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Gilas Girls complete FIBA U18 Asia Cup sweep, earn Division A promotion | Jasmine Payo | 30/06/2024 17:00 | BIG W. Gilas Girls celebrate their sweep of the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup Division B.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – The Gilas Girls’ quest for a Division A promotion is finally complete.
Led by Alyssa Rodriguez, the Gilas Pilipinas U18 women’s team completed the sweep of the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup Division B tournament following a 95-64 demolition of Lebanon in the championship on Sunday, June 30, at the Futian Sports Park in Shenzhen, China.
Rodriguez put on a shooting clinic for the Philippines as she exploded for 22 points on a sizzling 6-of-10 clip from beyond the arc.
The sharpshooting Rodriguez caught fire from long distance early, firing 17 of her 22 points in the first half built on five treys.
Margarett Villanueva and Naomi Panganiban also joined Gilas Girls’ three-ball party with two long bombs each to finish with 15 and 13 points, respectively, as they officially move up to Division A of the Women’s Asia Cup.
With the score knotted at 20-all in the early stages of the second quarter, Rodriguez knocked down a booming triple at the 7:06 mark, which ignited a furious 17-0 Gilas Girls rally.
In that pivotal 17-0 run, Rodriguez and Panganiban combined for 13 points to help the Philippines build a sizable 37-20 margin, before pushing it even further to 53-26 at halftime.
Gilas Girls then showed no signs of slowing down in the second half, even expanding its lead to its largest at 41 points, 89-48, off a triple by Panganiban with 7:09 to go in the fourth frame.
Overall, the Filipinas connected on 15 of their 39 three-point attempts, while limiting the Lebanese to just a 1-of-8 clip from downtown.
Aside from their red-hot shooting, Gilas Girls tallied 21 steals and forced Lebanon to commit 31 errors, which ultimately led to 39 points off turnovers.
The Philippines overcame a huge double-double performance by Lebanon’s Reem El Ghali, who racked up game-highs of 31 points and 15 rebounds.
Meanwhile, Ava Fajardo and Sophia Canindo also scored in double figures for the Julie Amos-mentored Gilas Girls with 10 points apiece.
The victory marks the Filipinas’ seventh straight win, dating back to the SEABA Qualifiers in May, where it also completed a dominant 3-0 sweep of the tournament.
With its promotion to Division A, the Philippines joins Asian powerhouses such as China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, among others.
Philippines 95 – Rodriguez 22, Villanueva 15, Panganiban 13, Fajardo 10, Canindo 10, Duenas 8, Impreso 7, Lapasaran 5, Reyes 3, Ramos 2, Abong 0, Quinte 0.
Lebanon 64 – El Ghali 31, Naassan 19, Hoteit 8, Barakat M. 2, Ajami 2, Al Nakib 1, Jaoude 1, Barakat N. 0, Bado 0, Faraj 0, Mosleh 0.
Quarters: 20-17, 53-26, 80-46, 95-64.
– Rappler.com
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‘Tough Day 1’: Alas Pilipinas braces for KO match in Challenger Cup opener | Jasmine Payo | 28/06/2024 16:09 | FIGHTERS. Alas Pilipinas players celebrate after a game in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Women.
PVL IMAGES/JOAQUI FLORES
MANILA, Philippines – After a historic bronze finish in the AVC Challenge Cup for Women, Alas Pilipinas gears up for an even tougher challenge.
The Philippine women’s volleyball team hopes to harness its home advantage anew when the country hosts the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Challenger Cup from July 4 to 7 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
Still led by Angel Canino and Jia de Guzman, Alas Pilipinas battles Vietnam in a knockout game at 6:30 pm on Friday, July 5.
Czech Republic and Argentina tangle in the first game at 3 pm.
“It’s tough on Day 1 for Alas Pilipinas, but we’re very sure they’ll give the Vietnamese a tough fight,” said Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
The tournament kicks off on Thursday, July 4, with Puerto Rico and Kenya battling at 3 pm, followed by Belgium and Sweden slugging it out at 5 pm.
Winners advance to the semifinals until the finale, also under a win-or-go-home format.
The tournament champion qualifies for next year’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL).
Canino (Best Opposite Spiker) and De Guzman (Best Setter) emerged as the national team’s best performers in the AVC, and they will be reinforced this time by pro star Jema Galanza and UAAP aces Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.
Alas’ Brazilian coach Jorge Edson Souza de Brito will also rely on Thea Gagate, Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, Faith Nisperos, Vanie Gandler, Dawn Macandili-Catindig, Fifi Sharma, Julia Coronel, Jen Nierva, Dell Palomata, Cherry Nunag, and Arah Panique. – Rappler.com
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Gilas Pilipinas falls short of upset vs Poland in final friendly before FIBA OQT | delfin.dioquino editor | 30/06/2024 10:09 | DEFENSE. Justin Brownlee of Gilas Pilipinas guards Jeremy Sochan of Poland during a tuneup game on June 29, 2024.
WOJCIECH FIGURSKI/Polish Basketball Federation
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas gave Poland a run for its money before absorbing an 82-80 loss in its final tuneup game for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament on Saturday, June 29 (Sunday, June 30, Manila time).
Trailing by as many as 14 points in the fourth quarter, the Filipinos rode on a gritty comeback led by Dwight Ramos and Justin Brownlee, but the Polish – ranked 15th in the world – held on to defend their turf at the Arena Sosnowiec.
Brownlee finished with a game-high 30 points, while Ramos posted 16 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals as they took turns to bring the Philippines back into the contest after Poland pulled away early in the final frame.
Poland held a slim 58-56 edge through the first three quarters before it erected a blazing 18-6 run highlighted by four triples to mount its biggest lead of the game at 76-62 with five minutes left.
That sloppy start in the fourth period prompted Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone to give his players a piece of his mind during a timeout.
“We’re not even trying anymore,” a fuming Cone told his wards as heard through the broadcast. “If we’re going to play like this, we have no chance.”
His pep talk seemed to have worked as the Filipinos chipped away at their deficit behind Ramos, who took over late and unloaded 10 points in a 16-6 rally that pulled his side within 78-82.
The gallant fightback, though, fell short after Ramos missed a long three-pointer inside the final 50 seconds that would have made it a one-point game, with Poland hanging on by milking the clock.
Michal Sokolowski churned out 21 points on a 3-of-4 clip from beyond the arc to go with 5 assists and 4 steals for Poland, which escaped with the win on the back of its deadly three-point shooting (11-of-24).
Half of those treys came in the decisive fourth quarter as the Polish shot an ultra-efficient 6-of-8 from long distance in the period.
Aleksander Balcerowski backstopped Sokolowski with 12 points, while NBA player Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs tallied 8 points and 4 rebounds before sitting out the entire second half.
June Mar Fajardo put up 10 points and Kai Sotto chimed in 8 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists for the Philippines, which frittered away a nine-point lead, 23-14, in the opening quarter.
Gilas Pilipinas ended the first period up 23-16 but got outscored 25-15 in the second quarter as Poland entered the break with a 41-38 lead.
The loss was the second in a row for the Filipinos in their European trip after they suffered an 84-73 loss to world No. 24 Turkiye (Turkey) in Istanbul two days prior.
Although winless in its back-to-back friendly matches, the Philippines hopes to apply the lessons it learned from battling two top 30 squads in the OQT that will be staged in Riga, Latvia, from July 2 to 7.
Standing in its way are world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia in Group A, with the Filipinos needing a top-two finish to advance to the crossover semifinals.
Poland, which crushed New Zealand in another tuneup game, will also vie for a Paris Games berth in the OQT in Valencia, Spain.
Poland 82 – Sokolowski 21, Balcerowski 10, Sochan 8, Pluta 8, Ponitka 7, Zyskowski 6, Milicic 5, Dziewa 5, Michalak 5, Niziol 5, Mazurczak 2, Zolnierewicz 0.
Philippines 80 – Brownlee 30, Ramos 16, Fajardo 10, Sotto 8, Newsome 6, Aguilar 4, Tamayo 4, Perez 2, Oftana 0, Quiambao 0.
Quarters: 16-23, 41-38, 58-56, 82-80.
– Rappler.com
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With tons of lessons learned, Carlos Yulo goes for glory in Olympic return | delfin.dioquino editor | 29/06/2024 17:00 | Kim Kyung-hoon/Reuters
One thing Filipino gymnastics star Carlos Yulo has learned as he sees action in his second Olympics is that it all comes down to him, no one else.
