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HNP expels congresswoman, mayor, vice governors amid Jubahib suspension

Herbie G

17/04/2024 10:28

RALLY. Former speaker and Davao del Norte 1st District Representative addresses a crowd during a rally in Tagum City on Sunday night, April 14. Congressman Pantaleon Alvarez FB page DAVAO ORIENTAL, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte’s political party, Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP), has expelled a congresswoman, a city mayor, and two vice governors in the Davao region in the aftermath of Malacañang’s suspension order against Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib. Dropped from the party’s roster of members were Davao de Oro 1st District Representative Maricar Zamora, Tagum City Mayor Rey Uy, and vice governors De Carlo “Oyo” Uy of Davao del Norte and Jayvee Tyron Uy of Davao de Oro. In a statement released on Tuesday, April 16, the HNP said the decision to expel the officials “comes in light of recent events and actions that have been found to conflict with the core principles and policies of our Party.” Their suspension took effect on Monday, April 15, a day after Duterte’s group led a rally in Tagum, Davao del Norte’s capital city, in support of the suspended Jubahib. It was also where former speaker and Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon Alvarez called on the military to withdraw its support from the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “Hugpong ng Pagbabago commits to continue to uphold respect for the dignity of men and that government resources are tools of service for all. In the coming days, we expect the courtesy resignation of other members of the HNP as we continue our preparations for the upcoming elections,” read part of the Duterte-controlled party. Oyo Uy has taken his oath as acting governor of Davao del Norte, a move that did not sit well with supporters of Jubahib. Oyo and the other HNP-expelled members are seen to be allies and are known to be common political enemies of Alvarez, a close ally of Jubahib and former president Rodrigo Duterte, who denounced the Palace order to suspend the Davao del Norte governor. Interestingly, Alvarez and Jubahib are not HNP members. Alvarez won in the 2022 elections under the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP), a political party chaired by the former president, while Jubahib ran under Partido Para sa Demokratikong Reporma. Malacañang, through Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, ordered the 60-day preventive suspension of Jubahib on April 8 based on a complaint for abuse of power and oppression by a provincial board member. Jubahib, in an earlier interview, said he saw his suspension order as “politically motivated” and the handiwork of Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., a relative of the influential Del Rosario family in Davao del Norte. The Del Rosarios were the ruling political dynasty in the province until Jubahib and Alvarez defeated them in the 2019 elections. The governor said he found the reason for the suspension order “petty,” saying the complainant, provincial board member Orly Amit, accused him of abuse of authority when he ordered a capitol-owned vehicle taken from the provincial lawmaker and assigned it to the provincial engineering office for just a month. On Sunday, thousands joined the Duterte-led rally in Tagum City where the former president, his son and Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, Alvarez, and other politicians took turns lambasting Marcos and his administration. During the rally, Duterte unleashed vitriol, labeling Marcos as “boang” (crazy), while Alvarez disparaged the President as “bangag” (high on drugs) and “bobong Marcos” (foolish Marcos). –Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Visit green spaces in Metro Manila to unwind this summer

Iya Gozum

17/04/2024 9:28

WALKWAY. A strip of pavement inside the Greenway Park in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Iya Gozum/Rappler MANILA, Philippines – The dry, hot season has made glaring the lack of trees and shaded, open areas in Metro Manila. Being able to do simple outdoor recreational activities like walking, picnicking, jogging, or biking, is an important parameter in making a community livable. Aside from a dearth in these kinds of spaces, the stifling summer heat has made it extra tiring to go outside. So where outside can you escape in this heat? We picked out some green spaces in the metro you can visit after work hours or during the weekends to unwind. Academic Oval, University of the Philippines Diliman Up on the list is the state university’s famous 2.2-kilometer Academic Oval (or acad oval), lined with huge acacia trees. The acad oval is open to the public and caters to many activities such as jogging, biking, and picnicking. In case you get hungry while ambling or after your workout, there are several stalls and push carts around the oval that sell pancit canton, fishballs, ice cream, and sweet corn with cheese. Arroceros Forest Park The so-called last lungs of Manila is home to thousands of trees, ornamental plants, and to a diverse set of bird species. The 2.71-hectare park is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, has pathways and an exhibit area inside, and an esplanade along the Pasig River. (READ: The protectors of Manila’s last lung) ASEAN Garden Tucked inside the Walled City in Manila is a small garden park. It features busts of leaders and flags from Southeast Asian nations, cobblestone walkways, and stone steps covered with moss. Its proximity to the campuses inside Intramuros makes it a prime spot for students who need to rehearse skits or practice dance numbers. Marikina River Park On the banks of Marikina River, people can walk, jog, bike, and eat. Food establishments have popped up around the area where visitors can eat after their leisure activities. There are bike racks in certain areas where you can park your bike while checking out food stalls, bazaars, or whatever event is taking place at the time of your visit. BGC Greenway Park At the end of 26 Avenue in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, is the Greenway Park where one can walk, jog, or sit down on one of the huge rocks surrounded by trees. It features a strip of pavement surrounded by greenery. Bikes, skateboards are not allowed inside. Burgos Circle A stone’s throw away from Greenway Park is the Burgos Circle, the island in the middle of a roundabout of the Forbes Town Center. Benches neatly line the pavements. It features a sculpture of three trees forming a dome – the work of sculptor Reynato Paz Contreras – completed and unveiled in November 1997. E-scooter and e-bikes are available for rent on the side of the park. While there are a few go-to spots for a breather in the city, there’s still a need to have more open spaces especially as the public continues to feel the heat exacerbated by climate change. “We need to have more natural, cooling spaces: our parks, streets lined up with trees. For one it’s more environmentally friendly, compared to the malls that we have,” said urban Elijah Go Tian of the Resilient Cities Network. “Especially malls with their huge [air-conditioning] and the huge amount of space they take up, [they increase] the heat in the area and the non-permeable spaces that we have,” Tian added. Tian said parks signal a thriving community because they are free, accessible, and conducive to fostering relationships. “One main thing why parks are the better option, especially public parks, is because it’s free,” said Tian. “I don’t need to go to a mall and buy something to make me stay there.” According to a 2021 paper published in the International Journal of Urban Sustainable Development, green spaces in the Metro Manila may be dwindling but what remains still serve the purpose they’re made for: places with a sense of local community, and spaces where people socialize, exercise, and work on self-improvement. “Living in an overcrowded city, many of them welcome the opportunity to enjoy the spaciousness of the parks and to see mature trees,” the study said. More than providing contrast to the concrete jungle, trees provide benefits to people and wildlife, said Anthony Arbias of the Philippine Native Plant Conservation Society Inc. (PNPCSI). “By having more trees, we can have better air quality, better shade, absorb flood, and give support for urban biodiversity as it provides food, shelter and opportunities for wildlife to thrive even in an inhospitable environment,” Arbias told Rappler. “Second is the ethno-botanical function it gives like beautification, source of food, source of leisure activity and so much more,” he added. Since 2007, Arbias said the PNPCSI has been advocating the responsible use of native trees in urban spaces. Although the default is to “go native,” he said “careful planning, mix matching, maintenance duties and being considerate to other land owners should always be taken into account” in new township projects. Now that you have a few ideas on where to go, how do you keep cool outside? Here are some tips. Hydrate properly. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water when going outside. Drink water before, during, and after exercise. Keeping yourself hydrated can help prevent muscle cramping, too. Wear lightweight clothes. Wear light clothes to let your body breathe. Sportswear and outdoor clothing use fabrics that are moisture-wicking, which can help you keep dry and cool than the usual cotton shirt. Go out early or at night. Make the most of the cooler periods of the day by exercising/going out in the morning before work. If you’re not an early bird, after work hours would be fine, too. Running clubs and other recreational groups often hold their sessions in open spaces at night. Wear sunscreen. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen. Experts recommend a minimum SPF of 30. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out. Make it a point to reapply every two hours. Don’t overexert. It’s easier to get tired in the heat, so take breaks when you need to. Listen to your body and be wary of symptoms of heat exhaustion such as dizziness, weak pulse, nausea, muscle cramps, fainting, and clammy skin. – Rappler.com Improving active transportation facilities and policies is part of the call of various groups to #MakeManilaLiveable. On Rappler, we have created a dedicated space for stories and reports about liveability in Philippine cities. Learn more about the movement here. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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The untold story of hair damage in the Philippines

Saab Lariosa

15/04/2024 14:38

My relationship with my hair hasn’t always been the best. Growing up, I used to get my locks rebonded every year because of its buhaghag look. When I started working, I found out I had curly hair and returned to treating it right. Then when I (regrettably) got bored with it, I started bleaching my hair blonde and it went right back to buhaghag. Colored hair curly girls, you’re all probably familiar with this. It’s not just me. Ask any girl about their hair journey and you’d likely get a long story about all the cuts, products, and methods they’ve tried through the years. Considering that our hair is our crowning glory, it only makes sense that we take the time to take care of it and think about it so much. Though everyone’s relationship with their hair is different, we Filipinas might have more in common than we think. A 2024 *survey by tryandreview.com and Dove Hair Philippines answered by 1,700+ women all over the country found that 91% of Filipinas experience some level of hair damage. More than half of the respondents shared that hair fall was their top hair concern, followed by dry hair, frizz, and breakage. Meanwhile, a whopping 99% were unknowingly damaging their hair through combing and towel drying, or heat styling through blow drying, curling, or straightening. Not to say that doing these things is wrong, it’s just that more often than not, excessive styling can be the cause of damage. A bad hair day may have a bigger impact than we think, as our hair plays a huge role in our daily lives. According to the survey, 32% of Filipinas feel the need to adjust their lifestyles to cater to their hair. Just like me, 91% use one to two products in their daily hair care regimen for hair damage, and 46% just end up cutting their hair as a solution. Though we already do so much to care for our hair, three in five Filipinas still haven’t found a solution to their hair damage and 1 in 5 women from Metro Manila believe hair damage can’t ever be reversed. But that’s where we can beat the odds. Just like our skincare routine, consistency is key when it comes to our hair care regimen, along with using products tailored to our unique beauty needs. Though it differs with each person, the survey found that 68% of Filipinas define beautiful hair as soft and smooth locks, meanwhile, 65% define it as healthy hair. Whatever beautiful hair means to you, a new specialized hair care line for damage is on the horizon. Infused with superior ingredients and the latest innovation in hair damage care technology, this exciting new line will work in harmony with your hair to address every sign of damage. Want to learn more about the latest in the Science of Care? Watch this space by following Dove on Facebook and Instagram, or checking out dove.com/ph to be the first to hear about their latest hair care innovation. Keep an eye out for updates and get ready to unlock the secret to beautifully repaired hair. – Rappler.com *The survey was answered by 635 women from Metro Manila, 205 women from Central Luzon (urban areas), 328 women from South Luzon (urban areas) 132 women from Visayas (urban areas), 122 women from Mindanao (urban areas) and 279 women from rural areas in the Philippines as of February 29, 2024. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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RESULTS: April 2024 Physicians Licensure Examination

clescudero0258

18/04/2024 19:05

The following is a press release from the Professional Regulation Commission. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 1,906 out of 3,434 passed the Physicians Licensure Examination given by the Board of Medicine in NCR, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga this April 2024. The results of examination with respect to three examinees were withheld pending submission of the required documents. The members of the Board of Medicine who gave the licensure examination are Dr. Zenaida L. Antonio, chairman; Dr. Godofreda V. Dalmacion, Dr. Eleanor B. Almoro, Dr. Martha O. Nucum, Dr. Efren C. Laxamana and Dr. Joanna V. Remo, members. The results were released in three working days from the last day of examination. Starting May 16, 2024, registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done online. Please go to www.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration. Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), two pieces passport sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), two sets of documentary stamps and one piece short brown envelope. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals. The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examination will be announced later. The top performing schools in the April 2024 Physicians Licensure Examination as per Commission Resolution No. 2017-1058(C) series of 2017: The successful examinees who garnered the ten highest places in the April 2024 Physicians Licensure Examination are the following: Here’s the full list of passers: – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Robinsons Malls partners with PETA for ‘One More Chance, The Musical’

Julian Cirineo

16/04/2024 16:05

Robinsons Malls has partnered with the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) in presenting One More Chance, The Musical the highly anticipated stage adaptation of the iconic 2007 Star Cinema film starring John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo. “We are as thrilled and as excited as the millions of followers and supporters of Popoy and Basha, whose love story has stirred the hearts of so many Filipinos, encompassing decades of classic storytelling,” says Jess Zulueta, Robinsons Malls senior marketing director. Robinsons Malls, a staunch advocate of the arts, has always championed the many passions of its customers. This is evidenced by its different projects and initiatives, from its collaborations with Jefre and Erwin Wurm to ARTablado, which gives visual artists from all over the Philippines the platform to showcase their work. Robinsons Malls is also home to great entertainment, consistently hosting exciting live performances and allowing mallgoers to see their favorite performers up close. It has also become a place where fresh talent is discovered and developed, thanks to the RMalls Academy. This time, Robinsons Malls is giving local theater a boost with its partnership with PETA. There’s another layer to the partnership—the musical will tell the unforgettable story of Popoy and Basha and their barkada using the songs of the hugely popular band and Robinsons Malls brand ambassadors, Ben&Ben. One More Chance, The Musical, which opens at the PETA Theater Center on April 12, has already set records, selling out 50 shows months before opening night. Due to overwhelming demand, PETA added more shows and released new tickets but those too were instantly gone. No tickets yet? No problem. Robinsons Malls gives you “One More Chance” to get tickets to the highly anticipated musical. You can win the hottest tickets in the country with Robinsons Malls’ Shop and Dine Promo, happening at Robinsons Galleria Ortigas, Robinsons Metro East, Robinsons Las Pinas, and Robinsons Galleria South. Spend a minimum of P2,000 in a single transaction at any store in Robinsons Galleria Ortigas, or P1,000 at any store in Robinsons Metro East, Robinsons Las Pinas, and Robinsons Galleria South to receive one e-raffle entry. Additionally, a single-receipt purchase of P5,000 from Robinsons Supermarket in any of the four participating malls also earns you one e-raffle entry. The promo runs from April 1 to 24. Winners will get two tickets to One More Chance, The Musical shows from May to June 2024. The cast of One More Chance, The Musical will also be coming to select Robinsons Malls to give a glimpse of the musical and give away exciting prizes.  Follow the official Facebook and Instagram accounts of Robinsons Malls for more information. – Rappler.com PRESS RELEASE Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Filipinos urged to reduce aircon use as red alert raised on power grids

Ralf Rivas

16/04/2024 19:44

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Energy urged Filipinos to minimize the use of high-energy consuming devices, such as air conditioners and elevators, during peak hours, as the state grid operator was forced to implement outages amid energy supply’s inability to keep up with the demand. The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines on Tuesday, April 16, issued a red alert notice for the Luzon grid from 2 pm to 9 pm, as 19 power plants were forced to shut down. This was extended to 11 pm due to two more plant outages. A red alert status is issued when power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grid’s regulating requirement. Rotational brownouts were intentionally done Tuesday to protect the integrity of the power system. The Visayas grid was initially put on a lower level, the yellow alert status, from 2 pm to 7 pm. But this was eventually raised to red alert from 5 pm to 9 pm due to thin supply. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said energy efficiency efforts can be conducted during this period of extreme heat. “Flexible work arrangements and other conservation measures would also be helpful. The extremely high temperatures have been affecting the operations of power plants in the grid,” Lotilla said. The Manila Electric Company said the interruptible load program helped mitigate the power strain on the grid and partially helped avoid some rotational brownouts on Tuesday. This program compensates companies that use their own generating facilities during times of power supply deficit. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Get a kilo of cabbages from community pantry, help Benguet farmers

Iya Gozum

15/04/2024 22:10

115 MT cabbage traded yesterday for transport to other regions. Photo by Mau Victa/Rappler Mau Victa MANILA, Philippines – Buy a kilo of cabbages from the community pantry and help Benguet farmers weathering the adverse effects of El Niño to agriculture. The community pantry is an initiative that started in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City, three years ago which inspired people to give and take food according to their capabilities and needs. Recently, the pantry had been connecting farmers to consumers, communities for their produce. “With the ongoing El Niño, the pantry wants to buy cabbages at a higher price than the price initially set by farmers,” Ana Patricia Non, founder of community pantry, told Rappler in Filipino. Non explained that Benguet farmers were selling cabbages at P12 to P15 per kilo. After checking how much cabbages are sold in grocery stores, Non said they decided to buy the cabbages at P20 per kilo. Per kilo sold, the community pantry is going to give another kilo of cabbages for free to “communities, the homeless, jeepney drivers, Palestine refugees, Muslim migrant communities, city jails,” Non said. This sets the buying price at P50 per kilo of cabbages. The additional P10 would cover operational costs. The pantry is accepting orders from April 11 to 23. Benguet is the top producer of cabbages in the Philippines. It contributed 40% in cabbage production in 2020. Around 34% of the country’s cabbage farming area is in the province. According to a recent update from the Cordillera regional office of the Department of Agriculture (DA-CAR), wholesale prices of cabbage rareball range from P14 to P16 per kilo, while wholesale prices of cabbage wonderball range from P16 to P19. Big Chinese cabbages, meanwhile, are priced at P10 to P14 per kilo. DA-CAR reported P444.94 million of agricultural damage due to El Niño as of the end of March. Non said they have been in talks with DA-CAR regarding assisting farmers and connecting them to consumers. According to the latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, agricultural damage hit P1.2 billion, affecting 29,409 farmers and fisherfolk and 26,731.4 hectares of crops. El Niño has historically impacted livelihood and health by causing extreme droughts and severe flooding in parts of the world. Dry spells and droughts could mean crop failures and issues in food production. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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[Two Pronged] My friend has an abusive partner. What can I do?

Marguerite de Leon

16/04/2024 13:49

Rappler’s Life and Style section runs an advice column by couple Jeremy Baer and clinical psychologist Dr. Margarita Holmes. Jeremy has a master’s degree in law from Oxford University. A banker of 37 years who worked in three continents, he has been training with Dr. Holmes for the last 10 years as co-lecturer and, occasionally, as co-therapist, especially with clients whose financial concerns intrude into their daily lives. Together, they have written two books: Love Triangles: Understanding the Macho-Mistress Mentality and Imported Love: Filipino-Foreign Liaisons. Dear Dr. Holmes and Mr. Baer,I’ve found myself in a bit of a pickle lately regarding my friend’s relationship, and I’m not quite sure where my responsibilities lie in all of this.Let’s call my friend Maya. Maya’s been with her partner for years, but there’s always been something off about their relationship that’s made me feel uneasy. Despite Maya’s background in psychology and her willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, her own romantic situation has left me scratching my head.Maya’s always quick to defend her partner, saying he’s devoted to her despite his rough edges. But I’ve never fully bought into it. There are these little red flags that bug me – like how Maya hardly ever hangs out with her friends outside of work, always rushing home with excuses about her dog or other stuff waiting for her. Plus, she’s always tight on cash even though she works multiple jobs and lives a pretty simple life. She once let slip that her partner’s been out of work for a while, but she’s saving up for their wedding.Recently, Maya confided in me that she finally mustered the courage to leave her partner after he physically harmed her. I expressed my support and applauded her courage for walking away, but before I knew it, they were back together. It’s a tough spot to be in, knowing the cycle of abuse but not wanting to judge.So here’s where I’m stuck: How far does my responsibility as a friend go? How can I support Maya without overstepping boundaries? And most importantly, how do I make sure she stays safe?Sincerely,SolePathSeeker Dear Sole Path Seeker, Thank you for your message.  One of the foundation stones of therapy is that the only person one can definitely change is oneself. Another is that a third party can never be privy to a complete understanding of another couple’s relationship. With this in mind, it should be clear that your ability to help Maya is inevitably limited, as you seem to have already discovered. This does not mean however that it is a lost cause, but merely that you should recalibrate your expectations and not assume that the only definition of success is a breakup. Ideally, Maya and her partner should seek therapy, with the aim of either improving their relationship – or reaching a realization that it is at an end. You can encourage this and even if they reject couples therapy, individual therapy would be very beneficial. If Maya’s contacts with her friends are slowly being whittled away, your support is all the more valuable. Yours can be the voice of reason, a counter-balance to her partner, and hearing what you have to say can be of help even if she is still not prepared to leave. It may also be that money is a factor as many relationships persists because the couple, or one partner, cannot afford to leave. You might be able to help Maya in this respect In the final analysis, the decision is solely hers to make but possibly your continuing support may tip the scale. Best wishes,JAFBaer Dear Sole Path Seeker: Thank you very much for your letter. You asked the following questions, which I shall try and answer in similar order: If, as a loyal friend, you give her advice and she refuses it either verbally or non verbally, then this is the signal that your friendship doesn’t go that far, so you step back a bit, and keep on stepping back until her reception changes from frosty to welcoming/thankful. You cannot be more solicitous/caring than your partner wants you to be. I know, I know, that hardly seems enough.  But one of the joys of friendship is loving someone and yet not owning them. This includes recognizing their agency and not having the hubris to feel you know much more than she does. Yes, this may fly in the face of your own reasoning, but if she is your friend, she is also your equal, and deserves no patronizing from you. All the best as you navigate your need for patience,MG Holmes – Rappler.com Please send any comments, questions, or requests for advice to twopronged@rappler.com. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos Jr. dodges question on refusal to apologize for Martial Law atrocities

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:44

File photo. Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as he meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sidestepped questions regarding his insistence not to say sorry for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law regime of his late father, the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos. During the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) presidential luncheon on Monday, April 15, a reporter asked Marcos, “Why have you resisted issuing an apology for the atrocities committed during Martial Law under your father’s rule, and will you continue doing so as president?” “I don’t think it’s a duty for a president to be involved. That is a personal matter for the Marcos family,” he answered. “My role as president is more important right now than my role as a member of the Marcos family.” The reporter, seemingly unsatisfied with the answer, threw a follow-up at Marcos, “So will you apologize as president of the Republic in behalf?” “That seems highly contrived. Who is apologizing to whom?” Marcos replied, after which the subject has been dropped. Marcos, in the past, dismissed the idea of saying sorry for the sins committed by his father. “Will I say sorry for the thousands and thousands of kilometers [of roads] that were built? Will I say sorry for the agricultural policy that brought us to self-sufficiency in rice? Will I say sorry for the power generation? Will I say sorry for the highest literacy rate in Asia? What am I to say sorry about?” Marcos Jr. said in a 2015 interview. The presidency of Marcos Sr. from 1965 to 1986 became among the darkest chapters of Philippine history. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 allowed him to stay in power beyond the two-term limit imposed by the 1935 Constitution. That era was marked by widespread corruption in government, suppression of various freedoms, and human rights violations. Amnesty International said 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981. After the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution booted out Marcos Sr. and left his family no choice but to go intoexile in Hawaii, the succeeding government formed a body tasked to go after their ill-gotten wealth. As of 2021, the Presidential Commission on Good Government said P170 billion have been recovered but they are after P125 billion more. The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them. In 2022, Marcos Jr. won the presidential election in a landslide vote, with the help of what critics said was a well-oiled disinformation campaign to rehabilitate the family’s image. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. The Marcos family’s image rehabilitation continues. Remember what Cory did: “The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them.” She may be turning in her grave now. How does this make you feel?

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Navy to probe reservist Alvarez over call to withdraw support from Marcos

Bea Cupin

16/04/2024 19:52

LAWMAKER. Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon Alvarez in 2023. House press and public affairs bureau MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Navy on Tuesday, April 16, said it ordered an investigation into remarks made by one of its reservists, Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon Alvarez, who had called on the military to “withdraw [their] support” for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. over his policy in the West Philippine Sea. “We take exception to the recent statement of the 1st District Davao del Norte Representative and Marine reservist, Pantaleon Alvarez. The Philippine Navy has already directed the 9th Marine Brigade to conduct an investigation; and to ask Col Alvarez PN(M)(MNSA) (Res) to explain his statements. The result of the investigation will be the basis of the Navy’s actions moving forward,” said the Navy in a statement. “The Philippine Navy is a professional organization dedicated to uphold our mandate of safeguarding the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of the state. In support of the AFP, we reiterate our unwavering loyalty and commitment to the Constitution, the Chain of Command, and to the President of the Republic of the Philippines as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” it said. The Armed Forces of the Philippines, as well as the Department of Defense, earlier rejected Alvarez’ call. Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro said calls for the military to withdraw support would “not amount to anything but to a possible criminal investigation.” The Department of Justice earlier said it would probe Alvarez’s statements “to determine whether it has risen to the level of sedition, inciting to sedition, or even rebellion.” “Rest assured that the Sailors and Marines will continue to fulfill our responsibility with integrity, impartiality, utmost dedication, and will follow legal orders from the chain of command. The Navy will continue to uphold the rule of law – ensuring security and stability as guardians of our seas. One AFP, One Philippines, Strong AFP, Strong Philippines,” said the Navy in its April 16 statement. The Philippine Navy is among the frontline government agencies in the Philippines’ push to defend its sovereign rights and assert its sovereign claims in the West Philippine Sea, or part of the South China Sea that includes the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Under the Marcos administration, the Philippines has grown more assertive in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines has also seen a course correction in its foreign policy with the Marcos administration strengthening ties with treaty-ally the US and other strategic partners, in contrast to former president Rodrigo Duterte’s “pivot to China.” Alvarez returned as an ally of the former president, years after he was ousted from the House Speakership during the Duterte administration. China claims almost all of the South China Sea, including parts within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Beijing has repeatedly insisted that the 2016 Arbitral Award which upheld the Philippine position is invalid. Tensions in the West Philippine Sea have risen in the past year, with the China Coast Guard not above using force – in the form of water cannons – against Philippine vessels in Ayungin and Scarborough Shoals. Alvarez said Marcos’ policy “is making us to go to war with the world’s superpower, China. And that war will kill us all, Filipinos, especially our soldiers.” Navy personnel have been injured by China’s water cannons, although injured soldiers themselves have said they would not hesitate to be deployed in Ayungin Shoal, where the rusty BRP Sierra Madre serves as a military outpost. Under Duterte, the Philippines had entered a “gentleman’s agreement” to keep the status quo in the West Philippine Sea, according to the Chinese embassy in Manila. The “status quo,” if China’s statements are to be believed, meant that under Duterte, the Philippines would not bring construction materials to fortify the BRP Sierra Madre. While Duterte has denied having entered into a specific agreement on Ayungin Shoal, he’s confirmed negotiations to maintain the status quo in those waters. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. He should be stripped of such rank if he is genuinely a military reservist and does not follow the chain of command. Otherwise, such rank is equivalent to the “paid commissions” of former monarchial armies during the Napoleonic wars. These military officers got their rank by paying the King, and they got their rank even without formal training. Hence, during actual battles, they were defeated by Napoleon’s officers, who rose from the ranks through merit. How does this make you feel?

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Philippine gov’t will not turn in Duterte to ICC, says Marcos

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 16:54

Marcos screenshot from RTVM, Duterte screenshot from Rody Duterte's Facebook page MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will not allow the International Criminal Court (ICC) to arrest his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. “We won’t recognize the warrant that they will send to us,” Marcos said during the presidential forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Monday, April 15. Since assuming the presidency, Marcos has insisted that the Philippines does not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC. The country withdrew from the body in 2019, during Duterte’s time as president. One reporter asked Marcos during the forum: Is a rules-based order only applicable when it’s convenient for the Philippines? The question was in reference to Manila’s insistence on a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea, where China has engaged in harassment tactics against Filipino-owned vessels. “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary,” Marcos answered. Duterte is being investigated by the ICC over his bloody drug war, which killed over 6,000 people according to police records, although human rights groups believe the death toll is much higher. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. Marcos Jr.’s presumptive answer: “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary.” But what kind of judiciary was it? Perhaps PBBM just waited for the right timing to finally frustrate the Duterte Dynasty’s political competitiveness. How does this make you feel?

