever I was facing.
“All the planned trips and tours we will never get to take, all the tx hotspots you have yet to show me.
“I will have the best time at uni for you and I will be praying to heaven and telling you about all the stories.
“You were always my biggest supporter and now my guardian angel. The most beautiful soul taken away from us too soon. I will see you again someday. I love you so much,” pagbabahagi pa ni Venice.
Bukod sa mga anak ni Ruffa, nagpaabot din ng pakikiramay ang estranged wife ni Richard Gutierrez na si Sarah Lahbati sa pamamagitan ng Instagram.
“(White heart emoji) forever in my heart (white heart emoji). my sestra.. i love you,” ang pahayag ni Sarah.
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Dagdag pa ng aktres, “I can’t wrap my head around why…why… to soon Ler it’s not fair.” | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391280/2-anak-ni-ruffa-makadurog-puso-ang-mensahe-para-kay-alexa?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3Xse1mqg3UWj4CiNRM3TSlbmz6m7BWTqds47ywTGmBCi0NmZNP4TTnIFY_aem_exX0iWdFBiRHMeXgvfbRuQ#ixzz8hRALyAU5 | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Thirdy Ravena to play for Dubai club in Europe | Lance Agcaoili | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:24:36 PST | Thirdy Ravena.–Photo from Dubai Basketball Club.
Thirdy Ravena.–Photo from Dubai Basketball Club.
MANILA, Philippines — Thirdy Ravena embarks on a new chapter in his basketball career after taking his talents to the Dubai Basketball Club, which competes in the ABA League in Europe.
The basketball club on Tuesday welcomed Ravena, who signed a one-year deal.
“We’re excited to see him shine on the court as he starts a new chapter of his journey in Dubai,” the club announced. “Thirdy has signed a one-year contract with us, with the option to extend his stay for another season.”
Ravena will be the first Filipino to play for a Dubai-based club and compete in Europe after Jack Animam saw action in Serbia and Juan Gomez De Liaño in Lithuania.
BC Dubai coach Jurica Golemac is elated to have the 27-year-old winger, who was coming off his best season in the B.League.
“Ravena is a rising star who has earned the title of Japan’s [ Impressive Asia Player of the Year]. He is a perfect fit for Dubai’s cosmopolitan spirit,” said Golemac. “As a pioneering Filipino in European basketball, Ravena not only represents his community but also writes a new chapter in the sport’s history, Welcome to our DBC family, Thirdy. Together, we’re set to create something truly special.”
The former Ateneo star averaged 12.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 57 games for the San-En NeoPhoenix and was named the Impressive Asia Player of the Year.
The NeoPhoenix topped the Central Division and claimed the No. 2 seed in the Playoffs but fell to eventual champions Hiroshima Dragonflies in the quarterfinals.
Ravena, the first Filipino to sign in the B.League, decided to part ways with San-En after four years.
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Coco Martin nag-sorry kay Celia Rodriguez, anyare?! | No author found | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:10:53 PST | Celia Rodriguez at Coco Martin
Celia Rodriguez at Coco Martin
GRABE ang paghanga ng beteranang aktres na si Ms. Celia Rodriguez kay Coco Martin dahil bukod sa mabait na ay marami pa raw taong natutulungan.
“Coco is one man that I salute and take-off my hat,” bungad ng aktres sa panayam niya sa “Ogie Diaz Inspires” na mapapanood sa YouTube.
“Why?” tanong ni Ogie.
Baka Bet Mo: Sylvia Sanchez aprub kay Zanjoe para kay Ria: Gustong-gusto ko siya!
“Nakita mo ba ‘yung Ang Probinsyano at ang Batang Quiapo? All (almost) of them are old people hindi ko naman sinabing old (as in matanda na) kundi matatagal ng mga artista and they’re all there.
“Coco had been helping them a lot at sa awa naman ng Panginoon kumikita nang katakut-takot kasi kapag ganu’n (bukas) ang palad mo papasok ang grasya, pag ganu’n (sarado ang kamay) ka, ang grasya hindi nadadagdagan ang grasya. And Coco is like that (bukas palad),” kuwento ng mahusay na aktres.
A post shared by Dreamscape Entertainment (@dreamscapeph)
Na-experience na ni Ms. Celia kung gaano matulungin ang aktor-direktor at producer ng “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” dahil hindi siya nagdalawang-salita nang humingi siya ng tulong para sa isang kaibigan na namatayan ng asawa.
“It happened to me once when I needed a help from him for a friend who’s husband is dying and I don’t know him. He (Coco) knows me as Celia Rodriguez.
“My friend is crying over the phone and her husband is dying, tinawagan ko si Coco, I asked Lorna Tolentino at ibinigay ang number, ring nang ring walang sumasagot.
“Tapos after tumawag siya sabi niya, ‘Tita, I’m so sorry but I was in Batang Quiapo. I’m the director, I’m the actor, sorry Tita hindi ako nakasagot.’ Imagine asking for an apology?
Baka Bet Mo: Celia Rodriguez umaalma kapag bobo ang katrabaho; fan na fan ni Ate Guy
“Then asked me ‘what can we do for you tita’, tapos sabi ko it’s not me, so ikinuwento ko then he asked me the account number at papadalhan daw niya ng pera and he did the following day nandoon na sa bangko.
“Doon ako bilib na tumulong sa akin si Coco nang katakut-takot na he doesn’t even know me in person and doon ako bilib.
A post shared by CCM Productions (@cocomartin_ccmfilmproductions)
“He knows how to share kasi life is sharing. Kahit multi-millionaire ka kapag hindi ka marunong tumulong sa kapwa basura ka sa akin,” sabi ng beteranang aktres.
“He is a young boy and I heard so many stories about Coco helping other people. Kaya ang text ko sa kanya, ‘the industry needs you.’ Bilib ako sa batang ‘yun, sana tularan n’yo si Coco Martin.
“Kaya kita mo lahat ng pasukan niya (successful) kasi ang Panginoon he knows your heart, eh,” kuwento ni Ms. Celia.
Pero kapag siya raw ang mangangailangan ay hindi siya humihingi ng tulong, “Nahihiya ako, eh pero malakas ang loob ko pag para sa ibang tao.”
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Nabanggit pa niya na, “Kung ako nakahiga rin sa pera tutulong din ako.” | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391271/coco-martin-nag-sorry-kay-celia-rodriguez-anyare?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2C9p9kfsLmNFRYuRLHishSLSo0mBRbEXXMKkZjPDOCtVtJ9NHtYW9PRQg_aem_ELaMocXO_Lq_4S5fDzjufQ#ixzz8hRARwKqT | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Heart Evangelista admits Chiz Escudero had a recent health scare | Jessica Ann Evangelista | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:33:26 PST | Heart Evangelista and Chiz Escudero | Photo: Instagram/@iamhearte
Heart Evangelista and Chiz Escudero | Photo: Instagram/@iamhearte
Heart Evangelista shared that her husband Sen. Chiz Escudero had a recent health scare but assured that “he’s doing good now,” as she also affirmed that her main priority right now as a wife is “overseeing that everything is perfect.”
Sitting down on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” on Monday, July 29, Evangelista reacted to the “news” that recently circulated that Escudero had a health concern and was rushed into the hospital.
“He’s very good. He’s super good now,” assured the actress. “He had an episode. It was a scary episode, but it was a wake-up call for all of us to really make sure health is wealth.”
Evangelista reiterated that she could not take it if something bad happened to her husband.
“Everything perfect. And I make sure na perfect kasi (because) if he goes, I go. You jump, I jump, swear. Ako na lang mauna (I’d like to go first). ‘Di ko talaga kaya (I could not take it). Iiyak na naman ako (I feel like crying again),” expressed the fashion icon.
“Because it’s a cruel world. It’s a mean world. Without Chiz, I don’t know how I will survive because he’s my everything. Of course, God is my everything. But mauna na lang talaga ako (I’d like to go first),” added the actress.
The Kapuso actress stressed that despite wearing many hats, including being a fashion influencer and the new Senate Spouses president, her main priority is being a wife, saying, “These days I’m a wife. I’ve matured, and I know my priorities.”
Meanwhile, Evangelista recently spearheaded the packing and distribution of relief goods in a school in Marikina for Filipino families affected by the onslaught of Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon, or habagat.
The global fashion influencer also recently renewed her contract with Sparkle Artist Center, under her home network, GMA.
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Carina leaves P247-M damage to Pangasinan agri, infra | Philippine News Agency | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 14:57:17 PST | FLOODING. A flooded road in Mangatarem, Pangasinan on July 26, 2024. The province recorded P247 million in initial damage to agriculture and infrastructure due to Super Typhoon Carina. | PHOTO: Official Facebook page of Pangasinan DRRMO
FLOODING. A flooded road in Mangatarem, Pangasinan on July 26, 2024. The province recorded P247 million in initial damage to agriculture and infrastructure due to Super Typhoon Carina. | PHOTO: Official Facebook page of Pangasinan DRRMO
MALASIQUI, Pangasinan — The province of Pangasinan recorded an initial P222.5 million in damage to infrastructure and P24.5 million to agriculture due to the effects of the southwest monsoon (habagat) enhanced by Super Typhoon Carina.
Citing reports gathered by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office from local government units (LGUs) as of July 26, Emergency Operations Center assistant director Pia Flores said in a phone interview on Tuesday that District 6 registered the highest infrastructure damage at PHP67 million.
It was followed by District 5, P42 million; District 4, P38.5 million; District 3, P14.5 million; District 1, P20.5 million; District 2, P10 million.
Damage on other road dikes along Lingayen-San Carlos-Urbiztondo amounted to PHP30 million.
“They are mostly road dikes and dilapidated concrete and asphalt pavement,” Flores said.
The estimated partial damage to high-value crops reached P7.2 million, palay at P6 million, and corn at P3.5 million.
Partial damage to fisheries reached P5 million, while initial damage to livestock reached P2.8 million, the bulk of which (P2.4 million) is in the municipality of Sto. Tomas.
Flores said two houses were destroyed in Sison and Bani towns, while six houses in Binalonan, Bani, Dasol, and Infanta towns were partially wrecked due to strong winds.
She said no casualties were reported among the 44,747 families or 183,608 individuals affected by the weather disturbance.
The last evacuees from Bugallon town returned to their homes on Monday, while flooding in Mangatarem has receded.
The Pangasinan Provincial Health Office deployed medical teams to Mangatarem and Bautista upon the request of LGUs.
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Medicines have been distributed to the affected families, while the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office provided relief packs. (PNA)
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Northern Samar eyed as next diving hub in Eastern Visayas | Philippine News Agency | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 14:30:50 PST | Biri Island in Northern Samar. | PHOTO: Official Facebook page of the Provincial Government of Northern Samar
Biri Island in Northern Samar. | PHOTO: Official Facebook page of the Provincial Government of Northern Samar
TACLOBAN CITY — Northern Samar eyes to become a prime diving destination in Eastern Visayas with its expansive seas, coastal wonders, and rich marine biodiversity.
Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the provincial economic development and investment promotion office, said the local government hosted a three-day freediving certification course in partnership with Tugkad Freediving that ended Monday.
“It aimed to establish a community of freedivers who will enhance the tourism experience by offering diving tours and knowledge on the underwater treasures of Northern Samar,” Berbon said in a phone interview Tuesday.
The workshop, the first in the region, taught divers the fundamentals of breath-holding techniques, safety protocols, and the science behind optimal freediving performance and introduced them to open-water freediving.
Aside from promising coastline attractions featuring rock formations, maritime forests, coves, and grains of fine sand, Berbon said divers could also “take relish in the wonders beneath the Northern Samar waters, where vibrant corals, an abundance of fish, and other marine species can be found.”
“The pristine waters and vibrant marine life in places such as Mapanas and Lavezares offer a great deal of water adventure, ideal for freedivers and freediving enthusiasts,” Berbon added.
Located on the third largest island in the Philippines and surrounded by the San Bernardino Strait, the Samar Sea, and the Pacific Ocean, Northern Samar is home to 24 towns, 20 of which are coastal areas, including tourists’ favorite islands Biri, Capul, San Antonio, and San Vicente. (PNA)
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Heart napaiyak nang maging head ng SPFI: Nag-panic talaga ‘ko! | No author found | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:37:27 PST | Heart Evangelista at Chiz Escudero
Heart Evangelista at Chiz Escudero
NAIYAK ang Kapuso actress na si Heart Evangelista nang malamang siya ang magiging head ng Senate Spouses Foundation Inc. (SPFI).
Ito’y matapos ngang hirangin ang kanyang asawang si Chiz Escudero bilang bagong Senate President na siyang pumalit sa pwesto ni Sen. Migz Zubiri.
Inamin ni Heart sa episode ng “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda” kahapon na medyo natensiyon siya nang ibalita sa kanya ni Sen. Chiz na siya na ang mangunguna sa SPFI.
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“Na-upset ako nang konti. Nag-panic talaga ako kasi alam ko na you know anything you associate yourself with that, you’ll get bashed. I’m afraid of that so I tried to shy away,” sabi ni Heart.
A post shared by Heart Evangelista (@iamhearte)
Pero after a while at ngayong nakapag-adjust na siya, gustung-gusto na niya ang kanyang bagong role.
Baka Bet Mo: Heart super proud sa pagiging Senate Pres ni Chiz, agaw-eksena ang OOTD
“I love it so much because I do my own thing. Mayroon akong mga ginagawa para you know ‘yung points ko sa heaven ay mas importante.
“I’m also very lucky that I worked with wonderful companies in the past that are all out [supporting] my projects.
“So talaga parang feeling ko I have a purpose. I’m not sure how long I have but I will do my best and I love working,” dagdag ng aktres at international fashion Icon.
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Sabi ni Heart, magpo-focus daw ang kanilang grupo sa iba’t ibang isyu ng mga kabataan at kababaihan kasabay ng pagsusulong sa mga “small infrastructure projects” na sinimulan ng mga dating head ng SPFI. | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391273/heart-napaiyak-bilang-head-ng-spfi-nag-panic-talaga-ko?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR16ibOvx5O6fxzOiTq-gbAy070OkDkPX7gUss76lL9XLD7DaBcJOxKFs9Q_aem_qwP4Lmjh-FG_LVhGqA4mxQ#ixzz8hRAXiQUb | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Zubiri: P100 wage hike bill to be a ‘slam dunk’ for Marcos’ leadership | Maila Ager | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:14:08 PST | MANILA, Philippines — What would make the leadership of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. a “slam dunk”?
Pass the P100 legislated daily minimum wage hike bill under this 19th Congress, according to Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri.
“I think that would make the President’s Sona (State of the Nation address) and his leadership a slam dunk, or if baseball, a home run, ‘pag nangyari ‘yun (if that happens),” he said during his interpellation of Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel’s counter-Sona on Monday.
“Many millions of workers would not only be employed but happily employed,” added Zubiri, who initially sought a P150 daily increase for minimum wage earners.
READ: Zubiri seeks P150 daily pay hike for private sector workers
He then called on Senate President Chiz Escudero to press the leadership of the House of Representatives to act on its version of the measure now pending in the chamber.
“I think the challenge now is asking our leadership, Senate President Escudero together with the leadership of the Senate now, to talk to the House,” Zubiri said.
“Huwag sana nilang pabayaan o hindi pansinin ‘yung ating request for legislated [daily minimum] wage hike,” he further said.
(Let’s hope they don’t neglect or ignore our request for a legislated daily minimum wage hike.)
The wage hike bill was already approved by the Senate in February, but its counterpart has been languishing in the House.
READ: Senate OKs P100 wage hike bill on third reading
The reason for this, according to Zubiri, was some House lawmakers believe P100 was “too low.”
“I would like to put on record, we dare them: If they want to pass a P200 minimum wage hike, let’s do it. We dare them to do it. But not to act on it is a big slap on the face of all our laborers. Kawawang-kawawa talaga sila (They are really unfortunate),” he said.