Yulo heads into the Paris Games in France with the same medal aspirations, but this time, he is more sure of himself three years after going home empty-handed from his maiden Olympic stint in Tokyo, Japan.
“I should focus on myself and let the other gymnasts do what they do,” said Yulo in a mix of Filipino and English when asked about the lessons he picked up from his Tokyo Games run.
“We all worked hard and we all worked ourselves to exhaustion in training. I should focus on where I’m at and be confident of my moves,” he added. “I should not get carried away by my mood and I should trust what I practiced.”
Then 21 years old, Yulo competed in Tokyo as a legitimate medal contender, having won bronze and gold in floor exercise in the 2018 and 2019 editions of the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, respectively.
But Yulo surprisingly finished a distant 44th place in the floor exercise qualification.
He gave himself a medal chance by reaching the vault finals, although he fell a fraction of a point short of a podium spot as he placed fourth.
As painful as it was not being able to meet those lofty expectations, his campaign in Tokyo helped Yulo become braver and smarter in his approach.
“I learned to move confidently and perform what I worked hard for in practice,” said Yulo in an episode of Rappler Talk Sports. “I noticed I was a bit shy back then, so I was not able to truly show what I was capable of doing.”
In Paris, Yulo is expected to vie for gold in the floor exercise and vault – apparatuses where he is a former world champion.
And his impressive showing in the previous Asian Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where he emerged as the best performing gymnast with four golds, augurs well for his Olympic chances.
Yulo ruled the floor exercise with 14.933 points and topped the vault with an average of 14.883 points.
If he recorded the same scores in Tokyo, Yulo would have tied floor exercise titlist Artem Dolgopyat of Israel (14.933) and edged vault winner Shin Jea-Hwan of South Korea (14.783).
But it should be noted that Yulo competed in the Asian championships without the pressure of having to go up against some of the best gymnasts in the continent, with powerhouse Japan missing action in the senior division.
The caliber of competition in Paris is a different beast altogether, with a lot of the medalists in Tokyo returning for another crack at Olympic glory.
Daiki Hashimoto, the reigning individual all-around and horizontal bar champion, leads a Japan side determined to capture the team all-around crown after settling for second behind the Russian Olympic Committee in Tokyo.
Other champions Dolgopyat (floor exercise), Liu Yang (still rings) and Zhou Jingyuan (parallel bars) of China, and Max Whitlock (pommel horse) of Great Britain are back as well.
Still, Yulo, 24, is up to the challenge.
“I discovered new skills and I know for myself that I can pull them off this time,” said Yulo. “I’m really aiming to win a medal this time and to have a better performance compared to before.”
Yulo endured a bumpy journey back to the Olympics as he dealt with issues concerning his career and personal life in the lead-up to Paris.
Probably at the top of that list is his separation with longtime Japanese coach Munehiro Kugimiya, who mentored Yulo for almost a decade and guided him in his rise to gymnastics stardom.
They went their separate ways last year before the previous world championships in Antwerp, Belgium, where Yulo coincidentally saw his medal streak halted after winning at least one in each of the last four editions.
Although Yulo got the job done in Antwerp as he punched his ticket to Paris, his followers saw his split with Kugimiya as a major factor in his supposed drop in performance.
Estranged relationships with some of his family members also surfaced and Yulo recently parted ways with his management group.
For Yulo, though, every experience – be it good or bad – has contributed to his growth.
“I’ll bring everything that I’ve learned from my past mistakes to this Olympics so that I’ll be able to produce better results,” he said.
Yulo will be joined by Aleah Finnegan, Emma Malabuyo, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar in Paris as the Philippines matched its biggest gymnastics delegation to the Olympics.
“For me, I see they’re all capable of winning a medal,” said Yulo. “I’m happy and grateful that we qualified, but I’m also motivated… I want to win a medal.” – Rappler.com
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Reunion soon? Winston hopes to team up with Baltazar again | Jasmine Payo | 29/06/2024 20:27 | STALWARTS. Justine Baltazar (left) and Schonny Winston in action for La Salle in the UAAP.
UAAP
MANILA, Philippines – Is a Green Archer reunion in the works?
Converge FiberXers guard Schonny Winston anticipates a potential joining of forces with former La Salle teammate Justine Baltazar, who is reportedly planning to join the 2024 PBA Rookie Draft.
If they do reunite in Converge, they would be coached by Aldin Ayo, who led the Green and White to the UAAP Season 79 championship in 2016.
“That’d be dope. I mean if he joins, that’ll be cool. We played together in La Salle. We have some chemistry,” Winston said during the “Hennessy In the Paint” event in Pasay on Friday, June 28.
“We’re just waiting on the news to see what happens or what happens next,” the Fil-Am guard added.
“But if he does end up joining, I would love to play with him again.”
Baltazar, a skilled 6-foot-9 forward who had also suited up for Gilas Pilipinas, is projected as the consensus top pick, while Converge holds the best odds of nabbing the No. 1 overall pick.
Baltazar and Winston were teammates for just one season, when the Archers were halted by eventual UAAP Season 84 men’s basketball champion UP Fighting Maroons in the Final Four.
Winston played one more year with La Salle and was drafted ninth overall in 2023, while Baltazar played in various leagues such as the Japan B. League, MPBL, and the NBL.
Baltazar led hometown Pampanga Giant Lanterns to their first MPBL championship in 2023, with the big man being feted as the season and Finals Most Valuable Player.
Under the tutelage of Ayo, Winston averaged 9.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game during his rookie PBA season.
As the FiberXers wallowed at the bottom tier of the PBA standings, the team will have an immediate boost if an exceptional talent like Baltazar is drafted by the team.
“I feel like the last few games of our season and our conference, we started to jell as a team so we got a few wins,” said Winston.
“That kind of gave us the momentum to go into this offseason and focus on the things we did well, so I think some new players and stuff like that will definitely help the team out a lot.” – Rappler.com
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Russell gifted Austrian F1 win after Verstappen, Norris collide | Jasmine Payo | 30/06/2024 23:58 | CHAMP. Mercedes' George Russell celebrates with the trophy on the podium after winning the Austrian Grand Prix.
Florion Goga/REUTERS
George Russell won the Austrian Grand Prix for Mercedes on Sunday, June 30, after Red Bull’s triple world champion Max Verstappen and McLaren’s Lando Norris collided late in the race while fighting for the lead.
McLaren’s Oscar Piastri finished second with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz third at Spielberg’s Red Bull Ring.
The gifted win was a first for Mercedes since November 2022, when Russell triumphed in Brazil, and the second of the Briton’s career.
“It’s not over until it’s over,” declared the jubilant winner after taking the checkeered flag in a race that stored up its excitement until the last 20 laps when the battle between Verstappen and Norris boiled over.
A slow 6.5 second pitstop for Verstappen on lap 52 brought Norris right back into range and the ensuing duel saw the McLaren enjoying a drag reduction benefit as Norris tried to overtake.
“The team have done an amazing job to put us in this fight. You’ve got to be there at the end to pick up the pieces and that’s where we were,” Russell said before stepping up to the top of the podium.
“We were only about 12 seconds behind and I knew it (the collision) was a possibility. You are always dreaming,” the 26-year-old Brit added.
Russell had started third, with Verstappen on pole and Norris alongside on the front row, but the win was handed to him after 64 of the 71 laps.
Both frontrunners suffered punctures, Norris limping back to the pits and retiring while Verstappen rejoined and finished fifth behind Mercedes’ seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Stewards handed the Dutch driver a 10-second penalty for causing the collision but that made no difference to Verstappen’s result and he increased his championship advantage to 81 points over Norris.
Nico Hulkenberg was sixth for Haas, a major boost for that team, with Red Bull’s Sergio Perez seventh and Kevin Magnussen eighth for Haas.
Daniel Ricciardo gave RB two points in ninth and Pierre Gasly took the final point for Renault-owned Alpine.
Verstappen 💥 Norris Incredible scenes at the Red Bull Ring 😵#F1 #AustrianGP pic.twitter.com/YvD0dg2TUH
– Rappler.com
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Sean Chambers: The ace up Gilas’ sleeves | Jasmine Payo | 30/06/2024 22:11 | DEPUTY. Gilas Pilipinas assistant coach Sean Chambers at the sidelines during a tuneup match.