Rappler

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Filipinos urged to reduce aircon use as red alert raised on power grids

Ralf Rivas

16/04/2024 19:44

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Energy urged Filipinos to minimize the use of high-energy consuming devices, such as air conditioners and elevators, during peak hours, as the state grid operator was forced to implement outages amid energy supply’s inability to keep up with the demand. The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines on Tuesday, April 16, issued a red alert notice for the Luzon grid from 2 pm to 9 pm, as 19 power plants were forced to shut down. This was extended to 11 pm due to two more plant outages. A red alert status is issued when power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grid’s regulating requirement. Rotational brownouts were intentionally done Tuesday to protect the integrity of the power system. The Visayas grid was initially put on a lower level, the yellow alert status, from 2 pm to 7 pm. But this was eventually raised to red alert from 5 pm to 9 pm due to thin supply. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said energy efficiency efforts can be conducted during this period of extreme heat. “Flexible work arrangements and other conservation measures would also be helpful. The extremely high temperatures have been affecting the operations of power plants in the grid,” Lotilla said. The Manila Electric Company said the interruptible load program helped mitigate the power strain on the grid and partially helped avoid some rotational brownouts on Tuesday. This program compensates companies that use their own generating facilities during times of power supply deficit. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Water district warfare: Takeovers, ‘politicking,’ standoffs at Cebu water firm

jsitchon0312

16/04/2024 19:08

RIFT. The conflict at the Metropolitan Cebu Water District became more complicated when Cebu mayors, led by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, joined the fray. Rappler In war, there are no real victors. Only proxies and casualties. For Cebu, it appears that the employees and customers of the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) have become hostages to the ongoing battle among politicians and officials seeking to challenge one another for the leadership of the water firm. The latest casualty? Lawyer John Dx Lapid, who resigned from the position of MCWD General Manager. “I want to have peace, my family is affected already with all that is happening. I am stressed. I am being used for politics already,” Lapid said in a now-edited Facebook post on Tuesday morning, April 16. When asked why he took out the “being used for politics” part of his post, Lapid told Rappler that the statement can still stand on its own. The lawyer refused to explain further. The fight is primarily centered between the factions of Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama and MCWD Chairman Jose Daluz III who have been at it since May 2023. In a nutshell, the mayor wanted the chairman out of the seat for allegedly failing to prepare MCWD for the El Niño season while the chairman claimed that the mayor only wants to privatize MCWD. The issue got more complicated when Cebu mayors, led by Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia, joined the fight by announcing their support for Daluz on Monday, April 15. So now what exactly is going on at MCWD and who’s using who? On March 15, LWUA administrator Jose Salonga, who was appointed to the position by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in February, enforced a takeover at the MCWD. LWUA installed Noel Samonte, Maria Perez, and Anabelle Gravador as the MCWD’s interim board of directors, replacing Daluz, MCWD Vice Chairman Miguelito Pato, and Secretary Jodelyn May Seno. On April 12, the LWUA interim board of directors appointed Lapid, who used to be the head of the MCWD Customer Care Division, as the new MCWD general manager. He was expected to replace the existing general manager, Edgar Donoso, but was barred from entering the MCWD building along Magallanes Street on April 15. This “ban” was enforced through a memorandum that Donoso signed on April 15 under orders of Daluz and fellow directors who claimed that their removal as board members was done illegally. But a statement from the MCWD posted on their official social media page on Tuesday morning, April 16, confirmed that Lapid was still able to enter the building on Monday evening through what they described as an “atrocious disruption” of services. “Last night, around 10 pm, Lapid and his cohorts from the Cebu City Hall unlawfully entered the MCWD main building, harassing security personnel and forcibly gaining access to the manager’s office,” the statement read. Of course, city authorities did not react to the ban against Lapid with a slap on the wrist. Barricades were placed around the MCWD building’s premises, obstructing access to the offices. “Such uncivilized, irresponsible, and deplorable acts will not be tolerated by MCWD…We will pursue all available avenues, including legal recourse, to restore normal operations at our main office and hold those accountable for these acts of chaos and disruption to the full extent of the law,” the MCWD’s statement read. An MCWD employee that did not wish to be named told Rappler on Tuesday that the incident has caused them distress, especially after witnessing a confrontation between Daluz and Rama’s groups from inside the water firm’s board room. In a video posted by the Cebu City government’s news arm, Cebu City Administrator Collin Rosell can be seen arguing in favor of Lapid’s appointment as general manager against Seno. “We feel like we’ve been deprived of our own office,” the MCWD employee said. Initially, Daluz agreed to the LWUA’s decision to change the MCWD leadership, but in a press conference on March 20, the chairman announced that the board passed a resolution seeking a comment from the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) about the takeover. The OGCC in a legal opinion issued on March 26, cited the Provincial Water Utilities Act of 1973 which states that in the event of a default by the water district in the payment of obligations to the LWUA, the latter may take over the district. On April 15, Daluz claimed in a meeting with town mayors and the Cebu governor that the MCWD is not yet in default. He added that the MCWD has a “manageable” obligation to LWUA of P13.7 million. The mayors, led by Garcia, signed a manifesto of support for Daluz, expressing their opposition to the LWUA. “Administrator Salonga’s actions directly contradict the public commitment made by LWUA Chairman Ronnie Ong on March 21st, 2024, to abide by the OGCC opinion,” the manifesto read. Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan, Talisay City Mayor Samsam Gullas, Compostela Mayor Felijur Quiño, Liloan Mayor Aljew Frasco, Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado, Cordova Mayor Cesar Suan, Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado, and League of the Municipalities Cebu Province President Sun Shimura signed the manifesto of support. Garcia and Rama have been arguing with each other as well over the governor’s moves to halt civil works for the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT). The mayor aired out his frustrations about the governor that go way back to the Sinulog Festival in January 2023. You know what they say, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend”. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. It is time for Rappler to conduct a nationwide survey of water districts in the country and find out the percentage of those involved in political warfare, corruption, etc. This will significantly help Rappler readers understand the situation of water districts in the country. How does this make you feel?

Rappler

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Supreme Court names new spokesperson, public information office chief

Jairo Bolledo

16/04/2024 18:13

BAGUIO, Philippines – The Supreme Court (SC) said on Thursday, April 11, that it has appointed a new spokesperson and Public Information Office (PIO) chief, finally filling the spot that has been left vacant for the past nine months. An insider, Camille Ting, is the new spokesperson. She is the High Court’s fifth spokesperson, and the first woman to hold the position. But in a break of tradition, the Supreme Court has appointed a different person as the PIO chief: former ABS-CBN reporter Mike Navallo. Ting will retain the usual spokesperson tasks, which is facing and coordinating with the press covering the court. Navallo will be in charge of the court’s communications to the rest of the public. The SC said Ting will assume her role immediately, while Navallo will start on August 1. The Court took its time to find the replacement for its last PIO chief/spokesperson, Brian Keith Hosaka, who was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to be commissioner of the Governance Commission for GOCCs in August 2023. When Hosaka left, the Supreme Court was in the thick of its boosted communication plans through the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI). The Supreme Court revamped its website, increased its presence on X (formerly Twitter), started posting on Instagram, and launched a podcast. These were all done under the promised reform of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo to bring the Court closer to the people. Ting is former judicial staff head of Associate Justice Midas Marquez, himself a former spokesperson of the Court. Ting is an Ateneo Law alumnus, and started working in the Supreme Court in 2013 when she passed the Bar examinations. The new SC spokesperson is a Master of Laws candidate at the London School of Economics and Political Science in London, United Kingdom. Meanwhile, Navallo is a graduate of the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law, after which he pursued private practice before joining ABS-CBN in 2015 where he later covered the justice beat. The Supreme Court en banc is currently in Baguio for the yearly summer session. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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BARMM eyes new province for eight newly created towns

Herbie G

16/04/2024 11:39

PLEBISCITE RESULTS. BARMM Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim and Elections Chairman George Garcia share a light moment as the regional government receives the plebiscite results for the formal creation of eight new municipalities in the Special Geographic Areas. BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim FB page GENERAL SANTOS, Philippines – The eight newly created towns of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in Soccssksargen’s Cotabato province will remain under the supervision of the Special Geographic Area Development Authority (SGADA), the region’s interior ministry said on Monday, April 15. “As of now, they will still be part of the Special Geographic Area (SGA),” according to BARMM Interior Minister Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba when she was asked which of the neighboring BARMM provinces the new towns will be made a part of after their creation was ratified in a plebiscite on Saturday, April 13. SGADA, which closely works with the BARMM’s Ministry of Interior and Local Governments (MILG), was created to look after the concerns of the 63 SGA barangays in six towns in Cotabato province that opted in 2019 to become part of BARMM. Cotabato, except for the 63 villages, chose to stay a province of the Soccsksargen region. Alba said the SGADA will supervise the eight towns “until a new province is created, based on the Bangsamoro Local Governance Code.” Eight laws passed on August 17, 2023, by the interim Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to create the new towns are silent regarding which BARMM province the eight towns will be a part of. “The creation of a new province shall be via a congressional act, and so we need to lobby for this to happen,” Alba said. The creation of a new province may not come in time for the 2025 elections. Elections Chairman George Erwin Garcia said the recent plebiscite was a requisite for the first BARMM elections in 2025. The most populated town in Cotabato province, Pikit, has about half of its villages, numbering 22, ceded to BARMM. This was followed by Midsayap with 13, Pigcawayan with 12, and Carmen and Kabacan with seven each, and Aleosan with two. The 63 villages have since been referred to as SGA-BARMM, an area considered a stronghold of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), whose leaders now run the BARMM after reaching a peace deal with the government in 2014. The SGA is also an area referred to by the MILF as Ligawasan Province in their transactions. The villages are located along the Ligawasan Marsh, a vast wetland that straddles the provinces of Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur in the BARMM, and Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat in the Soccsksargen region. The BARMM laws creating the new towns were ratified in a plebiscite on Saturday, April 13, described by election officials as the most peaceful political exercise in the special autonomous region. On August 17, 2023, the interim BARMM parliament enacted eight laws, each for the creation of the eight towns. These were overwhelmingly ratified in a plebiscite on Saturday. With the creation of eight new towns, BARMM now has 125 municipalities. As stated in the laws creating the new towns, BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim will appoint the mayors, vice mayors, and municipal councilors of the new town governments. SGADA Administrator Butch Malang said there were already several people who have signified their intentions to serve, “some with recommendations, but the final say will still be with the Chief Minister.” Ebrahim will appoint from among candidates who will undergo a review and selection process as dictated by law, he added. In the meantime, he said the BARMM government will appropriate and provide financial assistance for the administrative and operational requirements of the new local governments. Malang said every municipality will be given funds by the regional government until they can get their share from the national tax allocation. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Royal Rumble: Shocking Petro, Chery sweeps create PVL four-way tie at No. 2

jisaga0269

16/04/2024 22:12

STREAKING. Chery Tiggo spiker Ara Galang (left) and Petro Gazz spiker Brooke Van Sickle react in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference PVL Images MANILA, Philippines – Chaos has ensued in the homestretch of the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference elimination round, as four teams now hold the same 7-2 record in a massive second-place tie-up after stunning results on Tuesday, April 16. The Petro Gazz Angels kicked off the highly anticipated double-header at the PhilSports Arena with a shocking 25-13, 25-18, 25-17 decimation of the suddenly reeling Cignal HD Spikers, who fell to sixth place with a 5-4 slate. Spiker one-two punch Jonah Sabete and Brooke Van Sickle led the way with 16 and 13 points, respectively, while Djanel Cheng tallied 12 excellent sets. The other end was as forgettable as it could get, as the HD Spikers only got a pair of 8-point outings from Ces Molina and Vanie Gandler to pace the sorry loss. Meanwhile, the streaking Chery Tiggo Crossovers claimed another top-tier victim in sweeping fashion, as they wrecked the PLDT High Speed Hitters, 25-22, 25-16, 25-20, to keep a blazing-hot five-game winning run. Reigning PVL Press Corps Player of the Week Eya Laure kept up her stellar ways with a team-high 12 points, followed by 11 from her elder sister EJ, and 10 from veteran acquisition Ara Galang. Possible MVP candidate Savi Davison did everything she could to keep the High Speed Hitters ship from sinking, as she went down swinging with a game-high 22 points and 10 excellent receptions, while no other player breached double-digit scoring. “We’re just leaning on collective effort,” Chery Tiggo head coach Kungfu Reyes said in Filipino. “Everyone is doing their job well. That’s one of the best things happening to us right now. We make mistakes, we have slow starts, but everyone recovers, and that’s great.” Petro Gazz mentor Koji Tsuzurabara, meanwhile, credited his veteran players as the keys to the Angels’ current successful run. “Captains make a team. They always talk and teach. That’s Chie [Saet] and Nang [Aiza Maizo-Pontillas],” he said. “Thank you so much to those two players.” “My team has veteran players and young players, and Chie and Nang really contribute on a high level to the team, so thank you. They change the atmosphere.” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Veteran Cagayan de Oro journalist Proc Maslog passes away at 76

Herbie G

16/04/2024 10:43

LOSS. Veteran Cagayan de Oro journalist and academic Proculo Maslog passes away at 76. Proc Maslog FB page CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Veteran journalist Proculo “Proc” Maslog, one of the pioneers of the Cagayan de Oro-based daily newspapers, died on Monday afternoon, April 14. Maslog, who had Parkinson’s disease, died in his sleep at his home in Barangay Bulua, Cagayan de Oro, a day after he and his family celebrated his 76th birthday. Many of today’s senior journalists in Cagayan de Oro were mentored by Maslog. He was one of the earliest editors-in-chief of the Cagayan de Oro-based Mindanao Gold Star Daily, and later worked as sports editor of the now-defunct Sunstar-Cagayan de Oro. He was also the pioneering sports editor of MindaNews and contributed sports stories for the now-defunct Manila Standard. Maslog was an academic and served as the chairman of the mass communications department, and held the position of arts and sciences dean at Pilgrim Christian College (PCC). He was credited for establishing and once heading the City Information Office of the local government of Cagayan de Oro. Journalists in Cagayan de Oro, as well as his former students, mourned the passing of Maslog whom they fondly called “Sir Procs.” “His contribution to journalism and the field of communication studies throughout his lifetime inspired a generation of media practitioners and communicators. He was one of the pillars of community journalism in Cagayan de Oro City, if not throughout Mindanao. A humble servant and a mentor,” read part of a statement from the Cagayan de Oro Press Club (COPC). He was the younger brother of book author and journalism professor Crispin Maslog, who was among those who started Silliman University’s journalism school. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Dipolognons hold torch procession, prayer rally against criminality

Dwight de Leon

16/04/2024 20:51

PROTEST. Residents in Dipolog City hold a torch rally against criminality on April 15, 2024. Gualberto Laput/Rappler DIPOLOG CITY, Philippines – Thousands of Subanens, as well as members of women, youth, LGBTQ+, and Catholic laity groups in Dipolog City held a torch procession and prayer rally against unsolved killings, police brutality, and “seemingly unabated criminality,” the latest of which was the murder of Subanen tribe woman Mayumi. “Our intention is to awaken Dipolognons to stop being passive with our social problems, particularly the unsolved killings,” said retired priest Edgar Agura, the lead organizer of the demonstration on Monday, April 15. “Let’s demand to our leaders to do something.” Agura lamented the culture of impunity that has plagued the city and the province of Zamboanga del Norte in the past decade, amid unsolved drugs and politics-related extrajudicial killings. He claimed that no police official or personnel has been punished for committing brutality, and that criminality continues, like the gruesome murder of the young Subanen woman more than a month ago. In January 2015, Dipolog Bishop Severo Caermare issued a pastoral letter condemning the extrajudicial killings and demanding authorities in the city and the province to give justice to more than 200 victims. Tension has also gripped the city as rumors spread that Colonel Reynaldo Maclang, former Dipolog police chief widely accused of being behind the atrocities, was seen again in the area. Datu Roger Gumanas, who spoke to the protesters, said it was Maclang and his policemen who forcibly ejected him out of their ancestral domain in Dipolog’s Barangay Sta. Isabel. The Subanen-claimed ancestral domain in Sta. Isabel is now the location of national government offices, including the police station. “Because we are in one community, whether we like it or not, we are involved, and we must stop to be just scared fence-sitters and work together to make Dipolog a humane, better, and peaceful place to live,” said Agura, who is also a volunteer rescuer of Oracis Radio Club. Participants of the torch procession and prayer rally were estimated to have reached 5,600.  At 6 pm on Monday, they started walking with torches and broomsticks, symbolizing the sweeping of Dipolog’s social ills. After the protest, Police Colonel Vedasto Dasmarinas strongly denied that criminality has increased in Dipolog. “The eight focused crimes in Dipolog has in fact reduced by a third from January this year,” he told Rappler on Tuesday. The eight focused crimes include murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, theft, robbery, car theft, and motorcycle theft. He also said that the mother of Mayumi, the Subanen woman murdered in Dipolog on March 8, is no longer interested in filing a case against the suspect, but he made no mention about the unsolved killings since 2015. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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‘Nature has no ego’: Connection is key for these Gen Z ocean advocates

Jee Geronimo

16/04/2024 20:35

GEN Z ADVOCATES. Marie Ysabelle Lesava, Vanessa Gabrielle del Rosario, and Mary Jane Lamoste join the Youth Leadership Summit at the Our Ocean Conference in Athens, Greece, on April 15, 2024. Jee Y. Geronimo/Rappler ATHENS, Greece – The world’s oceans may be physically dividing countries and regions, but for Gen Zs advocating for their protection and conservation, the cause is bringing their generation together at a crucial time. Young leaders gathered at the Our Ocean Conference’s Youth Leadership Summit in Athens, Greece, on Monday, April 15, to strategize on issues that affect oceans, such as pollution reduction and sustainable maritime economy, among others. For Mary Jane Lamoste, Sustainable Ocean Alliance’s regional representative for Asia, it’s important to create emerging leaders in marine conservation who help each other and not compete against one another. “Yes, competition is there, but [at] the end of the day, it’s your idea na mananalo naman, ‘di ba (that wins, right)? It’s not you yourself. It’s the idea,” Lamoste told Rappler on the sidelines of the conference. This culture of community building can be seen in the coastal communities Lamoste works with as founder of the Tagpi-Tagpi circular economy initiative. She helps the women in the communities upcycle old clothes and turn them into plush toys to help augment their households’ income. “They’re not earning that much. Hindi naman sila sobrang yayaman pero (They’re not that wealthy but) you can see that there’s the community being built and…I think the sense of community, the sense of having a sustainable business that can be replicated,” she added. Another Filipina youth delegate, Vanessa Gabrielle del Rosario, said the summit was a venue for different voices, including those from the Global South, where solutions are not always black or white. For instance, during a brainstorming session at the summit, Del Rosario said many suggested to “just ban [single-use] plastic.” “Sabi ko (I said), ‘You know, in our country, most of the people…can only afford the [single-use] plastic.’ They can’t imagine that…. But I was telling them, ‘No, that’s kind of like hard to implement, especially in developing nations.’ So, ‘yung suggestion ko, kailangan talaga (my suggestion, it’s really needed that)…the developed nations have to help the developing nations,” she recalled. “That’s the push that has to be right now. And we can only do it if everyone will help, works together.” Del Rosario is the founder of Alon and Araw Club, a nonprofit organization that uses sports to motivate disadvantaged children in coastal communities to help take care of the environment. Marie Ysabelle Lesava, a diplomacy major from the Lyceum of the Philippines University, said it’s become her mission to use diplomacy in advocating for the world’s oceans. “I want to continue with negotiations, discussions, because once we stop that, once we stop sharing discussions, negotiations, that means that naka-end na po tayo (we’ve hit a dead end). And that’s really bad. Since these nations, nako-connect na po tayo [ng] oceans eh (oceans connect us). We are bound to share [the ocean], so we must [really] do negotiations,” she said. With only six years left to achieve the goal of protecting at least 30% of the planet by 2030, young people “are absolutely necessary” in the fight for the world’s oceans and climate, according to Theodoros Skylakakis, the minister of environment and energy of the Hellenic Republic. “I believe that what they can offer is also new understanding of how to communicate and network between themselves. The biggest power that this new technology is bringing is the power of communication, networking, creating huge numbers, billions of people that move toward the same direction. This is a power unprecedented, and it can be used for the better or for the worse,” Skylakakis said. Bodhi Patil, a Gen Z ocean climate solutionist, said there is a “crisis of connection” that must be addressed by reconnecting young people and empowering them to be part of the blue economy. “What gives me hope is not just that we’re all here, it’s the fact that we’re all innovating in our communities,” Patil said, addressing the youth delegates at the summit. “Nature has no ego, so why should we?” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos has no plans to grant US access to more bases

Chito de la Vega

15/04/2024 19:46

Soldiers salute nation flags at the opening ceremony of the Philippines-United States Exercise Balikatan 37-2022, at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo on March 28, 2022. Rappler Rappler.com MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines has no plans to grant the United States access to more military bases, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Monday, April 15, after nearly doubling the number last year under a joint defense pact. Beijing has previously accused the Philippines of “stoking the fire” when it increased the number of bases the US military could use to nine from five, with the new sites located close to potential flashpoints. “The answer to that is no,” Marcos said in response to a query whether the Philippines would allow the US access to more bases. “The Philippines has no plan to create any more bases or give access to any more bases,” he told a forum with foreign correspondents. Last year, Washington and Manila discussed further expanding the number of bases US forces could access under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) from nine. Three of the four sites faced north towards Taiwan and one was near the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, where Manila and Beijing have had frequent maritime run-ins that included China’s use of water cannon and collision tactics. US President Joe Biden, who hosted Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington last week at a first-of-its-kind three-way summit, has asked Congress for a further $128 million for infrastructure projects at the nine EDCA sites. The three leaders expressed “serious concerns” about China’s “dangerous and aggressive behavior” in the South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion of annual ship-borne commerce claimed by China despite overlapping claims by other countries. The three countries’ co-operation was not “directed at anyone or against anyone”, Marcos told the forum, but was merely a strengthening of ties among them. A deepening row between China and the Philippines has also made it challenging for the latter to explore oil and gas in the South China Sea, despite an agreement between them to resume talks about joint exploration. “When we say that we would like to explore, they insist that these areas are in Chinese territory and therefore Chinese law must prevail,” Marcos said. “We, of course, do not accept that. We say this is Philippine territory, and therefore, Philippine law should prevail.” He added, “I don’t really think we have a proper agreement and it really comes down to that issue, which law should apply.” Last year Chinese President Xi Jinping said Beijing was willing to resume talks with the Philippines for potential joint oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Get a kilo of cabbages from community pantry, help Benguet farmers

Iya Gozum

15/04/2024 22:10

115 MT cabbage traded yesterday for transport to other regions. Photo by Mau Victa/Rappler Mau Victa MANILA, Philippines – Buy a kilo of cabbages from the community pantry and help Benguet farmers weathering the adverse effects of El Niño to agriculture. The community pantry is an initiative that started in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City, three years ago which inspired people to give and take food according to their capabilities and needs. Recently, the pantry had been connecting farmers to consumers, communities for their produce. “With the ongoing El Niño, the pantry wants to buy cabbages at a higher price than the price initially set by farmers,” Ana Patricia Non, founder of community pantry, told Rappler in Filipino. Non explained that Benguet farmers were selling cabbages at P12 to P15 per kilo. After checking how much cabbages are sold in grocery stores, Non said they decided to buy the cabbages at P20 per kilo. Per kilo sold, the community pantry is going to give another kilo of cabbages for free to “communities, the homeless, jeepney drivers, Palestine refugees, Muslim migrant communities, city jails,” Non said. This sets the buying price at P50 per kilo of cabbages. The additional P10 would cover operational costs. The pantry is accepting orders from April 11 to 23. Benguet is the top producer of cabbages in the Philippines. It contributed 40% in cabbage production in 2020. Around 34% of the country’s cabbage farming area is in the province. According to a recent update from the Cordillera regional office of the Department of Agriculture (DA-CAR), wholesale prices of cabbage rareball range from P14 to P16 per kilo, while wholesale prices of cabbage wonderball range from P16 to P19. Big Chinese cabbages, meanwhile, are priced at P10 to P14 per kilo. DA-CAR reported P444.94 million of agricultural damage due to El Niño as of the end of March. Non said they have been in talks with DA-CAR regarding assisting farmers and connecting them to consumers. According to the latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, agricultural damage hit P1.2 billion, affecting 29,409 farmers and fisherfolk and 26,731.4 hectares of crops. El Niño has historically impacted livelihood and health by causing extreme droughts and severe flooding in parts of the world. Dry spells and droughts could mean crop failures and issues in food production. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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ABS-CBN’s Star Hunt to hold auditions for next P-pop idol trainees, new season of ‘PBB’

Ysa Abad

14/04/2024 13:51

BINI's Facebook MANILA, Philippines – Do you have what it takes to be the country’s next big star? ABS-CBN’s Star Magic head Laurenti Dyogi announced that they’ll be holding auditions for aspiring Filipino celebrities as they are looking for a “new breed of artists.” “If you feel you have the potential to be a star and to be in the industry, join us in the auditions,” Dyogi said in an Instagram Live. According to the director, they’re reviving their artista/idol search Star Hunt Academy for those interested to join their talent management arm Star Magic, for aspiring P-pop idols, and for aspiring housemates for a new edition of Pinoy Big Brother (PBB). To note, P-pop groups BINI and BGYO were formed through Star Hunt Academy, an offshoot of Star Magic, wherein artists were trained through an “idol system.” Meanwhile, PBB is a reality survival show that follows a group of people living together in one house for a set period of time, completing different challenges throughout. Housemates are eliminated every week, until a winner is declared in the season finale. It first premiered on ABS-CBN in 2005, while its latest season, the 16th edition, aired in 2022. Some of the notable Filipino celebrities who started their career in PBB include Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Melai Cantiveros, James Reid, Maris Racal, and Robi Domingo, among others. Dyogi said that they will hold four on-ground auditions nationwide, with the first being on April 27 and 28 in Metro Manila. They will head to Visayas, Mindanao, and Luzon on the following weekends for the next set of auditions. As of writing, final dates and venue for these auditions have yet to be announced. Aside from the on-ground auditions, there will also be online auditions. Those interested to join the new season of PBB must be 16 to 32 years old, while aspiring idol trainees under Star Hunt Academy must be 13 to 25 years old. On their social media accounts, the team behind PBB also implored the public to “be vigilant against scammers claiming to be part of PBB and asking aspiring housemates to audition.” They reminded that unauthorized use and false representation of the brand is punishable by the law. The new edition of PBB is set to premiere in June. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Back at channel 2: TV Patrol, TV Patrol Weekend to air on ALLTV

Jairo Bolledo

13/04/2024 20:43

TV PATROL. Anchors Noli de Castro, Karen Davila, Bernadette Sembrano, and Henry Omaga Diaz during TV Patrol airing on April 10, 2024. ABS-CBN MANILA, Philippines – ABS-CBN’s flagship newscast TV Patrol and its weekend iteration, TV Patrol Weekend, will be back on channel 2 starting Monday night, April 15. ABS-CBN announced on Saturday, April 13, that its flagship newscast will air on ALLTV, owned by tycoon Manny Villar. TV Patrol airs from Monday to Friday, 6:30 pm, with anchors Noli de Castro, Karen Davila, Bernadette Sembrano, and Henry Omaga Diaz. Meanwhile, anchors Alvin Elchico and Zen Hernandez host the weekend edition that airs Saturday and Sunday, 5:30 pm. ABS-CBN said their viewers can still watch the newscasts on A2Z, on cable through Kapamilya Channel, ANC, and Teleradyo Serbisyo, and on radio via DWPM. After the National Telecommunications Commission ordered ABS-CBN to stop its television and radio operations, the channel went off-air on May 5, 2020, right after TV Patrol’s airing. The media giant was shut down in the first few years of the administration of then-president Rodrigo Duterte who admitted that he used his “presidential powers” against ABS-CBN. Only two days later, on May 7, 2020, TV Patrol aired online through ABS-CBN’s website, its official Facebook page, and YouTube channel, and through its content platform iWant, and on ANC. In October of the same year, ABS-CBN pulled off its return to free television via Brother Eddie Villanueva’s A2Z. This paved the way for TV Patrol’s comeback later on. The flagship newscast only returned to free television via A2Z in January 2022. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos defends Sara Duterte’s silence on China aggression in West PH Sea

Mia Gonzalez

13/04/2024 11:37

TOP LEADERS. File photo shows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte during Brigada Eskwela in August 2023. Presidential Communications Office MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has defended Vice President Sara Duterte from criticism about her silence over China’s aggression against Philippine government vessels and fisherfolk in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos said in an interview with Philippine media in Washington, where he had attended a trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, that the China issue is not within the scope of Duterte’s job as vice president and education secretary. “That’s not the role of the Vice President or the secretary of education to talk about China,” Marcos said on Friday, April 12 (US time). Duterte’s silence over the issue amid the Marcos administration’s strong condemnation of a series of Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea has further fueled the observed split of the Uniteam, the 2022 election coalition that led the Marcos-Duterte tandem to victory. Marcos said in the interview that if the Vice President had any serious concerns about the government’s approach to the West Philippine Sea issue, especially in relation to China, she would have told him directly since she is part of his administration. “I’m very sure that if Inday Sara had some very serious misgivings about what we are doing in terms of foreign policies, she would bring that to me,” Marcos said. “And, wala naman siyang [sinabi]. Ang pinag-uusapan nga namin, sabi niya, ‘Basta ako trabaho lang ako nang trabaho,’ sabi niyang ganoon (She hasn’t [said anything]. When we talk, she says, ‘As for me, I just continue to do my work.’) That’s a good policy. So, I don’t think it is something that we need to be concerned with,” he added. On April 8, the Vice President was asked about the country’s sea dispute with China but only said, “No comment.” She said that the previous statement of her brother, Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte, in relation to her silence over the issue was “comprehensive.” On March 27, Paolo Duterte had said that it was not her sister’s job to “demonize China or any country for that matter.” This was in response to Akbayan’s statement questioning the Vice President’s continued silence on the issue. Sara and Paolo’s father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, had pursued a pivot to China under what he called the “independent foreign policy” of his administration. It was during his term when he reportedly entered into a “gentleman’s agreement” with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the issue of Ayungin Shoal which China had cited to justify its actions in the West Philippine Sea. China’s continued aggression in the South China Sea was one of the major agenda at the historic first trilateral summit of the leaders of the Philippines, the US, and Japan in Washington. At that meeting, the Philippines expressed its determination to assert its sovereign rights in the South China Sea. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Philippine gov’t will not turn in Duterte to ICC, says Marcos

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 16:54

Marcos screenshot from RTVM, Duterte screenshot from Rody Duterte's Facebook page MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will not allow the International Criminal Court (ICC) to arrest his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. “We won’t recognize the warrant that they will send to us,” Marcos said during the presidential forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Monday, April 15. Since assuming the presidency, Marcos has insisted that the Philippines does not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC. The country withdrew from the body in 2019, during Duterte’s time as president. One reporter asked Marcos during the forum: Is a rules-based order only applicable when it’s convenient for the Philippines? The question was in reference to Manila’s insistence on a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea, where China has engaged in harassment tactics against Filipino-owned vessels. “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary,” Marcos answered. Duterte is being investigated by the ICC over his bloody drug war, which killed over 6,000 people according to police records, although human rights groups believe the death toll is much higher. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. Marcos Jr.’s presumptive answer: “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary.” But what kind of judiciary was it? Perhaps PBBM just waited for the right timing to finally frustrate the Duterte Dynasty’s political competitiveness. How does this make you feel?

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FACT CHECK: Bukidnon concertgoers passed off as Duterte’s Tagum ‘peace rally’ attendees

Lorenz Pasion

15/04/2024 21:25

Claim: Photos show an aerial view of a huge crowd gathering for the “Hakbang ng Maisug” peace rally staged by supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte in Tagum City. Why we fact-checked this: A compilation of photos allegedly showing an aerial view of the crowd attending the April 14 prayer rally was posted on the Facebook page named “PRRD – the Greatest,” which has 140,000 followers. The post bears the caption: “TINGNAN | Defend the Flag Peace Rally na kasalukuyan ginaganap sa Tagum City, dinagsa ng mga tao. @followers HAKBANG NG MAISUG | April 14, 2024” (LOOK | People flocked to the Defend the Flag Peace Rally currently happening in Tagum City. @followers HAKBANG NG MAISUG | April 14, 2024 ) It also included the hashtags #StopAbuseOfPower, #FilipinoAreNotForSale, and #BBMRESIGN. As of writing, the post has received 325 combined reactions, 75 comments, and 46 shares. The facts: Using Google reverse image search, Rappler found that the photos used in the misleading Facebook post were not from the Duterte peace rally in Tagum City. The original photos were taken from the birthday celebration concert for Senator Migz Zubiri held in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, and posted on the Facebook page “Viajero Series PH” on April 13, a day before the Tagum City rally. It was clearly stated in the caption that the aerial photos showing a massive crowd were taken during the live performance of the nine-piece OPM group Ben & Ben at the birthday concert. Tagum City peace rally: The Hakbang ng Maisug rally was the third rally organized by supporters of the former president to oppose the Marcos administration’s push for charter change via people’s initiative, following similar events held in Davao City last January and another gathering in Cebu in February. Despite expecting at least 100,000 people to attend the rally, Bombo Radyo Davao reported that only around 7,500 people attended the event, according to the Davao del Norte Police Provincial Office. Since the first rally held in January, the Duterte camp has been open in its criticism of the Marcos administration. During the April 14 rally, Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon Alvarez called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines to withdraw its support for Marcos, prompting some lawmakers to call for a probe into Alvarez’s “seditious” statement. In March, Rappler fact-checked a similar claim of a concert photo misrepresented as an aerial photo of the crowd attending the Cebu leg of the “Hakbang ng Maisug” prayer rally. – Larry Chavez/Rappler.com Larry Chavez is a graduate of Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program. This fact check was reviewed by a member of Rappler’s research team and a senior editor. Learn more about Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program here. Keep us aware of suspicious Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, articles, or photos in your network by contacting us at factcheck@rappler.com. You may also report dubious claims to the #FactsFirstPH tipline by messaging Rappler on Facebook or Newsbreak via Twitter direct message. You may also report through our Viber fact check chatbot. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. Thanks for the Fact-Checking. This lie made me angry. How does this make you feel?