The senator likewise hit the regional wage boards for “doing Filipino workers a disservice by approving a pittance” when it comes to raising the minimum pay of workers.
He cited the P35 daily wage hike recently approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board for the private sector workers in Metro Manila.
For Zubiri, the additional P35 was an insult to the minimum wage earners
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“Hindi pa kasya sa isang kilong bigas ang nirelease po nilang additional wages. And we don’t consider these living wages, and it’s too low,” the senator said.
(The additional wages they released are not even enough to cover a kilogram of rice.)
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BFAR: No fishing ban in waters unaffected by Manila Bay oil spill | Dianne Sampang | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 14:07:21 PST | A thick layer of oil can be seen across the water’s surface approximately four kilometers from the coastline in Tibaguin Island, Hagonoy, Bulacan. The oil spill from capsized tanker MT Terra Nova, which was carrying 1.4 million liters of oil, is affecting the municipal waters of several areas, including Bulacan, Cavite, and Bataan. Aerial images reveal the extensive spread of the oil spill from MT Terra Nova, showing the vast damage inflicted on the affected waters and ecosystems on which communities depend for their livelihood and sustenance. Greenpeace is calling on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to make oil and gas companies pay for polluting our waters and fueling the climate crisis.
A thick layer of oil can be seen across the water’s surface approximately four kilometers from the coastline in Tibaguin Island, Hagonoy, Bulacan. The oil spill from capsized tanker MT Terra Nova, which was carrying 1.4 million liters of oil, is affecting the municipal waters of several areas, including Bulacan, Cavite, and Bataan. Aerial images reveal the extensive spread of the oil spill from MT Terra Nova, showing the vast damage inflicted on the affected waters and ecosystems on which communities depend for their livelihood and sustenance. Greenpeace is calling on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to make oil and gas companies pay for polluting our waters and fueling the climate crisis.
MANILA, Philippines — There is no fishing ban in adjacent waters still unaffected by the oil spill in Manila Bay, according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
In a statement on Monday, the BFAR said it has “not issued a fishing ban” and the agency has conducted sensory analysis from fish samples to ensure that they have no traces of oil.
READ: Philippine Coast Guard says oil leaking from sunken tanker
“Fish samples from Bataan (Limay, Orion, Balanga City, and Samal) tested today, July 29, for taste (cooked fish), raw odor, and cooked odor all passed the sensory analysis,” BFAR said.
“Succeeding tests with third-party laboratories for the presence of oil and grease, and harmful contaminants called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons will also be carried out,” it added.
Motor Tanker Terra Nova was carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel when it “capsized and eventually submerged” in waters off Bataan province last July 25, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
The PCG earlier reported that the oil from MT Terra Nova spread about 12 to 14 kilometers across Manila Bay and may affect parts of Bataan and Cavite. Based on the agency’s aerial monitoring on Monday morning, the oil spill’s extent lessened to 3.7 to 7.4 kilometers.
On Tuesday, PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said fishing in Manila Bay is unsafe due to the oil spill.
READ: Coast Guard : Fishing in Manila Bay unsafe due to oil spill
The BFAR has assured the public that it is coordinating with other government agencies to mitigate the potential impacts of the oil spill on marine biodiversity, livelihood, and public health.
“Fisherfolk are urged to promptly report any oil slick sighting, avoid contaminated areas, use personal protective equipment when necessary, immediately harvest shellfish or fish in the surrounding area, and prevent further contamination by maintaining proper waste disposal and regular boat maintenance,” it added.
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[Commentary] Bacalso’s misgendering issue doesn’t grant a ‘free pass’ for transphobic remarks | Mary Grace Tomines | 2024-07-29T11:27:09+00:00 | Featured
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The recent controversy involving Jude Bacalso, an LGBTQ+ advocate based in Cebu, has sparked a significant debate about gender sensitivity and public conduct. The core of the issue is a viral photo showing Bacalso in an interaction with a restaurant waiter at Ulli’s Streets of Asia. While Bacalso intended to discuss gender sensitivity, the incident has regrettably become a platform for widespread transphobic remarks and generalized criticisms of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The photo in question depicts Bacalso and the waiter during what some perceived as a tense moment. Bacalso later clarified that her interaction was intended to be educational rather than confrontational. She stated that she merely offered the waiter a chance to sit down and discuss gender sensitivity, and her approach was calm and respectful. Despite her efforts to de-escalate the situation and her apologies for any misunderstandings, the incident quickly became fodder for broader, harmful generalizations.
Instead of focusing on the nuances of Bacalso’s attempt to address gender sensitivity, the public discourse has largely shifted to transphobic commentary. The backlash has seen individuals using this isolated incident as an excuse to make sweeping, derogatory statements about the entire LGBTQIA+ community. Such responses not only distract from the core issue but also perpetuate negative stereotypes and reinforce harmful biases.
The spread of transphobia in reaction to this incident highlights a troubling trend where individual actions are used as a pretext to validate broader prejudices. Comments attacking Bacalso’s identity and intentions have escalated into generalized attacks on LGBTQIA+ individuals, framing them as inherently problematic or demanding. This approach not only fails to recognize the diversity within the community but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes that further alienate LGBTQIA+ individuals from mainstream acceptance.
This generalization is not just unfair—it’s damaging. By reducing an entire community to the actions of one person, we overlook the complexity and richness of individual experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community. Such reactions prevent meaningful dialogue about gender sensitivity and inclusivity, leaving underlying issues unaddressed and reinforcing a culture of intolerance.
The backlash against Bacalso also reflects a broader societal discomfort with discussions about gender identity. Instead of engaging in thoughtful, respectful conversations about gender sensitivity, many have opted for derogatory and exclusionary rhetoric. This shift in discourse not only undermines efforts to foster understanding but also creates an environment where LGBTQIA+ individuals are more likely to face hostility and marginalization.
To move forward constructively, it is essential to focus on the core issues of gender sensitivity and respect. Rather than using individual incidents to perpetuate discrimination, we should seize these opportunities to educate and build empathy. This approach involves confronting transphobia directly and rejecting generalizations that harm entire communities.
For the LGBTQIA+ community, it is crucial to continue advocating for respectful treatment and understanding, while also acknowledging the complex dynamics of public discourse. Allies and advocates must strive to challenge transphobic remarks and promote a more nuanced and empathetic dialogue about gender and identity.
In conclusion, the Bacalso incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of transphobia and the harm caused by unjust generalizations. By focusing on constructive engagement and understanding, we can work towards a more inclusive and respectful society for everyone. It is through empathy and informed dialogue that we can address gender sensitivity issues and build a more accepting world for all individuals.
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LGBTQ+ allies frustrated over Pride Fest getting ‘overshadowed’ by BINI fans, says it diminishes advocacy efforts
Twitter buzzes over viral restroom photo featuring an LGBTQIA+ inclusive signage
First ever Filipino LGBTQIA+ community app, Thundr, makes a fabulous debut
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Producer price index continues to decline in June | Philippine News Agency | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 14:54:21 PST | INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA – The producer price index (PPI) for manufacturing continued to decline in June this year but at a slower pace than the recorded contraction in May, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said.
Data released by the PSA on Tuesday showed the PPI last month declined by 0.1 percent from -0.8 percent in May.
“The slower annual decline of PPI in June 2024 compared with its annual drop in May 2024 was primarily due to the acceleration in the annual rate of the PPI for manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products industry division at 3.6 percent in June 2024 from 1.6 percent in May 2024,” it said.
READ: PH manufacturing gauge hits 5-month high
The PSA said the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products contributed 49.1 percent to the slower decline in the annual rate of PPI for manufacturing in June.
Other contributors to the slower annual decline of PPI last month were the acceleration in the annual rate of manufacture of transport equipment at 2.8 percent from 1.6 percent increase in May, and the slower decline in the manufacture of basic metals at 0.02 percent from -0.7 percent a month earlier.
Month-on-month, the PPI for manufacturing registered a slight increase of 0.24 percent in June from a 0.21 percent increment in the previous month.
In June 2023, the PPI posted a 0.5 percent monthly decline.
“The top contributor to the faster increase in the monthly rate of PPI in June 2024 was manufacture of machinery and equipment except electrical, which registered a higher monthly increase of 2.2 percent during the period from a 0.2 percent increment in the previous month,” the PSA said.
The PPI is generated from the results of the Producer Price Survey, which is done nationwide.
It measures the average change over time in the prices of products or commodities produced by domestic manufacturers and sold at factory gate prices to wholesalers and/or other consumers in the domestic market. (PNA)
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FDA is sole regulator of tobacco products’ health aspects – SC | Luisa Cabato | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 14:36:53 PST | The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has the exclusive authority to regulate the health aspects of tobacco products, the Supreme Court rules on July 23, 2024. A person smoking tock image INQUIRER FILES
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has the exclusive authority to regulate the health aspects of tobacco products, the Supreme Court rules on July 23, 2024. A person smoking tock image INQUIRER FILES
MANILA, Philippines — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has the exclusive authority to regulate the health aspects of tobacco products, the Supreme Court said Tuesday.
In an en banc ruling dated July 23, the SC denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the Philippine Tobacco Institute, Inc. (PTI), which asserted that the Inter-Agency Committee Tobacco (IAC-Tobacco) has lone jurisdiction over tobacco products, including its health aspect.
The high court’s decision also aligns with Republic Act No. 9711, also known as the FDA Act, which states that the FDA has regulatory authority over all health products.
The law’s implementing rules further state that the Department of Health (DOH) is mandated to regulate tobacco products through the FDA.
READ: Return of FDA regulation for vape products pushed
However, the PTI challenged this, arguing that IAC-Tobacco has the regulatory authority over tobacco products.
The Regional Trial Court ruled in favor of PTI but the SC reversed it in a 2021 decision, reaffirming the FDA’s role in the regulation of tobacco products.
Eventually, the PTI and Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman filed separate motions for reconsideration before the high court. Lagman made his move as a respondent-intervenor.
The SC, in its July 23 ruling, said IAC-Tobacco does not have sole and exclusive jurisdiction over tobacco products and the tobacco industry.
READ: Vapedemic kills 22-year-old; DOH-FDA should regulate, not DTI
In a statement, the SC stressed: “All products affecting health, including tobacco products, are covered by the FDA’s mandate to ensure the safety, efficacy, purity, and quality of health products.”
“Thus, the inclusion of tobacco products in the implementing rules of the FDA Act is in accordance with the law,” it added.
The SC decision affirming the FDA’s regulatory authority over the health aspects of tobacco products was an apparent nod to calls of various health experts to transfer the regulatory jurisdiction of vape and other tobacco products to the FDA.
In a Viber message sent to reporters, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the DOH welcomes the SC ruling.
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“We see this Decision by the Supreme Court as a triumph of justice in favor of health for our people. We thank the wise Justices of the Supreme Court for this landmark decision,” Herbosa said.
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House panel hearings to continue despite looming budget talks – Dalipe | Gabriel Pabico Lalu | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 14:06:32 PST | Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe | Photo from his official Facebook page
Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe | Photo from his official Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines — Committee hearings of high significance will continue despite the looming 2025 budget deliberations at the House of Representatives, Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe said on Tuesday.
In a press briefing at the Batasang Pambansa complex, Dalipe was asked if different committees investigating criminal activity linked to the Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) and Chinese nationals allegedly tied to illegal drugs would wrap up their hearings, given the budget season.
Dalipe said the House previously suspended committee hearings to focus on the budget deliberations, but for this year, the leadership agreed with committee chairpersons regarding the need to hold simultaneous discussions.
“Several committee chairmen whose panels are conducting hearings talked to me yesterday, and they were asking for guidance, because usually in the previous years, we would hold all other hearings when the budget is presented to us, and we would concentrate on the budget,” Dalipe relayed.
“But the chairpersons are appealing to continue hearings because they are already in the process of having very important resource persons, very important information,” he added.
According to Dalipe, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has already directed Secretary General Reginald Velasco to find spaces in the Batasang Pambansa complex where panels can conduct hearings even while the proposed 2025 national budget is being deliberated by the committee on appropriations.
These spaces would also be located near the areas where the budget is being discussed so lawmakers can shuttle back and forth between hearings.
“I told the secretary-general that under the instruction of Speaker Martin Romualdez, if the hearing is of high importance, we will not stop it. So with that directive from the Speaker, we are already instructing the secretary-general to make available the other spaces, especially spaces in the new building that we have in the Batasan Pamansa complex,” Dalipe said.
“So what will happen is that we will allocate the other rooms nearer to the plenary hall for budget briefing […] and we will also reserve the other new spaces for those committees which have to continue with their investigation, especially those probing illegal drugs, Pogos, and other important issues. So we will now have more or less parallel hearings,” he added.
READ: Show-cause order awaits Yang if he doesn’t show up — Barbers
As of now, different committees are in the thick of discussing pressing issues:
READ: Diokno: Duterte’s OP listed 20,322 drug-war deaths as accomplishments
Aside from this, there are several issues that lawmakers previously said should be discussed by House panels:
READ: P1-B moved from foreign banks to poll exec’s offshore accounts – Marcoleta
Dalipe believes holding simultaneous hearings would not be much of a challenge to House lawmakers because usually, solons wait for hours during budget deliberations before having their turn to ask questions.
Instead of waiting idly, Dalipe said lawmakers can visit other committees and attend the hearings.
“I don’t see it a challenge because if you observe during the committee on appropriations hearing, due to the extremely long list, there are lawmakers waiting for three hours, seated, not doing anything. So it’s a matter of time management. Instead of sitting there for three hours complaining about the long list of lawmakers wanting to ask questions, eh we can also do other work with other committees,” he said.
“They can just shuttle back and forth between the committee rooms. So at least the time of our lawmakers is not wasted waiting for their turn to ask things about the budget […] lawmakers sometimes wait for more than three hours just to ask questions. So I think we will do time management and time is a very important resource for us here,” he added.
Dalipe said budget talks are expected to start by the second week of August.
“The House leadership is for the committee on appropriations to already start with the budget briefings, and by next week, without any delay, we will start with the budget briefing of the 2025 National Expenditure Program,” he said.
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“So the committee on appropriations under committee chairman (Ako Bicol party-list Rep.) Zaldy Co will start the briefing and we will start it with the DBCC (Development Budget Coordination Committee),” he added.
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Roque denies ‘possession’ of raided Benguet house: I lived there once | Charie Abarca | Mon, 29 Jul 2024 12:29:03 PST | FILE PHOTO: Atty. Harry Roque, former spokesperson of ex-President Rodrigo Duterte. INQUIRER PHOTO
FILE PHOTO: Atty. Harry Roque, former spokesperson of ex-President Rodrigo Duterte. INQUIRER PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque denied “possession” of the raided house in Benguet, where two foreign nationals were arrested.
The recent law enforcement operation in Tuba, Benguet was meant to arrest a wanted Chinese woman linked to a Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) hub in Bamban, Tarlac.
At the Pogo hearing of the Senate panel on women on Monday, Roque said the house in question is owned by a corporation. However, he admitted having “an interest in the corporation that owns it.”
“Ang bahay po na tinutukoy niyo sa Tuba, Benguet ay rehistrado po sa isang korporasyon. Tinirhan ko po ‘yan noong ako ay umalis ng gobyerno and I do have an interest in the corporation that owns it. Pero wala po sa akin ang possession ng bahay na ‘yan, dahil as of January of 2024, ‘yan po ay pinaupahan ng korporasyon,” explained the former spokesperson of ex-President Rodrigo Duterte.
(The house you are referring to in Tuba, Benguet is registered under a corporation. I lived there when I left the government and I do have an interest in the corporation that owns it. But I do not have possession of the house because, as of January 2024, it was leased by the corporation.)
READ: 2 foreigners nabbed in Benguet home amid Pogo probe
Roque’s clarification followed ensuing reports after the raid that he owned the house. Roque dismissed the reports as mere attempts to taint his name.