Sean Chambers Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – As Gilas Pilipinas warmed up for their tuneup game against the Mustangs of Taiwan on June 24, a face known to the older generation of Filipino hoop fans quietly walked onto the sidelines of the PhilSports Arena.
He looked around to scan the entire scene. The hallways, every corner, even the cracks on the floors and walls were all too familiar to him, summoning memories of bruising hard court battles, of triumphs and defeats, of friendships made and respect earned.
It was an atmosphere he basked in many times over in the past, in a place where some of the greatest accomplishments of his playing career happened.
It was in the same venue, then still known as Ultra, where Sean Chambers led the Alaska Milkmen to a 3-1 romp over former LA Lakers backup point guard Wes Matthews and Ginebra San Miguel in the finals of the 1991 Third Conference, earning for the Uytengsu franchise its first ever PBA title.
It would be the first of six championships that Chambers and coach Tim Cone bagged together as they transformed Alaska into one of the winningest PBA ballclubs of the 1990s. Included in their list of feats was clinching the 1996 PBA Grand Slam when Chambers played in both the Commissioner’s Cup and the Governor’s Cup.
Four years ago, Chambers already told Rappler the he’d likely “retire in the Philippines eventually.”
But talks of retirement will have to wait a little further down the road. A couple of new missions beckon, and as he has done so many times in his storied career, Chambers responded to the calls the only way he knows how – by going all in.
Not a surprise from the second recipient of the PBA’s Mr. 100% award.
After briefly being part of the TNT Tropang Giga coaching staff tasked with player development in 2023 upon the invitation of his former Alaska teammate Jojo Lastimosa, Chambers returned to the Philippines this year for a lengthier assignment.
He had been handed the coaching reins of the FEU Tamarraws, who finished seventh out of eight teams in the UAAP the previous season.
This early, Chambers’ imprint is already evident in the rejuvenated FEU squad which finished third in the recent FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup.
When Cone found himself two assistants short in his Gilas Pilipinas coaching staff because of the unavailability of LA Tenorio and Josh Reyes, it was an easy decision for the winningest coach in PBA history to recruit Chambers on board to the national team braintrust.
“Sean steps in, he’s played with me for 13 years, he knows me personally as well as anybody I’ve ever met,” said Cone. “He knows our system, he knows the triangle, so he’s just the perfect guy.”
“And if you have ever been around him… he’s one of the most valuable people around you. We begged him and we begged FEU, and thank goodness he said yes, and FEU said yes.”
It was also an easy decision for Chambers to accept the invitation to join the Gilas Pilipinas squad that was bound for the FIBA Olympic Qualifiers to be held from July 2-7 in Riga, Latvia.
“To represent the Philippines on an international stage has always been a dream of mine,” said Chambers.
Cone could not have picked for the Gilas players a better mentor of the system he wants to implement than the import who has played the longest under his tutelage.
Not only did Chambers master the triangle offense when he was a player, but he now teaches it to his young boys in FEU where he has instilled parts of the triangle.
His knowledge of the nuances of Cone’s offensive and defensive schemes, plus his keen understanding of Cone’s thought processes in devising strategies and game plans that need to be executed on the floor make him an invaluable asset on the Gilas bench.
Cone + Chambers is an equation that for a decade, produced winning results. Gilas fans hope this partnership once again delivers the goods.
What was unique about Chambers’ game during his playing career was that despite standing at just around 6-foot-2, he did the most damage close to the basket.
He was effective as he was efficient, outworking taller frontliners and even thriving in conferences that featured big imports. This expertise in the low block will be helpful to the Gilas frontline, which is still rather undersized compared to the long, hefty and athletic European bigs.
But Chambers’ biggest contribution to Gilas Pilipinas, perhaps, may not even be the technical expertise he shares with the team.
His mere presence exudes a positive influence that was born out of years of hard work that resulted in a sustained level of excellence.
It is rare that an import is able to build a career in the PBA that spans more than 10 years. Long before Justin Brownlee became Cone’s reinforcement of choice for Barangay Ginebra, Chambers defined the standard of the quintessential resident import.
The task ahead for Gilas Pilipinas is obviously laden with difficulties. But it does help that someone with Chambers’ pedigree is on the bench.
He knows the pressure of the big moments. He is a proven winner. His character and mindset should give the Gilas players a template to emulate. – with a report from Delfin Dioquino/Rappler.com
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‘We have to be at our best’: Little room for error as Gilas shoots for Olympics | delfin.dioquino editor | 30/06/2024 23:10 | ADORED. Gilas Pilipinas in action in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – There is little room for error as Gilas Pilipinas tries to do something special in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) in Riga, Latvia.
Team manager Richard del Rosario said the Nationals have to be at the top of their game against Latvia and Georgia after getting a feel of what to expect in the OQT following a pair of friendly matches versus Turkiye (Turkey) and Poland.
Although Gilas dropped both tuneup games, with Turkey earning an 84-73 win and Poland escaping with an 82-80 victory, the Filipinos showed they have a fighting chance against top European teams.
“We were good against Turkey, we were better against Poland, but we have to be at our best from here on out,” said Del Rosario.
Minimizing its mistakes is a priority for the Philippines after it coughed up a combined 40 turnovers against Turkey and Poland.
That is more than the 39 assists the Filipinos totaled in the same two matches.
Defending the three-point line is also a point of concern as Turkey and Poland sank 14 and 11 triples, respectively, with their proficiency from beyond the arc spelling the difference in their triumphs.
In terms of strength, Gilas has been dominant on the boards as it recorded twice as many rebounds against Poland, 42-21.
The Philippines won the rebounding battle against Turkey as well, 39-29.
“We need to limit our turnovers and get locked in defensively. It’s not just about competing, it’s all about winning,” said Del Rosario.
Through the OQT, the Nationals hope to end the Philippines’ decades-long absence in Olympic basketball since the country last sent a team to the Summer Games in 1972.
Standing in the Filipinos’ way are two formidable squads in world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia, which both made the last 16 in the previous FIBA World Cup.
“We will put them under the microscope and look for ways to win,” said Del Rosario.
Gilas will play two games in less than 24 hours as it tangles with Latvia at 12 am and Georgia at 8:30 pm on Thursday, July 4 (Manila time). – Rappler.com
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WATCH: Prime Infra automates waste management in Pampanga to eventually turn trash into fuel | Ralf Rivas | 30/06/2024 19:41 | MANILA, Philippines – A subsidiary of Enrique Razon-led Prime Infrastructure recently switched on its P1-billion automated materials recovery facility in Porac, Pampanga, with the goal of eventually turning stored waste into fuel.
In an episode of Business Sense, Prime Infra’s market sector lead for waste Cara Peralta gave Rappler a tour of the 10-hectare facility of Prime Integrated Waste Solutions (PWS).
The facility can process up to 5,000 tons of waste per day from the various barangays of Porac, Pampanga.
The Pampanga facility is PWS’ first greenfield development and second operational facility next to Cebu City.
PWS said the facility is not a landfill, as they aim to eventually sell the waste, which is tightly sealed through a “bailing” process, to companies that can convert it into fuel.
Check out how tons of waste are sorted, wrapped, and stored by machines in this video. – Rappler.com
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Beatdowns continue: Puerto Rico thrashes winless Gilas Boys by 45 in FIBA U17 World Cup | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 23:07 | LEAGUES APART. Gilas Boys' Wacky Ludovice attempts a jump shot over the Puerto Rico defense in the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – The Gilas Pilipinas under-17 team remained winless in the FIBA U17 World Cup after suffering yet another lopsided defeat, this time at the hands of Puerto Rico, 98-53, on Tuesday, July 2, at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul, Turkiye (Turkey).
In contrast to their first two outings, where Gilas Boys were immediately put away by their opponents in just the opening period, the Filipinos actually got off to a great start against Puerto Rico with a 24-16 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Gilas Boys were firing from all cylinders in the first 10 minutes of the ball game, shooting an efficient 8-of-13 field goal clip, including a near-perfect 5-of-6 mark from the two-point area.
Unfortunately, the Philippines failed to sustain its fiery start as Puerto Rico turned things around in the second frame and outscored Gilas Boys, 32-6, for a 48-30 edge at halftime.
Gilas Boys never got back to within single digits the rest of the way as the Puerto Ricans cruised to their first win of the tournament and handed the Filipinos – coached by Josh Reyes – their third loss in as many games.