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Filipino drama ‘The Gospel of the Beast’ wins Best Feature Film in Vietnam int’l film fest

Marguerite de Leon

15/04/2024 16:46

WINNER. Filipino film producer-director Sheron Dayoc receives the Best Film Award from the Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival organizers. Courtesy of Patric Mao Huang ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – According to Zamboangueño filmmaker Sheron Dayoc, seeing his work The Gospel of The Beast win the Golden Star for Best Feature Film at the Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival (HIFF) in Vietnam was “unexpected.” Having been on a seven-year hiatus from filmmaking prior to this victory, Dayoc did not expect to win the highest honor during awards night on Saturday, April 13, he told Rappler in an online interview. “Madami rin kasing magaganda na galing sa mamamalaking film festivals (There were many other great films from big festivals),” he said, citing the Berlin, Locarno, Busan, and San Sebastian International Film Festivals. Besides the Golden Star, the The Gospel of The Beast also bagged the HIFF’s Young Critics Award.The film is a coming-of-age drama based on the story of a hired killer for a vigilante group in the southern Philippines. It is the only Filipino-produced film in the Southeast Asian Section. “It’s a big deal to win kasi super competitive ng section (because it’s a super competitive section),” he said, adding that some of the other films had high budgets. The Golden Star award came with a cash prize of VND120 million ($5,000). The jury members for the Southeast Asian competitions included Hoanh Cam Giang, Minh Nguyen-Vo, Le Thanh Son Dao Ba Son, Oliver Pere, Wahyunu Hadi, Janice Chua, Pham Hong Anh, and Bao Nguyen. Former Film Development Council of the Philippines Director Liza Dino-Seguerra posted a congratulatory message online, mentioning that Gospel, helmed by Southern Lantern Studios, was supported by the Film Philippines International Coproduction Fund during her term as agency head. “I am humbled to have witnessed the fruition of this feature project from its development way back in 2018 when we discussed it during an ASEAN event in KL, Malaysia hanggang sa pagbuo ng pelikula (until the film was fully done) in 2022. Super well-deserved win,” Seguerra stated. Dayoc also shared the honors with Southern Lantern Studios’ co-producers Sonny Calvento and Arden Rod Condez, and the team whom he worked closely with the past two years. Dayoc posted early Monday morning, April 15, upon his return to Manila: “This recognition serves as a personal reminder to continually challenge oneself and seek knowledge amid the film industry’s challenges…. Ultimately, despite the industry facing its most challenging times, we remain hopeful that we can continue to craft meaningful stories, cultivating a culture that advocates for a more compassionate society.” Dayoc was not the only Filipino who featured in the festival. Filipino actress Liza Soberano was also a HIFF judge for a different section. She posted on her Instagram account: “So thrilled and honored to have served as a jury member for the first ever Ho Chi Minh International Film Festival. Was such an amazing showcase of talented filmmakers from all over the world! Truly so inspired to continue working in an industry that encourages freedom of expression and challenges the way we think. Congratulations to all winners!” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos defends Sara Duterte’s silence on China aggression in West PH Sea

Mia Gonzalez

13/04/2024 11:37

TOP LEADERS. File photo shows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte during Brigada Eskwela in August 2023. Presidential Communications Office MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has defended Vice President Sara Duterte from criticism about her silence over China’s aggression against Philippine government vessels and fisherfolk in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos said in an interview with Philippine media in Washington, where he had attended a trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, that the China issue is not within the scope of Duterte’s job as vice president and education secretary. “That’s not the role of the Vice President or the secretary of education to talk about China,” Marcos said on Friday, April 12 (US time). Duterte’s silence over the issue amid the Marcos administration’s strong condemnation of a series of Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea has further fueled the observed split of the Uniteam, the 2022 election coalition that led the Marcos-Duterte tandem to victory. Marcos said in the interview that if the Vice President had any serious concerns about the government’s approach to the West Philippine Sea issue, especially in relation to China, she would have told him directly since she is part of his administration. “I’m very sure that if Inday Sara had some very serious misgivings about what we are doing in terms of foreign policies, she would bring that to me,” Marcos said. “And, wala naman siyang [sinabi]. Ang pinag-uusapan nga namin, sabi niya, ‘Basta ako trabaho lang ako nang trabaho,’ sabi niyang ganoon (She hasn’t [said anything]. When we talk, she says, ‘As for me, I just continue to do my work.’) That’s a good policy. So, I don’t think it is something that we need to be concerned with,” he added. On April 8, the Vice President was asked about the country’s sea dispute with China but only said, “No comment.” She said that the previous statement of her brother, Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte, in relation to her silence over the issue was “comprehensive.” On March 27, Paolo Duterte had said that it was not her sister’s job to “demonize China or any country for that matter.” This was in response to Akbayan’s statement questioning the Vice President’s continued silence on the issue. Sara and Paolo’s father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, had pursued a pivot to China under what he called the “independent foreign policy” of his administration. It was during his term when he reportedly entered into a “gentleman’s agreement” with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the issue of Ayungin Shoal which China had cited to justify its actions in the West Philippine Sea. China’s continued aggression in the South China Sea was one of the major agenda at the historic first trilateral summit of the leaders of the Philippines, the US, and Japan in Washington. At that meeting, the Philippines expressed its determination to assert its sovereign rights in the South China Sea. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Infant dies of pertussis, dozens sick in Negros Occidental

Miriam Grace Go

15/04/2024 15:17

GET VAXXED. The Provincial Health Office of Negros Occidental ramps up the vaccination of infants and children against pertussis in EB Magalona town amid rising cases in the province. Photo from EB MAGALONA PIO BACOLOD, Philippines – A one-month-old infant died of pertussis or whooping cough, while dozens of suspected cases of the respiratory illness are under observation in Negros Occidental province and its capital, Bacolod City. Dr. Girlie Pinongan, provincial health chief, said on Monday, April 15, said that, aside from the lone death recorded, there were 4 confirmed cases and 26 suspected cases of pertussis. The city health office of Bacolod, meanwhile, recorded 6 positive cases, while two cases are being validated by the the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Manila. Pinongan advised the public to be cautious when going to crowded places. She said it would be a good protection to wear face masks. She also asked mothers in Negros Occidental to bring their children – especially infants aged zero to 59 days old – to the health centers to avail themselves of pentavalent vaccine against pertussis. The provincial government is procuring around 10,000 doses of pentavalent vaccines as soon as possible, Pinongan said. On April 9, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez issued a joint public health advisory, cautioning Negrenses and Bacoleños about the rising pertussis cases. The local chief executives asked private and public hospitals in Negros and Bacolod to set up fast lanes for any respiratory-related illnesses to cushion the impact of pertussis prevalence among residents. They also urged all the health facilities to coordinate with both the provincial  and city health offices for proper information dissemination, outbreak response, vaccination, and surveillance. Citing health specialists, Lacson and Benitez asked Negrenses and Bacoleños to do following to avoid contracting pertussis: – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos Jr. dodges question on refusal to apologize for Martial Law atrocities

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:44

File photo. Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as he meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sidestepped questions regarding his insistence not to say sorry for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law regime of his late father, the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos. During the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) presidential luncheon on Monday, April 15, a reporter asked Marcos, “Why have you resisted issuing an apology for the atrocities committed during Martial Law under your father’s rule, and will you continue doing so as president?” “I don’t think it’s a duty for a president to be involved. That is a personal matter for the Marcos family,” he answered. “My role as president is more important right now than my role as a member of the Marcos family.” The reporter, seemingly unsatisfied with the answer, threw a follow-up at Marcos, “So will you apologize as president of the Republic in behalf?” “That seems highly contrived. Who is apologizing to whom?” Marcos replied, after which the subject has been dropped. Marcos, in the past, dismissed the idea of saying sorry for the sins committed by his father. “Will I say sorry for the thousands and thousands of kilometers [of roads] that were built? Will I say sorry for the agricultural policy that brought us to self-sufficiency in rice? Will I say sorry for the power generation? Will I say sorry for the highest literacy rate in Asia? What am I to say sorry about?” Marcos Jr. said in a 2015 interview. The presidency of Marcos Sr. from 1965 to 1986 became among the darkest chapters of Philippine history. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 allowed him to stay in power beyond the two-term limit imposed by the 1935 Constitution. That era was marked by widespread corruption in government, suppression of various freedoms, and human rights violations. Amnesty International said 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981. After the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution booted out Marcos Sr. and left his family no choice but to go intoexile in Hawaii, the succeeding government formed a body tasked to go after their ill-gotten wealth. As of 2021, the Presidential Commission on Good Government said P170 billion have been recovered but they are after P125 billion more. The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them. In 2022, Marcos Jr. won the presidential election in a landslide vote, with the help of what critics said was a well-oiled disinformation campaign to rehabilitate the family’s image. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. The Marcos family’s image rehabilitation continues. Remember what Cory did: “The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them.” She may be turning in her grave now. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos Jr. dodges question on refusal to apologize for Martial Law atrocities

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:44

File photo. Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as he meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sidestepped questions regarding his insistence not to say sorry for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law regime of his late father, the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos. During the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) presidential luncheon on Monday, April 15, a reporter asked Marcos, “Why have you resisted issuing an apology for the atrocities committed during Martial Law under your father’s rule, and will you continue doing so as president?” “I don’t think it’s a duty for a president to be involved. That is a personal matter for the Marcos family,” he answered. “My role as president is more important right now than my role as a member of the Marcos family.” The reporter, seemingly unsatisfied with the answer, threw a follow-up at Marcos, “So will you apologize as president of the Republic in behalf?” “That seems highly contrived. Who is apologizing to whom?” Marcos replied, after which the subject has been dropped. Marcos, in the past, dismissed the idea of saying sorry for the sins committed by his father. “Will I say sorry for the thousands and thousands of kilometers [of roads] that were built? Will I say sorry for the agricultural policy that brought us to self-sufficiency in rice? Will I say sorry for the power generation? Will I say sorry for the highest literacy rate in Asia? What am I to say sorry about?” Marcos Jr. said in a 2015 interview. The presidency of Marcos Sr. from 1965 to 1986 became among the darkest chapters of Philippine history. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 allowed him to stay in power beyond the two-term limit imposed by the 1935 Constitution. That era was marked by widespread corruption in government, suppression of various freedoms, and human rights violations. Amnesty International said 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981. After the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution booted out Marcos Sr. and left his family no choice but to go intoexile in Hawaii, the succeeding government formed a body tasked to go after their ill-gotten wealth. As of 2021, the Presidential Commission on Good Government said P170 billion have been recovered but they are after P125 billion more. The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them. In 2022, Marcos Jr. won the presidential election in a landslide vote, with the help of what critics said was a well-oiled disinformation campaign to rehabilitate the family’s image. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. The Marcos family’s image rehabilitation continues. Remember what Cory did: “The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them.” She may be turning in her grave now. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos on getting to the bottom of Duterte-China ‘secret deal’: ‘Maraming palusot’

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:01

DIALOGUE. Then-Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping during a bilateral meeting in Beijing on August 29, 2019. Malacanang MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed frustration over conflicting information regarding the “secret deal” struck between his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte and China on the West Philippine Sea years ago. Beijing has been raising this gentleman’s agreement between the two countries, now that Manila has adopted a stronger stance on defending the Philippines’ sovereignty in its territorial waters. Marcos said he has three questions, but the last two remain unanswered: is there really a secret agreement, what was the secret agreement about, and why was it kept a secret? “These are very simple questions, but I’m finding a deal of difficulty finding the answers because I hear one thing, and another thing, and another thing. It’s all very…maraming palusot (There are so many excuses),” Marcos lamented during the presidential forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Monday, April 15. “I have tried to get in touch with former officials of the previous administration who could possibly have been involved in these discussions and I have to tell you, I haven’t gotten a straight answer out of anyone,” he added. A senior Chinese official, speaking on condition of anonymity to the Manila Times in March, said that during Duterte’s time as president, Beijing agreed not to harass resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre, the dilapidated Philippine Navy ship that serves as the country’s military outpost in Ayungin Shoal, as long as Philippine vessels don’t bring in construction materials. Sought for confirmation, former presidential spokesman Harry Roque said later that month that the Duterte administration agreed with China to keep the status quo in the West Philippine Sea, but insisted the deal did not tackle specifics such as resupply missions in Ayungin Shoal. Another Duterte-era official, former chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo, denied in early April the existence of a deal to maintain the status quo in the territorial waters. On Thursday, April 11, Duterte said there was no gentleman’s agreement at all, just an understanding with Beijing not to let armed patrols move into the West Philippine Sea to avoid further tensions. Marcos said last week he was “horrified” by the thought that the Philippine government compromised national sovereignty through a secret agreement. “Why is there not one single document that contains the agreement? Why is there not one shred of evidence that can show that this agreement exists? Why is it that during the transition period between the previous administration to this administration, no one mentioned a secret agreement?” Marcos also said on Monday. Asked whether Duterte could be held legally liable, Marcos said he cannot see how, given that there is no documentary evidence of the agreement as of the moment. Tensions in the West Philippine Sea have escalated since Marcos rose to the presidency, with numerous harassment tactics by China against Philippine vessels. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Philippine gov’t will not turn in Duterte to ICC, says Marcos

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 16:54

Marcos screenshot from RTVM, Duterte screenshot from Rody Duterte's Facebook page MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will not allow the International Criminal Court (ICC) to arrest his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. “We won’t recognize the warrant that they will send to us,” Marcos said during the presidential forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Monday, April 15. Since assuming the presidency, Marcos has insisted that the Philippines does not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC. The country withdrew from the body in 2019, during Duterte’s time as president. One reporter asked Marcos during the forum: Is a rules-based order only applicable when it’s convenient for the Philippines? The question was in reference to Manila’s insistence on a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea, where China has engaged in harassment tactics against Filipino-owned vessels. “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary,” Marcos answered. Duterte is being investigated by the ICC over his bloody drug war, which killed over 6,000 people according to police records, although human rights groups believe the death toll is much higher. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. Marcos Jr.’s presumptive answer: “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary.” But what kind of judiciary was it? Perhaps PBBM just waited for the right timing to finally frustrate the Duterte Dynasty’s political competitiveness. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos Jr. dodges question on refusal to apologize for Martial Law atrocities

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:44

File photo. Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as he meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sidestepped questions regarding his insistence not to say sorry for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law regime of his late father, the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos. During the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) presidential luncheon on Monday, April 15, a reporter asked Marcos, “Why have you resisted issuing an apology for the atrocities committed during Martial Law under your father’s rule, and will you continue doing so as president?” “I don’t think it’s a duty for a president to be involved. That is a personal matter for the Marcos family,” he answered. “My role as president is more important right now than my role as a member of the Marcos family.” The reporter, seemingly unsatisfied with the answer, threw a follow-up at Marcos, “So will you apologize as president of the Republic in behalf?” “That seems highly contrived. Who is apologizing to whom?” Marcos replied, after which the subject has been dropped. Marcos, in the past, dismissed the idea of saying sorry for the sins committed by his father. “Will I say sorry for the thousands and thousands of kilometers [of roads] that were built? Will I say sorry for the agricultural policy that brought us to self-sufficiency in rice? Will I say sorry for the power generation? Will I say sorry for the highest literacy rate in Asia? What am I to say sorry about?” Marcos Jr. said in a 2015 interview. The presidency of Marcos Sr. from 1965 to 1986 became among the darkest chapters of Philippine history. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 allowed him to stay in power beyond the two-term limit imposed by the 1935 Constitution. That era was marked by widespread corruption in government, suppression of various freedoms, and human rights violations. Amnesty International said 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981. After the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution booted out Marcos Sr. and left his family no choice but to go intoexile in Hawaii, the succeeding government formed a body tasked to go after their ill-gotten wealth. As of 2021, the Presidential Commission on Good Government said P170 billion have been recovered but they are after P125 billion more. The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them. In 2022, Marcos Jr. won the presidential election in a landslide vote, with the help of what critics said was a well-oiled disinformation campaign to rehabilitate the family’s image. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. The Marcos family’s image rehabilitation continues. Remember what Cory did: “The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them.” She may be turning in her grave now. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos Jr. dodges question on refusal to apologize for Martial Law atrocities

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:44

File photo. Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as he meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sidestepped questions regarding his insistence not to say sorry for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law regime of his late father, the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos. During the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) presidential luncheon on Monday, April 15, a reporter asked Marcos, “Why have you resisted issuing an apology for the atrocities committed during Martial Law under your father’s rule, and will you continue doing so as president?” “I don’t think it’s a duty for a president to be involved. That is a personal matter for the Marcos family,” he answered. “My role as president is more important right now than my role as a member of the Marcos family.” The reporter, seemingly unsatisfied with the answer, threw a follow-up at Marcos, “So will you apologize as president of the Republic in behalf?” “That seems highly contrived. Who is apologizing to whom?” Marcos replied, after which the subject has been dropped. Marcos, in the past, dismissed the idea of saying sorry for the sins committed by his father. “Will I say sorry for the thousands and thousands of kilometers [of roads] that were built? Will I say sorry for the agricultural policy that brought us to self-sufficiency in rice? Will I say sorry for the power generation? Will I say sorry for the highest literacy rate in Asia? What am I to say sorry about?” Marcos Jr. said in a 2015 interview. The presidency of Marcos Sr. from 1965 to 1986 became among the darkest chapters of Philippine history. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 allowed him to stay in power beyond the two-term limit imposed by the 1935 Constitution. That era was marked by widespread corruption in government, suppression of various freedoms, and human rights violations. Amnesty International said 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981. After the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution booted out Marcos Sr. and left his family no choice but to go intoexile in Hawaii, the succeeding government formed a body tasked to go after their ill-gotten wealth. As of 2021, the Presidential Commission on Good Government said P170 billion have been recovered but they are after P125 billion more. The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them. In 2022, Marcos Jr. won the presidential election in a landslide vote, with the help of what critics said was a well-oiled disinformation campaign to rehabilitate the family’s image. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. The Marcos family’s image rehabilitation continues. Remember what Cory did: “The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them.” She may be turning in her grave now. How does this make you feel?

Rappler

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Marcos Jr. dodges question on refusal to apologize for Martial Law atrocities

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:44

File photo. Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as he meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sidestepped questions regarding his insistence not to say sorry for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law regime of his late father, the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos. During the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) presidential luncheon on Monday, April 15, a reporter asked Marcos, “Why have you resisted issuing an apology for the atrocities committed during Martial Law under your father’s rule, and will you continue doing so as president?” “I don’t think it’s a duty for a president to be involved. That is a personal matter for the Marcos family,” he answered. “My role as president is more important right now than my role as a member of the Marcos family.” The reporter, seemingly unsatisfied with the answer, threw a follow-up at Marcos, “So will you apologize as president of the Republic in behalf?” “That seems highly contrived. Who is apologizing to whom?” Marcos replied, after which the subject has been dropped. Marcos, in the past, dismissed the idea of saying sorry for the sins committed by his father. “Will I say sorry for the thousands and thousands of kilometers [of roads] that were built? Will I say sorry for the agricultural policy that brought us to self-sufficiency in rice? Will I say sorry for the power generation? Will I say sorry for the highest literacy rate in Asia? What am I to say sorry about?” Marcos Jr. said in a 2015 interview. The presidency of Marcos Sr. from 1965 to 1986 became among the darkest chapters of Philippine history. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 allowed him to stay in power beyond the two-term limit imposed by the 1935 Constitution. That era was marked by widespread corruption in government, suppression of various freedoms, and human rights violations. Amnesty International said 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981. After the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution booted out Marcos Sr. and left his family no choice but to go intoexile in Hawaii, the succeeding government formed a body tasked to go after their ill-gotten wealth. As of 2021, the Presidential Commission on Good Government said P170 billion have been recovered but they are after P125 billion more. The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them. In 2022, Marcos Jr. won the presidential election in a landslide vote, with the help of what critics said was a well-oiled disinformation campaign to rehabilitate the family’s image. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. The Marcos family’s image rehabilitation continues. Remember what Cory did: “The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them.” She may be turning in her grave now. How does this make you feel?

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View from Manila: Will the real gentleman – or agreement – please stand up?

Bea Cupin

15/04/2024 16:18

Rappler.com MANILA, Philippines – Last week, the Philippines began a “new trilateral chapter” with the United States and Japan – two countries which, once upon a time, were its colonizers. The White House was host to the first-ever trilateral leaders summit between US President Joe Biden, Japan Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Several high-level meetings preceded and followed that trilateral summit – a state visit by Kishida to the White House, a bilateral meeting between Biden and Marcos, meetings between the foreign ministers of Japan and the Philippines, and what seems to be the first-ever 3 + 3 meeting of the US and the Philippines between its foreign and defense secretaries, and national security advisers. The three countries “expressed… serious concern” over Chinese actions both in the South China Sea and the East China Sea, bodies of water that separate China from the Philippines and Japan, respectively. “We reiterate serious concern over the PRC’s repeated obstruction of Philippine vessels’ exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and the disruption of supply lines to Second Thomas Shoal, which constitute dangerous and destabilizing conduct. The final and legally binding July 12, 2016 Arbitral Tribunal determined that this feature lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, and we call on the PRC to abide by the ruling,” read their joint statement. That declaration was immediately followed by a similar expression of “serious concerns regarding the situation in the East China Sea,” and opposition to China’s attempts to “unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea, including through actions that seek to undermine Japan’s longstanding and peaceful administration of the Senkaku Islands.” And then: “We affirm the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of global security and prosperity, recognize that there is no change in our basic positions on Taiwan, and call for a peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.” Biden also affirmed US alliance commitments with both Japan and the Philippines. The importance of managing tensions both in the South China Sea (specifically, the West Philippine Sea) and the Taiwan Strait, is existential for the Philippines. The West Philippine Sea encompasses an area that includes the country’s exclusive economic zone and areas where it claims sovereignty, and Marcos has himself said it’d be “hard to imagine” a non-involved Philippines should tensions in the Taiwan Strait hit a boiling point. That the Ayungin or Second Thomas Shoal, the Senkaku Islands, and the Taiwan Strait are mentioned one after another in a statement issued by the leaders of the Philippines and Japan, alongside the commander-in-chief of their superpower ally, is huge. Interlocutors, analysts, and even diplomats themselves have described the Marcos administrations’ foreign policy direction as its “resumption” of a path it had always taken – alongside the West and fellow democracies. The creation – and the continuation – of this three-way relationship “is in the best interest of Manila,” according to geopolitical analyst Don McLain Gill, a lecturer at the De La Salle University’s International Studies department. “The trilateral has strongly emphasized the need for all three democracies to enhance individual and collective defense and economic resilience to better address China’s multidimensional sources of power projection,” he added. Remember that among Manila’s advantages is its defense networks, according to the Lowy Institute. China isn’t pleased. Right after the summit, the China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing summoned the ambassadors of both Tokyo and Manila to make “solemn representations” over “negative words and deeds” about China during the summit. “To know whether the trilateral summit and cooperation is truly not aimed at China, the answer is right there in the trilateral statement. What else could it be if it’s not a smear and attack against China?” said Beijing’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning. China claims almost all of the South China Sea, including Ayungin Shoal, which is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. This is in defiance of a 2016 Arbitral Award that rejected China’s 10-dash line (it was a 9-dash then). Meanwhile, miles away from Washington or Beijing, former president Rodrigo Duterte denied having made a “gentleman’s agreement” between the Philippines and China over Ayungin Shoal. “That’s what I remember. If it were a gentleman’s agreement, it would always have been an agreement to keep the peace in the South China Sea,” he told a press conference in Davao on April 12. Former human rights lawyer and Duterte spokesperson Harry Roque earlier confirmed that a deal was made between the Duterte administration and China to “respect the status quo” in the West Philippine Sea. But then another former Duterte spokesperson, Salvador Panelo, claimed no deal on Ayungin was made. Roque would later “clarify” that while a deal was made, it did not tackle specifics such as resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal. It was a senior Chinese official, speaking to Philippine media on the condition of anonymity, who resurfaced the supposed “understanding” between Duterte and China. That Chinese official recalled that under the conditions of the deal, China would not harass rotation and resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre as long as the Philippines did not “bring in large-scale building materials to Ayungin Shoal.” In other words, China claimed that Duterte promised not to reinforce the rusting Sierra Madre, which serves as the country’s military outpost in that area. In a statement on April 11, the Chinese embassy in Manila said: “Thanks to the understandings and agreements reached by the two sides, the overall peace and stability at Ren’ai Jiao [China’s name for Ayungin or Second Thomas Shoal] was maintained in the past few years. And also because the understandings and agreements were no longer adhered to, the situation around Ren’ai Jiao became difficult and incidents happened once and again.” Marcos said he knows nothing about the “gentlemen’s agreement” and was “horrified by the idea that we have compromised, through a secret agreement, the territory, the sovereignty, and the sovereign rights of the Filipinos.” There seems to be no official document or memorandum that records this agreement – at least not as far as Manila is concerned. Reporters in Manila have repeatedly asked the Chinese embassy here to show proof, documentation – anything, really – of this agreement. It’s also not hard to imagine that Duterte was confused – over what agreement China was referring to, or consequences of these terms over specific features in the West Philippine Sea. After all, this is the same man who confused Benham Rise (located east of the Philippines, in the Philippine Sea) for the West Philippine Sea. Duterte’s focus then (aside from turning away from the US and pivoting towards China) was making sure that Filipino fisherfolk were able to enjoy the bounty of the West Philippine Sea. His administration was also not enthusiastic about the 2016 Arbitral Ruling. His daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, has chosen the path of silence. Amid China’s harassment in the West Philippine Sea, “no comment” was all the former Davao mayor had to say. Marcos sought to explain the Vice President’s silence. “I think we are all in line because I’m very sure that if Inday Sara had some very serious misgivings about what we are doing in terms of foreign policies, she would bring that to me,” he said, speaking to Philippine media before leaving Washington DC. Military officers, in public and in private, will tell you that Marcos’ instructions with regards to the Sierra Madre are clear: it should be manned at all times, and the Philippines must never abandon it. The Philippines has become more and more active in defending its sovereign rights and asserting sovereignty claims in the West Philippine Sea. How can the Philippine Coast Guard, still catching up from years of neglect, carry that mission out? More crucially, how is the Philippine military supposed to carry that out? The acquisition wishlist that is Horizon 3 has been approved but has not yet been made public. While trade and development promises were flexed hard during the trilateral summit, the US and Japan are also making commitments to helping strengthen the maritime and military forces not just through new toys and gadgets, but through training and interoperability exercises. We expect to see more joint sails among the navies and coast guards of the three counties. Joint exercises and patrols in the Indo-Pacific are also on the horizon. By next week, the Philippines kicks off Balikatan 2024 – the biggest of its joint exercises with US troops. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Philippine gov’t will not turn in Duterte to ICC, says Marcos

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 16:54

Marcos screenshot from RTVM, Duterte screenshot from Rody Duterte's Facebook page MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will not allow the International Criminal Court (ICC) to arrest his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. “We won’t recognize the warrant that they will send to us,” Marcos said during the presidential forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Monday, April 15. Since assuming the presidency, Marcos has insisted that the Philippines does not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC. The country withdrew from the body in 2019, during Duterte’s time as president. One reporter asked Marcos during the forum: Is a rules-based order only applicable when it’s convenient for the Philippines? The question was in reference to Manila’s insistence on a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea, where China has engaged in harassment tactics against Filipino-owned vessels. “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary,” Marcos answered. Duterte is being investigated by the ICC over his bloody drug war, which killed over 6,000 people according to police records, although human rights groups believe the death toll is much higher. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. Marcos Jr.’s presumptive answer: “It is the rule of ICC that they come in when there is no judiciary, they come in when there is no police force. We have a judiciary.” But what kind of judiciary was it? Perhaps PBBM just waited for the right timing to finally frustrate the Duterte Dynasty’s political competitiveness. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos Jr. dodges question on refusal to apologize for Martial Law atrocities

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:44

File photo. Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as he meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sidestepped questions regarding his insistence not to say sorry for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law regime of his late father, the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos. During the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) presidential luncheon on Monday, April 15, a reporter asked Marcos, “Why have you resisted issuing an apology for the atrocities committed during Martial Law under your father’s rule, and will you continue doing so as president?” “I don’t think it’s a duty for a president to be involved. That is a personal matter for the Marcos family,” he answered. “My role as president is more important right now than my role as a member of the Marcos family.” The reporter, seemingly unsatisfied with the answer, threw a follow-up at Marcos, “So will you apologize as president of the Republic in behalf?” “That seems highly contrived. Who is apologizing to whom?” Marcos replied, after which the subject has been dropped. Marcos, in the past, dismissed the idea of saying sorry for the sins committed by his father. “Will I say sorry for the thousands and thousands of kilometers [of roads] that were built? Will I say sorry for the agricultural policy that brought us to self-sufficiency in rice? Will I say sorry for the power generation? Will I say sorry for the highest literacy rate in Asia? What am I to say sorry about?” Marcos Jr. said in a 2015 interview. The presidency of Marcos Sr. from 1965 to 1986 became among the darkest chapters of Philippine history. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 allowed him to stay in power beyond the two-term limit imposed by the 1935 Constitution. That era was marked by widespread corruption in government, suppression of various freedoms, and human rights violations. Amnesty International said 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981. After the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution booted out Marcos Sr. and left his family no choice but to go intoexile in Hawaii, the succeeding government formed a body tasked to go after their ill-gotten wealth. As of 2021, the Presidential Commission on Good Government said P170 billion have been recovered but they are after P125 billion more. The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them. In 2022, Marcos Jr. won the presidential election in a landslide vote, with the help of what critics said was a well-oiled disinformation campaign to rehabilitate the family’s image. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. The Marcos family’s image rehabilitation continues. Remember what Cory did: “The Marcos family, however, has successfully reintegrated themselves in Philippine politics after the Corazon Aquino government allowed them to return home in 1991 to face the legal challenges against them.” She may be turning in her grave now. How does this make you feel?