“At ang umuupa po ay isang Chinese national. Noong siya po ay pumirma sa contract of lease ay ni-require siya na magpakita ng alien certificate of registration at lumalabas po na siya ay holder ng 9G working visa meaning she has a right to be in the Philippines,” Roque said.
(The tenant is a Chinese national. When she signed the contract of lease, she was required to submit an alien certificate of registration and it came out that she is a holder of a 9G working visa, meaning she has a right to be in the Philippines.)
READ: Roque shows up at Senate Pogo probe to disclose ‘just the truth’
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“Hindi ko po dine-deny — that is a house that I have interest in. I have lived in the house. Ang sinasabi ko lang po pinaupahan po ‘yan and possession is now with the lessee,” he emphasized later on.
(I do not deny – that is a house that I have an interest in. I have lived in the house. What I’m saying is that it was open for rent and the possession is now with the lessee.)
On Sunday, July 28, government agents arrested Chinese national Wang Keping, 35, and her Cambodian companion, Khuon Moeurn, 37, after they were found inside the raided house located at the high-end neighborhood of Pinewoods Golf and Country Club in Baguio’s neighboring town of Tuba.
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Epic fail? Escudero says it’s ‘embarrassing’ PNP can’t locate Guo, Quiboloy | Charie Abarca | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:13:06 PST | ‘OBEY FIRST, SHOW YOURSELF’ Senate President Francis Escudero on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, dismisses the letter of apology submitted by suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo to the Senate. Escudero, in a press briefing, said Guo did not indicate in her letter whether or not she would attend the next hearing being conducted by the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality. The Senate chief said he could not accept Guo’s request “until she shows up and obeys the Senate.” (Photo from Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
‘OBEY FIRST, SHOW YOURSELF’ Senate President Francis Escudero on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, dismisses the letter of apology submitted by suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo to the Senate. Escudero, in a press briefing, said Guo did not indicate in her letter whether or not she would attend the next hearing being conducted by the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality. The Senate chief said he could not accept Guo’s request “until she shows up and obeys the Senate.” (Photo from Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Francis Escudero on Tuesday said it is “embarrassing” that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has yet to locate suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and fugitive televangelist Apollo Quiboloy.
In an ambush interview, Escudero was asked whether or not it’s unfortunate and embarrassing that the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have yet to find Guo.
“Is she the only one?” Escudero asked.
A reporter responded, saying the PNP has yet to locate Quiboloy, who earlier admitted that he had been hiding.
“That’s what I’m saying. Aren’t there also others who were accused of more serious crimes and cases that have yet to be nabbed? My answer is yes, it’s embarrassing. It’s embarrassing for the PNP that they cannot do this, especially since the Bureau of Immigration confirmed that they are still in the country,” Escudero said in Filipino.
However, the Senate leader explained that it was not a reason to lower the PNP and NBI budgets.
“Only more that they won’t be able to locate the others. Again, it’s not a carrot and stick — you punish them when something goes wrong or when the budget isn’t used up. We need to look at all the circumstances surrounding this,” he added in Filipino.
Escudero, however, made it clear that this will surely be brought up during the budget deliberations.
The Senate earlier issued an arrest order against Guo and seven others for refusing to appear at the committee on women’s hearing last July 10.
READ: Guo sighted in Bulacan; law enforcers urged to arrest mayor in a month
The document stated that Guo’s refusal to appear before the Senate panel “delayed, impeded, and obstructed” the inquiry into the reported human trafficking, serious illegal detention, and physical abuse and torture in the premises of an internet gaming licensee of the Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation.
Guo is subjected to scrutiny after the Senate panel on women bared her alleged ties to raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator Zun Yuan Technology Inc. in Bamban, Tarlac.
Questions about her citizenship were also raised, leading to allegations that she was a Chinese spy, which she vehemently denied.
Quiboloy, on the other hand, is facing two arrest orders from the Davao and Pasig courts.
The Supreme Court, however, granted the Department of Justice’s bid to transfer Quiboloy’s sexual abuse case from a court in Davao to a court in Quezon City to avoid a miscarriage of justice.
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The Senate panel on women, headed by Sen. Risa Hontiveros, is also seeking Quiboloy’s arrest.
READ: ‘Excessive, unnecessary force’ used in bid to get Quiboloy – Ex-Pres. Duterte
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UnionBank’s H1 profit down 17% but 2Q income surged 50% | Meg J. Adonis | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:32:49 PST | Higher costs gnawed on the earnings of Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines in the first semester.
UnionBank said in a stock exchange filing on Monday that net income in the January to June period had slipped by 17 percent to P5.1 billion.
This was despite a 2.4-percent decline in operating expenses to P21.6 billion and the 8.3-percent improvement in revenues to P37.3 billion.
On the expenditure side, while it already lowered information technology expenses after the migration of Citi’s consumer business into its systems had been completed in March, UnionBank said this was offset by customer acquisition-related costs.
READ: UnionBank appoints Ana Maria Aboitiz-Delgado as new president, CEO
UnionBank previously said it was intensifying marketing activities to capture more clients and ensure that Citi customers stay with the Aboitiz Group’s banking arm.
The bank currently has over 15 million total clients, as its new-to-bank customers more than doubled compared with the previous year’s monthly average.
Meanwhile, the 8.3-percent revenue growth was driven by the bank’s expanding consumer business and higher transaction fees.
Net interest income grew 14.8 percent to P27.5 billion as its consumer loan portfolio swelled.
Despite the lower first-half earnings, UnionBank chief financial officer Manuel Lozano pointed out that in the second quarter alone, profits had increased by more than 50 percent.
“Our focus in higher-margin consumer segment and continued expansion of our customer base will allow us to sustain this growth momentum in the years to come,” Lozano said in a statement.
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As of end-June, total assets of the country’s ninth largest bank were at P1.1 trillion.
UnionBank officially dropped the Citi brand earlier this year, sealing the P72-billion deal involving the transfer of around 1.5 million customer and transaction records.
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Maine Mendoza, Arjo Atayde mark first anniversary as married couple | Hannah Mallorca | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:37:56 PST | (From left) Maine Mendoza and Arjo Atayde. Images: Instagram/@mainedcm
(From left) Maine Mendoza and Arjo Atayde. Images: Instagram/@mainedcm
Maine Mendoza and Arjo Atayde celebrated their first anniversary as a married couple by looking back on their wedding in Baguio City, which included their emotional exchange of wedding vows.
The couple, who had previously tried to guard the privacy of their wedding, released snippets of their special day in a series of wedding videos and photos jointly uploaded on Instagram on Sunday, July 28, exactly a year after their lavish wedding held in Baguio City.
The videos featured highlights of the wedding, including their interaction with their family, close friends, and loved ones, and Atayde’s emotional annotation of his vows.
“I remember exactly how I saw you for the first time. And I had to act normal like it’s just a regular ‘hi.’ There was no slow-mo scene like in a movie, but it was so real to me. It was someone I always had a crush on, someone I always wanted to meet, someone I always wanted to work with,” he said.
A post shared by Maine Mendoza Atayde (@mainedcm)
Mendoza, meanwhile, reminisced that their anniversary date July 28 was the date her prayers were answered.
“You are an answered prayer. I really prayed for you. Sabi ko sana, i-bless ako ni Lord ng taong magmamahal sakin nang tunay na ako (I said, I hope the Lord would bless me with someone who would love me for who I am).”
“I just knew that someday, God will leave me to someone who will give me the amount of love so much more that I am capable [of giving]. And He did. He led me to you,” she continued. “July 28 means so much to us. And God gave us another reason to honor this day because this day marks the beginning of us.”
The couple also shared photos of themselves during their special day in a separate post.
“Happy anniversary,” Mendoza captioned her post with an emoji of a white heart.
A post shared by Maine Mendoza Atayde (@mainedcm)
July 28 is a special date for the couple because aside from their wedding, it also marked the date when they got engaged, first met, and the time when Mendoza posted her viral “Arjo cutie” tweet.
The couple got together sometime in December 2018, although Atayde confirmed they were “exclusively dating” a month later.
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2 foreigners nabbed in Benguet home amid Pogo probe | Jane Bautista, Kimberlie Quitasol, Vincent Cabreza | Mon, 29 Jul 2024 04:40:00 PST | DETAINED The Bureau of Immigration releases on Sunday the photos of detained Chinese national Wang Keping (left) and undocumented Cambodian Khuon Moeurn who were found in a raided house in Tuba, Benguet, on Saturday. —Bureau of Immigration
DETAINED The Bureau of Immigration releases on Sunday the photos of detained Chinese national Wang Keping (left) and undocumented Cambodian Khuon Moeurn who were found in a raided house in Tuba, Benguet, on Saturday. —Bureau of Immigration
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Two foreign nationals were held on Saturday after they were found inside a home in an upscale subdivision in Tuba town, Benguet province, during a government operation meant to arrest a Chinese woman wanted in connection with a recently raided Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) hub in Bamban, Tarlac, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Sunday.
While the subject of the arrest warrant was not in the house, the raiding team instead arrested Chinese national Wang Keping, 35, and her Cambodian companion, Khuon Moeurn, 37, who were inside the raided house at a high-end neighborhood of the Pinewoods Golf and Country Club in Baguio’s neighboring town of Tuba.
READ: Hontiveros says Pogo probe ‘not over yet’: It’s not just about Alice Guo
The Tuba police confirmed the operation led by the BI.
“There was coordination in response to the request of the Bureau of Immigration and PAOCC (Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission),” according to a reply sent by the Tuba police to the Inquirer on Saturday.
But the police did not provide further details, saying the “Tuba municipal police station [only] provided area security.”
The BI, in a statement Sunday, said the two were arrested in a joint operation conducted by the bureau’s intelligence division in Cordillera and the PAOCC.
BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval told reporters they had “no official information” yet on the house owner.
Law enforcement agents acted on information from the PAOCC about the presence in the house of a Chinese woman being sought about the Pogo hub in Bamban town that was raided last March for alleged human trafficking, money laundering, and other illegal activities.
However, upon arrival at the Tuba site, the woman was nowhere to be found and only Keping and Moeurn were seen in the vicinity.
It was later discovered that Moeurn was an undocumented and overstaying alien, and failed to present proper documents. Agents reported that he could only show a photo of his supposed Cambodian passport, which had a visa that expired in August 2020.
Wang was found to have a working visa but she may be charged with violation of Philippine immigration laws for “harboring an illegal alien,” the BI release said, quoting Fortunato Manahan, the immigration office’s intelligence division chief in the Cordillera.
Both foreigners would be brought to Manila for temporary detention in the PAOCC’s facility while undergoing deportation proceedings.
BI has remained mum on the owner of the Pinewoods home. But photos posted by media outfits that joined the raid identified the house as allegedly a property of a prominent personality in the country. The Inquirer could not independently verify that detail at press time.
The property used to be frequented by “Chinese-looking” guests, who drew attention in the neighborhood because some rode motorcycles, according to a Pinewoods resident who spoke with a local lawyer on Sunday. The lawyer asked not to be identified in the report.
Weeks earlier, rumors circulated regarding an offer to put up either a Pogo facility or a casino in Tuding, a barangay of Benguet’s Itogon town, which is also adjacent to Baguio, said Baguio City Councilor Jose Molintas.
In local television broadcasts last month, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong directed the city police to check if Pogo entities have sprouted in the summer capital.
“Pagcor (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.) cannot license Pogo operations here without the approval of the local government,” he said in a June 21 telecast of the People’s Television’s Ilocano news broadcast.
The mayor also cited an incident three years ago when he was approached by a gaming proponent who used “a lot of bridges including a friend of mine” to open a Pogo in the city but Magalong said he rejected the offer.
“Baguio is a character city,” he pointed out, which means it advocates positive morals.
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Baguio also banned casinos during its reconstruction after it was flattened by the July 16, 1990, Luzon earthquake.
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P217,000 shabu seized from 2 drug suspects in Rizal bust | Delfin T. Mallari Jr. @dtmallarijrINQ | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:33:57 PST | INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
LUCENA CITY — Police anti-narcotics operatives arrested on Monday, July 29, two suspected “high-value” drug traffickers and seized more than P217,000 worth of shabu (crystal meth) in Angono, Rizal province.
In a report on Tuesday, July 30, the Rizal police said that local drug enforcers captured “Iking,” 37, and “Melody,” 34, at 6:49 p.m. after they sold P500 worth of shabu to an undercover cop acting as a drug user in Barangay Mahabang Parang.
The suspects were caught in alleged possession of seven plastic sachets containing shabu weighing 32 grams worth about P217,600 in the Dangerous Drugs Board valuation.
READ: Shabu worth P1.1M seized from high-value suspect in Rizal bust
Authorities also seized a mobile phone that they will check for drug transactions.
Police tagged the duo, both residents of Angono, as “high-value individuals” in the local drug trade.
The police are conducting further investigations to determine the source of the illegal drugs.
The suspects were detained and are facing complaints for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
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Negros Oriental logs 350,000 tourist arrivals in first half of 2024 | Philippine News Agency | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:25:05 PST | TOURIST INFLUX. Foreigners huddle around a food stall at the regular Sunday market in Valencia, Negros Oriental. Tourist arrivals in the province rose to more than 350,000 for the first half of the year, the Provincial Tourism Office said Monday, July 29. (PNA photo by Mary Judaline Flores Partlow)
TOURIST INFLUX. Foreigners huddle around a food stall at the regular Sunday market in Valencia, Negros Oriental. Tourist arrivals in the province rose to more than 350,000 for the first half of the year, the Provincial Tourism Office said Monday, July 29. (PNA photo by Mary Judaline Flores Partlow)
DUMAGUETE CITY — The number of tourist arrivals in Negros Oriental for the first half of the year has reached more than 350,000.
Records from the Provincial Tourism Office on Monday showed that as of June 30, the province logged 356,245 tourist arrivals, almost triple last year’s figure of 122,047.
Woodrow Maquiling Jr., provincial tourism executive director, attributed the rise in tourist arrivals to the province’s aggressive and massive promotions and development of new sites by the provincial government.
READ: Negros Oriental offers farm-work-fitness experience to visiting tourists
These include the Viaje de Amor, where new tourist destinations are extensively promoted, in the northern part of the province.
Also, the Sunday market in Valencia town is getting popular by the day, with food stalls, fresh vegetables and fruits, and plants, among others, sold at the town plaza.
The leading foreign tourists are from the United States, China, and France, in addition to local visitors, records also showed.
No other data are available yet as the tourism office is still getting and consolidating reports from hotels and other accommodations in this city.
With this new development, Maquiling believed the province would breach its target of 500,000 tourists by the end of 2024. The influx of tourists could reach 600,000 arrivals.
He said the increase in construction activities in this capital city would further boost the economy.
“As it is right now, it is becoming an emerging destination, and we hope to ensure sustainability, especially in our tourism programs,” he added.
Maquiling cited the need for strong partnerships between the government and the private sector to strengthen the tourism industry. (PNA)
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READ: W. Visayas sees tourism dip sans Negros Occidental
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PH gov’t can’t stop ICC from probing drug war suspects – SolGen | Tetch Torres-Tupas | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:10:05 PST | VANGUARD OF JUSTICE The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague is investigating the extrajudicial killings related to the drug war in the Philippines from Nov. 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019, when Rodrigo Duterte served as Davao City mayor and Philippine president. —ICC PHOTO
VANGUARD OF JUSTICE The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague is investigating the extrajudicial killings related to the drug war in the Philippines from Nov. 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019, when Rodrigo Duterte served as Davao City mayor and Philippine president. —ICC PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The prosecutor from the International Criminal Court (ICC) can come to the Philippines and interview suspects in the drug war killings during the Duterte administration, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said on Tuesday.
However, he said the Philippine government is not bound legally to assist the ICC.