Jordan Dill spearheaded Puerto Rico’s balanced attack with 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting, while Vincent Stewart posted a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds.
Jahrel Vigo, Rogny Santiago, and Justin Roman, meanwhile, all had 10 markers each for the Puerto Ricans.
For the first time in three matches, two players scored in double figures for Gilas Boys, with Joaquin Ludovice finishing with 13 and Kurt Velasquez tallying 11 on a combined 8-of-26 shooting.
CJ Amos – who led Gilas Boys’ furious start – dropped all his 8 points in the first quarter, while Bonn Daja chipped in 7 markers.
After a fourth-place finish in Group A, the Philippines hopes to pull off an improbable upset when it goes up against world No. 1 USA in the Round of 16 on Wednesday, July 3.
The Americans are coming off a historic 146-62 thrashing of China on Tuesday, setting a new record for most points scored in an U17 World Cup game.
The winners in the Round of 16 move up to the quarterfinals, while the losers fall to the classification games.
Puerto Rico 98 – Dill 15, Stewart 11, Vigo 10, Santiago R. 10, Roman 10, Santiago M. 9, Quinones 7, Cruz 6, Rosa 6, Montes 6, Pino 4, Colon 4.
Philippines 53 – Ludovice 13, Velasquez 10, Amos 8, Daja 7, Banal 3, Chua 3, Alegre 3, Gomez de Liaño 3, Diao 2, Morales 1, Williams 0, Arejola 0.
Quarters: 16-24, 48-30, 78-34, 98-53.
– Rappler.com
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‘We want to play against the best’: Brownlee embraces daunting task in FIBA OQT | delfin.dioquino editor | 30/06/2024 18:41 | ALL SMILES. Justin Brownlee (32) and Kai Sotto (11) in action for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas needs to go through the eye of the needle if it wants to end a decades-long absence in the Olympics.
For Justin Brownlee, it is supposed to be like that.
The beloved naturalized player embraced the daunting task that awaits the Nationals in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament that will be staged in Riga, Latvia, from July 2 to 7 as they go up against a pair of top 25 squads.
Bunched in Group A with the Philippines are world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia.
“It is going to be very tough for us but that is why we’re here. We want to play against the best in the world, and of course, if you want to be in the Olympics and qualify, you got to play with the best in the world,” Brownlee said.
“I think it is going to be a great experience for us and we’re definitely not going to take it lightly. We’re definitely going in there to win.”
Brownlee and the national team got a taste of the level of competition that is expected in the OQT as they tangled with world No. 15 Poland and No. 24 Turkey in a pair of tuneup games.
Although the Filipinos came out winless in those friendlies, they showed that they can go toe-to-toe with European squads.
Gilas Pilipinas gave the Turkish a scare before absorbing an 84-73 loss then fell short of a massive upset against a Polish side bolstered by NBA player Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs in a nail-biting 82-80 defeat.
Foes in the OQT pose a tougher challenge.
Latvia – bannered by Charlotte Hornets forward Davis Bertains and former NBA players Rodion Kurucs and Dairis Bertans – aims to bank on its home advantage in its bid to reach the Olympics for the first time since 1936.
Meanwhile, Georgia shoots for a maiden Olympic appearance behind NBA players Goga Bitadze of the Orlando Magic and Sandro Mamukelashvili of the Spurs.
Brownlee, though, feels the Philippines is up to the task as it seeks to send a basketball team to the Olympics for the first time since 1972.
“No matter if they’re ranked higher than us, they put on their shoes just like we put on our shoes,” said Brownlee, who averaged 25.5 points and 4 rebounds against Turkey and Poland.
“We come in to represent the country in the right way, in the best way we can.” – Rappler.com
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Dave Ildefonso follows in father Danny’s footsteps, declares for PBA draft | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 20:57 | KBL STINT. Dave Ildefonso in action.
Suwon KT Sonicboom
MANILA, Philippines – With two days to spare before the deadline, Dave Ildefonso expressed his intention to join the upcoming PBA Rookie Draft on Tuesday, July 2.
The son of former PBA MVP Danny Ildefonso said he is returning to local hoops after not receiving any new overseas offers.
“I didn’t have offers from abroad, and [playing in the PBA] has been a dream of mine,” said Ildefonso during Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas’ media day in Mandaluyong City.
“Ever since my father played in the PBA, I want to follow his footsteps and try to achieve what he achieved. I will apply for this upcoming draft, but I don’t know if I could still submit, that’s the problem,” he added, referring to the Thursday, July 4, 5 pm deadline.
Ildefonso, who exhausted his playing years with Ateneo following the Blue Eagles’ UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball title win over UP, played in limited minutes with Korean Basketball League team Suwon KT.
During his second and final season with the team, he averaged 4.4 points, 1.0 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.7 turnovers in 10.6 minutes.
Suwon KT replaced Ildefonso with Fil-Italian guard Dalph Panopio, a former Gilas Pilipinas prospect, as its Asian import.
“As a player, if you know you’re not being used much in the last season of your contract, you begin to think of what’s next in the future…. Plan A, Plan B…what will I do if I got signed?” said Ildefonso.
“If I won’t get signed, what’s next? We were trying to negotiate [for a return], but the team went in a different direction with Dalph, which is, I think, a much better fit for them.”
If he had his way, Ildefonso mentioned that he would like to be drafted by Converge, where his dad coaches as an assistant, Rain or Shine with brother Shaun, or San Miguel, where he would be the second Ildefonso to wear a Beermen jersey.
Danny, who played from 1998 to 2013 under the San Miguel Beermen franchise, won eight PBA titles, three Finals MVPs, two league MVPs, and five Best Player of the Conference awards, cementing his legacy as one of the best ever. – Rappler.com
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Ex-Shiga veteran Kiefer Ravena finds new Japan B. League home, signs with Yokohama | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 21:50 | ON A ROLL. Shiga Lakes guard Kiefer Ravena in action in the Japan B. League.
Japan B. League
MANILA, Philippines – After three years with the Shiga Lakes, Kiefer Ravena is moving to another Japan B. League team, signing with the Yokohama B-Corsairs on a two-year deal.
“Unfortunately, we had different directions…. I made a move,” said Ravena during Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas’ media day on Tuesday, July 2.
“It’s my first time going back to Tokyo and staying there [with] Yokohama,” he added.
Ravena, who played with the Shiga franchise from 2021 to 2024, experienced the highs and lows of B. League play, having his team relegated to Division 2, and helping raise his team back to Division 1 by winning the B2 crown.
He posted averages of 12.4 points, 5.5 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals during his final campaign with the Lakes.
The 30-year-old guard had also been named as one of the league’s Asia All-Stars during the Japan B. League All-Star Weekend in 2024.
“Hopefully I can bring the same luck that I was able to bring Shiga last year to the next season,” said the former Ateneo Blue Eagle.
Ravena, along with Gilas Pilipinas teammate Rhenz Abando, former San Miguel import Chris McCullough, and RJ Abarrientos, among others, are gearing up for the upcoming William Jones Cup in Taipei.
The annual single round-robin tournament will be held from July 13 to 21, featuring teams such as the Ukrainian national squad, and the Chinese Taipei A and B delegations. – Rappler.com
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Gilas prospect AJ Edu continues Japan journey, signs with Nagasaki after Toyama stint | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 18:46 | KEY COG. Filipino import AJ Edu in action with Toyama in the Japan B. League.
Japan B. League
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas prospect AJ Edu is set to continue his career with the Japan B. League, signing with the Nagasaki Velca on Tuesday, July 2, at the conclusion of his stint with the Toyama Grouses.
This marks the 6-foot-10 forward’s second stop in his budding professional career, one year after linking up with Toyama – fellow Gilas star Dwight Ramos’ former team. Nagasaki, in turn, was Gilas gunner Jordan Heading’s former squad.
Edu now joins a team that marked a rapid ascent in the B. League ranks since its formation in 2020. After setting a Division 3 winning percentage record of 93% off a 42-3 season romp in 2021, the Velca were elevated to Division 2 in 2022 before rising to Division 1 this year.
The 24-year-old highflyer is expected to further boost Nagasaki’s contention bid after standing out in his rookie season with averages of 13.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.7 blocks.