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We stick with the President: AFP rejects Alvarez’s call to abandon Marcos

Miriam Grace Go

15/04/2024 17:54

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. attends with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (right) and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo the trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Kishida Fumio at the White House in Washington DC, April 11, 2024. Kevin Lamarque/REUTERS MANILA, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) rejected the call of Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon Alvarez for it to abandon President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to force him to resign. Alvarez said on Sunday night, April 14, in Tagum City that Marcos’ position on the Philippine claim in the West Philippine Sea “is making us to go to war with the world’s superpower, China. And that war will kill us all, Filipinos, especially our soldiers.” This is a line of reasoning that security experts and academics have debunked. Calling the President names like “Bobong Marcos” (Stupid Marcos) and “bangag” (high on drugs) during the prayer rally, Alvarez tried to appeal to the emotions of soldiers, saying nobody would take care of the families they would leave behind if they die in the field. “Our Constitution says the AFP shall protect the people and the state, not the president! If we allow the war to explode in the West Philippine Sea, there will be countless dead bodies and unimaginable destruction. Before that happens…. I call on the Armed Forces of the Philippines to please withdraw your support to (sic) the chief executive…. Bababa sa p’westo ‘yan (he’ll step down),” Alvarez said. The call fell on deaf ears. At a Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines event on Monday, April 15, AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. told reporters: “The AFP remains to be a professional organization. Our mandate is very clear. We will protect the Constitution, and we will follow the duly constituted authorities. In other words, we will follow the chain of command.” The President is the constitutionally designated commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Marcos has just returned from the United States, where he held a summit with US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and agreed to strengthen the three countries’ security cooperation to keep regional waters free and open. The President also said he had approved countermeasures to China’s growing aggression in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zones. He said he was “horrified” at the thought of Beijing’s claim that it had a gentleman’s agreement with former president Rodrigo Duterte’s administration to not reinforce Sierra Madre, the Philippines’ military outpost in Ayungin Shoal. At the Tagum rally, Alvarez took turns with former president Duterte, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque in lambasting Marcos. The Duterte camp began openly criticizing the Marcos administration on various issues after Congress removed the confidential funds from the budget of Vice President Sara Duterte’s offices, and after Marcos shifted foreign policy back to the West and other democracies, from Rodrigo Duterte’s kowtowing to China. Since he rekindled his relationship with former president Duterte, Alvarez has echoed the attacks by the Duterte patriarch and his sons against the incumbent chief executive. He has called for an independent Mindanao (which fellow lawmakers rejected), rejected the charter change push under the current administration, and called for Marcos’ resignation as a supposed solution to the worsening tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Alvarez was Duterte’s House speaker from 2016 until 2018, when he was ousted, following then-Davao City mayor Sara Duterte’s call on congressmen and women to unseat him. Sara said her father was better off without Alvarez, whom she called an “insecure slob” and a “fat sleaze.” Alvarez’s colleagues at the lower chamber are not too happy about his call to the AFP, with some congressmen saying he could face sedition charges. “The response to the seditious statement should be the immediate filing of a criminal case so that the move to incite people, including the military, to rebel against the government will be nipped in the bud,” Camiguin Representative Jurdin Jesus Romualdo said in a statement on Monday. This is not the first time – Romualdo also wanted Alvarez to face sedition charges for his previous call to separate Mindanao from the rest of the republic. In a separate release, Lanao del Norte Representative Khalid Dimaporo also said the House committee on ethics could investigate the former Speaker. Alvarez’s absence in performing his duties as a congressman was also hit. La Union Representative Paulo Ortega noted they “have not seen him for quite some time” in sessions and committee deliberations at the lower chamber. At the Senate, Senate Minority Leader made an appeal to the bickering lawmakers. “I appeal to my good friends: 1. Former speaker Bebot Alvarez to insulate the armed forces from political matters but to continue to speak out on the burning issues of the day and 2. Deputy Speaker Johnny Pimentel not to file criminal cases so as to uphold and strengthen the right to free speech and to assemble with people of similar positions in the burning issues of the day,” Pimentel said. Pimentel also said that selection of the country’s political leaders “should be settled through honest elections” and not left to be determined by the military or any armed group. “Let us insulate our armed forces from politics so that they can develop into a more professional, disciplined, and inspired group,” he added. In a statement on Tuesday, April 16, Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro said that calls for the military to “withdraw support” from the Marcos administration was “futile,” and would only lead to a “possible criminal investigation.” “The AFP is standing steadfast in upholding the Constitution under the leadership of the Commander in Chief President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. Any attempt to sway them away from this duty or to patronize them to support a partisan agenda is futile, particularly when this agenda dovetails with a foreign interest contrary to our own national interests,” he said in a statement to media. – with a report from Bea Cupin/Rappler.com Error. 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Marcos on getting to the bottom of Duterte-China ‘secret deal’: ‘Maraming palusot’

Dwight de Leon

15/04/2024 18:01

DIALOGUE. Then-Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping during a bilateral meeting in Beijing on August 29, 2019. Malacanang MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed frustration over conflicting information regarding the “secret deal” struck between his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte and China on the West Philippine Sea years ago. Beijing has been raising this gentleman’s agreement between the two countries, now that Manila has adopted a stronger stance on defending the Philippines’ sovereignty in its territorial waters. Marcos said he has three questions, but the last two remain unanswered: is there really a secret agreement, what was the secret agreement about, and why was it kept a secret? “These are very simple questions, but I’m finding a deal of difficulty finding the answers because I hear one thing, and another thing, and another thing. It’s all very…maraming palusot (There are so many excuses),” Marcos lamented during the presidential forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Monday, April 15. “I have tried to get in touch with former officials of the previous administration who could possibly have been involved in these discussions and I have to tell you, I haven’t gotten a straight answer out of anyone,” he added. A senior Chinese official, speaking on condition of anonymity to the Manila Times in March, said that during Duterte’s time as president, Beijing agreed not to harass resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre, the dilapidated Philippine Navy ship that serves as the country’s military outpost in Ayungin Shoal, as long as Philippine vessels don’t bring in construction materials. Sought for confirmation, former presidential spokesman Harry Roque said later that month that the Duterte administration agreed with China to keep the status quo in the West Philippine Sea, but insisted the deal did not tackle specifics such as resupply missions in Ayungin Shoal. Another Duterte-era official, former chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo, denied in early April the existence of a deal to maintain the status quo in the territorial waters. On Thursday, April 11, Duterte said there was no gentleman’s agreement at all, just an understanding with Beijing not to let armed patrols move into the West Philippine Sea to avoid further tensions. Marcos said last week he was “horrified” by the thought that the Philippine government compromised national sovereignty through a secret agreement. “Why is there not one single document that contains the agreement? Why is there not one shred of evidence that can show that this agreement exists? Why is it that during the transition period between the previous administration to this administration, no one mentioned a secret agreement?” Marcos also said on Monday. Asked whether Duterte could be held legally liable, Marcos said he cannot see how, given that there is no documentary evidence of the agreement as of the moment. Tensions in the West Philippine Sea have escalated since Marcos rose to the presidency, with numerous harassment tactics by China against Philippine vessels. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Jameson brings Poblacion’s streets to life with a St. Patrick’s Day street party

gbarrientos0280

12/04/2024 15:44

The streets of Poblacion were painted green last March 16, when Jameson Irish Whiskey threw an all-out St. Patrick’s Day party. It was a Saturday night to remember, as hundreds of visitors came out to sing with some of the hottest OPM acts, play games, and dance on the streets with a cup of Jameson Ginger & Lime on the house. Want to know what went down? Here’s a recap that’ll make you wish you were there! Some of the hottest bands graced the Jameson stage and brought the street party to life. Lola Amour came out and performed hits like “Raining in Manila” and “Pwede Ba” and got the crowd screaming. Juan Karlos then followed to keep the energy at an all time high, with crowd-favorite tracks like “Ere” and “Buwan.” Party scene heavy hitters like DJ Ron Poe and Margachi also played sets that made the people dance, keeping the good vibes going all the way ‘til midnight. The area had three Jameson bars to keep everyone quenched with their favorite whiskey drink. Upon presenting their Jameson Digital Passport app, each guest got a free cup of the deliciously refreshing Jameson Ginger and Lime. To add to the fun, visitors also got the chance to win exclusive goodies like the Jameson x Kurimu ice cream, a Jameson cap, a custom Jameson tote bag, and a whole lot more! It’s not a block party without your neighbors joining in on the fun! Jameson also partnered with adjacent bars like Z-Hostel, Kampai, Ugly Duck, White Banana, Apotheka and many more to offer special St. Patrick’s Day promos on Jameson drinks. At a Jameson party, everyone is always encouraged to drink responsibly. Folks could also get free water at a designated hydration station plus a roaming water refiller. All around the area, giant versions of beloved games like Jenga and Connect 4 were set up for friends and family to enjoy. There was also a Jameson foosball table and a ring toss made out of Jameson bottles. Visitors could make new friends or hang out with their loved ones with a little friendly competition! For something less competitive, guests could also customize their own Jameson tote bags with a heat press booth or leave their mark on the doodle-friendly Jameson barrels booth. Folks could also bring home some limited edition merch to remember the night for life. The Dickies x Jameson streetwear collection has caps, sweaters, and shirts that show off the collaboration of two iconic brands. The collection is only available for purchase at select Jameson events, so each piece can definitely be a conversation starter for streetwear fans. Feeling that FOMO yet? Don’t worry, Jameson has more events up its sleeve. Follow them on socials at @jamesonph on Instagram and @jamesonwhiskeyph on Facebook to stay in the loop. – Rappler.com All photos by Mike Liwanag Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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FACT CHECK: Marcos did not declare war on China in Day of Valor speech

Lorenz Pasion

13/04/2024 9:45

Claim: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared war on China during his speech commemorating the 82nd anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on April 9. Why we fact-checked this: The YouTube video bearing the claim was uploaded on April 10 and gained 71,652 views, 2, 200 likes, and 851 comments as of writing. The video’s title reads: “Nilusob na China sa Manila! PBBM nagdeklara na! Gyera na! Malaking gulo to! Damay lahat dito Chinese.” (China is attacked in Manila! PBBM has made a declaration! It’s war! This is a big conflict! All Chinese will be affected.) The facts: The footage used in the misleading video was from the President’s Day of Valor speech on April 9 at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan. Contrary to the claim, Marcos did not declare war on China, but urged Filipinos not to yield to those who present “clear and present threats to our sovereign rights” and to draw inspiration from the patriotism of Filipino World War II heroes. (FAST FACTS: Araw ng Kagitingan) “Ang mga ito ay hindi katanggap-tanggap. Hindi makatuwiran o makatarungan, lalo na sa panahong ito ng payapang pakikipag-ugnayan ng mga bansa. Nawa’y magsilbing inspirasyon ang mga kaganapan noong 1942 at ang tagumpay natin noong 1945 sa ating lahat,” Marcos said. (These are not acceptable, reasonable, or just, especially at this time of peaceful cooperation among nations. May the events of 1942 and our victory in 1945 serve as inspiration for all of us.) “Tulad ng pinamalas ng ating mga dakilang ninuno, hindi tayo dapat magpasupil at magpaapi, lalo na sa loob ng ating sariling bakuran. Nawa’y mapagkunan natin ito ng pang-ibayong kamalayan, tapang, at lakas ng loob,” he added. (As our great ancestors have demonstrated, we should not be subjugated or oppressed, especially within our own territory. May we draw from this a deeper sense of awareness, courage, and resilience.) Nowhere in the transcript of the speech was a declaration of war mentioned, nor was the speech directly addressed to China, contrary to what the video suggests. Japanese envoy: The video also claimed that Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya, who attended the commemoration, dared China to try invading the Philippines and see for itself how fierce Japan can be. This is contrary to what the envoy said. In his speech, he said, “We, the Japanese people, are determined to never allow the devastation of war to be repeated ever again for the sake of present and future generations,” a reference to the Japanese occupation of the Philippines from 1942 to 1945. No line from his speech provoked China to invade the Philippines. China’s assertive actions: The video was posted amid rising tensions between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea, which Beijing claims as part of its territory in defiance of a historic 2016 ruling dismissing its expansive maritime claims. ([EXPLAINER] South China Sea: Why are China and Philippines tensions heating up?) Tensions in the South China Se were a key issue in the first trilateral summit between the US, Japan, and the Philippines on April 11. Marcos, US President Joe Biden, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met at the White House to discuss peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, including ensuring freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, and economic collaboration among the three nations. During the summit, Biden reaffirmed the US commitment to protecting the Philippines against any armed aggression in the West Philippine Sea. This move is perceived as a cautionary message to China and a reassurance to allies concerned about Chinese actions in the region. – Brian Jay B. Baybayan/Rappler.com Brian Jay Baybayan is a campus journalist from the Mindanao State University-General Santos City. Editor-in-chief of The Papyrus, he is also an Aries Rufo Journalism fellow of Rappler for 2023-2024. Keep us aware of suspicious Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, articles, or photos in your network by contacting us at factcheck@rappler.com. You may also report dubious claims to the #FactsFirstPH tipline by messaging Rappler on Facebook or Newsbreak via Twitter direct message. You may also report through our Viber fact check chatbot. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Sinkhole near Villamor Air Base causes partial closure of Sales Road in Pasay

lkyu0285

15/04/2024 12:00

DAMAGE. A water-filled hole opened up along Sales Road on April 14, 2024. MMDA Facebook Page MANILA, Philippines – A portion of Sales Road in Pasay City was closed off to traffic as authorities drain and repair a deep, water-filled hole in the road. As of Monday morning, April 15, both lanes of the east-bound side of Sales Road near Villamor Air Base Gate 3 remained cordoned off, with counterflow measures in place. The portion of Sales Road near the military base is among the at-grade routes to and from NAIA Terminal 3. Photos of the damage – discovered only on Sunday, April 14 – show a hole several meters wide. A team from the Department of Works and Highways (DPWH) and water provider Maynilad said that the leak came from a secondary pipeline at the opposite side of the eastbound lane where the sinkhole is. The DPWH is currently completing the concrete encasement, backfilling, and concreting of the road, which will be reopened to traffic by April 17, 4 pm. MMDA head Don Artes said on Monday, April 15, that a team from the DPWH, water provider Maynilad, and San Miguel’s nearby Skyway were still looking for the source of the water leak that caused the hole to form before the road could be fully repaired. “Hindi po natin alam ‘yung extent pa ng damage doon sa nasabing kalsada, at hinahanap pa ‘yung source ng tubig para ma-plug ‘yung leak bago ito matabunan, masementohan, at madaanan ng ating mga kababayan,” Artes said. (We don’t know yet the extent of the damage in the road, and we’re still looking for the source of the water so that the leak can be plugged before we cover it, cement it, and allow our countrymen to start passing there again.) Skyway personnel are also inspecting the area for possible damage since the elevated expressway passes directly overhead and has several columns along the road. “Marami pong poste ng Skyway ang nandiyan, so kailangan din pong tignan kung naaapektuhan ‘yung integrity ng mga poste po ng Skyway,” Artes said. (There are many Skyway posts there, so they also have to check if the integrity of the Skyway’s posts were affected.) The MMDA said that as of now, the Skyway was still deemed safe for motorists to use. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Hidilyn Diaz tells Paris Olympians to take pride in representing PH

delfin.dioquino editor

14/04/2024 23:37

PH PRIDE. Hidilyn Diaz wins gold for the Philippines in the 2022 Southeast Asian Games. Chalinee Thirasupa/Reuters MANILA, Philippines – Filipino athletes bound for the Paris Games do not have to look far for sound advice as they gear up for the biggest fight of their careers. Hidilyn Diaz, the first and only Filipino to win an Olympic gold medal, gave members of Team Philippines words of encouragement as she turns into a spectator, missing the Games for the first time after four straight appearances. “Do your best. But enjoy the moment. The Olympics happens only every four years,” said Diaz on Sunday, April 14, during the 60th anniversary event of energy drink MILO at Trinoma in Quezon City. “Take pride that you’re representing the country.” Nine have clinched Paris berths: pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan, boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, and Aira Villegas, and weightlifters Elreen Ando, Vanessa Sarno, and John Ceniza. Another weightlifter, Rosegie Ramos, hopes to catch the plane to Paris. If Ramos makes the cut, it will be a first time for the country that four weightlifters will don the national colors in a single Olympics. That is the impact Diaz has created for Philippine weightlifting after bagging silver in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games and a historic gold in the Tokyo Games in 2021 on top of her other accomplishments in the international scene. “I’m happy for them because they trained hard. That was our goal – to qualify. Now, it is to win,” said Diaz. “As their older sister, of course I’m happy.” More are expected to qualify as the Philippine Olympic Committee aims to send 25 athletes to Paris. There, Team Philippines faces the daunting task of surpassing the one-gold, two-silver, one-bronze tally the country netted in Tokyo for its biggest medal haul in Olympic history. For Diaz, it all comes down to the athletes’ desire to succeed. “It is all in the heart and mindset and the discipline and grit in the things that they do every day,” said Diaz. “You need to have a dream.” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Sinkhole near Villamor Air Base causes partial closure of Sales Road in Pasay

lkyu0285

15/04/2024 12:00

DAMAGE. A water-filled hole opened up along Sales Road on April 14, 2024. MMDA Facebook Page MANILA, Philippines – A portion of Sales Road in Pasay City was closed off to traffic as authorities drain and repair a deep, water-filled hole in the road. As of Monday morning, April 15, both lanes of the east-bound side of Sales Road near Villamor Air Base Gate 3 remained cordoned off, with counterflow measures in place. The portion of Sales Road near the military base is among the at-grade routes to and from NAIA Terminal 3. Photos of the damage – discovered only on Sunday, April 14 – show a hole several meters wide. A team from the Department of Works and Highways (DPWH) and water provider Maynilad said that the leak came from a secondary pipeline at the opposite side of the eastbound lane where the sinkhole is. The DPWH is currently completing the concrete encasement, backfilling, and concreting of the road, which will be reopened to traffic by April 17, 4 pm. MMDA head Don Artes said on Monday, April 15, that a team from the DPWH, water provider Maynilad, and San Miguel’s nearby Skyway were still looking for the source of the water leak that caused the hole to form before the road could be fully repaired. “Hindi po natin alam ‘yung extent pa ng damage doon sa nasabing kalsada, at hinahanap pa ‘yung source ng tubig para ma-plug ‘yung leak bago ito matabunan, masementohan, at madaanan ng ating mga kababayan,” Artes said. (We don’t know yet the extent of the damage in the road, and we’re still looking for the source of the water so that the leak can be plugged before we cover it, cement it, and allow our countrymen to start passing there again.) Skyway personnel are also inspecting the area for possible damage since the elevated expressway passes directly overhead and has several columns along the road. “Marami pong poste ng Skyway ang nandiyan, so kailangan din pong tignan kung naaapektuhan ‘yung integrity ng mga poste po ng Skyway,” Artes said. (There are many Skyway posts there, so they also have to check if the integrity of the Skyway’s posts were affected.) The MMDA said that as of now, the Skyway was still deemed safe for motorists to use. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Things to know about e-bike, e-trike restriction in Metro Manila

Pia Ranada

04/04/2024 12:02

EV. An e-bike traverses the inner streets of Makati City on March 11, 2024. Rappler MANILA, Philippines – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is all set to implement its road restriction on e-bicycles, e-tricycles, tricycles, pedicabs, and more starting April 15. It publicized the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the new policy last Monday, April 1. Active transport advocates from the Move As One Coalition had hoped to have more chances to contribute to the crafting of the IRR, after being told by MMDA officials in a March 11 meeting that they would get to see a draft IRR before its release. After following up thrice with the MMDA for the draft, they received from the agency the IRR that was eventually released to the public. What do commuters and motorists need to know about the road restriction? Here’s a summary of important points, based on the MMDA’s Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 4, Series of 2024, and related announcements by government agencies. Section 5 of the MMDA memo circular states that LEVs – electric bicycles, electric scooters, and similar vehicles weighing less than 50 kilograms –  can still traverse the roads covered by the restriction, if they are inside established bike lanes. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) emphasized this exception in a post. “Pwede pa rin kayo!” said the DOTR’s Active Transport Project Office in a Wednesday Facebook post. It reiterated that bicycles, electric kick scooters, e-tricycles, and electric unicycles may use bike lanes on all major roads, as long as they keep to a speed limit of 25 kilometers an hour and weigh less than 50 kilograms. Active transport advocates pointed out to Rappler that the term used by MMDA – “prohibition” – could confuse LEV users into thinking they are completely banned from national roads. E-bicycles, e-tricycles, electric kickscooters, electric scooters, electric unicycles, tricycles, pushcarts, pedicabs, kuligligs (pedicab mounted with a motorized engine) E-bikes, e-trikes, pedicabs, tricycles, and other covered vehicles are allowed on these major roads, outside the bike lanes, if they need to cross the road. In these cases, the MMDA states the covered vehicles have to yield to all incoming traffic. Tricycles are allowed to traverse the road up to a distance of 500 meters if their purpose is to enter – or exit from – a u-turn slot to get to the other side of the road. In these cases, the MMDA states the covered vehicles have to yield to all incoming traffic. Any driver or owner of the vehicles covered by the restriction who violates the policy will be fined P2,500. If the vehicle is not registered and the driver has no license, the vehicle will also be impounded. Certain types of light electric vehicles require registration with the Land Transportation Office. But active transport advocates are not satisfied with MMDA’s “exception” – allowing electric light vehicles on roads as long as they are on bike lanes. Robert Siy Jr., co-convenor of Move As One Coalition, told Rappler that this would be beneficial only if Metro Manila has a comprehensive network of bike lanes. “The reality is that most bike lanes in Metro Manila are intermittent or end abruptly, exposing LEVs to the risk of suddenly being on a road without a bike lane and in violation of the memorandum circular,” he said. He worries that the situation leaves light electric vehicle users prone to abusive MMDA enforcers who could apprehend them on roads where bike lanes end abruptly. Ira Cruz of AltMobilityPH said the MMDA restriction does not consider the impact on commuters and motorists who have turned to light electric vehicles to deal with the traffic situation in Metro Manila. “The popularity of e-trikes is simply one of the manifestations of the government’s failure to answer basic needs of ordinary Filipinos for mobility. It is unacceptrable for government to focus its energy on restrictions rather than solutions,” he told Rappler. Another group, PARA – Advocates for Inclusive Transport, pointed that the impending road restriction adds to what is already turning out to be a “cruel summer” for commuters in Metro Manila. First was the closure of the Philippine National Railways last March that affected an estimated 30,000 commuters; and the possible loss of critical jeepney routes should the government push through with enforcing its April 30 deadline for jeepney franchise consolidation. – Rappler.com What do you think of this upcoming MMDA policy? Share your thoughts with Rappler journalists and others concerned about transportation in the Liveable Cities chat room in the Rappler Communities app. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Job’s not finished: UAAP title redemption far from NU’s minds after La Salle conquest

jisaga0269

14/04/2024 23:51

CHAMPION'S HEART. NU spiker Bella Belen reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – For the first time in nearly two years, the NU Lady Bulldogs finally had the La Salle Lady Spikers’ number once again in UAAP women’s volleyball after completing a four-set conquest, 22-25, 25-23, 25-16, 25-22, in a Sunday, April 14 blockbuster at the jampacked Mall of Asia Arena. Rising sophomore spiker Vange Alinsug soared with 22 points, former MVP Bella Belen bounced back from a career-low 2-point outing with 14 markers, while Alyssa Solomon scored 13 in NU’s first win over La Salle since clinching the Season 84 championship in 2022. Although the Lady Bulldogs are nearing the coveted twice-to-beat Final Four bonus after rising to a top-rank tie with UST at 10-2, not a single player among their ranks is looking too far ahead – most especially Belen, who took no solace in beating a vulnerable Lady Spikers’ side still without MVP Angel Canino. “Personally, I’m not too satisfied yet because there are games left. We will always take it one game at a time,” she said in Filipino. “We’re not thinking of the future. What we have now, that’s where our focus is.” “We just really have to maintain our consistency every game, because beating La Salle is not where it ends,” Alinsug added in Filipino. “We still have a lot to go through and work hard for.” No matter how the Lady Bulldogs downplay their hot stretch, however, it’s undeniable that they are once again title favorites capable of beating any other top team, fully healthy or otherwise. After ending La Salle’s seven-game winning streak, NU is now the only team undefeated in the eliminations’ second round, with two more assignments remaining against fifth-ranked Adamson and fourth-seeded FEU. Still, Belen maintained a semblance of a champion’s pride, saying that nothing is unachievable with good old hustle in every passing game. “The championship will come to us as long as we work hard for it,” she continued. “I believe that every hardship we go through has its own reward.” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Pleasant surprise: Ralph Cu flirts with triple-double in gritty Ginebra win

delfin.dioquino editor

14/04/2024 22:16

SHOT. Ralph Cu in action for Barangay Ginebra in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup. PBA Images MANILA, Philippines – The fact that Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone has started Ralph Cu in several of their games means he believes the rookie forward can deliver. But a near triple-double performance from Cu is something else. Cu turned in the finest game of his young PBA career as he put up 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists to lift the Gin Kings to a 95-88 win over NorthPort in the Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Sunday, April 14. He fell just a dime short of becoming the first rookie to record a triple-double since teammate and former league MVP Scottie Thompson achieved the feat in 2016. “I do not think we expected it this early. Certainly not when we drafted him,” Cone said. Like a grizzled veteran, Cu made all the right plays from start to finish, shooting a sizzling 6-of-11 from beyond the arc and setting up his teammates down the stretch as Ginebra won back-to-back games to improve to 5-3. Cu drained his sixth and final triple with under three minutes remaining to break an 85-85 tie then assisted on a pair of Christian Standhardinger buckets inside the final two minutes that sealed the win for the Gin Kings. “Is it a surprise that he is playing this well? Yeah, certainly. But we expected him to play well. He started our games,” said Cone. “We expect him to play well. He is not doing anything in the game that he does not do in practice, to put it that way. He practices like he played today.” Ginebra landed Cu at the end of the second round as the No. 23 pick in the previous PBA Draft. His selection did not come as a surprise, considering Cu suited up for the Gin Kings in the PBA 3×3 and the PBA On Tour offseason series. Cone, though, said Ginebra picked Cu not just because of their ties. “It was not a pick like we were doing it just because he played for our [On] Tour team. We were sitting on pins and needles hoping we could get him, that no one else would draft him,” said Cone. “And no one else knew him like we did.” If several teams slept on Cu on draft day, his all-around performance has put the PBA on notice. “Triple-double, these are big numbers for anybody. So he just kind of announced himself to the league. I’m sure the next time out, they’re going to be a little bit more conscious of him,” said Cone. Benefitting from Cu, Standhardinger finished with a game-high 25 points on top of 17 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocks, while Scottie Thompson also did it all with 10 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals. Jamie Malonzo added 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, but the injury he suffered just as the game ended put a dampener on the win. Arvin Tolentino netted 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks in the losing effort as the Batang Pier absorbed their second straight loss to fall to 4-3. Barangay Ginebra 95 – Standhardinger 25, Cu 24, Malonzo 14, Ahanmisi 13, Thompson 10, J.Aguilar 4, David 3, Pringle 2, Tenorio 0, Pinto 0, Onwubere 0. NorthPort 88 – Tolentino 19, Munzon 12, Navarro 12, Bulanadi 11, Yu 8, Amores 7, Zamar 6, Calma 4, Lucero 4, Cuntapay 3, Flores 2, Rosales 0, Paraiso 0. Quarters: 30-21, 43-53, 73-70, 95-88. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Groups urge DENR to negotiate with Masungi over 2017 contract

Iya Gozum

15/04/2024 7:39

BIRD'S EYE VIEW. Limestone formations seen from Sapot ni Ric at Masungi Georeserve in Tanay, Rizal. MANILA, Philippines – Various groups called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to explore formal negotiations and open dialogues with Masungi Georeserve Foundation Inc. (MGFI), in light of the possible cancellation of the latter’s memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the government. Recently, DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga said they are bound to cancel their 2017 contract with the MGFI as it was “void from the beginning” because of the provision that gave the MGFI “perpetual land trust for conservation.” Seven groups expressed concern and said this could make the area in the Upper Marikina Watershed vulnerable to exploitation. “Cancelling the contract would not only undermine years of hard-fought progress but also set a dangerous precedent for conservation projects in the Philippines,” Wild Bird Club of the Philippines said in a statement. Wild Bird Club of the Philippines is one of the seven groups that expressed support. The roster includes Caritas Philippines, Alyansa Tigil Mina, Center for Environmental Concerns, Philippine Initiative for Environmental Conservation, Seeds of Hope Society Inc., and Saribuhay UP Diliman. Instead, groups said the DENR should open channels of communication with MGFI. “If the DENR is concerned with the legal aspects of the MOA, the agency should be open to resolving the issue together with the foundation, and should allow them to continue their conservation efforts,” Saribuhay UP Diliman’s statement read. “Shutting down an award-winning conservation project amidst the climate crisis due to fixable technicalities is the last thing the Filipinos need.” In 2017, the DENR, under the leadership of the late environment secretary Gina Lopez, signed a memorandum of agreement with the MGFI. It gave the MGFI the responsibility to reforest around 3,000 hectares of land in Rizal province. The MGFI also oversees the popular ecotourism spot Masungi Georeserve. “This is a time when the government should be supporting successful initiatives, not hindering them,” said Caritas Philippines vice president Bishop Gerardo Alminaza. The DENR had mentioned the possible cancellation since last year but has yet to make any concrete actions on the matter. Last year, the Department of Justice gave a formal opinion declaring the contested provision as unconstitutional because agreements between the State and private entities regarding exploration, development, and utilization of state-owned land projects must not exceed 25 years. MGFI maintains that the contract should be read as an agreement for a perpetual land trust for conservation, and not as a perpetual license. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. I agree with Saribuhay UP Diliman: “If the DENR is concerned with the legal aspects of the MOA, the agency should be open to resolving the issue together with the foundation, and should allow them to continue their conservation efforts … Shutting down an award-winning conservation project amidst the climate crisis due to fixable technicalities is the last thing the Filipinos need.” But if there is an interested entity linked with Marcos Jr.’s corruption machinery, then the government would not mind what this “last thing the Filipinos need” is. How does this make you feel?