“The Philippine government cannot stop him from proceeding any way he wants. He can directly interview persons of interest online, through phone, by email, face to face, subject to the consent of these persons,” Guevarra told reporters.
“But the ICC prosecutor cannot expect that the Philippine government will facilitate it for him,” he added.
Guevarra explained that the Philippines had already disengaged completely from the ICC since 2019.
“It has no legal duty to assist the ICC prosecutor in conducting his investigation,” he added.
Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV earlier posted a photo of a document from the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor indicating names of retired and current high-ranking officers who are under suspicion of taking part in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody war on drugs.
Aside from Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, others named in the ICC document are former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Oscar Albayalde, former PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group chief Romeo Caramat, Director of PNP’s Drug Enforcement Group Eleazar Mata, and National Police Commission Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo.
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Alice Guo considered one of the masterminds of Bamban Pogos – Gatchalian | Maila Ager | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:08:34 PST | Alice Guo and homeschooling composite image from INQUIRER file and stock photos
Alice Guo and homeschooling composite image from INQUIRER file and stock photos
MANILA, Philippines — Documentary and testimonial evidence point to suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo as one of the masterminds of the raided Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) firms in her town, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said on Tuesday.
Guo denied her ties with Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc. and Zun Yuan Technology Inc. when she testified before the Senate committee on women in May.
READ: Bamban mayor denies ties to raided pogo firm in Tarlac
But for Gatchalian, the ongoing investigation into the issue has unmasked the people behind the Pogo firm.
“As to the Bamban issue, mukhang klaro na kung sino yung mga tao na nasa likod,” he said in an interview over Radyo 630.
(As for the Bamban issue, it seems clear who the people behind it are.)
“Unang-una dito si Alice Guo, or Guo Hua Ping, ang talagang masasabi nating isa sa mga mastermind,” the senator added, citing the testimony of Guo’s accountant, Nancy Gamo.
(First and foremost, Alice Guo, or Guo Hua Ping, can definitely be considered one of the masterminds.)
During Monday’s hearing of the women’s panel, Gamo admitted that she assisted Guo in securing incorporation papers for her and her family’s companies.
READ: Alice Guo’s accountant released from Senate detention
“Mayor Alice Guo was a client of mine. Client on a per transaction basis — per project. I happened to register the corporations owned by her family way back in 2012. And then there are also other corporations, including the two Pogo companies,” Gamo said.
Hongsheng was raided in February 2023 but reportedly continued its operation as Zun Yuan Technology until it was raided on March 13, 2024.
During the March raid, authorities found documents linking Guo to the firm, as earlier revealed by Gatchalian.
The documents, according to the senator, include a billing statement from Tarlac II Electric Cooperative Inc. showing that Zun Yuan’s electric meter was registered under Guo’s name and a vehicle, which was also registered under her name.
READ: DILG asked to probe mayor for links to raided pogo
But where is Guo to answer all the issues raised against her?
“We’ve got various information about her whereabouts, about her location. I can’t divulge right now because everyone is looking for her,” Gatchalian said in another interview on ANC.
In the meantime, he said the Senate is preparing a complaint against Guo for ignoring the summons and arrest order by the chamber.
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The Senate ordered on July 11 the arrest of Guo for her repeated failure to attend the past hearings of the committee on women.
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Pasig City unveils, sets distribution of free school supplies | Dianne Sampang | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:57:12 PST | Set of school supplies that will be distributed to kindergarten to Senior High School students of Pasig City this school year 2024-2025. | Photo from the Facebook page of Mayor Vico Sotto)
Set of school supplies that will be distributed to kindergarten to Senior High School students of Pasig City this school year 2024-2025. | Photo from the Facebook page of Mayor Vico Sotto)
MANILA, Philippines — Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto unveiled on Tuesday the new set of school supplies which will be distributed to kindergarten through senior high school students in the city’s public schools.
In a Facebook post, Sotto said “[school ]supply distribution schedules will be announced per school.”
Aside from school supplies, students will also receive school bags and fitted school and Physical Education uniforms.
“Sinimulan natin ito nung simula ng Hulyo, pero mula sa feedback ng Deped SDO/schools, mas madali daw kung gagawin ito habang Regular Class Schedule para kumpleto ang mga bata pati na rin teacher,” said Sotto.
(We started this at the start of July, but feedback from Deped SDO/schools [Schools Division Office] said it is easier to conduct this during the regular class schedule so the students and teachers are present.)
“May leather shoes at rubber shoes din tayo ngayong taon. Nakita ko na ang mga sample at natuwa ako sa quality,” Sotto added.
(We also have leather and rubber shoes this year. I saw the samples, and I am happy with the quality.)
The Malusog na Batang Pasigueño 2.0 will also offer health exams including eye/vision tests, complete blood count tests, and X-rays for the students this school year 2024-2025.
While classes in public schools for the school year 2024-2025 started on Monday, the Department of Education reported on Sunday that 832 public schools have delayed the opening of classes to conduct cleanup and rehabilitation of affected facilities due to the onslaught of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon (habagat).
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Rich Filipinos want newer, bigger private jets | Tyrone Jasper C. Piad | Mon, 29 Jul 2024 02:09:00 PST | INQUIRER.net stock images
INQUIRER.net stock images
Rich Filipinos with private jets are expected to buy new or bigger ones amid the sustained momentum for travel, which is usually for business engagements in Singapore and North America, according to French aerospace company Dassault Aviation.
Carlos Brana, executive vice president for civil aircraft at Dassault Aviation, said that the demand for private jets has been on the rise as the economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic that once wreaked havoc on the aviation sector.
“We see an opportunity to sell more new aircraft into the Philippines because there are some older aircraft in need of replacement. Also, there are some owners of small to midsize business jets that want to trade up to a larger aircraft,” he told the Inquirer.
Its Dassault Falcon 6x unit is estimated to cost $52.75 million. The aircraft can carry 12 to 16 passengers.
Of the 300 private aircraft in Southeast Asia, Brana noted that about 50 to 60 units are based in the Philippines.
“In terms of customer profiles, it is driven mainly by multinational Filipino companies. In other words, Filipino business people also have businesses overseas that they need to visit,” Brana said.
“The Philippine economy is growing by 5 percent per annum and the growth of the business jet fleet is usually in line with GDP (gross domestic products) growth,” he added.
Brana noted that Asia -Pacific is the third largest market in the world for private jets after North America and Europe. In the region, he explained that the growth in business aviation is mainly driven by Southeast Asia.
In relation to this, aviation company VistaJet previously told the Inquirer that more Filipinos have been renting out private jets in the past year.
The company noted that the total flight hours and number of operated flights grew by 2 percent and 3 percent, respectively, in 2023.
The top destinations for these private flights, which cost $15,000 an hour, are Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo and Seoul.
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For example, a flight between Manila and Singapore is about four hours. This means the chartered flight may cost $60,000, or P3.4 million, for a one-way trip. INQ
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US, PH top execs hold defense meet amid West Philippine Sea tension | John Eric Mendoza | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:14:13 PST | MANILA, Philippines — United States defense and state ministers arrived in the country on Tuesday for a meeting with Philippine counterparts amid West Philippine Sea tension.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III met with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, for the 4th Philippines-US Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue (2+2 Dialogue).
Before this, Blinken and Austin paid a courtesy call to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Malacañan Palace.
“I think today is genuinely historic,” Blinken told Marcos. “It’s, I think, really evidence of a steady drumbeat, a very high level of engagements between our countries that are covering the full range of issues and opportunities that bring us together.”
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (L) during a courtesy call to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. The two high-level US officials expressed their condolences to the victims of Typhoon Carina (international name: Gaemi) and the enhanced southwest monsoon. Blinken and Austin were joined by other US officials (background) in Malacañang. | Photo screengrabbed from RTVM
READ: Manila, Washington to finalize intel pact by yearend
This is the first time the policy-level dialogue is being held in Manila as previous meetings were held in Washington, DC, USA.
“We have common interests, common values, and so I think we’ve done a lot over the last three and a half years to continue to strengthen our alliance and we look forward to continuing to work with you and your team to move even further,” Austin told Marcos during their meeting in Malacañang.
Tuesday’s meeting at Camp Aguinaldo, however, was met with protest, as a group expressed fear that it “will lead to intensified and direct military intervention of the US.”
A number of protestors from Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) burned a US flag in front of Camp Aguinaldo along Edsa.
“He echoes the war rhetoric of the US against China which heightens tension and instability in the region,” Bayan said, referring to Marcos.
The 4th Philippines-US Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue comes after the June 17 incident at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, when the world saw the most violent actions of China Coast Guard (CCG) members against Philippine Navy personnel.
During the incident, CCG members seized and disassembled high-powered guns of Philippine Navy personnel and destroyed Philippine rubber boats. The violent encounter also resulted in the thumb amputation of a Filipino naval personnel.
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Earlier this month, Manila and Beijing held a meeting and reached an “understanding” – as the Department of Foreign Affairs described it – regarding the handling of Ayungin Shoal.
On July 27, the resupply mission for Philippine troops stationed at the grounded World War II-era ship BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin Shoal proceeded without any incident.
For comprehensive coverage, in-depth analysis, visit our special page for West Philippine Sea updates. Stay informed with articles, videos, and expert opinions.
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Night owls, here’s where you can grab a bite past midnight | No author found | 2022-07-26T08:24:43+00:00 | Being hungry and awake past midnight is something we’ve all been through. There are times when a quick rummage through the fridge or a fast food run can fix it—but there are other times when you just need a little extra something.
Manila is one of the country’s food meccas (don’t quote me on that), and one of the main reasons is because you can find good food at all hours of the day. That includes Tuesdays at 1 a.m. when you can’t sleep because the state of the world is keeping you up at night.
While yes, eating in the wee hours of the night is bad for you, sometimes the food isn’t for your stomach. It’s for your soul. So whether you’re at home and craving a meal you can’t have delivered or you’re hungry after a night out, here are some places open during the witching hour.
5805 Jacobo cor. Doña Carmen St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City
Open Monday to Sunday, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Cuisine: Spanish
A post shared by Tiabuela (@tiabuelamanila)
Tiabuela is one of the newest Spanish restaurants in the Poblacion area. Its menu consists mainly of tapas, but for friends who want to share, the paella is definitely good for more than one. The restaurant also hosts DJs on the weekends, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for some music to accompany your meal.
Molito Lifestyle Center, Madrigal Ave., Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Open Monday to Sunday, 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Cuisine: Latin and Latin-inspired dishes
A post shared by ALEGRIA CANTINA (@alegriacantinamnl)
If your budget (and potentially the restaurant’s distance) isn’t a concern, Alegria Cantina is the new kid on the block at Molito. The menu is made up of Latin-inspired dishes that have all been touched by fire. The cantina also has a drink menu you shouldn’t miss out on.
1030 Arnaiz Ave., Makati City
Open Monday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Cuisine: Japanese
Honestly, Nihonbashitei is a restaurant that needs no introduction. The venerable Japanese spot has been sitting in place since most of us can remember, and the quality of the food hasn’t budged much either. Something special about it, though, is that it’s quiet. If you’re in the mood for a more than decent Japanese meal during the odd hours of the night, Nihon (as many regulars call it) is a more than worthy option.
8459 Kalayaan Ave., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City
Open Monday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.
Cuisine: Japanese
A post shared by YUGIMO JAPANESE FOOD (@yugi_japanese_restaurant)
If you’re craving some warm miso soup after a crazy night in Poblacion (like you should), Yugi is one of the places you should run to. Something interesting about this restaurant is that nobody that runs it is Japanese. Nevertheless, the food’s still good. If you’re wondering if my drunk palate made this decision, I’d like to assure you that it didn’t. I made sure to come back sober to check.
5059 P. Burgos St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City
Open Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 24 hours; Sunday, 12 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
A post shared by Hummus Elijah – The Best Hummus in Town! (@hummus_elijah)
Craving falafel and hummus at an ungodly hour doesn’t happen to everyone, but it does happen. Luckily, Hummus Elijah is open 24/7 on weekends to help satisfy that craving. Aside from the expected Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, it also serves desserts like baklava and knafeh as a sweet end to your meal.
5012 P. Burgos St., Brgy. Poblacion Makati City
Open Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 a.m.
Cuisine: American
There was a period of time from 2016 to 2018 where you’d see at least three pictures of someone eating at Filling Station on your Instagram feed on any given day. Many people like to say that the food is too expensive for its quality. Okay, but where else are you going to find quality milkshakes at 2 a.m.? Also, make sure to order the breakfast sausage the next time you’re there. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Ground Floor JVR Building, 5782 Felipe Street, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City
Open Sunday to Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 11 a.m.; Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Cuisine: Mexican
El Chupacabra is another famous late-night spot that requires very little introduction. The restaurant serves authentic Mexican tacos as well as other beloved Mexican street food at a budget-friendly price. Just make sure to bring a fan when you eat here cause it can get a little hot.
5663 Don Pedro St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City
Open Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Cuisine: Mexican
A post shared by ONLYPANS TAQUERIA POBLACION (@onlypanspoblacion)
OnlyPans is a quarantine business venture turned brick-and-mortar restaurant. Aside from its very witty and potentially NSFW name, the taco shop is known for its take on the famous birria taco. If you’re partying in Poblacion, this is a good place to end your night or take a break. If you’re going to OnlyPans from your house because you’re craving tacos at midnight, make sure you brace yourself for the party-going crowd.
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How a Filipino chef pulled off an artsy dinner with binakol, pandesal, and kakanin in NYC | No author found | 2024-03-15T09:58:18+00:00 | New York-based Filipino chef Lj Almendras recently created a six-course dinner at Silverlens Gallery in Chelsea to celebrate the opening of artist Nicole Coson’s latest show “In Passing.”
[READ: ‘The personal is global,’ says Nicole Coson in latest New York exhibit]
Almendras is the chef and founding director of Dila, a Filipino food pop-up. Born and raised in Cebu and trained at New York restaurants Rolo’s, Ammazzacaffè, and Vietnamese concept Monsieur Vo, he aims to cultivate culinary experiences that reflect the joyous dynamism of Cebuano and broader Pinoy food culture through the lens of a curious, insatiable immigrant. Almendras’ Dila caters to an unabashedly omnivorous palate, a concept in celebration of third-culture cuisine.
To tie up with the Silverlens’ show’s central object—the humble plastic shipping crate, a material symbol of the global supply chain—Almendras, together with Coson, conceptualized a dinner replete with both mainstream and underrated Filipino flavors. Think Western Visayan comfort food binakol consomme served in coconut shell bowls and black and white pandesal made earthy and nutty with sesame seeds and charcoal, referencing Coson’s black crate imprints.
[READ: The Alley at Karrivin is borne out of the Coson sisters’ love for art]
True to the show’s underlying theme of globalization (the crates being both physical and metaphorical vessels of cultural trade), the prompt for the dinner, Almendras told Nolisoli, came from a book that Coson gave him on the Americans’ “war on culture,” specifically on Filipino cuisine in the 1890s. Determined to remold their colony into a mirror of their own land, the Americans “influenced” what Filipinos consumed and ultimately how the locals perceive their own culinary heritage: as something inferior to that of the west.
I want to keep showcasing our food in new spaces because I always think Filipino cuisine is very much transferable and adaptable.
In this interview, Almendras breaks down the details that went into creating the menu, from his initial meeting with the artist to sourcing Filipino ingredients in Chinatown, and expanding the vision of his concept Dila via new settings.
Nicole Coson and I saw each other last year at Maria Taniguchi’s exhibit at Silverlens. That’s when I found out that she had worked in food before and we started talking about doing a collab of some sort. Then she hit me up in January asking if I would be down to do a dinner at Silverlens for her opening.