Edu, however, is currently out of commission with a torn meniscus. He is set to miss Gilas’ Olympic Qualifying Tournament bid in Riga, Latvia, which starts on Thursday, July 4. – Rappler.com
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Beatdowns continue: Puerto Rico thrashes winless Gilas Boys by 45 in FIBA U17 World Cup | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 23:07 | LEAGUES APART. Gilas Boys' Wacky Ludovice attempts a jump shot over the Puerto Rico defense in the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – The Gilas Pilipinas under-17 team remained winless in the FIBA U17 World Cup after suffering yet another lopsided defeat, this time at the hands of Puerto Rico, 98-53, on Tuesday, July 2, at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul, Turkiye (Turkey).
In contrast to their first two outings, where Gilas Boys were immediately put away by their opponents in just the opening period, the Filipinos actually got off to a great start against Puerto Rico with a 24-16 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Gilas Boys were firing from all cylinders in the first 10 minutes of the ball game, shooting an efficient 8-of-13 field goal clip, including a near-perfect 5-of-6 mark from the two-point area.
Unfortunately, the Philippines failed to sustain its fiery start as Puerto Rico turned things around in the second frame and outscored Gilas Boys, 32-6, for a 48-30 edge at halftime.
Gilas Boys never got back to within single digits the rest of the way as the Puerto Ricans cruised to their first win of the tournament and handed the Filipinos – coached by Josh Reyes – their third loss in as many games.
Jordan Dill spearheaded Puerto Rico’s balanced attack with 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting, while Vincent Stewart posted a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds.
Jahrel Vigo, Rogny Santiago, and Justin Roman, meanwhile, all had 10 markers each for the Puerto Ricans.
For the first time in three matches, two players scored in double figures for Gilas Boys, with Joaquin Ludovice finishing with 13 and Kurt Velasquez tallying 11 on a combined 8-of-26 shooting.
CJ Amos – who led Gilas Boys’ furious start – dropped all his 8 points in the first quarter, while Bonn Daja chipped in 7 markers.
After a fourth-place finish in Group A, the Philippines hopes to pull off an improbable upset when it goes up against world No. 1 USA in the Round of 16 on Wednesday, July 3.
The Americans are coming off a historic 146-62 thrashing of China on Tuesday, setting a new record for most points scored in an U17 World Cup game.
The winners in the Round of 16 move up to the quarterfinals, while the losers fall to the classification games.
Puerto Rico 98 – Dill 15, Stewart 11, Vigo 10, Santiago R. 10, Roman 10, Santiago M. 9, Quinones 7, Cruz 6, Rosa 6, Montes 6, Pino 4, Colon 4.
Philippines 53 – Ludovice 13, Velasquez 10, Amos 8, Daja 7, Banal 3, Chua 3, Alegre 3, Gomez de Liaño 3, Diao 2, Morales 1, Williams 0, Arejola 0.
Quarters: 16-24, 48-30, 78-34, 98-53.
– Rappler.com
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Rich get richer again: PBA approves Blackwater-TNT trade for Rey Nambatac | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 12:56 | FRIEND TURNED FOE. Rey Nambatac in action for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – The Blackwater franchise is once again responsible for boosting a Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) team in the PBA as the league approved on Tuesday, July 2, a trade that will send star guard Rey Nambatac to the TNT Tropang Giga for reserves Kib Montalbo and Jewel Ponferada.
TNT is also throwing in a 2028 second-round pick to the Bossing, who will be gutted with star power anew just a few weeks removed from a promising 2024 Philippine Cup campaign that netted them a 3-0 start before fizzling out to a 4-7 finish.
The Tropang Giga, meanwhile, are getting a shot in the arm with Nambatac, a do-it-all floor general who averaged 11.1 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in his last conference with Blackwater.
The flagship MVP franchise is coming off a lackluster 2023-2024 season for their lofty standards, finishing eighth out of 12 in the Commissioner’s Cup, and fourth in the Philippine Cup via a first-round playoffs exit at the hands of Rain or Shine.
With more titles in sight, TNT is acquiring Nambatac in exchange for Montalbo, who recently averaged 3.4 points and 2.1 assists in the Philippine Cup, and Ponferada, who normed 4.5 points and 2.3 boards in the same conference.
Nambatac joins a star-studded Tropang Giga core led by Calvin Oftana, Roger Pogoy, Jayson Castro, and Kelly Williams, while Blackwater will lean on the likes of Christian David, Troy Rosario, Rey Suerte, and RK Ilagan with their star guard gone. – Rappler.com
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Ex-Shiga veteran Kiefer Ravena finds new Japan B. League home, signs with Yokohama | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 21:50 | ON A ROLL. Shiga Lakes guard Kiefer Ravena in action in the Japan B. League.
Japan B. League
MANILA, Philippines – After three years with the Shiga Lakes, Kiefer Ravena is moving to another Japan B. League team, signing with the Yokohama B-Corsairs on a two-year deal.
“Unfortunately, we had different directions…. I made a move,” said Ravena during Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas’ media day on Tuesday, July 2.
“It’s my first time going back to Tokyo and staying there [with] Yokohama,” he added.
Ravena, who played with the Shiga franchise from 2021 to 2024, experienced the highs and lows of B. League play, having his team relegated to Division 2, and helping raise his team back to Division 1 by winning the B2 crown.
He posted averages of 12.4 points, 5.5 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals during his final campaign with the Lakes.
The 30-year-old guard had also been named as one of the league’s Asia All-Stars during the Japan B. League All-Star Weekend in 2024.
“Hopefully I can bring the same luck that I was able to bring Shiga last year to the next season,” said the former Ateneo Blue Eagle.
Ravena, along with Gilas Pilipinas teammate Rhenz Abando, former San Miguel import Chris McCullough, and RJ Abarrientos, among others, are gearing up for the upcoming William Jones Cup in Taipei.
The annual single round-robin tournament will be held from July 13 to 21, featuring teams such as the Ukrainian national squad, and the Chinese Taipei A and B delegations. – Rappler.com
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Find openings in government via CSC job portal | clescudero0258 | 02/07/2024 15:23 | The following is a press release from the Civil Service Commission.
Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Karlo Nograles encouraged job seekers interested in public sector positions to explore opportunities through the CSC Job Portal, available at csc.gov.ph/career.
He highlighted the portal’s significance in offering aspiring government employees detailed information and easy access to a wide range of job openings within the public sector.
“Patuloy ang pagdami ng mga oportunidad sa trabaho sa gobyerno dahil laging may pangangailangan para sa mga mahuhusay at tapat na kawani na magbibigay ng dekalidad na serbisyo publiko. Ang CSC Job Portal ay isang madaling paraan upang makita ang mga bakanteng posisyon sa iba’t ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan sa lahat ng rehiyon ng Pilipinas,” said Nograles.
(Job opportunities in government continue to increase since there’s always a need for skilled and loyal employees who can give quality public service. The CSC Job Portal is an easy way to see vacant positions in different government agencies in all regions in the Philippines.)
In accordance with CSC Resolution No. 2000221 dated February 4, 2020, the CSC has implemented a unified platform for publishing vacant government positions on the CSC website.
National government agencies, local government units, and state universities and colleges are required to submit their lists of authorized first, second, and third level vacant positions in both electronic and printed formats to the concerned CSC Field Office (FO). The electronic copy is forwarded to the CSC Regional Office for publication on the CSC website, while the printed copy is displayed on the bulletin board of the CSC FO.
Applicants can use the job portal’s filters such as position title, agency name, and region to search for available positions.
Aside from the position title and place of assignment, the job postings also indicate the salary or job grade; the qualification standards that need to be met by the applicant, such as eligibility, education, training, work experience, and competency; the documents to be submitted; and instructions on how to apply.
Nograles reminded jobseekers that all job applications or questions should be directed to the agency concerned. He also advised applicants to carefully review the qualification standards and competencies required for each position, emphasizing that eligibility alone does not guarantee a permanent appointment.
“The government is not only the biggest employer nationally or locally, it also provides the opportunity for Filipinos to attain security of tenure. We encourage qualified Filipinos, including our fresh graduates, job shifters, and civil service eligibles to join the civil service and contribute to our nation’s development,” Nograles added. – Rappler.com
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Cebu Pacific picks Airbus for biggest aircraft order in PH history | lkyu0285 | 02/07/2024 17:14 | AIRBUS. Cebu Pacific receives a brand-new A320 neo plane assembled in Tianjin, China.