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Charly Suarez extends winning run to 17 in Texas

Jasmine Payo

14/04/2024 13:01

HIT. Charly Suarez (left) unleashes a punch against Luis Coria in their super featherweight bout. TOP RANK MANILA, Philippines – Charly Suarez stretched his winning run with a unanimous decision over Mexican-American Luis Coria on Saturday, April 13 (Sunday, April 14, Philippine time) at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dictating the tempo of the 10-round super featherweight bout, Suarez got the nod of two judges with similar 77-74 scores while the third saw it 76-75. The margin would have been bigger if not for the flash knockdown Suarez suffered when he got clipped by a left hook and his left glove touched the canvas before the final bell rang. It was the 17th straight win with 9 kncokouts for the 35-year-old Suarez, who was supposed to tangle with the similarly unscathed Henry Lebron (19-0, 10 KOs) in a world title crack eliminator, but the Puerto Rican backed out. Coria turned out to be a worthy substitute although there was little he could do to overcome Suarez’s all-around skills and fall to 15-7 with 7 knockouts. Other than Suarez’s last-second lapse, chief trainer Delfin Boholst said he was satisfied with the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympian’s performance. “What’s more important is he (Suarez) didn’t go injured. So we’ll be ready for our next fight (either in July or August) as promised by Top Rank,” said Boholst, also a former national boxer. Suarez, a three-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, checked in at 131.8 pounds during the official weigh-in on Friday, with Coria coming in at 131.7 pounds. Boholst said Suarez would need to return to the Philippines soon as he’s on active status with the Philippine Army with the rank of Private First Class. After reporting for duty, Suarez would return to the United States and train under Boholst in Las Vegas. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Extreme heat is hurting the economy

Ralf Rivas

15/04/2024 7:45

HEAT. Pedestrians cover their heads as they experience a 40 degress celsius heat index in Manila, on April 2, 2024. Rappler MANILA, Philippines – Beyond the searing sensation on the skin and the stifling air that weighs heavily on the chest, extreme heat has broader economic implications that affects industries, businesses, and livelihoods. The state weather bureau PAGASA tagged some areas in the Philippines with dangerous temperatures, reaching as high as over 40 degrees celsius, which could result in heat stroke. For perspective, the Philippines’ mean annual temperature is at 27.1 degrees celsius, according to the World Bank’s Climate Change Knowledge Portal. The hottest months are usually in April and May. A discussion paper by economists of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) found that as the country’s average temperature goes up by 1 degree celsius, it tends to make the economy grow more slowly by about 0.37 percentage points. This slowdown in economic growth gets even bigger, about 0.47 percentage points, when events like El Niño occur. The study, which is the first to quantify the long-term effects of temperature shocks on output growth in the country, noted that extreme temperatures caused by El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events can cause prices of goods to spike. “Short-term inflationary effects of temperature shocks on headline, food, and non-food are deeper in magnitude at 0.49 ppt, 0.69 ppt, and 0.49 ppt, respectively, when we incorporated dummy variables for episodes of ENSO events,” the study said. Luzon is more affected by these inflationary effects, as most of the regions are predominantly agricultural and have food processing and machinery production. Inflationary pressures caused by these temperature shocks remain persistent up to four years, with a cumulative increase of 0.77 percentage points in headline inflation, according to the study. The study found that output in the manufacturing and services sectors dip as temperature rises. “The magnitude of drop is more evident in the real value added of manufacturing sector at 1.8 ppt vis-à-vis the 0.7 ppt decrease in the services sector output,” the study said. Researchers, however, noted that while output has dipped in heat-exposed industries, labor productivity remains the same. Workers in heat-exposed industries may already be used to the heat and could still be productive. “The results possibly imply that workers in the construction and transportation sectors are already used to the weather conditions in the country. Likewise, in the transportation sector, jeepney and taxi drivers operate on a quota- and boundary-based system such that regardless of the weather conditions, they still need to work to either meet their daily quota or earn back their ‘boundary fees.'” However, research from other countries show that exposure to extreme heat does reduce worker productivity, not only for outdoor occupations, but also for indoor industries. Another World Bank study found that even white-collar workers can be negatively affected by heat, including government workers and financial traders. On crop production, BSP researchers found that temperature shocks have a negative effect on palay and corn. A rise in temperature, in the short run, negatively impacts palay production by 1.83 percentage points and corn production by 3.51 percentage points. (READ: How climate change, lack of insurance, push farmers out of agribusiness) However, researchers found that high temperatures have a positive impact on mango production, as mangoes prefer climate conditions with warm temperatures and light amounts of rainfall especially during the fruit development stage. “These results show that higher temperatures have varied results on food production which, in turn, could have implications in the formulation of the government’s support programs as well as in setting up crop-targeted insurance schemes,” researchers said. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Hidilyn Diaz plans to remain in competitive scene, aims to win more medals for PH

delfin.dioquino editor

14/04/2024 19:25

FOCUSED. Hidilyn Diaz flashes a smile after a successful first lift in the Asian Games. PSC-POC Media Pool MANILA, Philippines – The quest to bring honor to the country does not end for Hidilyn Diaz. The weightlifting icon said she plans to remain in the competitive scene even after she fell short of qualifying for the Paris Games, halting her streak of four straight Olympic appearances. “I will still represent our country,” said Diaz on Sunday, April 14, as she graced the 60th anniversary event of energy drink MILO at Trinoma in Quezon City. With her bid to replicate her golden feat in the Tokyo Games dashed as she lost her Paris spot to compatriot Elreen Ando, Diaz can still recapture her women’s 55kg crown in the World Weightlifting Championships in Bahrain in December. Diaz, 33, failed to defend the 55kg title she won in the world championships in 2022 as she took part in the 59kg class in 2023. Paris organizers scrapped the 55kg division, forcing Diaz to move up to 59kg. The Zamboangueña can also shoot for a third gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games, which will be hosted by Thailand next year. Diaz won back-to-back SEA Games titles in 2019 and 2021 on top of two silvers and one bronze she bagged in earlier editions before she skipped the biennial showpiece in 2023. “The SEA Games is something I look forward to. But I cannot say [if I’ll be competing],” said Diaz. “One thing I know is I’ll still lift. I’m happy that I still love weightlifting.” “I’ll continue to train. Of course, I’m aiming to win a gold medal for the Philippines again.” For now, though, Diaz wants to focus on things that matter to her outside the sport. “I gave everything to weightlifting. I realized this is my time for my family, learning new things like cooking and baking, and traveling.” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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PISTON, Manibela launch transport strike as consolidation deadline nears

lkyu0285

15/04/2024 7:29

STRIKE. Jeepney drivers belonging to the group Manibela, protest in Mendiola during their nationwide transport strike on October 16, 2023. Rappler MANILA, Philippines – Transportation groups PISTON and Manibela are holding another transportation strike on Monday, April 15, ahead of the fast-approaching April 30 deadline for individual jeepneys to consolidate. The two groups, which have held multiple transport strikes against the issue since mid-2023, are participating in the “tigil-pasada” after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed last week that the April 30 jeepney consolidation deadline is final. Marcos made the announcement during a recent town hall meeting on traffic that both groups were notably not invited to. Under the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program, jeepney operators must give up their individual franchises and join a cooperative or corporation by April 30 – or else they will no longer be able to ply their routes. Over a 27-month period, operators are also expected to replace their old units with “modern jeepneys” that are compliant with the Philippine National Standard. Some operators worry that upgrading their fleets will sink their cooperative or corporation in debt, with modern units costing an average of P2.48 million each. This concern has also been repeatedly raised by PISTON and Manibela. “Hindi ligtas kahit nagpaconsolidate: mababaon sa utang dahil sa sapilitang pagbili ng sasakyan, at dahil hindi makabayad ay makukuha ang prangkisa ng malalaking korporasyon,” PISTON said in a social media statement. (You aren’t saved even after consolidation: you’ll only be buried in debt because of being forced to buy new vehicles, and your franchise will be taken by a big corporation because you won’t be able to pay for your loans.) This could affect commuters too. Minimum jeepney fares could rise to P40 as operators struggle with the high monthly loan amortization for their new units, according to a research study done by the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies. (READ: Anti-poor? How gov’t defends PUV modernization, why jeepney stakeholders oppose it) Meanwhile, government agencies downplayed the expected effect that Monday’s transport strike would have. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said that the government has identified 13 “critical areas” in Metro Manila that could be impacted by the strike, but that it expects the effect to commuters to be minimal based on the previous protests held by the same groups. Nevertheless, the MMDA said that it had “libreng sakay” vehicles ready to be deployed should it monitor commuters being stranded in areas. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has also stood by the April 30 deadline, with LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III saying that they “will no longer allow those who did not consolidate to ply the routes of Metro Manila” and that their franchises would be revoked. As of April 1, more than 77% of PUV units have consolidated nationwide, although the consolidation rate in the National Capital Region based on PUV units remains to be just 52.54% – the lowest throughout the country. “The LTFRB emphasizes that PUV consolidation must be completed by April 30, as mandated by President Bongbong Marcos, as it is integral to the modernization program,” the agency said in an April 11 statement. Marcos has, however, previously caved into pressure from the same groups. Back in 2023, Marcos had said that the government would not extend its December 31 deadline for consolidation. This had meant that more than 1,900 unconsolidated jeepney and UV Express routes were at risk of being wiped out by February 1, 2024, which eventually persuaded the President to grant another extension until April 30. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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One Big Finish: Roma Doromal cherishes remaining games as Ateneo exits Final Four race

jisaga0269

14/04/2024 21:46

ONE LAST FLIGHT. Ateneo libero Roma Mae Doromal (19) reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – For the second straight year, the Ateneo Blue Eagles have fallen out of the UAAP women’s volleyball Final Four after fourth-ranked FEU stunned top team UST to complete the semifinal cast last Saturday, April 13. Booted out of contention in one fell swoop alongside Adamson and UE, Ateneo was reduced to playing a non-bearing game on Sunday, April 14, against the Lady Warriors. The Blue Eagles, however, still fought with heart, dropping the Casiey Dongallo-led opposition in four sets, 25-17, 23-25, 25-23, 25-16, to raise their record to 4-8, and captain Roma Mae Doromal couldn’t be prouder of her teammates as her UAAP career winds down to its last two games. “Of course, we’ve accepted [our fate],” she said in Filipino after tallying a stellar defensive line of 23 excellent digs and 23 excellent receptions. “I just told my teammates to enjoy the ride and cherish the moments we have left. We just have to give our best for the Ateneo community.” Still a part of NU high school during the Blue Eagles’ last championship win in Season 81, Doromal will end her collegiate career with just one Season 84 Final Four appearance, but she is nonetheless grateful for how her game has evolved under new head coach Sergio Veloso. “I really learned to have a strong mind. I know what skills I already had, but now, under his system, I learned to have a strong mind,” Doromal continued. “Coach chose me to lead the team and I learned a lot from him.” “He doesn’t care about what skills you have or don’t have. What’s important for him is for you to give your 100%, 110% best, whether in training or in games. That’s what I like about him. He’s not biased and checks who really contributes to the team, whether senior or rookie.” Doromal may not have gotten a taste of Ateneo’s glory days, but she’ll exit the program with a head held high, knowing she embodied the fight and heart that every Blue Eagle had before her. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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PISTON, Manibela launch transport strike as consolidation deadline nears

lkyu0285

15/04/2024 7:29

STRIKE. Jeepney drivers belonging to the group Manibela, protest in Mendiola during their nationwide transport strike on October 16, 2023. Rappler MANILA, Philippines – Transportation groups PISTON and Manibela are holding another transportation strike on Monday, April 15, ahead of the fast-approaching April 30 deadline for individual jeepneys to consolidate. The two groups, which have held multiple transport strikes against the issue since mid-2023, are participating in the “tigil-pasada” after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed last week that the April 30 jeepney consolidation deadline is final. Marcos made the announcement during a recent town hall meeting on traffic that both groups were notably not invited to. Under the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program, jeepney operators must give up their individual franchises and join a cooperative or corporation by April 30 – or else they will no longer be able to ply their routes. Over a 27-month period, operators are also expected to replace their old units with “modern jeepneys” that are compliant with the Philippine National Standard. Some operators worry that upgrading their fleets will sink their cooperative or corporation in debt, with modern units costing an average of P2.48 million each. This concern has also been repeatedly raised by PISTON and Manibela. “Hindi ligtas kahit nagpaconsolidate: mababaon sa utang dahil sa sapilitang pagbili ng sasakyan, at dahil hindi makabayad ay makukuha ang prangkisa ng malalaking korporasyon,” PISTON said in a social media statement. (You aren’t saved even after consolidation: you’ll only be buried in debt because of being forced to buy new vehicles, and your franchise will be taken by a big corporation because you won’t be able to pay for your loans.) This could affect commuters too. Minimum jeepney fares could rise to P40 as operators struggle with the high monthly loan amortization for their new units, according to a research study done by the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies. (READ: Anti-poor? How gov’t defends PUV modernization, why jeepney stakeholders oppose it) Meanwhile, government agencies downplayed the expected effect that Monday’s transport strike would have. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said that the government has identified 13 “critical areas” in Metro Manila that could be impacted by the strike, but that it expects the effect to commuters to be minimal based on the previous protests held by the same groups. Nevertheless, the MMDA said that it had “libreng sakay” vehicles ready to be deployed should it monitor commuters being stranded in areas. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has also stood by the April 30 deadline, with LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III saying that they “will no longer allow those who did not consolidate to ply the routes of Metro Manila” and that their franchises would be revoked. As of April 1, more than 77% of PUV units have consolidated nationwide, although the consolidation rate in the National Capital Region based on PUV units remains to be just 52.54% – the lowest throughout the country. “The LTFRB emphasizes that PUV consolidation must be completed by April 30, as mandated by President Bongbong Marcos, as it is integral to the modernization program,” the agency said in an April 11 statement. Marcos has, however, previously caved into pressure from the same groups. Back in 2023, Marcos had said that the government would not extend its December 31 deadline for consolidation. This had meant that more than 1,900 unconsolidated jeepney and UV Express routes were at risk of being wiped out by February 1, 2024, which eventually persuaded the President to grant another extension until April 30. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Thirdy Ravena, San-En spoil Kai Sotto’s back-to-back scoring explosions

Jasmine Payo

14/04/2024 22:45

KEY COG. San-En's Thirdy Ravena in Japan B. League action. JAPAN B. LEAGUE MANILA, Philippines – Despite being assured of a spot in the playoffs, Thirdy Ravena and the San-En NeoPhoenix showed no signs of slowing down in the Japan B. League as they completed a weekend sweep of Kai Sotto and the Yokohama B-Corsairs with a 99-92 win on Sunday, April 14. Ravena and the NeoPhoenix survived back-to-back scoring explosions by Sotto, who exploded for 23 points for the B-Corsairs in both their matches this weekend. On Saturday, April 13, Sotto shot 9-of-17 from the field and 5-of-6 from the foul line to reach 23 markers, along with 9 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block in Yokohama’s 90-82 loss to San-En. The 7-foot-3 Filipino big man followed it up with a more efficient showing on Sunday, where he connected on 10 of his 15 attempts and 3 of his 4 free throws, to go with 7 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1 block. On the other side, Ravena, who recently hit the 2,000-point mark in the B. League, was limited to only 5 points and 5 rebounds on Saturday, before bouncing back with 17 markers, 7 boards, 4 dimes, and 1 steal on Sunday. The playoff-bound NeoPhoenix, who were crowned the Central Conference champions last Wednesday, April 10, improved to a 43-10 record, while the B-Corsairs slipped to 22-31. Interestingly, like Sotto, Matthew Wright also sizzled for two consecutive 23-point performances for the Kyoto Hannaryz (15-38) this weekend. Wright was on target from beyond the arc all weekend long, knocking down 5 treys in Kyoto’s 101-100 Saturday loss to the Osaka Evessa, before sinking 3 of his 6 from long distance in their 93-83 bounce-back win against the same opponents on Sunday. Ray Parks also made it rain from three-point land on Saturday as the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins (35-18) defeated the Fighting Eagles Nagoya, 98-87. Parks cashed in 6 of his 10 attempts from downtown to wind up with a new B. League career-high of 26 points. He surpassed his previous mark of 23 points, which he set in his first year in the B. League during the 2021-2022 season. Parks, however, immediately cooled down on Sunday as he was held to just 5 points in the Dolphins’ 84-67 loss. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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PISTON, Manibela launch transport strike as consolidation deadline nears

lkyu0285

15/04/2024 7:29

STRIKE. Jeepney drivers belonging to the group Manibela, protest in Mendiola during their nationwide transport strike on October 16, 2023. Rappler MANILA, Philippines – Transportation groups PISTON and Manibela are holding another transportation strike on Monday, April 15, ahead of the fast-approaching April 30 deadline for individual jeepneys to consolidate. The two groups, which have held multiple transport strikes against the issue since mid-2023, are participating in the “tigil-pasada” after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed last week that the April 30 jeepney consolidation deadline is final. Marcos made the announcement during a recent town hall meeting on traffic that both groups were notably not invited to. Under the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program, jeepney operators must give up their individual franchises and join a cooperative or corporation by April 30 – or else they will no longer be able to ply their routes. Over a 27-month period, operators are also expected to replace their old units with “modern jeepneys” that are compliant with the Philippine National Standard. Some operators worry that upgrading their fleets will sink their cooperative or corporation in debt, with modern units costing an average of P2.48 million each. This concern has also been repeatedly raised by PISTON and Manibela. “Hindi ligtas kahit nagpaconsolidate: mababaon sa utang dahil sa sapilitang pagbili ng sasakyan, at dahil hindi makabayad ay makukuha ang prangkisa ng malalaking korporasyon,” PISTON said in a social media statement. (You aren’t saved even after consolidation: you’ll only be buried in debt because of being forced to buy new vehicles, and your franchise will be taken by a big corporation because you won’t be able to pay for your loans.) This could affect commuters too. Minimum jeepney fares could rise to P40 as operators struggle with the high monthly loan amortization for their new units, according to a research study done by the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies. (READ: Anti-poor? How gov’t defends PUV modernization, why jeepney stakeholders oppose it) Meanwhile, government agencies downplayed the expected effect that Monday’s transport strike would have. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said that the government has identified 13 “critical areas” in Metro Manila that could be impacted by the strike, but that it expects the effect to commuters to be minimal based on the previous protests held by the same groups. Nevertheless, the MMDA said that it had “libreng sakay” vehicles ready to be deployed should it monitor commuters being stranded in areas. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has also stood by the April 30 deadline, with LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III saying that they “will no longer allow those who did not consolidate to ply the routes of Metro Manila” and that their franchises would be revoked. As of April 1, more than 77% of PUV units have consolidated nationwide, although the consolidation rate in the National Capital Region based on PUV units remains to be just 52.54% – the lowest throughout the country. “The LTFRB emphasizes that PUV consolidation must be completed by April 30, as mandated by President Bongbong Marcos, as it is integral to the modernization program,” the agency said in an April 11 statement. Marcos has, however, previously caved into pressure from the same groups. Back in 2023, Marcos had said that the government would not extend its December 31 deadline for consolidation. This had meant that more than 1,900 unconsolidated jeepney and UV Express routes were at risk of being wiped out by February 1, 2024, which eventually persuaded the President to grant another extension until April 30. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Ginebra hopes for best as Jamie Malonzo goes down with injury

delfin.dioquino editor

15/04/2024 7:48

ATTACK. Jamie Malonzo in action for Barangay Ginebra in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup. PBA Images MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra is keeping its fingers crossed as it waits on the injury status of star forward Jamie Malonzo. The Gin Kings won back-to-back games in the PBA Philippine Cup by way of a 95-88 victory over NorthPort on Sunday, April 14, but not without casualty as Malonzo hurt a part of his left leg with just seconds left in the game. Malonzo fell on his own and limped out of the court while being aided by his teammates. Still unable to put weight on his injured leg, Malonzo needed to be carried by team staff on his way out of the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. “It looks like a calf or an Achilles issue. Not sure, one or the other. I’m not a doctor so I don’t want to make a prognosis,” said Ginebra head coach Tim Cone. “At this point, he’s going to be out at least a few days. Hopefully, it doesn’t stretch into weeks or months. We can’t afford to lose him.” Malonzo finished the game with 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists as Ginebra climbed to third place with a 5-3 record. The high-flyer has been one of the Gin Kings’ more reliable players with averages of 14.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, so his potential absence with the playoffs just around the corner could be a major blow for the team. Set to face TNT, Converge, and NLEX for its remaining games in the elimination round, Ginebra aims to clinch a top-two finish that merits a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals. “He’s such a valuable part of our team. He’s such a great teammate and everybody loves him. We’re all going to be feeling bad if he’s not able to play. But just like any other thing, it’s next man up,” said Cone. The Gin Kings battle the Tropang Giga next on Friday, April 19, at the PhilSports Arena. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Ginebra hopes for best as Jamie Malonzo goes down with injury

delfin.dioquino editor

15/04/2024 7:48

ATTACK. Jamie Malonzo in action for Barangay Ginebra in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup. PBA Images MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra is keeping its fingers crossed as it waits on the injury status of star forward Jamie Malonzo. The Gin Kings won back-to-back games in the PBA Philippine Cup by way of a 95-88 victory over NorthPort on Sunday, April 14, but not without casualty as Malonzo hurt a part of his left leg with just seconds left in the game. Malonzo fell on his own and limped out of the court while being aided by his teammates. Still unable to put weight on his injured leg, Malonzo needed to be carried by team staff on his way out of the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. “It looks like a calf or an Achilles issue. Not sure, one or the other. I’m not a doctor so I don’t want to make a prognosis,” said Ginebra head coach Tim Cone. “At this point, he’s going to be out at least a few days. Hopefully, it doesn’t stretch into weeks or months. We can’t afford to lose him.” Malonzo finished the game with 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists as Ginebra climbed to third place with a 5-3 record. The high-flyer has been one of the Gin Kings’ more reliable players with averages of 14.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, so his potential absence with the playoffs just around the corner could be a major blow for the team. Set to face TNT, Converge, and NLEX for its remaining games in the elimination round, Ginebra aims to clinch a top-two finish that merits a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals. “He’s such a valuable part of our team. He’s such a great teammate and everybody loves him. We’re all going to be feeling bad if he’s not able to play. But just like any other thing, it’s next man up,” said Cone. The Gin Kings battle the Tropang Giga next on Friday, April 19, at the PhilSports Arena. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Groups urge DENR to negotiate with Masungi over 2017 contract

Iya Gozum

15/04/2024 7:39

BIRD'S EYE VIEW. Limestone formations seen from Sapot ni Ric at Masungi Georeserve in Tanay, Rizal. MANILA, Philippines – Various groups called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to explore formal negotiations and open dialogues with Masungi Georeserve Foundation Inc. (MGFI), in light of the possible cancellation of the latter’s memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the government. Recently, DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga said they are bound to cancel their 2017 contract with the MGFI as it was “void from the beginning” because of the provision that gave the MGFI “perpetual land trust for conservation.” Seven groups expressed concern and said this could make the area in the Upper Marikina Watershed vulnerable to exploitation. “Cancelling the contract would not only undermine years of hard-fought progress but also set a dangerous precedent for conservation projects in the Philippines,” Wild Bird Club of the Philippines said in a statement. Wild Bird Club of the Philippines is one of the seven groups that expressed support. The roster includes Caritas Philippines, Alyansa Tigil Mina, Center for Environmental Concerns, Philippine Initiative for Environmental Conservation, Seeds of Hope Society Inc., and Saribuhay UP Diliman. Instead, groups said the DENR should open channels of communication with MGFI. “If the DENR is concerned with the legal aspects of the MOA, the agency should be open to resolving the issue together with the foundation, and should allow them to continue their conservation efforts,” Saribuhay UP Diliman’s statement read. “Shutting down an award-winning conservation project amidst the climate crisis due to fixable technicalities is the last thing the Filipinos need.” In 2017, the DENR, under the leadership of the late environment secretary Gina Lopez, signed a memorandum of agreement with the MGFI. It gave the MGFI the responsibility to reforest around 3,000 hectares of land in Rizal province. The MGFI also oversees the popular ecotourism spot Masungi Georeserve. “This is a time when the government should be supporting successful initiatives, not hindering them,” said Caritas Philippines vice president Bishop Gerardo Alminaza. The DENR had mentioned the possible cancellation since last year but has yet to make any concrete actions on the matter. Last year, the Department of Justice gave a formal opinion declaring the contested provision as unconstitutional because agreements between the State and private entities regarding exploration, development, and utilization of state-owned land projects must not exceed 25 years. MGFI maintains that the contract should be read as an agreement for a perpetual land trust for conservation, and not as a perpetual license. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. I agree with Saribuhay UP Diliman: “If the DENR is concerned with the legal aspects of the MOA, the agency should be open to resolving the issue together with the foundation, and should allow them to continue their conservation efforts … Shutting down an award-winning conservation project amidst the climate crisis due to fixable technicalities is the last thing the Filipinos need.” But if there is an interested entity linked with Marcos Jr.’s corruption machinery, then the government would not mind what this “last thing the Filipinos need” is. How does this make you feel?

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‘Gutom factor’ fuels Negros kids to snatch Spain football crown

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 16:52

LITTLE CHAMPIONS. The players of the Filipinas San Carlos U-12 Team celebrate their title win in Spain. Provincial Government of Negros Occidental NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines –They’re football scholars playing for the city’s elite team. But these 11-year-old Negros kids showed they’re also winners in the international stage. Led by team stars Klent Paul Montilla and Felex Rey Caballero, the Filipinas San Carlos U-12 Team surprised their bigger and taller foes to rule the 2024 Real Madrid Foundation Clinics World Challenge at the Valdebebas Training Ground in Madrid, Spain on March 26-31. Head coach Francis Roy Barcuma told Rappler that his 12 players – all coming from low-income families in various villages in San Carlos City – showed the “gutom factor” (hunger) that fueled them to “kick hard” and “aspire big” for a better future through football. “It can be seen in their faces and movements that they’re determined to win…to be champions,” said Barcuma of his players, all public elementary school students in the city. The young San Carlos booters fought seven games in the Spain football tourney – won six, lost one – prior to their championship match where they dominated with a 3-0 victory over USA-Blue on March 31. Montilla scored the first goal before Caballero sealed it with a brace. “Happy, happy gid ko nga naka-kadto na ko sa Spain (I am so happy that I went to Spain already),” said Montilla, whose mother Josefa works as a vendor, while father Arnel remains jobless. Second in the broad of four, Montilla vowed to practice more to be the next “football star” in the country. For Caballero, “football is life” even if life is tough for his family. His father Bryan Rey works at the city’s water district while his mother Arnie takes care of him and his four other siblings. Like Montilla, Caballero also hopes to become a “football idol” when he grows up. Rounding out the champion team are Charles Adam Dignos, Twirl Gelito, Christian Paul Limpio, Mark Ross Mabesa, Dhroy Miguel, Mathew Jacob Pamilar, Franz Mekael Jhay Salvador, John Jacob Sildura, Ivan Dio Silvar, and Frenchzuef Machryl Subrado. The local government celebrated their feat with a morning victory caravan in the entire poblacion of San Carlos City, 398 kilometers north of the provincial capital, Bacolod City. San Carlos Mayor Rene Gustilo, in a press conference on Thursday, April 8, said the city is “beyond proud” of their little champions. Gustilo believes that with the San Carlos City Negros Football Club (SCCNFC) and Sining at Pag-asa (SIPA), the boys can continue to hone their skills and dream big. SIPA is a joint football program of the local government of San Carlos and Fundacion Real Madrid since 2016 that aims to discover and train young boys in the city. Jose Miguel Valmayor, vice president of SCCNFC, said it’s the first time in 20 years since founding the club that their team copped an international title. Gustilo said the 12 talented young players will receive a cash incentive of P20,000 each from the city government. The promising Caballero said the reward will be a big help to his family, especially to his siblings. But like any kid, he also wants to celebrate, “Ma-bonding kami ka mga igso-on ko (I’ll spend some bonding time with my siblings).” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Hidilyn Diaz tells Paris Olympians to take pride in representing PH

delfin.dioquino editor

14/04/2024 23:37

PH PRIDE. Hidilyn Diaz wins gold for the Philippines in the 2022 Southeast Asian Games. Chalinee Thirasupa/Reuters MANILA, Philippines – Filipino athletes bound for the Paris Games do not have to look far for sound advice as they gear up for the biggest fight of their careers. Hidilyn Diaz, the first and only Filipino to win an Olympic gold medal, gave members of Team Philippines words of encouragement as she turns into a spectator, missing the Games for the first time after four straight appearances. “Do your best. But enjoy the moment. The Olympics happens only every four years,” said Diaz on Sunday, April 14, during the 60th anniversary event of energy drink MILO at Trinoma in Quezon City. “Take pride that you’re representing the country.” Nine have clinched Paris berths: pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan, boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, and Aira Villegas, and weightlifters Elreen Ando, Vanessa Sarno, and John Ceniza. Another weightlifter, Rosegie Ramos, hopes to catch the plane to Paris. If Ramos makes the cut, it will be a first time for the country that four weightlifters will don the national colors in a single Olympics. That is the impact Diaz has created for Philippine weightlifting after bagging silver in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games and a historic gold in the Tokyo Games in 2021 on top of her other accomplishments in the international scene. “I’m happy for them because they trained hard. That was our goal – to qualify. Now, it is to win,” said Diaz. “As their older sister, of course I’m happy.” More are expected to qualify as the Philippine Olympic Committee aims to send 25 athletes to Paris. There, Team Philippines faces the daunting task of surpassing the one-gold, two-silver, one-bronze tally the country netted in Tokyo for its biggest medal haul in Olympic history. For Diaz, it all comes down to the athletes’ desire to succeed. “It is all in the heart and mindset and the discipline and grit in the things that they do every day,” said Diaz. “You need to have a dream.” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Job’s not finished: UAAP title redemption far from NU’s minds after La Salle conquest

jisaga0269

14/04/2024 23:51

CHAMPION'S HEART. NU spiker Bella Belen reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – For the first time in nearly two years, the NU Lady Bulldogs finally had the La Salle Lady Spikers’ number once again in UAAP women’s volleyball after completing a four-set conquest, 22-25, 25-23, 25-16, 25-22, in a Sunday, April 14 blockbuster at the jampacked Mall of Asia Arena. Rising sophomore spiker Vange Alinsug soared with 22 points, former MVP Bella Belen bounced back from a career-low 2-point outing with 14 markers, while Alyssa Solomon scored 13 in NU’s first win over La Salle since clinching the Season 84 championship in 2022. Although the Lady Bulldogs are nearing the coveted twice-to-beat Final Four bonus after rising to a top-rank tie with UST at 10-2, not a single player among their ranks is looking too far ahead – most especially Belen, who took no solace in beating a vulnerable Lady Spikers’ side still without MVP Angel Canino. “Personally, I’m not too satisfied yet because there are games left. We will always take it one game at a time,” she said in Filipino. “We’re not thinking of the future. What we have now, that’s where our focus is.” “We just really have to maintain our consistency every game, because beating La Salle is not where it ends,” Alinsug added in Filipino. “We still have a lot to go through and work hard for.” No matter how the Lady Bulldogs downplay their hot stretch, however, it’s undeniable that they are once again title favorites capable of beating any other top team, fully healthy or otherwise. After ending La Salle’s seven-game winning streak, NU is now the only team undefeated in the eliminations’ second round, with two more assignments remaining against fifth-ranked Adamson and fourth-seeded FEU. Still, Belen maintained a semblance of a champion’s pride, saying that nothing is unachievable with good old hustle in every passing game. “The championship will come to us as long as we work hard for it,” she continued. “I believe that every hardship we go through has its own reward.” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Halftime talk sparks Magnolia’s 14-point rout of Phoenix