[READ: We tried making silky Chinese steamed eggs as effortlessly as artist Nicole Coson]
The date worked out for both of us and we had coffee. She gave me the book “Taste of Control” by Rene Alexander Orquiza Jr., which looks into how American colonizers began to influence what Filipinos ate and how we perceived our own food. It was a good conversation starter and got me thinking about colonial mentality in relation to food, which has always been an issue that I seek to address by the type of food that I bring to my dinners or events—not seeing our food as inferior to other cuisines and leaning into aspects of dishes that make it Filipino, whether that’s in ingredient or how it’s presented or offered at the table.
Apart from the overall theme, Nicole started our brainstorming with some of her favorite dishes such as binakol, liempo, and oysters. Then we thought it would be nice to incorporate some Pinoy-style skewers.
The crates were easy for me to connect to. Working in the service industry, I have carried countless of those vessels and have them in different shapes and sizes. They are essential in our work and yes very symbolic of how we are all connected with the movement of food—a great example is how specific ingredients in the menu such as ampalaya or banana ketchup are made available here in New York through importation. So this was a very easy prompt to play with. I wanted some sort of unique and relevant vessel to be present in every dish to highlight the importance of the medium and also make intuitive guesses as to why the choice of vessel.
Going the literal route was one way to execute the idea. Hence, the miniature crates for the kamote fries. Then I kind of pushed the idea a little further by thinking of ways to naturally present the food at the table.
The first course is consomme served in a halved coconut shell with no spoon, a nod to how binakol is traditionally cooked. The lemongrass and annatto oils were symbolic of the meeting of eastern and western flavors.
This is followed by a bread course, which was a play on how Nicole elegantly uses black/charcoal in her art. We used charcoal and black sesame seeds to create a black pandesal which was earthy, nutty, and a good pairing to go with the kesong puti—which was fermented with calamansi inside banana leaves—and a tomato chutney with soy-fig vinegar.
Nicole wanted an oyster bar. So for the third course, I saw this as a chance to have fun in textures and flavors: mango, roasted eggplant, chili corn nuts with a pile of calamansi and sea grapes, which I carry with me in many of my popups, dripping from a three-tier tray.
The fourth dish is the salad course. It’s always a way for me to bring something seasonal to the table: pea tendrils and red radicchios, which we may not be accustomed to but a creamy salted duck egg dressing is something we can get down with.
Honestly, the fifth course is the most challenging dish for me to execute because I find it hard to present skewers at the table when it’s taken out of the context of the “street” or when it’s not actually cooked on open fire. But sticking liempo skewers with pickled bittermelon and papaya on halved green papayas was a fun and natural idea.
Finally, for dessert; this sweet rice cake has gone through many versions. But it’s always a hit because of my mom’s coconut caramel recipe. For this dinner, Nicole suggested finishing off with chamoy, a fun and spicy way to end the meal. It was presented like how a cake should be but with pandan leaves which I cooked the sticky rice with.
Colonial mentality in relation to food has always been an issue that I seek to address by the type of food that I bring to my dinners or events—not seeing our food as inferior to other cuisines and leaning into aspects of dishes that make it Filipino.
The nice thing about these dinners is that people come in expecting to be intrigued and most often they are curious to try out what’s in front of them. So it was pretty easy for them right away to grasp the idea, the execution, and what we wanted them to experience.
Not a direct answer but something that’s related to my vision for Dila: Last year, I’ve brought Dila to different types of restaurant settings/formats: full service, cafe/coffee shop, bars, and a farm for a music festival. This year I want I take Dila to new spaces.
Most dishes in this menu have been already done in my previous popups at a different scale and in a different format. I want to keep showcasing our food in new spaces because I always think Filipino cuisine is very much transferable and adaptable.
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MMDA postpones July 31 ‘shake drill’, focuses on repair efforts | Luisa Cabato | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:29:20 PST | FILE PHOTO: On July 19, 2018, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) personnel execute a Metro Manila-wide shake drill to test the communities preparedness in the event of an earthquake. The MMDA postponed the scheduled “Metro Manila Shake Drill” for Wednesday, July 31, 2024, to allow ongoing clean-up and repair activities in calamity-hit areas to continue. The Metro Manila Shake Drill is being conducted to prepare the public for the “Big One,” which is feared to devastate various areas in Luzon. INQUIRER / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE
FILE PHOTO: On July 19, 2018, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) personnel execute a Metro Manila-wide shake drill to test the communities preparedness in the event of an earthquake. The MMDA postponed the scheduled “Metro Manila Shake Drill” for Wednesday, July 31, 2024, to allow ongoing clean-up and repair activities in calamity-hit areas to continue. The Metro Manila Shake Drill is being conducted to prepare the public for the “Big One,” which is feared to devastate various areas in Luzon. INQUIRER / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE
MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) postponed the July 31 “Metro Manila Shake Drill” to allow ongoing clean-up and repair activities in calamity-hit areas to continue.
On Facebook on Tuesday, July 30, the MMDA said: “Hindi po matutuloy ang Metro Manila Shake Drill na nakatakda bukas, Hulyo 31, dahil sa patuloy na isinasagawang paglilinis at pagsasaayos ng mga pinsalang tinamo sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Metro Manila dulot ng habagat at bagyong Carina noong nakaraang linggo.”
(The Metro Manila Shake Drill that was scheduled for tomorrow, July 31, will not go ahead due to the ongoing cleaning and repair of the damages sustained in various parts of Metro Manila caused by last week’s strong winds and typhoon Carina.)
READ: OCD: Enforce building code to minimize effects of ‘The Big One’
The Metro Manila Shake Drill is being conducted to prepare the public for the “Big One,” which is feared to devastate various areas in Luzon.
Last June, various government agencies participated in the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill for the second quarter of the year.
READ: Look Through: What happens when the ‘Big One’ hits Metro Manila?
The event highlighted the activation of the Harmonized National Contingency Plan, which establishes key Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils across Luzon.
These councils will assist the National Capital Region from the north, east, west, and south sectors in case the powerful earthquake strikes.
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Senate deliberation on 2025 budget set to start on Aug. 13 | Charie Abarca | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:24:29 PST | SP ESCUDERO RECEIVES 2025 NEP: Senate President Francis Escudero and other senators receive a copy of the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for fiscal year 2025 from Budget Sec. Amenah Pangandaman at the Senate Ceremonial Hall in Pasay City Monday, July 29, 2024. Also in photo are Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, Sens. Grace Poe, Alan Peter Cayetano, Victor Joseph Ejercito and Budget Undersecretaries Sasa Del Rosario, Leo Larcia, Wilford Wong and Budget Assistant Sec. Diana Camacho-Mercado. (Photo from Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
SP ESCUDERO RECEIVES 2025 NEP: Senate President Francis Escudero and other senators receive a copy of the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for fiscal year 2025 from Budget Sec. Amenah Pangandaman at the Senate Ceremonial Hall in Pasay City Monday, July 29, 2024. Also in photo are Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, Sens. Grace Poe, Alan Peter Cayetano, Victor Joseph Ejercito and Budget Undersecretaries Sasa Del Rosario, Leo Larcia, Wilford Wong and Budget Assistant Sec. Diana Camacho-Mercado. (Photo from Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
MANILA, Philippines – The Senate will start deliberating the proposed P6.352-trillion national budget for 2025 on Aug. 13 with a briefing from the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC), according to Senate President Francis Escudero.
Speaking to reporters in an ambush interview on Tuesday, Escudero said the upper chamber is eyeing to wrap all these before the year ends.
“We will finish that before the year ends along with the bicameral conference committee report for it to be signed by the President. That’s always the schedule of the Senate and the House of Representatives. We are expecting the DBCC debates hopefully on August 13,” he said in Filipino.
“Well, that’s briefing and debates because senators are allowed to ask questions,” he added.
In a message to reporters, committee on finance chairperson Sen. Grace Poe confirmed that the DBCC briefing will be conducted from August 13 to 14, while the budget hearings will run from August 15 to October 18.
According to Poe, they aim to submit and approve the committee report by the first week of December.
Asked if Poe considers passing the 2025 national budget a big challenge considering it is an “election budget,” the senator said, “It’s always a challenge handling the budget.”
“The money we will allocate comes from the hard work and tax contributions of our countrymen. We need to ensure that we are responsive to the needs of our people, handle the budget equitably, especially given our limited fiscal space, and with full transparency,” she added.
Escudero maintained that it is against the law to use any government funds, such as aid, for the campaign of any aspiring government official.
“May Comelec (Commission on Elections) regulations na rin kaugnay niyan at maraming kandidato na-disqualify noong 2022 elections dahil din dyan,” he said.
(There are Comelec regulations about this and many candidates were disqualified in the 2022 elections because of this.)
In a media briefing earlier, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said enveloped in the P6.352-trillion national allocation for 2025 are confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) which went down by 16 percent if compared to the 2024 General Appropriations Act.
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“The DBM got a total proposed P11.39-billion CIF for 2025, of which confidential is P5.22 billion, intelligence is P6.17 billion. But we only approved a P10.29-billion CIF. The breakdown is P4.37 billion for confidential expenses and P5.92 billion for intelligence expenses,” she said.
READ: Marcos’ office retains P4.5-B confidential, intel fund for 2025
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Another fuel tanker sinks in Manila Bay | Frances Mangosing, Russel Loreto | Mon, 29 Jul 2024 05:50:00 PST | TRAGEDY AFTER THE STORM Another fuel tanker sank in Mariveles, Bataan, two days after the Terra Nova sinking (above) on July 25 in the waters of Bataan province. —photo from the Philippine Coast Guard
TRAGEDY AFTER THE STORM Another fuel tanker sank in Mariveles, Bataan, two days after the Terra Nova sinking (above) on July 25 in the waters of Bataan province. —photo from the Philippine Coast Guard
MANILA, Philippines — Another fuel tanker, identified as the “MTKR Jason Bradley,” sank in shallow waters off Mariveles, Bataan, on Saturday afternoon as salvage operations on the sunken Terra Nova, which is still carrying its cargo of 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel, was postponed, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Sunday.
According to the PCG, Jason Bradley was reported to have no cargo on board, but PCG divers found fuel leaks on the vessel and an undetermined amount of diesel.
The PCG said divers had sealed the leaks found on the vessel and were awaiting the arrival of more equipment.
READ: Sunken oil tanker starts to leak cargo
“The PCG response team is working on properly removing the diesel cargo with the help of a contracted salvor,” the PCG said, adding that it will investigate the circumstances around the sinking after recovering the cargo.
The oil tanker sank Saturday afternoon in waters nine meters deep off Barangay Cabcaben, just half a kilometer from the shore and just two days after the sinking of the Terranova on July 25.
READ: Oil spill from sunken tanker off Bataan may reach Manila shores – PCG
On Sunday, the PCG said the contracted salvor, Harbor Star Shipping Services, was supposed to start siphoning the Terra Nova’s cargo, but it was postponed after divers found nine more leaking valves that had to be sealed.
“An order was given to seal the valves first before the start of the siphoning operations in order to prevent more leakages,” PCG spokesperson Rear Adm. Armando Balilo said on Sunday.
Divers were aiming to finish sealing the valves by Monday, Balilo said, when the weeklong siphoning process can start.
Harbor Star was hired by Terra Nova owner, Shogun Ships Co. Inc., under a “no cure, no pay” contract, which means Harbor Star will not be paid if it fails to fulfill the terms of the contract.
Harbor Star, a stock exchange-listed company, was one of the salvors involved in the cleanup of the MT Princess Empress oil spill off Mindoro last year, tagged as the worst in the country.
The Princess Empress was carrying 900,000 liters of industrial fuel when it sank off Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, on Feb. 23, 2023.
Both the Princess Empress and the Terra Nova were chartered to carry industrial fuel from Limay to Iloilo City by the SL Harbor Bulk Terminal Corp., a subsidiary of the San Miguel Corp., the largest conglomerate in the country.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has generated a map showing the extent of the possible oil spill in Manila Bay.
As of July 27, the map indicates that the oil spill may cover an area of approximately 68.01 square kilometers, a significant increase from PhilSA’s July 26 estimate of 14.4 square kilometers.
However, PhilSA noted that these figures are “still subject to ground validation.”
The incident has raised concerns from fisherfolk in the provinces surrounding Manila Bay.
“We haven’t fully recovered from the severe impact of Supertyphoon Carina and the current southwest monsoon,” said Richard Catenza, leader of a fishers group in Cavite.
“Fishing has been disrupted for over two months due to large waves and strong winds. We cannot endure another looming tragedy caused by this oil spill,” noting that the incident may also affect fish prices in the Manila Bay area.
Ronnel Arambulo, vice chairperson of the activist Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya), criticized the government for the pace of its actions in both the Princess Empress and Terranova oil spills.
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“We’ve experienced numerous oil spills before. The government should have learned how to prevent the expansion of its damage to the sea and fishers’ livelihoods,” Arambulo said.
The organization said it is monitoring several coastal towns in Cavite that could be affected, including Tanza and Rosario, where more than 10,000 fisherfolk may be impacted.
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Typhoon Carina destroys irrigation systems worth P29.1M in Calabarzon | Delfin T. Mallari Jr. @dtmallarijrINQ | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:15:25 PST | RESERVOIR This aerial photo shows the floodwaters entering the Upper Wawa Damreservoir in Rodriguez, Rizal, and how the dam’s controlled impounding system reduced the impact of flooding caused by Supertyphoon “Carina” (international name: Gaemi). —WAWAJVCO INC.
RESERVOIR This aerial photo shows the floodwaters entering the Upper Wawa Damreservoir in Rodriguez, Rizal, and how the dam’s controlled impounding system reduced the impact of flooding caused by Supertyphoon “Carina” (international name: Gaemi). —WAWAJVCO INC.
LUCENA CITY — Supertyphoon Carina (international name: Gaemi) and the enhanced southwest monsoon destroyed P29.1 million worth of government irrigation systems in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) region, the National Irrigation Administration–IV-A (NIA-IV-A) reported on Tuesday, July 30.
The damaged irrigation infrastructures affected 4,987 hectares of farmland and 5,134 farmers.
Laguna province recorded the highest crop damage worth P45.8 million in communal irrigation systems (CIS) and P34 million in national irrigation systems, NIA-IV-A said.
Some of the damaged infrastructure includes a 20-meter collapsed canal lining the west main canal of the Mayor River Irrigation System (RIS) in Mabitac, Laguna.
The sluice gate of the Matanda River Irrigation System (RIS) in Tanza, Cavite, and the brass dam and river channeling of the Agos River Irrigation System (RIS) in Infanta, Quezon, were also damaged, the agency said.
The estimated repair cost includes P5.1 million in “Level 1” damage that requires immediate work to restore service areas and another P24 million in “Level 2” for extensive work to restore the irrigation facilities to their original condition, the NIA-IV-A said.
Since last week, the agency has dispatched field personnel, with the help of irrigators associations, to conduct immediate desilting and clearing operations along irrigation canals to remove debris and restore water flow.
The damage report will be submitted to the Office of the Civil Defense and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council for quick response fund assistance.
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Donate to Inquirer Foundation Corp. at BDO Current Account No: 007960018860. For inquiries, email [email protected].
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Shabu worth P192,000 found inside bag by K9 inspector in Quezon | Delfin T. Mallari Jr. @dtmallarijrINQ | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:09:30 PST | INQUIRER FILES
INQUIRER FILES
LUCENA CITY — A canine inspector found a bag containing suspected shabu (crystal meth), worth more than P192,000 left abandoned on Monday in a passenger sea vessel in Real town in Quezon province.
Philippine Coast Guard personnel alerted the local police after they found at 8:14 p.m. an abandoned bag during their routine inspection inside the Star Horse 2 Shipping vessel docked in a port in Barangay Ungos, the Quezon police reported on Tuesday, July 30.
The K-9 dog handler discovered inside the bag a sachet of shabu weighing 28.34 grams worth P192,712.
K-9 dogs were trained to detect illegal drugs, bombs, and explosives by sniffing them out.
The police are conducting further investigation to find the owner of the bag.