Lance Spencer Yu/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – It’s official: Cebu Pacific has chosen Airbus to supply up to 152 aircraft in what will become the largest aircraft order in Philippine history.
The low cost carrier signed a binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the European aerospace giant for the purchase of up to 152 A321neo aircraft for $24 billion, or P1.4 trillion based on list prices.
Cebu Pacific has some wiggle room to tweak its final purchase order based on market demand, given that the MOU covers firm orders for up to 102 A321neo planes, along with purchase rights for 50 A320neo Family aircraft.
“The order is designed to provide Cebu Pacific with maximum flexibility to adapt fleet growth to market conditions, with the ability to switch between the A321neo and A320neo,” Cebu Pacific chief executive officer Michael Szucs said in a Philippine Stock Exchange disclosure on Tuesday, July 2.
The new planes will also be powered with Pratt and Whitney GTF engines. Cebu Pacific has long used engines from the the American manufacturer, although in 2023, supply chain problems involving Pratt and Whitney forced Cebu Pacific and other airlines to ground their planes due to “faulty” engines. (READ: What’s causing the rise in flight cancellations and delays?)
The purchase agreement is expected to be finalized by the third quarter of 2024. Although it could take years for the planes to be fully delivered, by 2035, the Gokongwei-owned airline could quadruple the aircraft deployed in its regional hubs across the Philippines. In the first quarter of 2024, Cebu Pacific successfully rode the surge in holiday and international travel to more than double its net income compared to Q1 2023.
Cebu Air, the parent company of Cebu Pacific, had a total of 87 aircraft in its operating fleet as of March 31, 2024. It leases 20 Airbus CEO planes, 30 Airbus NEO planes, and 2 ATR 72-600 planes, while it owns 11 Airbus CEO planes, 10 Airbus NEO planes, 12 ATR 72-600 planes, and 2 ATR 72-500 planes.
Cebu Pacific’s decision to go with Airbus for its massive aircraft order comes just as Airbus’ rival Boeing struggles with declining plane deliveries and concerns surrounding safety standards, especially after a mid-air panel blowout during an Alaska Airlines flight. In late May, Saudia also picked Airbus for Saudi Arabia’s largest-ever plane order, according to a CNN report. – Rappler.com
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Jollibee Group acquires majority stake in Korea’s Compose Coffee for $340 million | Ralf Rivas | 02/07/2024 17:06 | MANILA, Philippines – Filipino global food chain Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) is acquiring 70% of Compose Coffee, among South Korea’s most popular low cost coffee stores.
JFC said it acquired the shares for $340 million (around P20 billion). Private equity firms Titan Dining II LP and Elevation Equity Partners Korea Limited retain 5% and 25% of Compose Coffee, respectively.
Compose Coffee is the fastest growing coffee chain in South Korea, with 2,470 franchised stores. It boasts the largest in-house coffee roasting plant in Korea, which enables it to distribute specialty beans at low cost.
The company, with V of BTS as brand ambassador, also boasts of a debt-free balance sheet, “superior cash returns and excellent profitability margins.”
JFC said Compose Coffee is the biggest acquisition in terms of number of stores, bringing the group’s total store network closer to 10,000 stores. More than 66% of JFC’s stores are already outside the Philippines.
Compose Coffee and its roasting facility JMCF Co. Ltd. were founded in Busan in 2014. The brand was named South Korea’s favorite coffee shop at the 2023 Korea’s Most Loved Brand Awards, an event organized by Forbes Korea and sponsored by South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT and Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy.
“The business that Compose Coffee has built in the past 10 years is impressive and we are excited to play a major role in its next phase of growth. We believe that Compose Coffee is a compelling strategic fit for JFC and is on track to becoming the largest, fastest growing and leading value coffee player in South Korea,” said JFC chairman Tony Tan Caktiong. – Rappler.com
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Dave Ildefonso follows in father Danny’s footsteps, declares for PBA draft | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 20:57 | KBL STINT. Dave Ildefonso in action.
Suwon KT Sonicboom
MANILA, Philippines – With two days to spare before the deadline, Dave Ildefonso expressed his intention to join the upcoming PBA Rookie Draft on Tuesday, July 2.
The son of former PBA MVP Danny Ildefonso said he is returning to local hoops after not receiving any new overseas offers.
“I didn’t have offers from abroad, and [playing in the PBA] has been a dream of mine,” said Ildefonso during Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas’ media day in Mandaluyong City.
“Ever since my father played in the PBA, I want to follow his footsteps and try to achieve what he achieved. I will apply for this upcoming draft, but I don’t know if I could still submit, that’s the problem,” he added, referring to the Thursday, July 4, 5 pm deadline.
Ildefonso, who exhausted his playing years with Ateneo following the Blue Eagles’ UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball title win over UP, played in limited minutes with Korean Basketball League team Suwon KT.
During his second and final season with the team, he averaged 4.4 points, 1.0 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.7 turnovers in 10.6 minutes.
Suwon KT replaced Ildefonso with Fil-Italian guard Dalph Panopio, a former Gilas Pilipinas prospect, as its Asian import.
“As a player, if you know you’re not being used much in the last season of your contract, you begin to think of what’s next in the future…. Plan A, Plan B…what will I do if I got signed?” said Ildefonso.
“If I won’t get signed, what’s next? We were trying to negotiate [for a return], but the team went in a different direction with Dalph, which is, I think, a much better fit for them.”
If he had his way, Ildefonso mentioned that he would like to be drafted by Converge, where his dad coaches as an assistant, Rain or Shine with brother Shaun, or San Miguel, where he would be the second Ildefonso to wear a Beermen jersey.
Danny, who played from 1998 to 2013 under the San Miguel Beermen franchise, won eight PBA titles, three Finals MVPs, two league MVPs, and five Best Player of the Conference awards, cementing his legacy as one of the best ever. – Rappler.com
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Despite own China tightrope, Vatican backs int’l law in Manila-Beijing row | Paterno Esmaquel II | 02/07/2024 19:24 | TOP DIPLOMAT. Archbishop Paul Gallagher, secretary for relations with states of the Holy See, answers questions from the media during a press conference at the Diamond Hotel, July 2, 2024.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – The Vatican’s top diplomat, in a historic trip to Manila, called on parties in the West Philippine Sea dispute to abide by international law, even as the Catholic Church is walking its own China tightrope.
Archbishop Paul Gallagher, secretary for relations with states of the Holy See, discussed the West Philippine Sea and a range of issues with his Filipino counterpart, Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, at a five-star hotel overlooking Manila Bay on Tuesday, July 2.
For more than an hour, Manalo and Gallagher held a working lunch with key officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Apostolic Nunciature, after which they held a press conference at Diamond Hotel in Pasay City.
Manalo’s prepared statement to the media, and Gallagher’s response to a reporter’s question, referred to the sea row in generic diplomatic terms.
Gallagher and Manalo’s discussion on the West Philippine Sea was significant, however, because it was the first time the Vatican publicly addressed the Asian maritime dispute.
It was the first time, too, that a Vatican foreign minister was visiting Manila in the 73 years of diplomacy between the Holy See and the Philippines, Asia’s biggest Catholic-majority country.
In a press conference, Manalo said he and Gallagher “exchanged views on regional and international issues including developments in the West Philippine Sea, South China Sea, Ukraine, and Gaza.”
“We noted our shared perspective that amid the various international challenges and conflicts, the international community must be united in preserving a world where differences are resolved peacefully and on the basis of international law,” said Manalo, a 71-year-old career diplomat who helped engineer the Philippines’ foreign policy even at the time Manila sued Beijing in 2013.
Gallagher, 70, himself an old hand in the Vatican diplomatic service, emphasized the Holy See’s consistent position on situations of conflict, as he addressed a journalist’s question about the Vatican’s stance on the West Philippine Sea.
The diplomatic service of the Vatican, which is a city-state aside from being the spiritual center of Catholics, is known for its nonpartisan voice that pushes for peace in the world’s danger zones. At the United Nations, the Holy See enjoys a “permanent observer” status “by its own choice,” so that it can “maintain absolute neutrality in specific political problems.”
Gallagher – who has served as the Vatican’s foreign minister for the past 10 years, and was assigned to the Philippines in the 1990s – said that “the position of the Holy See is quite clear.”
“In such circumstances, such situations of conflict whatever they are, first of all, every effort must be made that any differences and conflicts are resolved peacefully. We would encourage parties in conflict to abide by international law and to pursue ways of resolving difficulties and problems with the best interests of all involved,” he added.