Jasmine Payo

14/04/2024 19:43

CHALLENGE. Magnolia's Mark Barroca fires a shot over the defense of Phoenix's Jason Perkins. PBA IMAGES MANILA, Philippines – For a team who takes a lot of pride in playing defense, giving up close to 40 points in one quarter is simply not acceptable. And after Magnolia allowed Phoenix to score 39 points in the second quarter of their PBA Philippine Cup showdown at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Sunday, April 14, Hotshots head coach Chito Victolero gave his wards a much-needed pep talk at halftime, which ultimately sparked their 107-93 rout of the Fuel Masters. “We had a serious talk at halftime. We allowed Phoenix to score 39 points in the second quarter and that’s not us,” said Victolero. “I think that’s the worst defensive quarter for us. I don’t remember the last time we gave up that many points in a quarter,” he added in a mix of English and Filipino. “We did a good job in the first quarter, but in the second quarter we all chilled. We talked about it at halftime, even with our boss Alfrancis Chua.” Coming off a 104-97 win versus the NorthPort Batang Pier in their previous outing, the Hotshots got off to a good start against the Fuel Masters as they quickly built a double-digit lead at the end of the first quarter, 28-18. However, Magnolia failed to keep its foot on the gas pedal, letting Phoenix go on a massive 39-19 rally in the second period for a 57-47 cushion at the break. Luckily for the Hotshots, they managed to regain their bearings after their halftime discussion as they outscored the Fuel Masters, 32-20, in the third canto, before pulling away for good with a fiery 19-3 blast in the opening minutes of the final frame. Despite playing with a right hand injury, Mark Barroca delivered the goods for Magnolia as he tied his career-high 27 points on an efficient 11-of-19 shooting. Ian Sangalang had a near double-double of 23 points and 9 rebounds, while Jio Jalalon posted 13 markers and 7 boards. RJ Jazul paced Phoenix in the loss with 21 points built on five treys, while Kenneth Tuffin and Jason Perkins added 17 and 16 markers, respectively. Magnolia moved up to a 3-2 slate, while Phoenix fell to 2-5. Magnolia 107 – Barroca 27, Sangalang 23, Jalalon 13, Eriobu 11, Tratter 8, Dionisio 7, Lee 7, Abueva 6, Balanza 2, Mendoza 2, Reavis 1, Escoto 0, Laput 0. Phoenix 93 – Jazul 21, Tuffin 17, Perkins 16, Mocon 11, Salado 8, Verano 8, Alejandro 6, Rivero 6, Muyang 0, Camacho 0, Daves 0, Lalata 0. Quarters: 28-18, 47-57, 79-77, 107-93. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Philippines to host Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup in June

Jasmine Payo

14/04/2024 20:39

NATURAL BEAUTY. The Philippines aims to parade not only its elite runners but also the country’s beautiful terrains. Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup Instagram/ Timothy JosephB Photography MANILA, Philippines – Over 200 elite trail runners look to compete in June when the Philippines hosts the Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup in Bontoc, Mountain Province. The SEA Trail Running Cup is the pinnacle of mountain trail running in the region, gathering the finest trail runners from eight countries in a test of skills and endurance in the terrains of mountainous landscapes. “This event not only highlights the athleticism and endurance of our participants. It also underscores the importance of preserving our natural environment for future generations to enjoy,” said Tin Ferrera, secretary-general of Philtra and head for the Southeast Asian Trail Running Confederation. “This event showcases to the world the Philippines as a sports tourism destination for trail running.” John Ray Onifa and Arnie Macaneras, both Asia Trail Master (ATM) champions in 2022 and 2023, banner the Philippine men’s team in the event set from June 19-23. ATM 2023 runner-up Angelie Cabalo and Spartan Trail-Asia Pacific 2023 winner Elizabeth Dangadang headline the national women’s team. All four captains earned their spots after stellar runs in the World Mountain Trail Running Championships 2023 together with Philippine team members Randolf Gonzales, Larry Apolinario, Godwin Mirar, and two-time SEA Games gold medalist Christabel Martes. About 200 athletes are set to compete in various categories, including the long trail, short trail, mountain classic, and vertical uphill. Participating countries will also vie for the coveted Team Champion titles for the long and short trail categories. The Philippines vies to come out strong after emerging as the top-performing Southeast Asian participant in last year’s World Mountain Trail Running Championships, leading the rally for Asian countries alongside Japan and Korea. Hoping to boost the national team’s bid are Skyrunning champion Trisha Reyes and multi-awarded local Ultra distance athlete Rhys Pawid. U20 athletes Lance Naral, Rayven Eta, Sam Bango, Charlote Muyco, Luisa Cuerpo, and Loida Domanog are also part of the Philippine roster and will compete in the mountain classic event. New recruits Romnick Tongkaling, Roberto Cain, Louie Niala, Angie Surriaga, and Noemi Fernandez are also set to make their international competition debut in the race. While the main competition is by invite-only, local and international runners can still register for the Tawid Mountain Marathon on June 23. This open category features three divisions: 42K marathon, 21K half marathon, and 12K mountain classic. Participants for this category can earn Philtra 2024 championships qualifier points and even win the SEA Trail Cup Age Group title. For more information and updates on the Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup 2024, visit https://philtra.ph/seatrc. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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One Big Finish: Roma Doromal cherishes remaining games as Ateneo exits Final Four race

jisaga0269

14/04/2024 21:46

ONE LAST FLIGHT. Ateneo libero Roma Mae Doromal (19) reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – For the second straight year, the Ateneo Blue Eagles have fallen out of the UAAP women’s volleyball Final Four after fourth-ranked FEU stunned top team UST to complete the semifinal cast last Saturday, April 13. Booted out of contention in one fell swoop alongside Adamson and UE, Ateneo was reduced to playing a non-bearing game on Sunday, April 14, against the Lady Warriors. The Blue Eagles, however, still fought with heart, dropping the Casiey Dongallo-led opposition in four sets, 25-17, 23-25, 25-23, 25-16, to raise their record to 4-8, and captain Roma Mae Doromal couldn’t be prouder of her teammates as her UAAP career winds down to its last two games. “Of course, we’ve accepted [our fate],” she said in Filipino after tallying a stellar defensive line of 23 excellent digs and 23 excellent receptions. “I just told my teammates to enjoy the ride and cherish the moments we have left. We just have to give our best for the Ateneo community.” Still a part of NU high school during the Blue Eagles’ last championship win in Season 81, Doromal will end her collegiate career with just one Season 84 Final Four appearance, but she is nonetheless grateful for how her game has evolved under new head coach Sergio Veloso. “I really learned to have a strong mind. I know what skills I already had, but now, under his system, I learned to have a strong mind,” Doromal continued. “Coach chose me to lead the team and I learned a lot from him.” “He doesn’t care about what skills you have or don’t have. What’s important for him is for you to give your 100%, 110% best, whether in training or in games. That’s what I like about him. He’s not biased and checks who really contributes to the team, whether senior or rookie.” Doromal may not have gotten a taste of Ateneo’s glory days, but she’ll exit the program with a head held high, knowing she embodied the fight and heart that every Blue Eagle had before her. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Pleasant surprise: Ralph Cu flirts with triple-double in gritty Ginebra win

delfin.dioquino editor

14/04/2024 22:16

SHOT. Ralph Cu in action for Barangay Ginebra in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup. PBA Images MANILA, Philippines – The fact that Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone has started Ralph Cu in several of their games means he believes the rookie forward can deliver. But a near triple-double performance from Cu is something else. Cu turned in the finest game of his young PBA career as he put up 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists to lift the Gin Kings to a 95-88 win over NorthPort in the Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Sunday, April 14. He fell just a dime short of becoming the first rookie to record a triple-double since teammate and former league MVP Scottie Thompson achieved the feat in 2016. “I do not think we expected it this early. Certainly not when we drafted him,” Cone said. Like a grizzled veteran, Cu made all the right plays from start to finish, shooting a sizzling 6-of-11 from beyond the arc and setting up his teammates down the stretch as Ginebra won back-to-back games to improve to 5-3. Cu drained his sixth and final triple with under three minutes remaining to break an 85-85 tie then assisted on a pair of Christian Standhardinger buckets inside the final two minutes that sealed the win for the Gin Kings. “Is it a surprise that he is playing this well? Yeah, certainly. But we expected him to play well. He started our games,” said Cone. “We expect him to play well. He is not doing anything in the game that he does not do in practice, to put it that way. He practices like he played today.” Ginebra landed Cu at the end of the second round as the No. 23 pick in the previous PBA Draft. His selection did not come as a surprise, considering Cu suited up for the Gin Kings in the PBA 3×3 and the PBA On Tour offseason series. Cone, though, said Ginebra picked Cu not just because of their ties. “It was not a pick like we were doing it just because he played for our [On] Tour team. We were sitting on pins and needles hoping we could get him, that no one else would draft him,” said Cone. “And no one else knew him like we did.” If several teams slept on Cu on draft day, his all-around performance has put the PBA on notice. “Triple-double, these are big numbers for anybody. So he just kind of announced himself to the league. I’m sure the next time out, they’re going to be a little bit more conscious of him,” said Cone. Benefitting from Cu, Standhardinger finished with a game-high 25 points on top of 17 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocks, while Scottie Thompson also did it all with 10 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals. Jamie Malonzo added 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, but the injury he suffered just as the game ended put a dampener on the win. Arvin Tolentino netted 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks in the losing effort as the Batang Pier absorbed their second straight loss to fall to 4-3. Barangay Ginebra 95 – Standhardinger 25, Cu 24, Malonzo 14, Ahanmisi 13, Thompson 10, J.Aguilar 4, David 3, Pringle 2, Tenorio 0, Pinto 0, Onwubere 0. NorthPort 88 – Tolentino 19, Munzon 12, Navarro 12, Bulanadi 11, Yu 8, Amores 7, Zamar 6, Calma 4, Lucero 4, Cuntapay 3, Flores 2, Rosales 0, Paraiso 0. Quarters: 30-21, 43-53, 73-70, 95-88. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Results, team standings: UAAP Season 86 volleyball

Jasmine Payo

05/05/2024 21:02

ROARING. NU's Bella Belen (left) and Alyssa Solomon react in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball finals UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments reach a tipping point with the men’s and women’s finals! LOOK: UAAP volleyball championship schedule Here are the results in the men’s and women’s divisions: MAY 15 May 11 MAY 8 MAY 5 MAY 4 MAY 8 MAY 5 MAY 4 ** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated APRIL 27 APRIL 24 APRIL 21 APRIL 20 APRIL 17 APRIL 14 APRIL 13 APRIL 10 APRIL 9 APRIL 4 APRIL 3 MARCH 24 MARCH 23 MARCH 20 First round MARCH 17 MARCH 16 MARCH 13 MARCH 10 MARCH 9 MARCH 6 MARCH 3 MARCH 2 FEBRUARY 28 FEBRUARY 25 FEBRUARY 24 FEBRUARY 21 FEBRUARY 18 FEBRUARY 17 ** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated APRIL 27 APRIL 24 APRIL 21 APRIL 20 APRIL 17 APRIL 14 APRIL 13 APRIL 10 APRIL 9 APRIL 4 APRIL 3 MARCH 24 MARCH 23 MARCH 20 First round MARCH 17 MARCH 16 MARCH 13 MARCH 10 MARCH 9 MARCH 6 MARCH 3 MARCH 2 FEBRUARY 28 FEBRUARY 25 FEBRUARY 24 FEBRUARY 21 FEBRUARY 18 FEBRUARY 17 – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Philippines to host Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup in June

Jasmine Payo

14/04/2024 20:39

NATURAL BEAUTY. The Philippines aims to parade not only its elite runners but also the country’s beautiful terrains. Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup Instagram/ Timothy JosephB Photography MANILA, Philippines – Over 200 elite trail runners look to compete in June when the Philippines hosts the Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup in Bontoc, Mountain Province. The SEA Trail Running Cup is the pinnacle of mountain trail running in the region, gathering the finest trail runners from eight countries in a test of skills and endurance in the terrains of mountainous landscapes. “This event not only highlights the athleticism and endurance of our participants. It also underscores the importance of preserving our natural environment for future generations to enjoy,” said Tin Ferrera, secretary-general of Philtra and head for the Southeast Asian Trail Running Confederation. “This event showcases to the world the Philippines as a sports tourism destination for trail running.” John Ray Onifa and Arnie Macaneras, both Asia Trail Master (ATM) champions in 2022 and 2023, banner the Philippine men’s team in the event set from June 19-23. ATM 2023 runner-up Angelie Cabalo and Spartan Trail-Asia Pacific 2023 winner Elizabeth Dangadang headline the national women’s team. All four captains earned their spots after stellar runs in the World Mountain Trail Running Championships 2023 together with Philippine team members Randolf Gonzales, Larry Apolinario, Godwin Mirar, and two-time SEA Games gold medalist Christabel Martes. About 200 athletes are set to compete in various categories, including the long trail, short trail, mountain classic, and vertical uphill. Participating countries will also vie for the coveted Team Champion titles for the long and short trail categories. The Philippines vies to come out strong after emerging as the top-performing Southeast Asian participant in last year’s World Mountain Trail Running Championships, leading the rally for Asian countries alongside Japan and Korea. Hoping to boost the national team’s bid are Skyrunning champion Trisha Reyes and multi-awarded local Ultra distance athlete Rhys Pawid. U20 athletes Lance Naral, Rayven Eta, Sam Bango, Charlote Muyco, Luisa Cuerpo, and Loida Domanog are also part of the Philippine roster and will compete in the mountain classic event. New recruits Romnick Tongkaling, Roberto Cain, Louie Niala, Angie Surriaga, and Noemi Fernandez are also set to make their international competition debut in the race. While the main competition is by invite-only, local and international runners can still register for the Tawid Mountain Marathon on June 23. This open category features three divisions: 42K marathon, 21K half marathon, and 12K mountain classic. Participants for this category can earn Philtra 2024 championships qualifier points and even win the SEA Trail Cup Age Group title. For more information and updates on the Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup 2024, visit https://philtra.ph/seatrc. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Balai Pandesal emerges as new challenger to Julie’s Bakeshop, Pan de Manila

gdecastro0289

14/04/2024 19:20

Balai Pandesal Facebook MANILA, Philippines – Who says the Philippines’ national bread – pan de sal (bread of salt) – can’t carry a food and beverage company to greater heights? Although the average size of pan de sal has gotten smaller through the years, symbolizing its decline as a source of nutrition in the Filipino diet, emerging food and beverage firm Balai ni Fruitas is proving that it can be a source of strength for the company. Balai ni Fruitas is known for its Buko ni Fruitas, its first brand which sells fresh coconut-based drinks and coconut-based desserts. Related to this is its smaller brand Fruitas House of Desserts. In 2021, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic which badly hit the company, Yu acquired Balai Pandesal bakery and put up its first community store in Kamuning, Quezon City. It turned out to be a wise move since the company has seen its bakery business grow fast. From only 5 outlets in June 2021, it now has 50 Balai Pandesal stores, effectively become a challenger in the “mid-price counter service retail bakery” to industry leaders 43-year-old Julie’s Bakeshop, as well as 25-year-old Pan de Manila. In this segment, Julie’s Bakeshop had a nearly 40% market share in 2022, while Pan Manila had a 36% share, according to an industry study in 2022 cited by Balai ni Fruitas. Other key players in this segment are BreadTalk, French Baker, and Panaderia All-Day Hot Pandesal. “We responded to the pandemic by acquiring Balai Pandesal and rolling out community stores and we are glad that this strategy paid off. We are now growing same store sales by earning customer loyalty and constantly improving our product offerings,” said Yu. “We believe we have also barely scratched the surface in terms of provincial expansion and we have already started to build capacity to serve this market,” he added. Aside from selling pan de sal, Balai Pandesal has introduced new new baked goods such as malunggay bread and wheat pan de sal. It also widened its offerings of bakery products from third-party suppliers. Balai ni Fruitas, a subsidiary of Chinese-Filipino businessman Lester Yu’s Fruitas Holdings Incorporated, disclosed on Thursday, April 11, that its revenues rose 57% from P341 million in 2022 to P535 million in 2023. Its net income increased by 58% from P37 million in 2022 to P59 million in 2023. It is publicly listed on the Small, Medium and Emerging Board of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE). Fruitas Holdings filed for a P1.2 billion Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2019. It is using most of the funds raised from the IPO to expand its network of stores. “2023 marked significant milestones for Balai [ni Fruitas] as we passed 100 stores and the half-billion peso revenue level,” Yu said. According to Balai ni Fruitas, its revenue growth of 57% in 2023 is higher than the revenue growth of select PSE-listed food service firms. Pan de sal is the Philippines’ most popular bread product. The average per capita consumption of pan de sal in the National Capital Region is 254 pieces annually. Nearly two-thirds of households in the Philippines use bread as the top substitute for rice during meals, according to a Balai ni Fruitas presentation in June 2022. Citing the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) 2016 Annual Survey of Philippine Business and Industry, Balai ni Fruitas said the Philippine baked goods industry is the second largest contributor of employment among manufacturing establishments in the formal sector with a total of over 85,000 workers. These are people who make baked goods such as bread, cakes, pastries, pies and other perishable bakery products. Out of 28,003 manufacturing establishments in the Philippines’ formal sector, 7,563 or 27% are under the baked goods industry. Balai ni Fruitas said the baked goods industry in Southeast Asia is projected to grow 7.7% yearly from 2021 to 2026. The average Filipino household is projected to spend over a third of its budget on food in 2025, an increase of 4.8% from 30% in 2006. Balai ni Fruitas plans to expand its Balai Pandesal stores from 50 in 2023 to 200 stores in 2026. Buko ni Fruitas started in 2005 or 19 years ago with its first kiosk in Robinsons Manila. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Extreme heat delays opening of Negros festival

Jodesz Gavilan

14/04/2024 18:54

FESTIVE. Silay City's replica of the famous Balay Negrense, alongside 31 other themed booths, is ready for public viewing once again at the opening of the 28th Panaad sa Negros Festival on Monday, April 15. Negros Occidental PIO BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – The opening of the 28th Panaad sa Negros Festival in Bacolod City on Monday, April 15, will be delayed for at least three hours due to expected extreme heat. Instead of 3 pm, the Negros Occidental provincial government decided to push back to around 5 pm the grand opening of what is dubbed as the “Festival of all Festivals” with this year’s theme “Living the Promise.” State weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Administration (PAGASA) has forecasted a 36-degree Celsius heat index in Bacolod City with 55% humidity factor. It warned that Bacolod would be under an “extreme heat” index. Thus, prolonged exposure to the scorching heat remains dangerous. The significant number of expected attendees – around 25,000 Negrenses and tourists alike – could lead to a “hotter” event at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan. The provincial government said it will not risk the safety of several thousands of people. Negros Occidental Police Office chief Colonel Rainerio de Chavez said that they have already deployed 1,102 cops and force multipliers tasked to secure the entire venue within the seven-duration of the provincial fiesta. A gun ban will also be imposed in the province from midnight April 15 to April 21. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on Saturday, April 13, thanked the police for their preparations, adding that their role is critical in ensuring public safety as the province has set more activities and major competitions and is anticipating a significant influx of people. “We are looking at several thousands of Negrenses and tourists attending the festival. As such, we want our festival-goers not only to be safe but to feel safe as well to be able to truly enjoy what we have prepared for them,” Lacson said. The opening is expected to include festival dance performances of 23 out of the 32 towns and cities in Negros Occidental, where each grand champion will go home with P100,000 cash prize. Set to battle in this much-awaited festival dances tilt under the city category include: For the municipal category: – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Halftime talk sparks Magnolia’s 14-point rout of Phoenix

Jasmine Payo

14/04/2024 19:43

CHALLENGE. Magnolia's Mark Barroca fires a shot over the defense of Phoenix's Jason Perkins. PBA IMAGES MANILA, Philippines – For a team who takes a lot of pride in playing defense, giving up close to 40 points in one quarter is simply not acceptable. And after Magnolia allowed Phoenix to score 39 points in the second quarter of their PBA Philippine Cup showdown at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Sunday, April 14, Hotshots head coach Chito Victolero gave his wards a much-needed pep talk at halftime, which ultimately sparked their 107-93 rout of the Fuel Masters. “We had a serious talk at halftime. We allowed Phoenix to score 39 points in the second quarter and that’s not us,” said Victolero. “I think that’s the worst defensive quarter for us. I don’t remember the last time we gave up that many points in a quarter,” he added in a mix of English and Filipino. “We did a good job in the first quarter, but in the second quarter we all chilled. We talked about it at halftime, even with our boss Alfrancis Chua.” Coming off a 104-97 win versus the NorthPort Batang Pier in their previous outing, the Hotshots got off to a good start against the Fuel Masters as they quickly built a double-digit lead at the end of the first quarter, 28-18. However, Magnolia failed to keep its foot on the gas pedal, letting Phoenix go on a massive 39-19 rally in the second period for a 57-47 cushion at the break. Luckily for the Hotshots, they managed to regain their bearings after their halftime discussion as they outscored the Fuel Masters, 32-20, in the third canto, before pulling away for good with a fiery 19-3 blast in the opening minutes of the final frame. Despite playing with a right hand injury, Mark Barroca delivered the goods for Magnolia as he tied his career-high 27 points on an efficient 11-of-19 shooting. Ian Sangalang had a near double-double of 23 points and 9 rebounds, while Jio Jalalon posted 13 markers and 7 boards. RJ Jazul paced Phoenix in the loss with 21 points built on five treys, while Kenneth Tuffin and Jason Perkins added 17 and 16 markers, respectively. Magnolia moved up to a 3-2 slate, while Phoenix fell to 2-5. Magnolia 107 – Barroca 27, Sangalang 23, Jalalon 13, Eriobu 11, Tratter 8, Dionisio 7, Lee 7, Abueva 6, Balanza 2, Mendoza 2, Reavis 1, Escoto 0, Laput 0. Phoenix 93 – Jazul 21, Tuffin 17, Perkins 16, Mocon 11, Salado 8, Verano 8, Alejandro 6, Rivero 6, Muyang 0, Camacho 0, Daves 0, Lalata 0. Quarters: 28-18, 47-57, 79-77, 107-93. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Hidilyn Diaz plans to remain in competitive scene, aims to win more medals for PH

delfin.dioquino editor

14/04/2024 19:25

FOCUSED. Hidilyn Diaz flashes a smile after a successful first lift in the Asian Games. PSC-POC Media Pool MANILA, Philippines – The quest to bring honor to the country does not end for Hidilyn Diaz. The weightlifting icon said she plans to remain in the competitive scene even after she fell short of qualifying for the Paris Games, halting her streak of four straight Olympic appearances. “I will still represent our country,” said Diaz on Sunday, April 14, as she graced the 60th anniversary event of energy drink MILO at Trinoma in Quezon City. With her bid to replicate her golden feat in the Tokyo Games dashed as she lost her Paris spot to compatriot Elreen Ando, Diaz can still recapture her women’s 55kg crown in the World Weightlifting Championships in Bahrain in December. Diaz, 33, failed to defend the 55kg title she won in the world championships in 2022 as she took part in the 59kg class in 2023. Paris organizers scrapped the 55kg division, forcing Diaz to move up to 59kg. The Zamboangueña can also shoot for a third gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games, which will be hosted by Thailand next year. Diaz won back-to-back SEA Games titles in 2019 and 2021 on top of two silvers and one bronze she bagged in earlier editions before she skipped the biennial showpiece in 2023. “The SEA Games is something I look forward to. But I cannot say [if I’ll be competing],” said Diaz. “One thing I know is I’ll still lift. I’m happy that I still love weightlifting.” “I’ll continue to train. Of course, I’m aiming to win a gold medal for the Philippines again.” For now, though, Diaz wants to focus on things that matter to her outside the sport. “I gave everything to weightlifting. I realized this is my time for my family, learning new things like cooking and baking, and traveling.” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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[PODCAST] Teach Me, Senpai, E12: Travel writing and freelancing with Kara Santos

Julian Cirineo

14/04/2024 19:00

If you think you have a talent for writing and are wondering how writers earn money from their craft, you’ll probably find this episode interesting. Kara Santos used to work for nonprofit organizations. She would write reports, help bolster campaigns, and talk to various stakeholders. Part of her job was to travel around the Philippines, and it was at this point in her life that she fell in love with traveling, and then travel writing. In her travels, she realized that there were stories left untold from her reports: about the places, about the people, about the experiences. After having done various consultancy jobs and freelance writing gigs, Kara thought of taking a course at the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Asian Center for Journalism. Her college degree was in psychology. Throughout Kara’s career, travel writing and freelancing became her main source of income and fulfillment. Her work funds her travels, and her travels help her make content for her blog. One of her proudest accomplishments so far is having been able to visit all 82 provinces in the Philippines – an idea that sprung into her mind after seeing a scratch-off map of the Philippines. Kara’s travel stories are in her blog called Travel Up (as in to level up like in video games), and she has written for various publications, including newspapers, magazines, websites, and most recently The Lonely Planet, for its upcoming guide on the Philippines. In this episode, Kara schools us on a number of things: Catch this episode on Sunday, April 14, at 7 pm! Bookmark this page so you don’t miss it. You can also follow us on Spotify at bit.ly/RapplerTeachMeSenpai. – Rappler.com How does this make you feel?

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IN PHOTOS: Official portraits of Binibining Pilipinas 2024 Top 40

Ysa Abad

14/04/2024 11:53

MANILA, Philippines – The search for the next Binibining Pilipinas queens is heating up! Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) unveiled on Friday, April 12, the official portraits of its 40 delegates for the 2024 pageant. In photos taken by Owen Reyes, the aspiring beauty queens donned black shirts with the pageant’s 60th anniversary logo and their official candidate numbers. The organization first introduced its official candidates on April 5 after their final closed-door screening. Notable names in this year’s roster include Miss Philippines Earth 2021 Top 20 finalist Zeneth Khan, Miss Tourism Philippines 2021 and Binibining Pilipinas Top 11 candidate Trisha Martinez, and Binibining Pilipinas 2021 candidate and Miss Rotary 2023 runner-up Shaira Rona. The 40 candidates will battle it out to represent the country in the following two pageants: Miss International and Miss Globe. Reigning queens Angelica Lopez and Anna Valencia Lakrini will be crowning their successors. Lopez will be representing the Philippines in the Miss International 2024 pageant while Lakrini finished as 2nd runner-up in the Miss Globe 2023 competition. As of writing, BPCI has yet to announce its schedule of activities. Take a look at the official portraits of the candidates here: – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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ABS-CBN’s Star Hunt to hold auditions for next P-pop idol trainees, new season of ‘PBB’

Ysa Abad

14/04/2024 13:51

BINI's Facebook MANILA, Philippines – Do you have what it takes to be the country’s next big star? ABS-CBN’s Star Magic head Laurenti Dyogi announced that they’ll be holding auditions for aspiring Filipino celebrities as they are looking for a “new breed of artists.” “If you feel you have the potential to be a star and to be in the industry, join us in the auditions,” Dyogi said in an Instagram Live. According to the director, they’re reviving their artista/idol search Star Hunt Academy for those interested to join their talent management arm Star Magic, for aspiring P-pop idols, and for aspiring housemates for a new edition of Pinoy Big Brother (PBB). To note, P-pop groups BINI and BGYO were formed through Star Hunt Academy, an offshoot of Star Magic, wherein artists were trained through an “idol system.” Meanwhile, PBB is a reality survival show that follows a group of people living together in one house for a set period of time, completing different challenges throughout. Housemates are eliminated every week, until a winner is declared in the season finale. It first premiered on ABS-CBN in 2005, while its latest season, the 16th edition, aired in 2022. Some of the notable Filipino celebrities who started their career in PBB include Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Melai Cantiveros, James Reid, Maris Racal, and Robi Domingo, among others. Dyogi said that they will hold four on-ground auditions nationwide, with the first being on April 27 and 28 in Metro Manila. They will head to Visayas, Mindanao, and Luzon on the following weekends for the next set of auditions. As of writing, final dates and venue for these auditions have yet to be announced. Aside from the on-ground auditions, there will also be online auditions. Those interested to join the new season of PBB must be 16 to 32 years old, while aspiring idol trainees under Star Hunt Academy must be 13 to 25 years old. On their social media accounts, the team behind PBB also implored the public to “be vigilant against scammers claiming to be part of PBB and asking aspiring housemates to audition.” They reminded that unauthorized use and false representation of the brand is punishable by the law. The new edition of PBB is set to premiere in June. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Jameson brings Poblacion’s streets to life with a St. Patrick’s Day street party

gbarrientos0280

12/04/2024 15:44

The streets of Poblacion were painted green last March 16, when Jameson Irish Whiskey threw an all-out St. Patrick’s Day party. It was a Saturday night to remember, as hundreds of visitors came out to sing with some of the hottest OPM acts, play games, and dance on the streets with a cup of Jameson Ginger & Lime on the house. Want to know what went down? Here’s a recap that’ll make you wish you were there! Some of the hottest bands graced the Jameson stage and brought the street party to life. Lola Amour came out and performed hits like “Raining in Manila” and “Pwede Ba” and got the crowd screaming. Juan Karlos then followed to keep the energy at an all time high, with crowd-favorite tracks like “Ere” and “Buwan.” Party scene heavy hitters like DJ Ron Poe and Margachi also played sets that made the people dance, keeping the good vibes going all the way ‘til midnight. The area had three Jameson bars to keep everyone quenched with their favorite whiskey drink. Upon presenting their Jameson Digital Passport app, each guest got a free cup of the deliciously refreshing Jameson Ginger and Lime. To add to the fun, visitors also got the chance to win exclusive goodies like the Jameson x Kurimu ice cream, a Jameson cap, a custom Jameson tote bag, and a whole lot more! It’s not a block party without your neighbors joining in on the fun! Jameson also partnered with adjacent bars like Z-Hostel, Kampai, Ugly Duck, White Banana, Apotheka and many more to offer special St. Patrick’s Day promos on Jameson drinks. At a Jameson party, everyone is always encouraged to drink responsibly. Folks could also get free water at a designated hydration station plus a roaming water refiller. All around the area, giant versions of beloved games like Jenga and Connect 4 were set up for friends and family to enjoy. There was also a Jameson foosball table and a ring toss made out of Jameson bottles. Visitors could make new friends or hang out with their loved ones with a little friendly competition! For something less competitive, guests could also customize their own Jameson tote bags with a heat press booth or leave their mark on the doodle-friendly Jameson barrels booth. Folks could also bring home some limited edition merch to remember the night for life. The Dickies x Jameson streetwear collection has caps, sweaters, and shirts that show off the collaboration of two iconic brands. The collection is only available for purchase at select Jameson events, so each piece can definitely be a conversation starter for streetwear fans. Feeling that FOMO yet? Don’t worry, Jameson has more events up its sleeve. Follow them on socials at @jamesonph on Instagram and @jamesonwhiskeyph on Facebook to stay in the loop. – Rappler.com All photos by Mike Liwanag Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Charly Suarez extends winning run to 17 in Texas