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Rica Peralejo calls out Christians amid viral Olympics opening | Hannah Mallorca | Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:53:03 PST | Rica Peralejo (leftmost) bared her honest thoughts about the viral opening ceremony at the Olympics which was accused of mocking “The Last Supper.” Images: Instagram/@ricaperalejo, YouTube/Olympics
Rica Peralejo (leftmost) bared her honest thoughts about the viral opening ceremony at the Olympics which was accused of mocking “The Last Supper.” Images: Instagram/@ricaperalejo, YouTube/Olympics
Rica Peralejo reminded her fellow Christians to be mindful of how they appear to make faith look “reactionary,” following a backlash from religious sectors over a segment of the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony they believed was a mockery of “The Last Supper.”
The organizers of the Olympics drew flak after a controversial tableau depicting a bacchanalian feast in its opening ceremony showed drag queens and performers lining a long table. A man, portraying the Greek god of wine Dionysus, covered in blue paint while donning a flower wreath on his head then laid down on the center of the table, while a group of performers lined up behind him.
“The interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings,” a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) page read.
The interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings. #Paris2024 #OpeningCeremony pic.twitter.com/FBlQNNUmvV
— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) July 26, 2024
The opening, however, drew comparisons between the performance and Leonardo da Vinci’s depiction of “The Last Supper,” which marked a critical part of the Christian faith as it signified the holy communion of Christ and his love for humanity.
Amid the criticism, Rica Peralejo took to her Threads page on Sunday, July 28, to call out her fellow Christians who were outraged by the seeming resemblance, making their faith seem “unthinking and unreasonable more than ever.”
“So I am not sure how true that the Last Supper was actually the Feast of Dionysus. But to me, it sounds more like it because hello: Olympics. Olympia. Greece. Ancient Greece and Dionysus is…? Kaya pala no matter how much I look at it hindi naman Last Supper yung efek sakin (the effect doesn’t seem to follow the Last Supper for me),” she wrote.
Peralejo then reminded her fellow Christians of how they would respond to trending issues, as it might misrepresent faith as “reactionary.”
“If true talaga this, time na for the Christians to think talaga of how people can believe in us when we keep representing the faith as reactionary. Reacts before thinking. Enraged before understanding. Others then would automatically think the faith is for fools! And the saddest part is I cannot blame them,” she wrote.
Image: Screenshot from Threads/@ricaperalejo
In the replies, the actress stressed that the controversial display at the start of the Olympics, which traces its roots to the ancient and pagan Greek games on Mt. Olympus, said the “feast of the Greek Gods” do not deserve such outrage as it does not at all diminish God.
“Nevertheless, whatever their intention is, it does not [diminish] my God and deserves no attention [in my opinion]. And we can have [different] opinions and reactions to stuff,” she further added.
Screenshot from Threads/@ricaperalejo
Peralejo also agreed with one @kuyaalleennn in the replies, while reminding the latter that Christians “must be enraged about a lot of things.”
“Christians must be enraged about a lot of things, too. But one argument I saw is that why use your righteous anger for something like this but not for oppression, racism, genocide, etc. which I think has a very strong point,” she said.
Screenshots from Threads/@ricaperalejo
The actress’ post has since gathered mixed reactions from her followers.
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Image: Screengrab from Threads/@ricaperalejo
Paris Olympics 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps has since apologized to Christian groups for the incident, saying the tableau was meant to be a “celebration of community tolerance,” per a Guardian report.
“Clearly, there was never an intention to show disrespect to any religious group. [The opening ceremony] tried to celebrate community tolerance… We believe this ambition was achieved. If people have taken any offense we are really sorry,” she was quoted as saying.
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INQToday: Marcos thanks US for ‘open communication lines’ on WPS issue; Criminal case mulled vs Guo | INQUIRER.net | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:25:48 PST | Here’s a quick roundup of today’s top stories:
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III, who paid a courtesy call in Malacañang on Tuesday.
In welcoming the two high-level US officials, Marcos expressed his gratitude for the open communication lines between the Philippines and the United States, especially involving the situation in the West Philippine Sea.
The Senate, as a body, should file a criminal case against Alice Guo and others for violating Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code, according to Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian.
Gatchalian floated his suggestion during the committee on women’s Monday hearing, explaining that Guo and others’ non-attendance to the chamber’s proceedings despite invitations and arrest orders issued, violates the law.
Fishing in areas affected by the oil spill in Manila Bay is not advisable, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said on Tuesday.
“Kami po ay medyo nag-aalangan din kung sakaling papuntahin ang mga mangingisda at meron pang langis,” Balilo said over radio dwPM.
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Sara Duterte appeals protection for her family – physically or online | Zacarian Sarao | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:18:53 PST | FILE PHOTO: Vice President Sara Duterte. INQUIRER / RICHARD A. REYES
FILE PHOTO: Vice President Sara Duterte. INQUIRER / RICHARD A. REYES
MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte pleaded protection for her family, following the recall of 75 police officers from her personal protection team.
On Facebook, Duterte said she hopes for nothing more than her family’s safety, as she thanked Senators Bato Dela Rosa, Robin Padilla, and Bong Go for their support after the Philippine National Police (PNP) pulled out its men from the Vice President’s security group.
Dela Rosa earlier called on former police and army personnel to volunteer as security for Duterte.
“Huwag kayong mag-alala sa akin. At hindi ninyo kailangan mag-ambag ng pera para sa security ko. Ang pagtatrabaho sa pamahalaan ay pag-alay ng buhay para sa bayan. Alam nating lahat na bahagi ito ng serbisyo,” Duterte said in a statement on Tuesday.
(Don’t worry about me. And you don’t need to contribute money for my security. Working in the government means sacrificing one’s life for the people. We all know it’s part of the service.)
READ: Sara Duterte: Removal of my PNP security a ‘political harassment’
“Isa lang ang hiling ko sa inyo – ang kaligtasan ng aking pamilya. Huwag ninyong payagan ang anumang karahasan sa aking ina, asawa at apat na anak, personal man o sa internet. At kung sakali man, huwag ninyong palampasin ang sinumang gagawa ng kapahamakan laban sa kanila,” Duterte added.
(I have only one request from you – the safety of my family. Do not let any act of violence against my mother, husband, and four children, either in person or online. And just in case, don’t overlook anyone who would harm them.)
Duterte, however, did not mention if there was any confirmed “threat” against her and her family. Although, in a previous statement, she questioned the publication of footage of her and her family leaving the country, and mentioned that police officers recently attempted to “case” her residence where her kids also lived.
Recently, the Vice President has been at odds with PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil over the withdrawal of the 75 police officers from her security team.
READ: Sara Duterte’s PNP security reduced as no threat seen on VP – Marbil
She likewise called the police security pull-out a “clear case of political harassment,” noting its timing since it happened after she resigned from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Cabinet, her “designated survivor” remark in relation to her non-attendance to Marcos’ third State of the Nation Address, and a video showing Marcos allegedly using illegal drugs surfaced online.
She even slammed Marbil’s statement that the reason for withdrawing her police detail was that the PNP saw “no threat” against her.
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A Commission on Audit (COA) report on the Office of the Vice President in 2022, showed that Duterte’s Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group had 433 members in total.
These 433 members make up the majority of the 683 total number of personnel in the OVP, according to the COA report.
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Elvis Gutierrez labis ang pangungulila kay Alexa: I miss you so much! | No author found | Mon, 29 Jul 2024 22:09:18 PST | Elvis Gutierrez at Alexa Gutierrez kasama ang dalawang anak
Elvis Gutierrez at Alexa Gutierrez kasama ang dalawang anak
NGAYON pa lang ay nangungulila na si Elvis Gutierrez sa pagpanaw ng kanyang asawang si Alexa Uichico-Gutierrez matapos makipaglaban sa leukemia.
Miss na miss na raw ng kapatid nina Ruffa, Raymond at Richard Gutierrez ang kanyang misis na sumakabilang buhay nitong nagdaang Sabado, July 27 sa edad na 38.
Kung matatandaan, January, 2024 nang ma-diagnose si Alexa ng acute lymphoblastic leukemia, isang klase ng cancer kung saan ang bone marrow ay gumagawa ng napakaraming lymphocytes (isang uri ng white blood cell).
Baka Bet Mo: Eddie Gutierrez humagulgol sa lamay ni Susan Roces: ‘I miss you, you will always be a part of my life…see you in heaven’
Kahapon, nag-post si Elvis sa kanyang Instagram account ng litrato nila ni Alexa, kung saan makikitang hinahalikan niya sa pisngi ang asawa. Wala siyang isinulat na caption dito kundi isang white heart emoji.
A post shared by Bandera (@banderaphl)
Ngayong araw, July 29, muling nagbahagi si Elvis sa kanyang Instagram page ng lumang photo ni Alexa na kuha sa loob ng isang kotse habang nakahawak sa manibela nito.
Ayon kay Elvis, ito raw yung araw nang turuan niyang mag-drive si Alexa ilang taon na ngayon ang nakararaan. Aniya sa caption, “You were 19 I was 22, this is the first day you learned how to drive.
“I wanted to capture how happy you were. You called me the best driving teacher.
“I miss you so much @alexaugutz,” ang mensahe pa ng anak nina Eddie Gutierrez at Annabelle Rama.
Baka Bet Mo: Ka Tunying naniniwalang magaling na ang anak na may leukemia: Siya ang pinakadakilang Manggagamot!
Si Ruffa ang unang nagbahagi sa publiko ng pagpanaw ni Alexa sa pamamagitan ng Instagram at Facebook kalakip ang obituary ng yumao nilang mahal sa buhay.
“I am still trying to process and accept that you are no longer with us. (broken heart emoji).
“It’s so hard… (crying in tears emoji). Words cannot express how heartbroken and shocked I am.
A post shared by Elvis Gutierrez (@life.of.guti)
“I love you so much my beautiful, irreplaceable Alexa. You will forever be in my thoughts and in my heart.
“Until we cross paths again… (broken heart emojis) I’ll write more when able. Xx,” ang buong pahayag ng aktres.
Sa kanya ring Instagram page nag-post ang kapatid ni Elvis na si Raymond ng black-and-white photo ni Alexa, kasama ang dalawang anak nila ni Elvis na sina Aria at Ezra.
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Ang mensahe ni Raymond, “You will forever be in our hearts @alexaugutz.” | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391224/elvis-gutierrez-labis-ang-pangungulila-kay-alexa-i-miss-you-so-much?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1i3Y7subwvFu6_Tp3ALJr66lWuPQ4futnWiIRyqA5IbsluJlLtEtgyHcc_aem_HG5gl1NobA1u8n_jFOpk8A#ixzz8hO6KaOlf | null | null | null | null | null | null |
How the Philippines can attract high-tech investments | John Philip Siao | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 02:00:04 PST | First of 2 parts
The Philippines’ economy or Gross Domestic Product grew at a rate of 5.7% for the first quarter of 2024. Compared to our neighbors in the Asean, for 2023 and 2024, the growth rate of our country is in the top 3 surpassed only by Vietnam and Cambodia.
To sustain our country’s economic growth, we need quality investments, including foreign investments, in industries and sectors which will help our economy adapt to the future and remain competitive.
A few months ago, after the US Presidential Trade and Investment Mission in the Philippines, it was announced by US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo that American companies will invest over USD$1 billion in the Philippines.
Among these investments are:
Based on the above, about 80% of the expected US$1 billion investment in the Philippines will come from two companies: KKR for the purchase of telecom towers and Ally Power for its venture with Meralco.
These investments are certainly beneficial for the Philippines, but let’s also examine some of the declared investments being made in our Asean neighbors.
Vietnam
Indonesia
Malaysia
Thailand
From the foregoing, the type of investments being made in our Asean neighbors—Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand—differs from those in the Philippines, as they focus on the latest technologies such as data centers and artificial intelligence.
Moreover, it is notable that the companies making these investments are the largest technology companies, worth trillions of US dollars. If industry assessments are accurate, we are still in the early stages of investment and development in data centers and AI. These investments, already consisting of eye-watering amounts, are just the beginning.
Additionally, the countries where these technology investments are made and where these infrastructure are built can expect not only the development of related industries and services but also the development of a skilled workforce that will be needed to service these industries.
With that in mind, hopefully, the Philippines will also be able to attract these kinds of investments.
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In our next article, let’s explore some of the measures our country can take to attract these types of investments.
(The author, Atty. John Philip C. Siao, is a practicing lawyer and founding Partner of Tiongco Siao Bello & Associates Law Offices, an Arbitrator of the Construction Industry Arbitration Commission of the Philippines, and teaches law at the De La Salle University Tañada-Diokno School of Law. He may be contacted at [email protected]. The views expressed in this article belong to the author alone.)
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PH-coproduced film ‘Don’t Cry, Butterfly’ to compete in Venice | Marinel Cruz | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:30:00 PST | Wilfredo Manalang (PH producer), Duong Dieu Linh (Vietnamese director), and Si En Tan (Singaporean producer)
Wilfredo Manalang (PH producer), Duong Dieu Linh (Vietnamese director), and Si En Tan (Singaporean producer)
“Don’t Cry, Butterfly,” a full-length feature film produced by Philippine-based FUSEE Media alongside counterparts in Vietnam and Singapore, will be competing in the 39th edition of the Venice Critics’ Week (Settimana Internazionale della Critica) in Italy in August.
The Settimana Internazionale della Critica is a parallel section of the prestigious Venice Film Festival. Known for its highly competitive selection process, Critics’ Week features only seven debut films. It will run from Aug. 28 to Sept. 7.
“Being the only Asian film in competition is a huge accomplishment for us. It really puts our work on the map and shows its global appeal. We hope the work of all the artists in this film will soar and have a long and widespread life for everyone to appreciate,” Manalang told Inquirer Entertainment in a recent virtual interview.
The horror-comedy is written and directed by Vietnamese Duong Dieu Linh. The production was initiated by Tan Si En of Singapore-based MOMO Film Co. and was joined later by Wilfredo Manalang of FUSEE.
Also involved are the Indonesian production outfit KawanKawan Media, UK’s Adeline Arts and Science, and Singapore’s Potato Production, with support from the Singapore Film Commission.
The other six finalists are “No Sleep Till” (USA), “Homegrown” (USA), “Paul & Paulette Take a Bath” (UK), “Anywhere Anytime” (Italy), “Peacock” (Austria), and “Perfume with Mint” (Egypt).
Manalang said he will attend the world premiere in Italy. “The director, along with the principal actors and producers from Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines, will all be in attendance. My FUSEE partners, Alicia Catubay-Watt, George Sommerrock, and I are excited to ensure the Philippines is well-represented,” said Manalang, who is currently in Seattle, Washington.
Vladimer Castaneto (left) and Tricia Bernasor of MalasMalas Studio (VFX)
“We’re eager to see how the international audience reacts to the film and what kind of impact it will make. I’m also excited to explore other films at the festival, especially Lav Diaz’s latest work (‘Phantosmia’), enjoy the festivities, and attend the various conferences to gain insights into the latest trends and the future of the industry,” he said.
Diaz’s “Phantosmia” will premiere at the Venice film fest’s Out-of-Competition section.
We then asked how Manalang, as a producer, was able to highlight Filipino artistry in “Don’t Cry, Butterfly,” which is predominantly Vietnamese. To this, he said: “In our film, the special and visual effects were handled by amazing Filipino artists. Jeff Cabral, known for his work on ‘Arisaka,’ did the special effects, while MalasMalas Studios, famous for ‘In My Mother’s Skin,’ brought the visual effects to life. We also teamed up with Madonna Sanchez’s PUPA Films to make this film the best it can be.
“As a producer, my goal is to showcase the incredible talent of Filipinos beyond our borders and expand their reach into other markets, especially within the Southeast Asian region. I hope that through projects such as this, we can provide opportunities for our artists beyond the Philippine market,” Manalang declared.