In the context of the West Philippine Sea dispute, “international law” is an accepted reference to the 2016 arbitral tribunal victory of the Philippines against China over the West Philippine Sea. The Hague ruling rejects China’s claim over the West Philippine Sea and recognizes the Philippines’ exclusive rights over these waters.
China refuses to recognize the Hague ruling.
The Vatican itself is navigating a delicate relationship with China over the appointment of Catholic bishops in the communist country.
In the Catholic Church, only the Pope as successor of Saint Peter can appoint bishops anywhere in the world – but China, under the repressive Chinese Communist Party, refuses to recognize papal authority. This has forced many Chinese Catholics to attend underground churches instead of the ones sanctioned by the state.
The Vatican struck a controversial accord with China in 2018, and renewed it in 2020 and 2022, over the appointment of Catholic bishops. The complete details of the agreement “were never made public, but Francis has claimed he has final say in the bishop appointment process,” wrote the National Catholic Reporter.
Conservative Catholics criticized the agreement as a sellout to China, but the Vatican defended it as an imperfect means to hold some form of dialogue with Chinese authorities for the good of all Chinese Catholics.
Critics have also noted how China fails to honor commitments – likewise a chief complaint by Filipinos engaged in negotiations with China.
In March 2023, Gallagher told EWTN that the 2018 agreement was “not the best deal possible” and that Vatican diplomats have been “negotiating improvements.”
“Obviously, the objective is to get the best deal possible, which certainly this agreement is not the best deal possible because of the other party: They were only prepared to go so far and to agree to certain things. But that was what was possible at the time,” Gallagher said in his EWTN interview.
In April 2023, however, China broke the deal by installing Shanghai Bishop Joseph Shen Bin without the Vatican’s knowledge and consent. Three months later, in July 2023, Pope Francis formally recognized the Chinese bishop’s installation for the “greater good” of Catholics in Shanghai. – with reports from Reuters/Rappler.com
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Zamboanga mayor suspends business permit of fireworks firm after deadly blast | Herbie G | 02/07/2024 16:50 | AFTERMATH. The aftermath of the explosion of a firecracker warehouse in Zamboanga City on June 29, 2024.
Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe
ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – Mayor John Dalipe has suspended the business permit of a company whose stockpile of firecrackers exploded on Saturday, June 29, killing five people and injuring 38 others.
Dalipe issued the order on Monday, July 1, suspending the business permit of Jonathan Chua, the owner of Next Step Fireworks Shoppe. The explosion occurred in a warehouse at Marquez Drive, Barangay Tetuan, Zamboanga City.
Until the suspension order, Chua was the only holder of a permit to engage in such a business in Zamboanga.
Superintendent Christopher Morales, the Bureau of Fire Protection’s (BFP) Zamboanga City Fire District marshal, said they have yet to determine the cause of the explosion.
Morales reported that the explosion and subsequent fire caused an estimated P62.5 million in property damage. A warehouse and a residential house were destroyed, while 15 other structures were damaged.
Dr. Elmeir Apolinario, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief, said on Tuesday, July 2, that 30 of the 38 wounded victims sustained minor injuries, while the remaining eight were critically injured.
“Their injuries are not life-threatening,” Apolinario said.
Morales recommended the imposition of a total ban on the sale and use of firecrackers in Zamboanga City to prevent similar incidents in the future.
However, officials said the city council needs to amend the existing ordinance that allows the use of fireworks for entertainment purposes, subject to terms and conditions.
Personnel from the BFP, CDRRMO, Explosive Ordnance Demolition, military’s Task Force Zamboanga, Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources, City Engineer’s Office, and the village council of Tetuan conducted clearing operations at the blast site to pave the way for the opening of the area to civilians and motorists, including nearby residents.
They retrieved several boxes of drenched pyrotechnics from the blast site and brought them to Barangay Muti for proper disposal.
Meanwhile, Dalipe said he would order the City Engineer’s Office, police, and village officials to inspect all warehouses and storage facilities in Zamboanga City to ensure they operate in accordance with existing laws. – Rappler.com
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Marcos approves P6.3-trillion budget proposal for 2025 | Dwight de Leon | 02/07/2024 16:19 | CHIEF EXECUTIVE. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who chairs the National Economic and Development Authority Board, presides over a meeting in Malacañang in April 2024.
Presidential Communications Office
MANILA, Philippines – The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is seeking a national budget of P6.352 trillion for 2025.
A press release from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Marcos approved the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) Fiscal Year 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP) during a Cabinet meeting in Malacañang on Tuesday, July 2.
The request is 10.1% higher than the current year’s P5.768 trillion national budget.
According to a Malacañang press release, the sector that gets the lion’s share of the budget proposal is education, in accordance with the 1987 Constitution.
Also top priorities of the government are the sectors of public works, health, interior and local government, and defense, the PCO added.
Based on a DBM briefer, the administration also wants to prioritize infrastructure development, human capital development, food security, enterprise development, research and development, digital transformation of the government, climate-smart and disaster-resilient development, and a comprehensive devolution strategy for 2025.
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman previously said that the executive branch targets to submit the proposed budget to Congress on July 29, a week after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Congress is tasked to scrutinize the proposed national budget, going through the House first before the Senate.
Once the budget bill hurdles both chambers, the president signs it into law, called the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for the fiscal year.
It is usually during the budget season in Congress that government agencies get evaluated on how they utilized their current budget, and what they want to achieve with their funding request for the succeeding year.
Last year’s budget deliberations centered on the swift disbursement of Vice President Sara Duterte’s confidential funds in 2022. The controversy resulted in the House’s denial of her request for confidential funds for 2024. – Rappler.com
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Bersamin, Chinese envoy meet as POGO-linked crimes under scrutiny | Dwight de Leon | 02/07/2024 19:53 | MEETING. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin meets with Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian on July 2, 2024, discussing how to strengthen their partnership to fight organized crime.
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission
MANILA, Philippines – China reaffirmed to the Marcos administration its cooperation with the government’s crackdown on Philippine offshore gaming operators, which comes on the heels of a Senate probe into allegations that a mayor with POGO ties is an asset of Beijing.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin met with Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian on Tuesday, July 2, and the two parties discussed how to “strengthen their partnership” in the fight against organized crime.
“China expressed its appreciation for the recent actions taken by Philippine law enforcement authorities to counter illegal offshore gambling and to rescue several Chinese nationals,” the PAOCC press release read. “The Chinese embassy in the Philippines has been actively collaborating and maintaining open communication channels with their Philippine counterparts throughout this process.”
“The strengthened cooperation between China and the Philippines sends a clear message to criminal syndicates operating across borders that their malicious activities will not be tolerated nor allowed to undermine the security and stability of these nations,” it added.
China urged the Philippines in June to put an end to offshore gambling, which it called a “social ill” that encourages crimes of kidnapping, human trafficking, and murder.
POGOs sprouted across the Philippines beginning 2016, and grew exponentially in the succeeding years, as operators took advantage of liberal gaming laws under the administration of Rodrigo Duterte. Many POGO operators are run by Chinese nationals, as gambling in their home country is banned.
In the past year, Beijing helped Manila shut down five POGO hubs and repatriate a thousand Chinese individuals.
Scrutiny against POGO operators has intensified as the Senate investigates Alice Guo, the suspended mayor of Bamban, Tarlac. According to government documents, Guo was at one point a major shareholder of Baofu Land Development, owner of the property where a POGO hub operated in her municipality.
Senator Risa Hontiveros also believes Guo was planted by China to infiltrate local politics in the Philippines.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) later confirmed that the mayor’s fingerprints matched with those of Guo Hua Ping, who arrived in the Philippines from China in 2003.
“She is a Chinese national masquerading as Filipino citizen to facilitate crimes being committed by POGO,” Hontiveros had said.
Prior to the NBI bombshell, Guo insisted she was not a Chinese spy, and denied allegations of involvement in money laundering, human trafficking, and kidnapping schemes.
She had also written to Bersamin, requesting a fair investigation into her life. – Rappler.com
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‘Much-improved choice’: Groups, lawmakers hail Angara’s appointment as DepEd chief | Bonz Magsambol | 02/07/2024 16:52 | File photo of Senator Sonny Angara
Angie de Silva/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – Education groups welcomed the appointment of Senator Sonny Angara as the new secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), with the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) saying that he is a “much-improved choice.”