Jasmine Payo

14/04/2024 13:01

HIT. Charly Suarez (left) unleashes a punch against Luis Coria in their super featherweight bout. TOP RANK MANILA, Philippines – Charly Suarez stretched his winning run with a unanimous decision over Mexican-American Luis Coria on Saturday, April 13 (Sunday, April 14, Philippine time) at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dictating the tempo of the 10-round super featherweight bout, Suarez got the nod of two judges with similar 77-74 scores while the third saw it 76-75. The margin would have been bigger if not for the flash knockdown Suarez suffered when he got clipped by a left hook and his left glove touched the canvas before the final bell rang. It was the 17th straight win with 9 kncokouts for the 35-year-old Suarez, who was supposed to tangle with the similarly unscathed Henry Lebron (19-0, 10 KOs) in a world title crack eliminator, but the Puerto Rican backed out. Coria turned out to be a worthy substitute although there was little he could do to overcome Suarez’s all-around skills and fall to 15-7 with 7 knockouts. Other than Suarez’s last-second lapse, chief trainer Delfin Boholst said he was satisfied with the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympian’s performance. “What’s more important is he (Suarez) didn’t go injured. So we’ll be ready for our next fight (either in July or August) as promised by Top Rank,” said Boholst, also a former national boxer. Suarez, a three-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, checked in at 131.8 pounds during the official weigh-in on Friday, with Coria coming in at 131.7 pounds. Boholst said Suarez would need to return to the Philippines soon as he’s on active status with the Philippine Army with the rank of Private First Class. After reporting for duty, Suarez would return to the United States and train under Boholst in Las Vegas. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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‘Be Brave’: FEU Lady Tamaraws raring to exceed goals after clinching Final Four return

jisaga0269

13/04/2024 22:42

CONFIDENT. FEU spiker Jean Asis reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – In perhaps its most important win yet in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament, FEU booked the last Final Four berth in shocking fashion, downing league-leading UST in five thrilling sets, 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10, on Saturday, April 13. Once stinking up the standings cellar with a 1-13 record just two years prior, the 29-time women’s volleyball champion Lady Tamaraws rebounded hard, not only clinching the semifinals, but also eliminating Adamson, Ateneo, and UE in one definitive upset of the league-leading Tigresses. Rookie head coach Manolo Refugia, himself an FEU volleyball standout in his playing days, couldn’t be prouder with his wards embodying the school’s “Be Brave” mantra right when they needed it the most. “It feels really great because we’ve stayed on course in bringing back the FEU glory days,” he said in Filipino. “Now, we’re back in the Final Four. It feels great, but of course, the job isn’t finished. We’re already here, so we might as well dream higher and higher.” Despite facing one of the season’s hottest teams – a squad that already had their number in the eliminations’ first round – the Lady Tamaraws still fought back from a 1-2 set deficit, with surging rookie Faida Bakanke fighting back cramps to finish with a game-high 21 points. Youngsters and veterans alike were on point in the crucial match, as senior spiker Jean Asis scored 6 of FEU’s final 7 points to arrive at a 16-point tally, while star setter Tin Ubaldo steered the offense with 21 excellent sets. As the youthful Refugia pointed out, the Lady Tamaraws’ job is far from finished with a handful of games left in the eliminations, and Asis is making sure her teammates don’t lose sight of what’s still possible for their squad moving forward. “That ‘Be Brave’ mantra, that’s what we lean on and we’re proud of it. We know we’re brave even though the opponents are leading, and we will just keep being brave until the end,” she said in Filipino. “Nothing’s impossible since we just beat the top team today. We can also beat the other teams as long as we stay patient, hardworking, and trusting of one another. Why not?” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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More to come: POC targets 25 athletes for Paris Olympics

delfin.dioquino editor

12/04/2024 20:47

WATCH. Bianca Pagdanganan of the Philippines looks on during the women's golf competition in the Tokyo Olympics. Toby Melville/REUTERS MANILA, Philippines – If things go according to plan, the Philippines will have its biggest Olympic delegation in over three decades. Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on Friday, April 12, said the target is to qualify 25 athletes to Paris as the county celebrates its 100th year of participation in the Summer Games. The last time more than 20 athletes represented the Philippines in a single Olympics came in the 1992 Barcelona Games, where 26 Filipinos – including boxing bronze medalist Roel Velasco – competed. Chances are, Tolentino said, the Philippines will exceed the 19-man team it sent to Tokyo in 2021, with nine Filipinos already assured of Olympic berths three months before Paris opens hostilities in July. “Momentum is there. They’re inspired,” said Tolentino in Filipino. Pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan, boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, and Aira Villegas, and weightlifters Elreen Ando, Vanessa Sarno, and John Ceniza have booked their tickets to Paris. A fourth weightlifter, Rosegie Ramos, aims to reach Paris as she waits for the International Weightlifting Federation to release the final qualification ranking in May. Ramos is currently a spot outside the top 10 qualification cutoff in her women’s 49kg class. The Philippines is also guaranteed three more Olympic berths – one in athletics and two in swimming – through the universality rule if no one meets the standard qualifying times. Swimmers Kayla Sanchez and Jarrod Hatch were identified by the POC as the top candidates to obtain the universality places for Paris. Other potential qualifiers include Bianca Pagdanganan (golf), Emma Malabuyo (gymnastics), Kurt Barbosa (taekwondo), Rogen Ladon, Carlo Paalam, Hergie Bacyadan, and Criztian Pitt Laurente (boxing), and Cris Nievarez and Joanie Delgaco (rowing). Pagdanganan is well inside the top 60 of eligible female golfers who will qualify for Paris, Malabuyo can clinch her Paris spot through the FIG World Cup Series, while Barbosa hopes to nail a reallocation spot after falling short of an outright berth in the World Taekwondo Asian Qualification Tournament. Ladon, Paalam, Bacyadan, and Laurente get one last shot at Paris in the second World Qualification Tournament in May in Bangkok, Thailand, while Nievarez and Delgaco compete in the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Continental Qualification Regatta in Chungju, South Korea, this April. Also in the running for Paris are Robyn Brown, Lauren Hoffman, Kristina Knott, John Tolentino, Janry Ubas, and Eric Cray (athletics), Jericho Francisco (skateboarding), Patrick Coo and Shagne Yao (cycling), Franchette Quiroz (shooting), Kiyomi Watanabe, Keisei Nakano, and Shugen Nakano (judo), and Samantha Catantan, Noelito Jose, Hanniel Abella, and Nathaniel Perez (fencing). Olympic-bound Filipinos will get a chance to adjust to France as the POC will hold a month-long training camp in Metz – about two hours east of Paris by train – starting on June 22. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Showdown ready: Choco Mucho, Creamline score quick wins before sister battle

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 20:57

SUPERSTARS. Choco Mucho's Sisi Rondina and Creamline's Alyssa Valdez in PVL action. PVL IMAGES MANILA, Philippines – Both the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and the Creamline Cool Smashers shored up their confidence further heading to their monumental face-off in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference fixture on Thursday, April 18, at the Araneta Coliseum. The sister teams both picked up straight-set wins against their respective opponents on Saturday, April 13, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig. “In terms of confidence, [winning] is a big help, since in our four consecutive victories, our confidence got boosted,” Choco Mucho head coach Dante Alinsunurin said after the game. “We need to prepare for Creamline, since we need to scout and prepare to be able to be ready come Thursday,” he added. Choco Mucho solidified its hold at the top of the standings with an 8-1 record after thumping Strong Group Athletics, 25-17, 25-15, 25-15, to make it four straight victories. Royse Tubino starred in the absence of Kat Tolentino for the Flying Titans, scoring a game-high 17 in a game that just took 1 hour and 13 minutes to conclude. Tolentino continues to recover from an auditory issue, sitting out her fourth straight game, but was present to watch the game. Sisi Rondina also chipped in 17, while Dolly Versoza fired 12 markers for Strong Group in the loss, as the Athletics sank to 0-9. Meanwhile, Creamline secured a bounce-back win after sweeping the Nxled Chameleons, 25-22, 25-12, 25-20 in the nightcap. The Cool Smashers, who were downed in five sets by Petro Gazz in Laguna last April 6, were all smiles during the post-game press conference, led by team captain Alyssa Valdez. “We’re very happy…I think more than the win, it’s more of being reminded by the coaches that we have to find ourselves in this game and this conference,” explained Valdez, who scored 12 attack points. “We’re slowly building our confidence and finding who we are back again, and I think that’s the most important thing especially the next games are interesting and exciting,” she continued. Tots Carlos launched a game-high 18 points as Creamline improved to 7-2, while Ivy Lacsina recorded 10 for the Chameleons, who dropped to a 3-6 card. Earlier, the Galeries Tower Highrisers scored a straight-set triumph over Farm Fresh, 25-18, 25-23, 25-16, behind a career-high 20 points from France Ronquillo. “I could not explain the feeling, because our confidence waned during our losing streak,” a gleeful Ronquillo said after the game. “We really wanted to win so it was a great feeling,” she added. With the Highrisers’ third win against six losses, they had already tripled their one-win outing during their maiden season. Playmaker Renee Mabilangan tossed 20 excellent sets during the match that just took about 95 minutes to conclude. Chinnie Arroyo and Trisha Tubu scored 8 points each for the Foxies, who fell to 2-7. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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‘Gutom factor’ fuels Negros kids to snatch Spain football crown

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 16:52

LITTLE CHAMPIONS. The players of the Filipinas San Carlos U-12 Team celebrate their title win in Spain. Provincial Government of Negros Occidental NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines –They’re football scholars playing for the city’s elite team. But these 11-year-old Negros kids showed they’re also winners in the international stage. Led by team stars Klent Paul Montilla and Felex Rey Caballero, the Filipinas San Carlos U-12 Team surprised their bigger and taller foes to rule the 2024 Real Madrid Foundation Clinics World Challenge at the Valdebebas Training Ground in Madrid, Spain on March 26-31. Head coach Francis Roy Barcuma told Rappler that his 12 players – all coming from low-income families in various villages in San Carlos City – showed the “gutom factor” (hunger) that fueled them to “kick hard” and “aspire big” for a better future through football. “It can be seen in their faces and movements that they’re determined to win…to be champions,” said Barcuma of his players, all public elementary school students in the city. The young San Carlos booters fought seven games in the Spain football tourney – won six, lost one – prior to their championship match where they dominated with a 3-0 victory over USA-Blue on March 31. Montilla scored the first goal before Caballero sealed it with a brace. “Happy, happy gid ko nga naka-kadto na ko sa Spain (I am so happy that I went to Spain already),” said Montilla, whose mother Josefa works as a vendor, while father Arnel remains jobless. Second in the broad of four, Montilla vowed to practice more to be the next “football star” in the country. For Caballero, “football is life” even if life is tough for his family. His father Bryan Rey works at the city’s water district while his mother Arnie takes care of him and his four other siblings. Like Montilla, Caballero also hopes to become a “football idol” when he grows up. Rounding out the champion team are Charles Adam Dignos, Twirl Gelito, Christian Paul Limpio, Mark Ross Mabesa, Dhroy Miguel, Mathew Jacob Pamilar, Franz Mekael Jhay Salvador, John Jacob Sildura, Ivan Dio Silvar, and Frenchzuef Machryl Subrado. The local government celebrated their feat with a morning victory caravan in the entire poblacion of San Carlos City, 398 kilometers north of the provincial capital, Bacolod City. San Carlos Mayor Rene Gustilo, in a press conference on Thursday, April 8, said the city is “beyond proud” of their little champions. Gustilo believes that with the San Carlos City Negros Football Club (SCCNFC) and Sining at Pag-asa (SIPA), the boys can continue to hone their skills and dream big. SIPA is a joint football program of the local government of San Carlos and Fundacion Real Madrid since 2016 that aims to discover and train young boys in the city. Jose Miguel Valmayor, vice president of SCCNFC, said it’s the first time in 20 years since founding the club that their team copped an international title. Gustilo said the 12 talented young players will receive a cash incentive of P20,000 each from the city government. The promising Caballero said the reward will be a big help to his family, especially to his siblings. But like any kid, he also wants to celebrate, “Ma-bonding kami ka mga igso-on ko (I’ll spend some bonding time with my siblings).” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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BARMM residents approve creation of 8 more towns

Jairo Bolledo

13/04/2024 22:35

PLEBISCITE. BARMM residents flock to precincts on Saturday, April 13, to participate in the plebiscite that will decide if the creation of eight more towns will be ratified. Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia MANILA, Philippines – Bangsomoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) residents voted to approved the creation of eight more municipalities in the region on Saturday, April 13. A total of 72,658 voters participated in the plebiscite, or a voter turnout of 81.10%, exceeding the expectations of BARMM officials. Of this number, 72,358 votes yes, 273 voted no, and 27 abstained. Based on the documents provided by the Commission on Elections on Saturday, April 13, these are the new towns created, including the number of residents who voted in favor or against their creation in the plebiscite. The Comelec said on Saturday night that the canvassing was completed at 9 pm. In 2023, Bangsamoro Transition Authority member Aida Silongan proposed the creation of the eight municipalities. Silongan then said that a plebiscite could settle jurisdictional issues and include the municipalities in the proposed Bangsamoro Local Governance Code. The said code was approved in September 2023. The BARMM parliament approved the creation of the eight towns in August 2023. The plebiscite was a requirement to ratify the regional laws that created the new municipalities. BARMM was tasked to provide initial funds amounting to P2.5 million for each of the municipalities, for the administrative and operational needs of the new towns. The setup continues until the new municipalities get their share from the National Tax Allotment. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Back at channel 2: TV Patrol, TV Patrol Weekend to air on ALLTV

Jairo Bolledo

13/04/2024 20:43

TV PATROL. Anchors Noli de Castro, Karen Davila, Bernadette Sembrano, and Henry Omaga Diaz during TV Patrol airing on April 10, 2024. ABS-CBN MANILA, Philippines – ABS-CBN’s flagship newscast TV Patrol and its weekend iteration, TV Patrol Weekend, will be back on channel 2 starting Monday night, April 15. ABS-CBN announced on Saturday, April 13, that its flagship newscast will air on ALLTV, owned by tycoon Manny Villar. TV Patrol airs from Monday to Friday, 6:30 pm, with anchors Noli de Castro, Karen Davila, Bernadette Sembrano, and Henry Omaga Diaz. Meanwhile, anchors Alvin Elchico and Zen Hernandez host the weekend edition that airs Saturday and Sunday, 5:30 pm. ABS-CBN said their viewers can still watch the newscasts on A2Z, on cable through Kapamilya Channel, ANC, and Teleradyo Serbisyo, and on radio via DWPM. After the National Telecommunications Commission ordered ABS-CBN to stop its television and radio operations, the channel went off-air on May 5, 2020, right after TV Patrol’s airing. The media giant was shut down in the first few years of the administration of then-president Rodrigo Duterte who admitted that he used his “presidential powers” against ABS-CBN. Only two days later, on May 7, 2020, TV Patrol aired online through ABS-CBN’s website, its official Facebook page, and YouTube channel, and through its content platform iWant, and on ANC. In October of the same year, ABS-CBN pulled off its return to free television via Brother Eddie Villanueva’s A2Z. This paved the way for TV Patrol’s comeback later on. The flagship newscast only returned to free television via A2Z in January 2022. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Marcos defends Sara Duterte’s silence on China aggression in West PH Sea

Mia Gonzalez

13/04/2024 11:37

TOP LEADERS. File photo shows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte during Brigada Eskwela in August 2023. Presidential Communications Office MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has defended Vice President Sara Duterte from criticism about her silence over China’s aggression against Philippine government vessels and fisherfolk in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos said in an interview with Philippine media in Washington, where he had attended a trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, that the China issue is not within the scope of Duterte’s job as vice president and education secretary. “That’s not the role of the Vice President or the secretary of education to talk about China,” Marcos said on Friday, April 12 (US time). Duterte’s silence over the issue amid the Marcos administration’s strong condemnation of a series of Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea has further fueled the observed split of the Uniteam, the 2022 election coalition that led the Marcos-Duterte tandem to victory. Marcos said in the interview that if the Vice President had any serious concerns about the government’s approach to the West Philippine Sea issue, especially in relation to China, she would have told him directly since she is part of his administration. “I’m very sure that if Inday Sara had some very serious misgivings about what we are doing in terms of foreign policies, she would bring that to me,” Marcos said. “And, wala naman siyang [sinabi]. Ang pinag-uusapan nga namin, sabi niya, ‘Basta ako trabaho lang ako nang trabaho,’ sabi niyang ganoon (She hasn’t [said anything]. When we talk, she says, ‘As for me, I just continue to do my work.’) That’s a good policy. So, I don’t think it is something that we need to be concerned with,” he added. On April 8, the Vice President was asked about the country’s sea dispute with China but only said, “No comment.” She said that the previous statement of her brother, Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte, in relation to her silence over the issue was “comprehensive.” On March 27, Paolo Duterte had said that it was not her sister’s job to “demonize China or any country for that matter.” This was in response to Akbayan’s statement questioning the Vice President’s continued silence on the issue. Sara and Paolo’s father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, had pursued a pivot to China under what he called the “independent foreign policy” of his administration. It was during his term when he reportedly entered into a “gentleman’s agreement” with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the issue of Ayungin Shoal which China had cited to justify its actions in the West Philippine Sea. China’s continued aggression in the South China Sea was one of the major agenda at the historic first trilateral summit of the leaders of the Philippines, the US, and Japan in Washington. At that meeting, the Philippines expressed its determination to assert its sovereign rights in the South China Sea. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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DOLE to employers: Excuse workers getting kids vaccinated vs measles, polio

Michelle Abad

13/04/2024 10:33

JAB. A public health worker administers a vaccine shot to a boy while her mother watches during the start of a massive measles and polio vaccination campaign in Iligan on Tuesday, May 2. Merlyn Manos / Rappler MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is encouraging private sector employers to excuse their workers who need to accompany their children to get vaccinated against measles-rubella and polio. In Labor Advisory No. 4, series of 2024 signed on March 27 but disseminated to the media on Saturday, April 13, the DOLE issued guidelines for employers in letting their employees participate in the government’s nationwide measles-rubella and bivalent-oral polio vaccine immunization activity from April 1 to 15. Other local health units have different dates for the same immunization program, with some starting on April 15, and ending in the coming months. The guidelines apply to all private sector employers, particularly those with employees who have children aged 6 to 59 months old. “Employers are highly encouraged to allow their employees to be excused from work when they accompany their children on scheduled vaccination, or when they must take care of their children who will experience adverse effects or reactions to the vaccine on the day after the vaccination,” the DOLE said. When the employees return to work, they must present proof of vaccination. The must also be allowed to use available leave credits during the vaccination activity, subject to company policy or collective bargaining agreement. Apart from simply excusing their workers to get their kids vaccinated, the DOLE also advised employers to help promote the immunization programs. The advisory contained a link to informational and promotional materials on what measles and polio are, and why immunization is important. The labor department advised employers to coordinate with local health units to ensure that qualified employees’ children can get vaccinated. The department also encouraged employers with institutionalized immunization programs to conduct the measles-rubella and bivalent-oral polio vaccinations in the establishments. Employers may put up temporary vaccination posts, and use occupational health personnel as part of the vaccination team as needed. In March, the health ministry of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao declared a measles outbreak. The Department of Health has meanwhile encouraged parents to get their children vaccinated against pertussis or whooping cough, as cases climb and more local governments are declaring outbreaks. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Shaping the new generation of Pinoy hip-hop with Spotify RADAR artist Hev Abi

jreyes0314

13/04/2024 17:00

RADAR ARTIST. Pinoy hip-hop giant Hev Abi is one of the latest Filipino artists to make it to the Spotify RADAR class of 2024. Spotify Philippines MANILA, Philippines – Hev Abi’s music has found its way into the playlists of millions of Filipinos at the speed of light. He isn’t just a one-hit wonder. At one point, he had even taken up six spots on the Spotify Philippines chart, registering hits like “Babaero,” “Walang Alam,” “Alam Mo Ba Girl,” “Makasarili Malambing,” “Sumugal,” and “Lil Kasalanan Shortie.” A post shared by Spotify PH (@spotifyph) It’s clear that Hev Abi has already figured out how to charm his audience – even those who weren’t fans of hip-hop prior to coming across his music. But what is it about the Spotify RADAR artist’s songs that draws so many people in? Perhaps it’s how straightforward he is with his craft. “Kulong, sulat, gawa, record (Shut in, write, work, record),” Hev Abi replied when Rappler asked him how he got in the zone to create some of his best songs. He even admitted that he doesn’t have a creative process he religiously abides by. He simply makes the music he wants to hear, which has undoubtedly worked well for him. “Wala akong iisang way nang paggawa ng kanta. Kapag gumagawa ako ng kanta, wala naman akong ine-aim. Bahala na kung anong mangyari,” he said. (I don’t have a set way of creating music. When I make music, I don’t aim for anything in particular. Whatever happens, happens.) Even his artist bio on Spotify is just two words long: “Sobrang (Very) downtown.” But it’s more than enough to set him apart from the rest. Like many artists, Hev Abi began creating his own music to emulate rappers like Kanye West and Tyler, the Creator, whom he had spent years looking up to leading up to his own debut in the local music industry. But there was another thing that inspired the start of Hev Abi’s music career: his hometown, Quezon City. Hev Abi pays homage to Quezon City through his music any chance he gets. It’s arguably the one thing any of the young hip-hop artist’s listeners are bound to remember. Just take for example his top hit “WELCOME2DTQ” and his remix of Young Nudy and 21 Savage’s “Peaches & Eggplants,” aptly titled “QC Girls.” Fittingly, his first-ever solo concert on April 28 is set to be held in Quezon City, too, and is, of course, titled “Morato Most Wanted” – a nod to the rapper’s favorite place in the city: Tomas Morato. “[It’s a] hip-hop thing. Dito ako lumaki eh, [sa] bahay, sa ’min, ng mga tropa dito,” he explained about his love for the city. (It’s a hip-hop thing. This is where I grew up, our house, and my friends here.) With all the milestones he’s already achieved thus far, you’d expect that the outpouring of Hev Abi’s success had come as a complete shock to him. But he had always known that he would eventually make it big. “Una pa lang naman, parang alam ko na na darating sa ganito. Hindi nakakagulat na nakakagulat na lang din. Normal pa rin. Hindi naman nakakapanibago. Ganon pa rin ako kung paano ako dati,” he said. (From the start, I already knew it would reach this point. It’s not surprising, but at the same time, it is. Everything’s still normal. It didn’t come as a surprise. I’m still the same person I was before.) “Ayos! Tama ka (Great! You were right),” he said, when we asked him to tell a message to his younger self. It was this confidence and no-nonsense attitude that had helped push Hev Abi further up the charts. But while he knew the success would come eventually, he admitted that he didn’t think it would happen this early into his career. “Expect ko namang mangyari ‘yung mga ganito, pero hindi ko inexpect na ganito kabilis. Nakaka-overwhelm siya sa akin paminsan-minsan pero pinapahalagahan ko sarili ko. pinapalibutan ko ‘yung sarili ko ng mga tamang tao para mas maging swabe ‘yung takbo ng career ko,” Hev Abi told Rappler. (I expected it to happen, but I didn’t expect it to happen this fast. Sometimes, it gets overwhelming, but I take care of myself. I surround myself with the right people so the flow of my career becomes even smoother.) It’s safe to say that Hev Abi is on the frontlines of the new generation of Filipino hip-hop. He had grown up listening to the genre, and had pretty much borne witness to the evolution to what it is now – attesting that it’s the music and culture of local hip-hop that has gone through the most changes from his childhood to the present. In fact, it was these changes that shaped his lyricism. “Nung nagsisimula ako, mas lamang ‘yung culture ng battle rap kaysa sa music, kumpara ngayon na mas litaw na litaw na ‘yung mga gumagawa ng rap music kaysa sa mga ruma-rap battle. Nakatulong din sa akin ‘yun sa pagsusulat ng lyrics na ganyan ‘yung era na kinalakihan ko kahit papaano. Doon ko siguro nakuha ‘yung mga humor-humor sa lyrics ko,” he shared. (When I was just starting out, the culture of battle rap was more prominent than music, compared to now where rap music is more clear-cut over those who do rap battles. I think that’s where I got the humor in my lyrics.) With the evolution of local hip-hop came its timely rise, too. More and more Filipinos have been hooked by the genre, and Hev Abi is one of the artists we have to thank for that. The young rapper had pulled in a wave of what the internet hilariously calls “Hev Abi enjoyers,” and they just seem to keep growing by the second. Hev Abi attributes this to Filipinos’ knack for having a good time. “Ugali na ng Pilipino na gawing masaya ang kahit anong mga bagay. In hip-hop, [it’s the] same thing. Lumalabas din ‘yung mga kulit ng tao ‘pag nakikinig ng hip-hop, ‘yung mga nagtatatalon-talon [at] nagsasalita ng mga hindi naman dapat sabihin. Lumalabas ang mga kulit ng tao, natutuwa sila. Para sa akin, ‘yun ang bakit mas nakikilala pa lalo ang hip-hop,” he explained. (Filipinos have a habit of making anything fun. In hip-hop, [it’s the] same thing. People’s excitement jumps out when they listen to hip-hop, in the sense that they jump around and say things that shouldn’t be said. For me, that’s why hip-hop is becoming more well-known now.) As the “Para Sa Streets” rapper continues to make the music he and millions of Filipinos love, there’s only one legacy he wants to leave behind: his creativity. “Ang gusto kong maiwan sa mga tao is kung paano ako maging creative sa mga ginagawa ko kasi pinipili ko talagang maging weird sa mga ginagawa ko para lumalabas ‘yung mga ‘di pangkaraniwan. Kung may madadampot man sila sa akin, sana ‘yun na lang kasi natutuwa ako ‘pag may mga taong nagpapakita ng kakulitan nila sa mga ginagawa nila,” he said. (I want to leave people with my creativity because I really choose to be weird with what I do so I can bring out the unusual. If people had to pick something up from me, I hope it’s my creativity because it makes me happy to see people show their excitement in what they do.) – Rappler.com Check out the Spotify RADAR playlist here. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Unbeaten Charly Suarez seeks win No. 17 against Luis Coria in Texas

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 23:48

READY. Charly Suarez (left) and Luis Coria make weight in their featherweight bout. VIVA PROMOTIONS MANILA, Philippines – His chance for an outright world title crack gone, Charly Suarez is focusing on beating American Luis Coria impressively on Saturday, April 13 (Sunday, April 14, Philippine time) at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. The unbeaten Suarez (16-0 with 9 knockouts) was supposed to tangle with unscathed Henry Lebron (19-0, 10 KOs), but the Puerto Rican backed out, forcing the Filipino “King’s Warrior” to fight Coria (15-6, 7 KOs) instead. Although, on paper, Coria appears to be the lighter assignment, Suarez refuses to be complacent in their 10-round super featherweight bout. After making the necessary adjustments with his chief trainer Delfin Boholst, the 35-year-old Suarez said he’s raring to dispose of Coria and look forward to July or August for his next bout. Suarez, a three-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, checked in at 131.8 pounds during the official weigh-in on Friday. Coria came in a tad lighter at 131.7 pounds. According to Boholst, they accepted the Coria fight rather than be downgraded from his current No. 5 ranking in the International Boxing Federation (IBF). Owing to his reputation as a Rio de Janeiro Olympian in 2016, Suarez has been installed a -450 favorite over the 25-year-old Coria, who was listed at +500. This means a $450 bet on Suarez would earn just $100 if he wins. A $100 wager on Coria, on the other hand, would return $500 in case of an upset. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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‘Be Brave’: FEU Lady Tamaraws raring to exceed goals after clinching Final Four return

jisaga0269

13/04/2024 22:42

CONFIDENT. FEU spiker Jean Asis reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – In perhaps its most important win yet in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament, FEU booked the last Final Four berth in shocking fashion, downing league-leading UST in five thrilling sets, 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10, on Saturday, April 13. Once stinking up the standings cellar with a 1-13 record just two years prior, the 29-time women’s volleyball champion Lady Tamaraws rebounded hard, not only clinching the semifinals, but also eliminating Adamson, Ateneo, and UE in one definitive upset of the league-leading Tigresses. Rookie head coach Manolo Refugia, himself an FEU volleyball standout in his playing days, couldn’t be prouder with his wards embodying the school’s “Be Brave” mantra right when they needed it the most. “It feels really great because we’ve stayed on course in bringing back the FEU glory days,” he said in Filipino. “Now, we’re back in the Final Four. It feels great, but of course, the job isn’t finished. We’re already here, so we might as well dream higher and higher.” Despite facing one of the season’s hottest teams – a squad that already had their number in the eliminations’ first round – the Lady Tamaraws still fought back from a 1-2 set deficit, with surging rookie Faida Bakanke fighting back cramps to finish with a game-high 21 points. Youngsters and veterans alike were on point in the crucial match, as senior spiker Jean Asis scored 6 of FEU’s final 7 points to arrive at a 16-point tally, while star setter Tin Ubaldo steered the offense with 21 excellent sets. As the youthful Refugia pointed out, the Lady Tamaraws’ job is far from finished with a handful of games left in the eliminations, and Asis is making sure her teammates don’t lose sight of what’s still possible for their squad moving forward. “That ‘Be Brave’ mantra, that’s what we lean on and we’re proud of it. We know we’re brave even though the opponents are leading, and we will just keep being brave until the end,” she said in Filipino. “Nothing’s impossible since we just beat the top team today. We can also beat the other teams as long as we stay patient, hardworking, and trusting of one another. Why not?” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Calvin Oftana shines as TNT ends NLEX’s four-game win streak in Candon thriller