Set in Hanoi, “Don’t Cry, Butterfly” follows a housewife who resorts to voodoo to rekindle her cheating husband’s love, only to invite a mysterious presence into their home. “The film is my attempt to break away from the stereotypical portrayal of sad and powerless women, showing them instead as full of life and humor, with a touch of magical realism and fantasy. I hope this creation will charm audiences worldwide as much as it has charmed us,” said Linh in a statement sent by FUSEE.
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Scene from “Don’t Cry, Butterfly”–FUSEE MEDIA
“We are deeply honored to have contributed to several internationally acclaimed films,” added Manalang. “Our journey began with the Japan coproduction ‘Plan 75,’ which premiered at Cannes in 2022. Following this, we experienced local success with ‘Blue Room.’ Last year, we were thrilled to see ‘Topakk’ premiere at the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland.” INQ
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Motherhood, life experiences add depth to Rita Daniela’s performances | Allan Policarpio | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:25:00 PST | Rita Daniela (left) with son Uno —RITA DANIELA/FACEBOOK
Rita Daniela (left) with son Uno —RITA DANIELA/FACEBOOK
In the past, love life was a topic Rita Daniela usually veered away from during interviews.
But in 2022, Rita dared to admit that she was expecting her first baby. The following year, she revealed that she had called it quits with her partner, and that she was moving forward as a single mother to their son, Juan Andres or Uno.
The decision to share something so personal with the public didn’t come easy. She wondered how people would react. Would her revelation have any impact on her career?
Now that she’s back to the show biz grind, Rita couldn’t be happier and relieved that viewers welcomed her with warmth and kindness.
“I can’t say that it was easy. I had to think long and hard about it but I just felt back then that it was the right time. And it truly was. Now, I’m so happy that the audience and netizens have been so welcoming and understanding of my story. I felt the support for me being a single mom. I find that heartening,” she told the Inquirer at a press conference for the primetime drama series “Widows’ War.”
“Of course, coming from a love team (with Ken Chan), revealing that I was pregnant was a surprise to many people. I didn’t really open up about my personal life, particularly my love life. But I realized that being a mother to my son will always be part of my story, my career, so I went ahead,” she said.
If she appears glowing and happier than ever, it’s because she is. “Motherhood really suits me. I love being a mom. I’m literally so happy,” the 28-year-old GMA 7 artist said.
But the responsibility isn’t any less challenging. “My ex-partner and I are coparenting, but technically, I’m still a single mom. And that means I’m my son’s source of happiness and all sorts of emotions,” pointed out Rita, who makes conscious steps to keep her mental health in check.
“If my cup isn’t full, my son would have nothing to draw from. So, it’s my responsibility to take care of myself. I have to help myself and be busy,” the singer-actress added.
Rita let on that there’s some thrill in her life right now but it’s nothing really serious. Entering a new relationship isn’t a priority. “I just want to be happy—no drama. I’m not up for a commitment, because my son is my priority,” she said. “But if someone comes along who’s meant to make me happy, who am I to deprive myself? I think I deserve that.”
What kind of man will it take for her to love again? “Someone who can love my child and put him before me. If there’s a man who can do that, then I would consider having him in my life,” she said.
Just because she’s a mother doesn’t mean that her roles from now on should be mother roles. “My character here isn’t a mom. I hope this can be a platform for me to show that I still have it. I’m glad that that’s not how things are done anymore … na kapag mom ka, mom roles na rin dapat. I want to show that we don’t have to follow the norm,” she said.
If anything, she believes that motherhood only added emotional depth to her acting and singing. “Yes, there have been physical changes and everything but as an artist, I think my abilities have changed for the better. What with all the experiences I have been through,” she said.
That’s exactly what she has been proving with her role as Rebecca in “Widows’ War.” An enigmatic member of the Palacios family, Rebecca seems to hold secrets that could either illuminate or further ignite the volatile clash between Sam (Bea Alonzo) and George (Carla Abellana).
While much of the conversation about the show revolves around the two main characters, Rita’s portrayal of Rebecca has also earned raves from both viewers and the show biz press, who couldn’t help but applaud her scenes in the video primer shown.
A particularly memorable one shows Rebecca at a wake, whispering what sounds like an incantation over a coffin. When the candle flame beside her begins to glow even more, she lifts her head and gives a stare that’s both sinister and despairing. “The original script wasn’t like that. I memorized the lines but our director, Zig Dulay, changed it,” she said.
“He told me, ‘When the light goes out, look at the camera. Your eyes should express a different emotion,” she said.
Aside from Bea, Carla and Direk Zig, the show also features one of Rita’s biggest idols, Jean Garcia. Rita knew she had to give her 100—actually, make that 120 percent. “It has been challenging, but I’m really happy seeing it all onscreen,” she said. “Goosebumps are normal when you’re happy. But seeing that scene not only gave me goosebumps—it also made me feel like crying.”
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“It’s so overwhelming. It’s an honor to be entrusted with such a project. Oftentimes, I go to taping like it’s the most normal thing in the world. But seeing the final product, I thought, ‘Wow, this is really beautiful,’” she said. INQ
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Roque threatened with contempt citation after clash with Hontiveros | Maila Ager | Mon, 29 Jul 2024 16:14:17 PST | EX-PRESIDENTIAL SPOKESPERSON DENIES HE OWNS HOUSE RAIDED BY LAW ENFORCERS: Former presidential spokesperson lawyer Harry Roque denies he owns the house in an exclusive subdivision in Tuba, Benguet which was raided by law authorities over the weekend. Roque told senators during the 5th public hearing of the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality Monday, July 29, 2024, that he stayed in the house after his stint in the government but the residence in question is registered to a corporation. “I do have an interest in the corporation that owns it but the house is not in my possession. As of January 2024, the house was leased by a Chinese national who has a 9G working visa, meaning, she has a right to be in the Philippines,” Roque explained. Bureau of Immigration intelligence division chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. said they arrested a Cambodian and Chinese woman connected to the raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) hub in Bamban, Tarlac during the Benguet raid. (Photo from Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
EX-PRESIDENTIAL SPOKESPERSON DENIES HE OWNS HOUSE RAIDED BY LAW ENFORCERS: Former presidential spokesperson lawyer Harry Roque denies he owns the house in an exclusive subdivision in Tuba, Benguet which was raided by law authorities over the weekend. Roque told senators during the 5th public hearing of the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality Monday, July 29, 2024, that he stayed in the house after his stint in the government but the residence in question is registered to a corporation. “I do have an interest in the corporation that owns it but the house is not in my possession. As of January 2024, the house was leased by a Chinese national who has a 9G working visa, meaning, she has a right to be in the Philippines,” Roque explained. Bureau of Immigration intelligence division chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. said they arrested a Cambodian and Chinese woman connected to the raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) hub in Bamban, Tarlac during the Benguet raid. (Photo from Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
MANILA, Philippines — Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque was threatened with a contempt citation after clashing with Sen. Risa Hontiveros during a Senate hearing on Monday.
“Atty. Roque, please be reminded to respect the chairperson,” Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said during the hearing of the Senate Committee on Women.
“I’m very respectful,” Roque answered.
“Panong respectful e nagsasalita siya sinasabayan mo siya?” Gatchalian said.
(How is that respectful when you talk while she talks?)
Roque apologized to Gatchalian.
“One more and I will cite you in contempt; and if you disrespect the chairperson, we’ll be compelled to cite you in contempt,” Gatchalian said, referring to Hontiveros.
“Huwag mo namang sabayan siya, nagsasalita siya. Siya ang chairperson,” he added.
(Don’t talk when she’s talking. She’s the chairperson)
Hontiveros and Roque clashed when the lawmaker again brought up the latter’s alleged ties to the raided Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) Lucky South 99 in Porac, Pampanga.
Hontiveros asked Roque if he would maintain his statement that he was not a lawyer of Lucky South 99 or any Pogo.
“I confirm that 100 percent,” Roque said.
He also questioned the raid conducted by authorities, saying that the warrant of arrest was issued by a Bulacan court, which had no jurisdiction over the raided Pogo.
Hontiveros reminded Roque to stick to the issue, noting that the subject of the investigation is the Pogo, and not the raid.
When Roque requested to further elaborate his statement, Hontiveros insisted that her earlier question just needed a yes or no answer.
“Let us be fair, because you’ve been insinuating I’m a lawyer for Lucky South,” Roque said.
Hontiveros refuted Roque’s remark, saying she had not been insinuating anything but just asking questions based on the previous testimonies of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) officials.
During the committee’s hearing last July 10, Pagcor chief Alejandro Tengco said that Roque requested a meeting with him in July 2023 supposedly to settle the license and unpaid arrears of Luck South 99.
Roque was with the Pogo firm official Katherine Cassandra Li Ong when they met with Pagcor officials on July 26, 2023.
But Roque denied he was a lawyer of the Pogo as supposedly indicated in its organizational chart.
He repeated that his client is Whirlwind Corporation, a service provider to Lucky South. At that time, he said, the Pogo firm was holding a valid license from Pagcor.
READ: Harry Roque legal counsel for raided Pogo hub, Pagcor chief tells Senate
Tension rose again when Hontiveros asked about the organizational chart and Roque’s meeting with Pagcor officials.
“Madam, nagagalit po kayo dahil sinasabi ninyo binibigyan ko ng mga salita ang inyong bibig… Pero ngayon po, you again insinuated that I had anything to do with the document,” Roque said.
Hontiveros asked Roque to stop using the “offensive verb insinuating.”
But Roque went on, saying that the inclusion of his name in the chart should be proven first in accordance with the Senate rules.
Hontiveros reminded Roque that he didn’t need to lecture them about their rules.
Their exchange continued when Roque invoked his right to answer as a resource person in the hearing.
“You already answered,” Hontiveros countered.
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“Hindi ko po maintindihan kapag gusto niyo akong tumigil, papatigil niyo ako pag ako nage-explain. I thought we’re engaged in the search for the truth,” Roque said.
(I don’t understand—if you want me to stop, you would tell me to stop when I’m explaining. I thought we’re engaged in the search for the truth)
“Oh definitely we are,” Hontiveros answered.
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Makati City not under state of calamity, says Mayor Abby Binay | Dianne Sampang | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:44:32 PST | INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Makati City Mayor Abby Binay on Tuesday clarified that the city is not under a state of calamity since the impact of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon-induced rains on residents and livelihoods did not meet the criteria for the declaration of such.
“Based on the Revised Guidelines for the Declaration of a State of Calamity under Memorandum Order No. 60, s. 2019 of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the impacts of the disaster on our residents, business and livelihood do not meet the criteria for such a declaration,” said Binay in a statement.
Binay also reported that no family is currently seeking temporary shelter at evacuation sites. Based on the July 25 evacuation update for the city, there were already no families in the evacuation centers.
According to the Revised Guidelines for the Declaration of a State of Calamity under Memorandum Order No. 60, s. 2019 of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), there should be at least 15 percent of the affected population in need of emergency assistance.
Binay said the city recorded that the total number of affected residents who needed assistance was “way below the minimum of 15 percent.”
NDRRMC’s guidelines for declaring a state of calamity also indicate that the impact on livelihood in the agricultural, business, and industrial sectors should be 30 percent.
Binay noted that the impact of the calamity on livelihood in the city is “negligible,” adding that it is “business as usual” with no disruption of essential services and operations of the local government unit.
“Throughout the joint efforts of our city hall personnel and the barangays, we have rapidly cleared debris and cleaned up the streets and waterways for the safety of pedestrians and motorists,” said Binay.
The NDRRMC, in its 8:00 a.m. bulletin on Monday, reported that 4.5 million individuals or 1.2 million families were affected by Typhoon Carina, the southwest monsoon or “habagat”, and Tropical Depression Butchoy.
Central Luzon tallied the highest number of individuals affected, with over 2.8 million.
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Safety protocols, precautions in place on Boracay after croc sighting | Philippine News Agency | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:20:34 PST | RESCUED CROCODILE. The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porous) captured in Barangay Balabag in Boracay Island on July 25, 2024. The Department of Tourism Western Visayas, in a statement on Monday (July 29), assured that Boracay remains a safe destination for tourists. (Photo courtesy of DENR 6)
RESCUED CROCODILE. The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porous) captured in Barangay Balabag in Boracay Island on July 25, 2024. The Department of Tourism Western Visayas, in a statement on Monday (July 29), assured that Boracay remains a safe destination for tourists. (Photo courtesy of DENR 6)
ILOILO CITY — The Department of Tourism Western Visayas (DOT 6) has assured that Boracay remains a safe destination for tourists after the sighting of a crocodile last week.
“DOT Western Visayas reassures our visitors that all standard safety protocols are in place and extra precautions, such as heightened monitoring, public awareness campaigns, improved coordination with local establishments, and emergency response readiness, have been implemented to ensure a safe environment for swimming and other beach activities,” the DOT6 said in a statement Monday.
The agency said tourists are encouraged to “experience the unmatched beauty and warmth of Boracay, with the assurance that their safety is of utmost importance.”
The DOT is closely coordinating with the local government of Malay and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to guarantee the safety of visitors and residents.
“The area where the crocodile was seen has been closely monitored and secured, with wildlife experts overseeing the situation to mitigate any potential risks,” it added.
The DENR, in a separate statement, said the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porous) was captured and rescued around 4 p.m. on July 25 in collaboration with other government agencies and stakeholders.
The statement said the crocodile was first captured in a video around noon of the same day by local children, sighted at Sinagpa Beach in Barangay Balabag around 1:30 p.m., and at Diniwid Beach at about 2:30 p.m.
The crocodile measured 2.5 meters long and 25.5 centimeters wide,’ weighing about 50 to 60 kilograms.
“It was noted to have barnacles on its scales, signifying it spent a long period at sea,” the DENR added.
The saltwater crocodile may have originated from Mindoro, Romblon, or Palawan, areas known for crocodile populations.
It is believed that the crocodile may have been migrating but was washed ashore due to strong currents associated with the recent Super Typhoon Carina.
“This is just a random incident, and we assure the community and tourists the island is still safe. Now we know what surprises a typhoon can bring,” DENR 6 officer-in-charge Regional Executive Director Raul Lorilla said.
He also called for continued protection and conservation of crocodiles because they have an important role in the saltwater ecosystem.
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Authorities brought the crocodile to the LMJ Resort, which has a Certificate of Wildlife Registration and is equipped to provide appropriate care for the animal. (PNA)
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Coast Guard : Fishing in Manila Bay unsafe due to oil spill | John Eric Mendoza | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 08:38:06 PST | ENVIRONMENTAL THREAT An aerial image from environmental group Greenpeace taken around 4 kilometers off Hagonoy, Bulacan, shows the oil slick from a tanker, which sank on July 25 in Bataan due to bad weather. (NOEL CELIS/GREENPEACE)
ENVIRONMENTAL THREAT An aerial image from environmental group Greenpeace taken around 4 kilometers off Hagonoy, Bulacan, shows the oil slick from a tanker, which sank on July 25 in Bataan due to bad weather. (NOEL CELIS/GREENPEACE)
MANILA, Philippines — Fishing in areas affected by the oil spill in Manila Bay is not advisable, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said on Tuesday.
“We are a bit hesitant to allow, if ever, fishermen to. got out where while there is still an oil spill,” Balilo said in Filipino over dwPM.
“We are not advising fishermen to fish when there is oil because of health hazards and consumers might suffer.”
Balilo also said the PCG auxiliary would provide food packs to affected fisherfolk.
Last July 25, the MT Terra Nova, carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil, sank off Bataan, killing a crew member.
The PCG said the oil from the sunken motor tanker started to leak into Manila Bay and the waters of Cavite and Bataan.
READ: Oil spill reaches Cavite; PCG seals ship’s valves
Despite the oil leak, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has yet to declare an official fishing ban.
The PCG has since sealed the ships’ valves and deployed oil dispersants and barriers to contain the oil spill.
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By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. | Inquirer | https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1967332/coast-guard-fishing-in-manila-bay-unsafe-due-to-oil-spill?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1_q4VZmTvr3sfGLgWsq4T9FLTDwhb6Ak9RcfEZhvxGdaniktcJDT7rhZM_aem_8K8WhA3LAZuRZM5fSPXCag | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Heart hindi kaya kapag nawala si Chiz: I swear, ako na lang ang mauna! | No author found | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:10:54 PST | Heart Evangelista at Chiz Escudero
Heart Evangelista at Chiz Escudero
FEELING ng Kapuso actress na si Heart Evangelista hindi niya kakayaning mabuhay sakaling mawala ang kanyang asawang si Senate President Chiz Escudero.
Napag-usapan ang health condition ni Sen. Chiz sa pagbisita ni Heart sa “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” kahapon July 29 na naging isyu nga ilang buwan na ngayon ang nakararaan.
Kumalat last April 5, 2024 ang balita na na-stroke raw ang senador at isinugod sa St. Luke’s Medical Center sa Taguig City. Hindi nagsalita o naglabas ng official statement ang public servant si Sen. Chiz about this.
Baka Bet Mo: Dingdong: Gagawin natin lahat para mabuhay ulit ang movie industry
Pahayag ni Heart tungkol sa kalusugan ng kanyang asawa, “He’s very good. He’s super good now. He had an episode.
A post shared by Heart Evangelista (@iamhearte)
“It was an episode and it was a scary episode, but it was a wake-up call for all of us to just really make sure that health is wealth.
“And now he’s doing very, very good, everything perfect, and I make sure perfect,” sabi pa ng Kapuso actress na hindi naman nabanggit kung ano talaga ang naging karamdaman ng asawa.
Kasunod nito, nabanggit nga ni Heart na parang hindi niya kayang mabuhay mag-isa kapag may nangyaring hindi maganda kay Chiz at iwan siya.
“If he goes, I go. You jump, I jump. I swear, ako na lang ang mauna! Hindi ko talaga kaya. Iiyak na naman ako. Hindi ko talaga kaya. Hindi talaga. Huwag naman,” ang emosyonal na sabi pa ng aktres.
Baka Bet Mo: Heart super proud sa pagiging Senate Pres ni Chiz, agaw-eksena ang OOTD
Sundot na tanong ni Tito Boy, “You’re very emotional about it?” Tugon ng aktres, “Yes, because it is a cruel world. It’s a mean world.
“And without Chiz, I don’t know how will I survive because he’s my everything. Of course, God’s my everything, but mauna na lang talaga ako,” sabi pa niya.
A post shared by Heart Evangelista (@iamhearte)
Samantala, kinumusta rin ni Tito Boy ang pagiging presidente ng Senate Spouses Foundation ni Heart kasabay ng pagiging Senate President ni Chiz.
“It’s very tough. It’s also very tough for me kasi I have a lot of questions, I don’t know what to do. I am scared but then, ayoko naman din siya (Chiz) abalahin pa.
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“So I just have to trust my intuition and my heart that I mean well and I’ll do my best,” aniya pa. | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391220/heart-hindi-kayang-mawala-si-chiz-i-swear-ako-na-lang-ang-mauna?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2uhBWnugSTW1CFoN0Vzrrm1qlOjPrnxMxvTeZibzGmM6amnn-eR3lEp6U_aem_3Tv0RZt11UueGlFQw5WJkA#ixzz8hO6eBD55 | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Mark Anthony Fernandez trends over alleged sex video scandal | Jessica Ann Evangelista | Wed, 24 Jul 2024 14:16:28 PST | Mark Anthony Fernandez
Mark Anthony Fernandez
Actor Mark Anthony Fernandez is currently trending on social media after the circulation of his alleged sex video scandal.
As of this writing, the actor is part of the Philippine trending list on X (formerly Twitter) with 115,000 posts. The hashtag also includes other sensitive and sensual videos
Image: X trending list
According to some of the posts, the footage shows a naked man with a striking resemblance to Fernandez. In the clip, he was joined by an unknown woman, leading to a sexual encounter.
As of this moment, Fernandez himself or his management have not yet issued a statement regarding the viral video.
Meanwhile, the former “Gwapings” actor currently stars in the Vivamax movie “Package Deal.” He recently revealed in a press conference that he tried to court his leading lady, Mariane Saint, but got turned down.
“Kay Mariane, tinablan ako. Crush ko siya. Binasted niya ako. Kahit binasted niya ako, tuwing nasa set kami, nakakalimutan lahat yon. Ang naiisip lang namin, yung mga eksena namin,” he shared.
Fernandez also revealed that there were times that “he wished they could make their love scenes true to life.”
“One time, sobrang nagkagustuhan kami ng co-actress ko. Sabi ko, ‘Totohanin na kaya natin ito?’ Sabi ko kay Direk, ‘Gawin na kaya natin? ‘ Siyempre, lalaki ka, may ganoong subconscious. Sabi ni Direk, ‘Huwag. Aktingan lang ito. Baka magalit ang mga boss natin.’ Given the chance, nung panahon na yon? Game na ako. Patawid na ako sa…,” he said before going on to add that he was just joking.
Fernandez, son of actress-politician Alma Moreno and the late action star Rudy Fernandez, was previously married to Melissa Garcia before their separation in 2014. They share one son together.
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By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. | Inquirer | https://entertainment.inquirer.net/567846/mark-anthony-fernandez-trends-over-alleged-sex-video-scandal?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2GmiwvuEJpR1oPy5j8Yp6acifnxyYqEg8PBMMkXy8Y8OSWBJZRsVBELsk_aem_EbYoDYocm4dDiJt7OU2bWA#ixzz8hQbl073v | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Rico Blanco gives ‘special thanks’ to Maris Racal in new version of ‘Kisapmata’ | Jessica Ann Evangelista | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:15:28 PST | Maris Racal and Rico Blanco | Images: Instagram/@mariesteller, @ricoblanco100
Maris Racal and Rico Blanco | Images: Instagram/@mariesteller, @ricoblanco100
Rico Blanco has unveiled the new version of “Kisapmata,” and he didn’t forget to give credit where credit is due, as well as give “special thanks” to his ex-girlfriend Maris Racal for her contribution to the music video as a telecaster.
In the official visualizer released on Blanco’s YouTube channel on July 27, Saturday, Blanco expressed gratitude to those who were part of the music and recording, including Racal, written in the video description as follows: “Special Thanks: Mark Escueta (Guitar Amp), Maris Racal (Telecaster), Marco Bachini (Acoustic Guitar), and Zild Benitez (12-string Guitar).”
As of this writing, the music video is part of YouTube Music’s trending list at number 17. The new version of the song, which was a hit for Blanco’s band Rivermaya in 1996, offered fresh, simple, and aesthetically pleasing visuals that highlighted Blanco’s emotional vocals.
In the comment section, netizens extended their opinions or easter eggs from the music video that they thought described a hidden message alluding to Blanco’s past relationship.
“Kung susuriin natin maigi (if we’re going to give it a closer look), para syang nasa (he looks like in a) magical enchanted forest. I think that signifies the relationship they had, but he’s stuck doon (there), and now he wears a big bubble jacket kasi (because) she left her there and it went really cold,” examined one netizen.
Image: Rico Brando/YouTube comment section
“I can feel his sadness in this video. I think Maris brought a lot of joy into his life because they share the same passion for music. That’s how their love story begins. Like every song, it has a beginning and an ending. Kisapmata says it all. The pain of a broken heart,” said one fan.
Image: Rico Brando/YouTube comment section
“Kisapmata” is Blanco’s second release from “an upcoming album containing solo artist versions of his most loved creations,” describing it as a “long overdue response to a long-standing request from his fans.”
Written and produced by Blanco himself, “Kisapmata” tells how someone’s feelings can be gone in a blink of an eye amid the promises of forever.
Earlier this month, an emotional Racal announced to the press that she and Blanco had decided to part ways but described it as “polite separation.” Rico, 51, and Racal, 26, went public about their relationship in May 2021 after collaborating on a music single.
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Lalaki nilingkis ng sawa habang nasa talahiban, pumulupot sa leeg | No author found | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 08:44:56 PST | NALAGAY sa panganib ang isang lalaking nilingkis ng sawa nang magtungo sa talahiban para sa “tawag ng kalikasan”.
Nangyari ito sa Jabalpur sa Madhya Pradesh sa India kung saan isang sawa na sinasabing aabot sa 13 talampakan ang haba ang biglang umatake sa lalaking biktima.
Ayon sa report ng GMA, nagpunta sa isang bahagi ng talahiban sa Jabalpur ang lalaki para “magbawas” nang biglang tumambad sa kanya ang napakahabang sawa.
Baka Bet Mo: Rabiya Mateo tuloy ang laban para sa kalikasan: ‘Sana grade school pa lang, alam na ng mga bata ‘yung problema, yung kailangang pagbabago’
Sa video na napanood namin, inabutan ng mga taong sumaklolo ang biktima na nakaupo at nakababa ang suot na pantalon. Makikitang nakapulupot na ang sawa sa kanyang leeg.
Takot na takot siyempre ang lalaki habang naghihintay sa magiging hakbang ng mga nakakita sa kanyang sitwasyon.
Tinangkang tanggalin ng mga kasamahan ng biktima ang sawa sa kanyang katawan sa pamamagitan ng pananakot dito.
Pilit din nilang alisin ang ahas sa pamamagitan ng pagsungkit dito ng kahoy ngunit sa halip na pakawalan ang biktima ay mas lalo pa raw humigpit ang pagkakapalupot nito.
Dito na napilitan ang mga sumaklolo na patayin ang sawa. Sa kabutihang-palad nakaligtas ang lalaki sa tiyak na kamatayan.
Sinasabing walang dalang kamandag ang mga sawa, pero posible pa ring mamatay ang sinumang mabibiktima nito kapag pumulupot at nilingkis na siya.
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By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391237/lalaki-nilingkis-ng-sawa-habang-nasa-talahiban-pumulupot-sa-leeg?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1rWCroD2x2nRHW4e4RRuz3RWinAsKCJ_ny206SF6qyRG82-uy63bgbeXQ_aem_5S4IiONbQAea1kU3fK1IMg#ixzz8hQeOZzYp | null | null | null | null | null | null |
Celia Rodriguez nanindigan: Si Angel ang pinakamagaling na Darna! | No author found | Tue, 30 Jul 2024 09:31:56 PST | Celia Rodriguez at Angel Locsin
Celia Rodriguez at Angel Locsin
WALANG pakialam ang beteranang aktres na si Ms. Celia Rodriguez kung may mag-react sa sinabi niyang si Angel Locsin ang pinakamagaling na Darna.
“That is my prerogative who is the best Darna, sabi ko si Angel Locsin! Binash ako!” ang sabi ni Ms. Celia sa panayam niya sa “Ogie Diaz Inspires” na in-upload sa YouTube kagabi.
Patuloy pa ng batikang aktres, “Tinanong ako who is the best Darna (gumanap), there is Vilma (Santos-Recto) nag-Valentina ako, e ‘yun ang gusto ko, (Angel) why are you correcting me? E, para sa akin ang pinakamagaling talagang Darna si Angel Locsin.”
Baka Bet Mo: Darna mural alay sa mga tunay na Pinoy ‘superhero’; Jane, Joshua, Janella saludo sa mga bagong bayani
Maraming netizens na supporters siguro ng mga aktres na gumanap na Darna simula pa noong 1951 ang nag-react pero may karapatan namang magsabi si Ms. Celia kung sino para sa kanya ang the best dahil halos lahat ng gumanap ng iconic Pinay superhero ay nakatrabaho niya.
A post shared by Angel Locsin (@angellocsin_updates)
“I’ve worked with Marian (Rivera-Dantes), I’ve worked with Angel, I’ve worked with Vilma, lahat ‘yan nag-Darna, so I can compare, e, si Angel talaga pinakamagaling. I’m sorry, e, ‘yun ang choice ko,” katwiran ng aktres.
Sabi naman ni Ogie, baka gusto ng netizens ay nagpaka-safe na lang sana ng sagot si Ms. Celia.
Mabilis na sabi ng aktres, “And be hypocrite?”
“That’s one thing with me, I’m not a hypocrite, what I am is what you see. (Alangan) sabihin ko na si ano ang magandang Darna tapos sa loob-loob ko, bakit ko ba sinabi ‘yun? I have to be true to myself or else I cannot be true to you. Magaling lahat silang Darna pero ang tanong, sino ang pinakamagaling?” paliwanag ni Ms. Celia.
Baka Bet Mo: Angel Locsin tuloy ang pag-iwas sa socmed, ine-enjoy ang pribadong buhay; wala na nga bang balak bumalik sa showbiz?
At kaya naman pala humanga nang husto ang batikang aktres ay sa dahilang hindi nagpapadobol si Angel na pala muntikan na niyang ikamatay.
“Si Angel muntik nang (makuryente) ng Meralco (muwestrang lumipad). Ayaw magpa-double ang galing ni Angel do’n,” kuwento ni Ms. Celia.
At saka raw sumunod si Marian na gumanap din bilang Darna na ipinalabas sa GMA 7 noong 2009.
Isa pang rason kung bakit sobrang na-bash si Ms. Celia ay nang ikumpara niya ang acting nina Ate Vi at Nora Aunor.
A post shared by 𝓐𝓵𝓵𝓪𝓷 𝓖𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓵𝓮 𝓡𝓾𝓭𝓲𝓸 (@_baebybaer21official)
“Oo, binash ako. Ang question naman kasi ni Boy (Abunda) ay hugot as an actress kasi artista rin ako. Sabi ko hindi ko (puwedeng) ikumpara kasi I made movies and teleseryes with Nora and Vilma.
“When it comes to hugot acting wise, mas malalim si Nora. Maraming nagalit sa akin at napunta na sa personal life. Teka muna hindi ko naman pinag-uusapan ang personal life! We are talking about an acting! Kung sino ang magaling,” esplika niya.
Dagdag pa ng aktres, “Napunta na si Nora, ganito kasi ganito. Tapos sabi kasi Noranian ako, hindi ninyo alam na ganito (si Nora), bakit kayo (fans) galit sa akin?
“Kasi kung titingnan mo ang private life ang lahat ng nanalo, wala nang mag-aaward giving body.
“Ang ibig bang sabihin si Marlon Brando Actor of the Century hindi bibigyan ng Oscar kasi anak niya nag-suicide? Marami siyang asawa hindi puwedeng bigyan?
“Sa Hollywood wala silang pakialam it’s only about you as an actor, who would care about your private life?”
“Si Elizabeth Taylor dapat walang Oscar kasi pito ang kanyang asawa? E, di wala na g magbibigay ng award?” paliwanag ni Ms. Celia.
Kaya dapat hiwalay ang trabaho at personal life, sabi ni Ogie.
“Exactly at saka si Vilma hindi naman nagsabing ‘ako si Mother Teresa, ‘no?’ All of us has skeleton in the closet, all of us. No exception, all of us! I am not talking to you as a person, I’m talking about you as an artist, period.
“What you do with your personal life is none of my concern, wala akong pakialam sa buhay mo. Ang tanong ay sino ang mas magaling umarte, hindi pinag-uusapan ang buhay mo, bakit ako bina-bash? Wala naman akong sinabing masama?” katwiran ng aktres.
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Okay naman.daw sina Ms. Celia at Ate Vi, “Ao she’s my kumadre (hindi raw pinersonal ni Ate Vi). Hindi, she’s not that type (at) edukada naman ‘yung tao, di ba?” | Inquirer | https://bandera.inquirer.net/391259/celia-rodriguez-nanindigan-si-angel-ang-pinakamagaling-na-darna?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0EDuDLCrgEKp8skoha27EqihZDsOXAb592rQKm_JuFRx0qdSpw640h3gE_aem_6nHOhcRvy2rGJ9VVnfoMLA#ixzz8hQerSl1o | null | null | null | null | null | null |