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 23:11

TAKE OVER. TNT's Calvin Oftana lays it in against NLEX in PBA action. PBA IMAGES MANILA, Philippines – Calvin Oftana delivered when it mattered the most for the TNT Tropang Giga as they sent the NLEX Road Warriors crashing back to earth with a thrilling 104-101 escape in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur on Saturday, April 13. With TNT trailing by 11 points at the start of the fourth quarter, 76-87, Oftana took over and dropped 15 of his career-high-tying 37 points in the final 12 minutes to help the Tropang Giga complete the come-from-behind triumph and stop NLEX’s four-game winning streak. The Gilas Pilipinas forward and reigning Three-Point Shootout champion also grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds and dished out a team-best 6 assists in a sixth-man role for TNT, which notched its second straight win for a 4-3 slate. Roger Pogoy helped Oftana carry TNT’s scoring load with 21 points on 7-of-14 shooting, while Jayson Castro and Glenn Khobuntin poured in 16 and 11, respectively. With TNT staring at a 100-101 deficit after a tough layup by NLEX star Robert Bolick at the 3:25 mark of the final frame, it was Pogoy who sank the go-ahead triple that gave the Tropang Giga an all-important 103-101 edge with 2:50 to play. Both teams couldn’t buy a basket late in the ball game and with TNT still hanging on to a slim 103-101 lead with only 14 seconds left, Khobuntin had a chance to seal the deal on the foul line, but the Tropang Giga forward only managed to sink one of his two free throws. The Road Warriors then had a golden opportunity to send the game into overtime in the final possession, but Bolick’s three-point attempt clanked off the rim as time expired. TNT spoiled the huge scoring night of NLEX forward Robbie Herndon, who exploded for 25 points on an efficient 9-of-14 shooting, including a 5-of-10 clip from long distance. Bolick posted 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists, while big man Michael Miranda added 17 markers on a near-perfect 7-of-8 shooting. Despite the loss, NLEX remained at the No. 2 spot with a 5-2 record. TNT 104 – Oftana 37, Pogoy 21, Castro 16, Khobuntin 11, Galinato 7, B.Ganuelas-Rosser 5, K.Williams 4, Montalbo 3, Ponferrada 0, Reyes 0, Aurin 0. NLEX 101 – Herndon 25, Bolick 23, Miranda 17, Fajardo 14, Semerad 6, Valdez 6, Nieto 4, Marcelo 3, Amer 2, Nermal 1, Rodger 0, Anthony 0, Pascual 0. Quarters: 29-27, 49-57, 76-87, 104-101. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Mindanao’s Tagakaulo people struggle to preserve way of life

Herbie G

13/04/2024 8:00

ETHNIC BATTLE. A Tagakaulo father acts as referee to his sons while they practice Two men engage in Sbuno, a Tagakaulo sport similar to wrestling, in Malungon, Sarangani province. Rommel Rebollido/Rappler SARANGANI, Philippines – Edmundo Cejar, a retired corporate executive who turned to farming, was astonished when he witnessed a Tagakaulo woman calmly brush off a venomous snake attack on his family’s farm in Sitio Rancho, Malungon town in Sarangani province. The woman, in her 30s and the wife of a farmhand, was tidying up their surroundings when she accidentally stepped on a snake, which then bit her leg. “It was a cobra, its neck spread as it struck,” recalled Cejar whose family moved to Rancho years ago after he retired as a senior executive with a Netherlands-based multinational company. Despite Cejar’s concern and attempts to take her to a hospital, the woman refused. Instead, she calmly walked to nearby bushes, gathered some leaves, and returned home to tend to her wound in their hut. The following morning, Cejar said he was surprised to see the woman resuming her chores in the yard as if nothing had happened. “She looked as if no snake had bitten her. I was simply dumbfounded,” he said. According to a Sitio Rancho leader, Sonny Vallente, venomous snakes like the king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah), known locally as banakon, are aplenty in the town. While there are no recorded fatalities from snake bites in the town, Vallente said there was a time when the local government offered a reward to anyone who could bring a cobra, dead or alive, to the mayor’s office. Upon hearing about the snake bite incident, Renny Boy Takyawan, a Tagakaulo himself, appeared unperturbed. Among the Tagakaulo people, he explained, families rely on plants and herbs to cure ailments, including animal and snake bites. “It is part of our customary healing practices passed down to us by our ancestors. There’s no need to rush to a hospital. It may even take time and delay treatment,” Takyawan, a Tagakaulo heritage conservation advocate, told Rappler on April 5. However, Takyawan quickly pointed out that such traditional healing remedies are among many practices and ways of life of the Tagakaulo that are being threatened. “Even our dialect has already been influenced by the more dominant Cebuano and Ilonggo dialects,” he pointed out. Takyawan said they have been making efforts to preserve their customary practices, such as their unique food preparations using indigenous ingredients, as well as how to source and store these ingredients, which are significant aspects of the Tagakaulo’s distinctive way of life. “Modern culture can wipe out the Tagakaulo people if we simply leave things to fate,” lamented Takyawan as he recounted the numerous challenges indigenous peoples face, not only in their village in Lower Mainit in this town but also elsewhere. The Tagakaulo people are indigenous to Mindanao, primarily inhabiting the hinterlands of Malungon town in this province and along its borders with Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental provinces. “Tagakaulo,” which translates to “people at the headwater,” generally refers to animists, although some have converted to Islam and Christianity. According to Takyawan, like other ethnic groups, the accommodating nature of the Tagakaulos makes them vulnerable to exploitation. Their considerate demeanor often leads many Tagakaulo families to be exploited, resulting in the loss of their farms and precious heirlooms to tricksters, leaving them impoverished. Takyawan said many Tagakaulos have even abandoned customary practices simply to avoid embarrassment. According to the Tagakaulo heritage conservation advocate, many youth, who are tasked with preserving traditions, often opt to explore life in urban areas, enticed by the allure of technology and modernity. Sadly, he said, many of them leave their homes to experience city life, but end up being exploited. To tackle this, Takyawan and a group launched a project called Kaalaman ay Susi sa Mayaman at Buhay ng Katutubong Komunidad (Kasambok) to empower the Tagakaulo communities. The word kasambok itself means unity in Tagakaulo. Although the project has yielded encouraging results, it faces new challenges with each iteration, he observed, noting that skeptics are always present. “We are supposed to be done empowering the youth. Now, we are teaching farmers that farming is not merely planting but a business as well,” Takyawan quipped. Since its inception, Kasambok has primarily concentrated on women’s education, equipping farmers with business acumen, empowering youth to become exceptional leaders, and fostering discussions on traditional practices and cultural preservation. Kasambok has been receiving support from Tuklas Katutubo, a volunteer organization of indigenous peoples (IP) professionals, community leaders, and advocates working for the protection and promotion of IP rights and welfare. Jason Sibug, founder of Tuklas Katutubo and an Ubo Manobo from Kidapawan City, said they have supported the Kasambuk project, citing the discrimination and lack of recognition commonly experienced by ethnic groups, which, he said, must be addressed. Tuklas Katutubo has been collaborating with indigenous peoples groups nationwide. Through Kasambok and Tuklas Katutubo, Takyawan said the Tagakaulo youth can develop and utilize their potential to become “not just mere individuals, but leaders with robust leadership skills capable of safeguarding and preserving our cultural heritage.” He said young Tagakaulos must first recognize their vital role as youth with a profound understanding of their roots and ethnicity to grasp their crucial role in preserving the Tagakaulo’s traditional way of life, customs, and values. Basically, the youth must learn to appreciate Tagakaulo history – learn about Tagakaulo heroes, royalty, and their familial ties, Takyawan said. Takyawan also emphasized the importance of developing strong Tagakaulo leaders from among the youth to guide their communities in adapting to modernity and the influences of other cultures. “We need our voices to be heard, but every time we express our concerns, we face misunderstanding and discrimination,” he said, pointing out that their actions are not driven by any political agenda. The leadership model to which Tagakaulo youth are exposed is rooted in the Tagakaulo way of governance, distinct from the typical political leadership many are accustomed to. Becoming a Tagakaulo leader isn’t determined by a simple majority vote, but by a consensus of 90% to 100% among the community, Takyawan explained. Given the current circumstances, Takyawan said the Tagakaulo people are left with no choice but to exert more effort to ensure their voices are heard and their way of life is understood. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. 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Calvin Oftana shines as TNT ends NLEX’s four-game win streak in Candon thriller

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 23:11

TAKE OVER. TNT's Calvin Oftana lays it in against NLEX in PBA action. PBA IMAGES MANILA, Philippines – Calvin Oftana delivered when it mattered the most for the TNT Tropang Giga as they sent the NLEX Road Warriors crashing back to earth with a thrilling 104-101 escape in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur on Saturday, April 13. With TNT trailing by 11 points at the start of the fourth quarter, 76-87, Oftana took over and dropped 15 of his career-high-tying 37 points in the final 12 minutes to help the Tropang Giga complete the come-from-behind triumph and stop NLEX’s four-game winning streak. The Gilas Pilipinas forward and reigning Three-Point Shootout champion also grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds and dished out a team-best 6 assists in a sixth-man role for TNT, which notched its second straight win for a 4-3 slate. Roger Pogoy helped Oftana carry TNT’s scoring load with 21 points on 7-of-14 shooting, while Jayson Castro and Glenn Khobuntin poured in 16 and 11, respectively. With TNT staring at a 100-101 deficit after a tough layup by NLEX star Robert Bolick at the 3:25 mark of the final frame, it was Pogoy who sank the go-ahead triple that gave the Tropang Giga an all-important 103-101 edge with 2:50 to play. Both teams couldn’t buy a basket late in the ball game and with TNT still hanging on to a slim 103-101 lead with only 14 seconds left, Khobuntin had a chance to seal the deal on the foul line, but the Tropang Giga forward only managed to sink one of his two free throws. The Road Warriors then had a golden opportunity to send the game into overtime in the final possession, but Bolick’s three-point attempt clanked off the rim as time expired. TNT spoiled the huge scoring night of NLEX forward Robbie Herndon, who exploded for 25 points on an efficient 9-of-14 shooting, including a 5-of-10 clip from long distance. Bolick posted 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists, while big man Michael Miranda added 17 markers on a near-perfect 7-of-8 shooting. Despite the loss, NLEX remained at the No. 2 spot with a 5-2 record. TNT 104 – Oftana 37, Pogoy 21, Castro 16, Khobuntin 11, Galinato 7, B.Ganuelas-Rosser 5, K.Williams 4, Montalbo 3, Ponferrada 0, Reyes 0, Aurin 0. NLEX 101 – Herndon 25, Bolick 23, Miranda 17, Fajardo 14, Semerad 6, Valdez 6, Nieto 4, Marcelo 3, Amer 2, Nermal 1, Rodger 0, Anthony 0, Pascual 0. Quarters: 29-27, 49-57, 76-87, 104-101. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Shaping the new generation of Pinoy hip-hop with Spotify RADAR artist Hev Abi

jreyes0314

13/04/2024 17:00

RADAR ARTIST. Pinoy hip-hop giant Hev Abi is one of the latest Filipino artists to make it to the Spotify RADAR class of 2024. Spotify Philippines MANILA, Philippines – Hev Abi’s music has found its way into the playlists of millions of Filipinos at the speed of light. He isn’t just a one-hit wonder. At one point, he had even taken up six spots on the Spotify Philippines chart, registering hits like “Babaero,” “Walang Alam,” “Alam Mo Ba Girl,” “Makasarili Malambing,” “Sumugal,” and “Lil Kasalanan Shortie.” A post shared by Spotify PH (@spotifyph) It’s clear that Hev Abi has already figured out how to charm his audience – even those who weren’t fans of hip-hop prior to coming across his music. But what is it about the Spotify RADAR artist’s songs that draws so many people in? Perhaps it’s how straightforward he is with his craft. “Kulong, sulat, gawa, record (Shut in, write, work, record),” Hev Abi replied when Rappler asked him how he got in the zone to create some of his best songs. He even admitted that he doesn’t have a creative process he religiously abides by. He simply makes the music he wants to hear, which has undoubtedly worked well for him. “Wala akong iisang way nang paggawa ng kanta. Kapag gumagawa ako ng kanta, wala naman akong ine-aim. Bahala na kung anong mangyari,” he said. (I don’t have a set way of creating music. When I make music, I don’t aim for anything in particular. Whatever happens, happens.) Even his artist bio on Spotify is just two words long: “Sobrang (Very) downtown.” But it’s more than enough to set him apart from the rest. Like many artists, Hev Abi began creating his own music to emulate rappers like Kanye West and Tyler, the Creator, whom he had spent years looking up to leading up to his own debut in the local music industry. But there was another thing that inspired the start of Hev Abi’s music career: his hometown, Quezon City. Hev Abi pays homage to Quezon City through his music any chance he gets. It’s arguably the one thing any of the young hip-hop artist’s listeners are bound to remember. Just take for example his top hit “WELCOME2DTQ” and his remix of Young Nudy and 21 Savage’s “Peaches & Eggplants,” aptly titled “QC Girls.” Fittingly, his first-ever solo concert on April 28 is set to be held in Quezon City, too, and is, of course, titled “Morato Most Wanted” – a nod to the rapper’s favorite place in the city: Tomas Morato. “[It’s a] hip-hop thing. Dito ako lumaki eh, [sa] bahay, sa ’min, ng mga tropa dito,” he explained about his love for the city. (It’s a hip-hop thing. This is where I grew up, our house, and my friends here.) With all the milestones he’s already achieved thus far, you’d expect that the outpouring of Hev Abi’s success had come as a complete shock to him. But he had always known that he would eventually make it big. “Una pa lang naman, parang alam ko na na darating sa ganito. Hindi nakakagulat na nakakagulat na lang din. Normal pa rin. Hindi naman nakakapanibago. Ganon pa rin ako kung paano ako dati,” he said. (From the start, I already knew it would reach this point. It’s not surprising, but at the same time, it is. Everything’s still normal. It didn’t come as a surprise. I’m still the same person I was before.) “Ayos! Tama ka (Great! You were right),” he said, when we asked him to tell a message to his younger self. It was this confidence and no-nonsense attitude that had helped push Hev Abi further up the charts. But while he knew the success would come eventually, he admitted that he didn’t think it would happen this early into his career. “Expect ko namang mangyari ‘yung mga ganito, pero hindi ko inexpect na ganito kabilis. Nakaka-overwhelm siya sa akin paminsan-minsan pero pinapahalagahan ko sarili ko. pinapalibutan ko ‘yung sarili ko ng mga tamang tao para mas maging swabe ‘yung takbo ng career ko,” Hev Abi told Rappler. (I expected it to happen, but I didn’t expect it to happen this fast. Sometimes, it gets overwhelming, but I take care of myself. I surround myself with the right people so the flow of my career becomes even smoother.) It’s safe to say that Hev Abi is on the frontlines of the new generation of Filipino hip-hop. He had grown up listening to the genre, and had pretty much borne witness to the evolution to what it is now – attesting that it’s the music and culture of local hip-hop that has gone through the most changes from his childhood to the present. In fact, it was these changes that shaped his lyricism. “Nung nagsisimula ako, mas lamang ‘yung culture ng battle rap kaysa sa music, kumpara ngayon na mas litaw na litaw na ‘yung mga gumagawa ng rap music kaysa sa mga ruma-rap battle. Nakatulong din sa akin ‘yun sa pagsusulat ng lyrics na ganyan ‘yung era na kinalakihan ko kahit papaano. Doon ko siguro nakuha ‘yung mga humor-humor sa lyrics ko,” he shared. (When I was just starting out, the culture of battle rap was more prominent than music, compared to now where rap music is more clear-cut over those who do rap battles. I think that’s where I got the humor in my lyrics.) With the evolution of local hip-hop came its timely rise, too. More and more Filipinos have been hooked by the genre, and Hev Abi is one of the artists we have to thank for that. The young rapper had pulled in a wave of what the internet hilariously calls “Hev Abi enjoyers,” and they just seem to keep growing by the second. Hev Abi attributes this to Filipinos’ knack for having a good time. “Ugali na ng Pilipino na gawing masaya ang kahit anong mga bagay. In hip-hop, [it’s the] same thing. Lumalabas din ‘yung mga kulit ng tao ‘pag nakikinig ng hip-hop, ‘yung mga nagtatatalon-talon [at] nagsasalita ng mga hindi naman dapat sabihin. Lumalabas ang mga kulit ng tao, natutuwa sila. Para sa akin, ‘yun ang bakit mas nakikilala pa lalo ang hip-hop,” he explained. (Filipinos have a habit of making anything fun. In hip-hop, [it’s the] same thing. People’s excitement jumps out when they listen to hip-hop, in the sense that they jump around and say things that shouldn’t be said. For me, that’s why hip-hop is becoming more well-known now.) As the “Para Sa Streets” rapper continues to make the music he and millions of Filipinos love, there’s only one legacy he wants to leave behind: his creativity. “Ang gusto kong maiwan sa mga tao is kung paano ako maging creative sa mga ginagawa ko kasi pinipili ko talagang maging weird sa mga ginagawa ko para lumalabas ‘yung mga ‘di pangkaraniwan. Kung may madadampot man sila sa akin, sana ‘yun na lang kasi natutuwa ako ‘pag may mga taong nagpapakita ng kakulitan nila sa mga ginagawa nila,” he said. (I want to leave people with my creativity because I really choose to be weird with what I do so I can bring out the unusual. If people had to pick something up from me, I hope it’s my creativity because it makes me happy to see people show their excitement in what they do.) – Rappler.com Check out the Spotify RADAR playlist here. Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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‘Be Brave’: FEU Lady Tamaraws raring to exceed goals after clinching Final Four return

jisaga0269

13/04/2024 22:42

CONFIDENT. FEU spiker Jean Asis reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament UAAP Season 86 Media Team MANILA, Philippines – In perhaps its most important win yet in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament, FEU booked the last Final Four berth in shocking fashion, downing league-leading UST in five thrilling sets, 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10, on Saturday, April 13. Once stinking up the standings cellar with a 1-13 record just two years prior, the 29-time women’s volleyball champion Lady Tamaraws rebounded hard, not only clinching the semifinals, but also eliminating Adamson, Ateneo, and UE in one definitive upset of the league-leading Tigresses. Rookie head coach Manolo Refugia, himself an FEU volleyball standout in his playing days, couldn’t be prouder with his wards embodying the school’s “Be Brave” mantra right when they needed it the most. “It feels really great because we’ve stayed on course in bringing back the FEU glory days,” he said in Filipino. “Now, we’re back in the Final Four. It feels great, but of course, the job isn’t finished. We’re already here, so we might as well dream higher and higher.” Despite facing one of the season’s hottest teams – a squad that already had their number in the eliminations’ first round – the Lady Tamaraws still fought back from a 1-2 set deficit, with surging rookie Faida Bakanke fighting back cramps to finish with a game-high 21 points. Youngsters and veterans alike were on point in the crucial match, as senior spiker Jean Asis scored 6 of FEU’s final 7 points to arrive at a 16-point tally, while star setter Tin Ubaldo steered the offense with 21 excellent sets. As the youthful Refugia pointed out, the Lady Tamaraws’ job is far from finished with a handful of games left in the eliminations, and Asis is making sure her teammates don’t lose sight of what’s still possible for their squad moving forward. “That ‘Be Brave’ mantra, that’s what we lean on and we’re proud of it. We know we’re brave even though the opponents are leading, and we will just keep being brave until the end,” she said in Filipino. “Nothing’s impossible since we just beat the top team today. We can also beat the other teams as long as we stay patient, hardworking, and trusting of one another. Why not?” – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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BARMM residents approve creation of 8 more towns

Jairo Bolledo

13/04/2024 22:35

PLEBISCITE. BARMM residents flock to precincts on Saturday, April 13, to participate in the plebiscite that will decide if the creation of eight more towns will be ratified. Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia MANILA, Philippines – Bangsomoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) residents voted to approved the creation of eight more municipalities in the region on Saturday, April 13. A total of 72,658 voters participated in the plebiscite, or a voter turnout of 81.10%, exceeding the expectations of BARMM officials. Of this number, 72,358 votes yes, 273 voted no, and 27 abstained. Based on the documents provided by the Commission on Elections on Saturday, April 13, these are the new towns created, including the number of residents who voted in favor or against their creation in the plebiscite. The Comelec said on Saturday night that the canvassing was completed at 9 pm. In 2023, Bangsamoro Transition Authority member Aida Silongan proposed the creation of the eight municipalities. Silongan then said that a plebiscite could settle jurisdictional issues and include the municipalities in the proposed Bangsamoro Local Governance Code. The said code was approved in September 2023. The BARMM parliament approved the creation of the eight towns in August 2023. The plebiscite was a requirement to ratify the regional laws that created the new municipalities. BARMM was tasked to provide initial funds amounting to P2.5 million for each of the municipalities, for the administrative and operational needs of the new towns. The setup continues until the new municipalities get their share from the National Tax Allotment. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Showdown ready: Choco Mucho, Creamline score quick wins before sister battle

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 20:57

SUPERSTARS. Choco Mucho's Sisi Rondina and Creamline's Alyssa Valdez in PVL action. PVL IMAGES MANILA, Philippines – Both the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and the Creamline Cool Smashers shored up their confidence further heading to their monumental face-off in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference fixture on Thursday, April 18, at the Araneta Coliseum. The sister teams both picked up straight-set wins against their respective opponents on Saturday, April 13, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig. “In terms of confidence, [winning] is a big help, since in our four consecutive victories, our confidence got boosted,” Choco Mucho head coach Dante Alinsunurin said after the game. “We need to prepare for Creamline, since we need to scout and prepare to be able to be ready come Thursday,” he added. Choco Mucho solidified its hold at the top of the standings with an 8-1 record after thumping Strong Group Athletics, 25-17, 25-15, 25-15, to make it four straight victories. Royse Tubino starred in the absence of Kat Tolentino for the Flying Titans, scoring a game-high 17 in a game that just took 1 hour and 13 minutes to conclude. Tolentino continues to recover from an auditory issue, sitting out her fourth straight game, but was present to watch the game. Sisi Rondina also chipped in 17, while Dolly Versoza fired 12 markers for Strong Group in the loss, as the Athletics sank to 0-9. Meanwhile, Creamline secured a bounce-back win after sweeping the Nxled Chameleons, 25-22, 25-12, 25-20 in the nightcap. The Cool Smashers, who were downed in five sets by Petro Gazz in Laguna last April 6, were all smiles during the post-game press conference, led by team captain Alyssa Valdez. “We’re very happy…I think more than the win, it’s more of being reminded by the coaches that we have to find ourselves in this game and this conference,” explained Valdez, who scored 12 attack points. “We’re slowly building our confidence and finding who we are back again, and I think that’s the most important thing especially the next games are interesting and exciting,” she continued. Tots Carlos launched a game-high 18 points as Creamline improved to 7-2, while Ivy Lacsina recorded 10 for the Chameleons, who dropped to a 3-6 card. Earlier, the Galeries Tower Highrisers scored a straight-set triumph over Farm Fresh, 25-18, 25-23, 25-16, behind a career-high 20 points from France Ronquillo. “I could not explain the feeling, because our confidence waned during our losing streak,” a gleeful Ronquillo said after the game. “We really wanted to win so it was a great feeling,” she added. With the Highrisers’ third win against six losses, they had already tripled their one-win outing during their maiden season. Playmaker Renee Mabilangan tossed 20 excellent sets during the match that just took about 95 minutes to conclude. Chinnie Arroyo and Trisha Tubu scored 8 points each for the Foxies, who fell to 2-7. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Removal of Negros Occidental’s electric cooperative general manager sparks outcry

Mia Gonzalez

13/04/2024 17:30

TERMINATED. Negros Occidental Electric Cooperative (NOCECO) general manager engineer Ray Bustamante greets the cooperative's employees, after he received his termination order on April 11, 2024, at the NOCECO office in Kabankalan City. Reymund Titong NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines – The termination and removal of the Negros Occidental Electric Cooperative (NOCECO) general manager Ray Bustamante has sparked an outcry among power advocates, family, and members-consumers-owners (MCOs) of the cooperative. The National Electrification Administration has ordered the termination of Bustamante as the Technical Services Department Manager of the NOCECO, and the forfeiture of all his monetary benefits. NEA administrator Mariano Almeda signed the termination order on April 1, 2024. Bustamante was supposed to return to work on April 11 after being placed under two separate preventive suspensions totaling 180 days. A cooperative member, Irene Viason, said that Bustamante’s termination was “unjust” and that other members of the cooperative were not informed of his status during the 42nd Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) on April 6, chaired by NEA-appointed acting general manager Domingo Santiago,Jr. “Ray Bustamante is a simple and brilliant person. As an MCO, I find him capable and hard working with a holistic approach regarding his personal and professional relationship/dealings,” she told Rappler. Viason said that Bustamante fulfilled his obligations which was why the board of directors appointed him the general manager. This was later confirmed and concurred by the general assembly in 2023. Lawyer Rey Gorgonio, speaking on behalf of Bustamante and the Negros Consumers Watch (NCW), told Rappler on Saturday, April 13, that the termination order of the National Electrification Administration (NEA) was “inhumane” and “oppressive.” Gorgonio said that Bustamante had never violated any laws, not even when he took over as general manager of the electric cooperative after being appointed by the NOCECO board of directors. He said that NEA should not interfere in the “internal management” of NOCECO, as it is not part of its mandate. “The selection and the engagement of employees is the prerogative of the employer, which is the NOCECO, exercised through the board of directors,” Gorgonio said. The directors who appointed Bustamante were also terminated in a decision released on February 27, 2024, for grave misconduct. According to the decision, they were found guilty of violating NEA’s memorandum, resulting in their removal. Several of them have filed a petition for certiorari before the Court of Appeals for the reversal of NEA’s termination order. NEA, in response, said it has regulatory jurisdiction over the electric cooperatives, citing its role as a quasi-judicial agency under Republic Act No. 10531 or the National Electrification Administration Decree. In a press conference on April 8, NEA chief administrator Almeda refuted claims that the nine members of NOCECO’s board of directors were dismissed without legal justification. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Back at channel 2: TV Patrol, TV Patrol Weekend to air on ALLTV

Jairo Bolledo

13/04/2024 20:43

TV PATROL. Anchors Noli de Castro, Karen Davila, Bernadette Sembrano, and Henry Omaga Diaz during TV Patrol airing on April 10, 2024. ABS-CBN MANILA, Philippines – ABS-CBN’s flagship newscast TV Patrol and its weekend iteration, TV Patrol Weekend, will be back on channel 2 starting Monday night, April 15. ABS-CBN announced on Saturday, April 13, that its flagship newscast will air on ALLTV, owned by tycoon Manny Villar. TV Patrol airs from Monday to Friday, 6:30 pm, with anchors Noli de Castro, Karen Davila, Bernadette Sembrano, and Henry Omaga Diaz. Meanwhile, anchors Alvin Elchico and Zen Hernandez host the weekend edition that airs Saturday and Sunday, 5:30 pm. ABS-CBN said their viewers can still watch the newscasts on A2Z, on cable through Kapamilya Channel, ANC, and Teleradyo Serbisyo, and on radio via DWPM. After the National Telecommunications Commission ordered ABS-CBN to stop its television and radio operations, the channel went off-air on May 5, 2020, right after TV Patrol’s airing. The media giant was shut down in the first few years of the administration of then-president Rodrigo Duterte who admitted that he used his “presidential powers” against ABS-CBN. Only two days later, on May 7, 2020, TV Patrol aired online through ABS-CBN’s website, its official Facebook page, and YouTube channel, and through its content platform iWant, and on ANC. In October of the same year, ABS-CBN pulled off its return to free television via Brother Eddie Villanueva’s A2Z. This paved the way for TV Patrol’s comeback later on. The flagship newscast only returned to free television via A2Z in January 2022. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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Showdown ready: Choco Mucho, Creamline score quick wins before sister battle

Jasmine Payo

13/04/2024 20:57

SUPERSTARS. Choco Mucho's Sisi Rondina and Creamline's Alyssa Valdez in PVL action. PVL IMAGES MANILA, Philippines – Both the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and the Creamline Cool Smashers shored up their confidence further heading to their monumental face-off in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference fixture on Thursday, April 18, at the Araneta Coliseum. The sister teams both picked up straight-set wins against their respective opponents on Saturday, April 13, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig. “In terms of confidence, [winning] is a big help, since in our four consecutive victories, our confidence got boosted,” Choco Mucho head coach Dante Alinsunurin said after the game. “We need to prepare for Creamline, since we need to scout and prepare to be able to be ready come Thursday,” he added. Choco Mucho solidified its hold at the top of the standings with an 8-1 record after thumping Strong Group Athletics, 25-17, 25-15, 25-15, to make it four straight victories. Royse Tubino starred in the absence of Kat Tolentino for the Flying Titans, scoring a game-high 17 in a game that just took 1 hour and 13 minutes to conclude. Tolentino continues to recover from an auditory issue, sitting out her fourth straight game, but was present to watch the game. Sisi Rondina also chipped in 17, while Dolly Versoza fired 12 markers for Strong Group in the loss, as the Athletics sank to 0-9. Meanwhile, Creamline secured a bounce-back win after sweeping the Nxled Chameleons, 25-22, 25-12, 25-20 in the nightcap. The Cool Smashers, who were downed in five sets by Petro Gazz in Laguna last April 6, were all smiles during the post-game press conference, led by team captain Alyssa Valdez. “We’re very happy…I think more than the win, it’s more of being reminded by the coaches that we have to find ourselves in this game and this conference,” explained Valdez, who scored 12 attack points. “We’re slowly building our confidence and finding who we are back again, and I think that’s the most important thing especially the next games are interesting and exciting,” she continued. Tots Carlos launched a game-high 18 points as Creamline improved to 7-2, while Ivy Lacsina recorded 10 for the Chameleons, who dropped to a 3-6 card. Earlier, the Galeries Tower Highrisers scored a straight-set triumph over Farm Fresh, 25-18, 25-23, 25-16, behind a career-high 20 points from France Ronquillo. “I could not explain the feeling, because our confidence waned during our losing streak,” a gleeful Ronquillo said after the game. “We really wanted to win so it was a great feeling,” she added. With the Highrisers’ third win against six losses, they had already tripled their one-win outing during their maiden season. Playmaker Renee Mabilangan tossed 20 excellent sets during the match that just took about 95 minutes to conclude. Chinnie Arroyo and Trisha Tubu scored 8 points each for the Foxies, who fell to 2-7. – Rappler.com Error. Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines. There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation. How does this make you feel?

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