“ACT has known Senator Angara to be open to dialogues with teachers’ unions and organizations and consistent in his stand for increasing the salaries and improving the benefits of teachers, as well as addressing some problems of the education system,” the biggest teachers’ group said in a statement on Tuesday, July 2.
ACT also took a potshot at Vice President Sara Duterte, who had red-tagged their members when she was DepEd chief. (READ: Sara Duterte brings red-tagging to DepEd)
“ACT hopes that Sen. Angara will remain to be amicable, different from his red-tagger predecessor. We anticipate seeing him asserting some of his progressive stance on education concerns even if they run counter to the administration’s policies that only exacerbate the education crisis,” the group said.
ACT noted that Angara will assume the DepEd leadership at a time when the Philippine education system is facing an unprecedented learning crisis.
He inherits a gargantuan problem in the education sector, including the poor performance of Filipino students in global education assessments. A World Bank report showed that 9 in 10 Filipino students aged 10 are struggling to read simple text.
“Game-changing measures are urgently needed to overturn the decline of our country’s education quality and to sufficiently capacitate the education system to perform its role in nation-building,” ACT said.
The Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), which was among those that recommended Angara’s appointment as DepEd chief, noted that the senator “authored landmark legislations in education including the Free College Law and the Free Kindergarten Law” and “He has “also served as the chairman of the Senate committee on youth, where he pushed for greater opportunities for the youth to participate in policy-making and nation-building.”
In a statement congratulating Angara, the Makati Business Club (MBC) cited the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s latest Program for International Assessment Report (PISA), where the Philippines ranked last among Association of Southeast Asian Nation members in the areas of science, reading, and mathematics.
“These results highlight the urgent need for an experienced leader who will be able to transform and revive the Philippine education system. A well educated population is key to creating a competitive workforce that will be able to keep up with rapid technological developments given the acceleration of artificial intelligence,” MBC said.
“MBC looks forward to working with Senator Angara and wishes him all the best in this critical role, to ensure that elementary and high school principals and teachers are equipped with the literacy, technical, and character skills needed to prepare Filipino children and youth to meet the challenges of the future,” it added.
The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) said that it would have been ideal for an educator or a member of the academic sector to get the top DepEd post – especially as there are “many qualified individuals” who meet this critera – but it respects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to tap Angara for the post.
“As we have previously stated, we are willing to work with whoever takes the role to improve the agency and education sector. To start, we hope that the incoming secretary engages with stakeholders, especially teachers. He will encounter significant challenges, but addressing these can lead to substantial progress in our education system,” TDC said.
“Senator Angara will face formidable challenges in DepEd, and we stand ready to cooperate to overcome these for the education sector’s benefit. But, we vow to be vigilant in preventing any attempt to use DepEd for partisan politics. For now, we welcome the Senator to the Department and request a meeting with him at his earliest convenience,” it added.
TDC also presented 10 “critical areas” that Angara would have to immediately attend to, ranging from support for legislation proposing salary increases for teachers, to revising “the curriculum to align with our socio-cultural context and reinstate Philippine history in high school.”
Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros said that Angara is “one of the most qualified and acceptable DepEd Secretaries among education reform advocates.”
“Bilang nakasama at nakatrabaho, mula sa Kamara hanggang sa Senado (As someone who has worked with him, from the House to the Senate), Senator Sonny’s work as legislator and as member of EDCOM 2 speaks volumes of his commitment and aspiration for a better education sector,” she said in a statement
As EDCOM 2 commissioner, Angara promised a comprehensive review of the K to 12 program.
Senate President Chiz Escudero, who had endorsed Angara’s appointment to Marcos last week, said: “Secretary Angara’s task ahead is indeed gargantuan, but I have full confidence in his ability to lead the DepEd with excellence and integrity. His proven track record in legislative work, particularly in education reform, uniquely positions him to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Senator Migz Zubiri said that Angara “is more than qualified to head our most important agency, with the biggest share in the national budget no less.”
“Senator Sonny brings to the DepEd his brilliant fiscal mind, being a former chair of the Senate finance panel, and his heart for our youth, being part of the EDCOM II,” Zubiri said.
Angara’s Senate term ends in 2025. Escudero had said that there might be no need to replace Angara since his term is ending in less than a year anyway. – Rappler.com
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President Marcos Jr. has appointed a political ally to lead the DepEd. Senator Angara, a politician, is being questioned whether he will bring “politics” into DepEd, similar to what VP Sara has done. Being an experienced legislator but not a DepEd bureaucrat raises concerns. In any case, this situation is seen as evidence that the Political Patronage System is functioning effectively in our government.
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Tensions rise in Cagayan de Oro as group protests vs LWUA, water district manager | Herbie G | 02/07/2024 16:18 | PROTEST. A resident joins the protest organized by the Bantay Tubig Movement on Tuesday, July 2, in front of the Cagayan de Oro Water District’s main office.
Franck Dick Rosete/Rappler
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Tensions rose on Tuesday, July 2, as a group led by a former city councilor protested, demanding the removal of the interim manager of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) and calling for the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) to stay out of the public utility’s affairs.
Protesters, including several barangay officials, took to the streets with banners bearing anti-LWUA messages and seeking the removal of COWD interim manager Fermin Jarales. One banner read that the LWUA “is not welcome in Cagayan de Oro.”
The street protest, staged by the group Bantay Tubig Movement (BTM), came several days after the COWD’s interim board approved a cease-and-desist order against the utility’s sidelined general manager due to his alleged continuous interference despite the LWUA takeover of the water district.
City hall night market team head Enrico Salcedo, a former city councilor and BTM convenor, said the street protest was launched to pressure COWD’s interim officials to rescind or rid the firm’s contract with its primary supplier of provisions, which they see as onerous.
Protesters said the interim officials have not acted on their call to address the COWD’s 2017 contract with the Manny V. Pangilinan-controlled Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Incorporated (COBI).
On June 18, BTM submitted a manifesto, signed by 17,228 residents, to the COWD to protest a clause in the contract that allows COBI to adjust its water rate every three years. Salcedo’s group said the provision was disadvantageous to the COWD and the city’s water consumers.
Jarales, however, said the COWD’s interim board has been deliberating on the contract and is now addressing the financial aspects of the 2017 agreement after establishing its position on the legal aspect.
“Once our report is finished, it will be presented to them for consultation,” Jarales said.
The LWUA, the regulator of public water utilities in the provinces, took over the COWD on May 29, following the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for it to intervene after a water supply crisis briefly gripped Cagayan de Oro. The crisis stemmed from an unresolved debt dispute of over P400 million between the COWD and COBI.
The problem resulted in a temporary supply disconnection on May 14.
A cease-and-desist order, issued on Friday, June 28, directed COWD’s sidelined general manager, Engineer Antonio Young, to stop discharging the functions of a general manager.
Young was prohibited from interfering in the COWD’s operations and administration, including the signing of documents and checks.
The engineer was also barred from entering the COWD office and other facilities unless authorized by Jarales.
The COWD interim board’s drastic move came after its members were informed that Young had allegedly been presenting himself as the COWD’s functioning general manager despite the LWUA takeover.
Jarales alleged that there was an instance when a document couldn’t be signed due to a resolution passed by the sidelined COWD board because employees were instructed to follow no one but Young. In a May 29 press conference, Young confirmed that the board issued the resolution.
A day later, however, Jarales issued a memorandum directing all COWD employees to report only to the interim board and general manager following the takeover. He asked the workers to maintain their professionalism and prevent any sabotage.
“In the interim period, it is the interim management that will handle the operation of COWD,” Jarales told Rappler in an interview on Monday, July 1.
On June 25, Jarales issued another memorandum, directing Young to perform tasks he was authorized to do in a work-from-home setting, an order which the sidelined manager questioned before the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) and Civil Service Commission (CSC).
Based on Jarales’ order, Young’s new working arrangement was implemented to prevent him from carrying out unauthorized actions.
Rappler sought comment from Young, but he declined to give a statement, following his lawyer’s advice.
Earlier, however, Young said he couldn’t just abandon his post despite the LWUA takeover, adding that he was still awaiting the response of the OGCC.
Young also pointed out in a previous interview that working from home would not be possible for him because it would hamper the operations of the water district. He said he remained the authorized COWD signatory.
The COWD’s interim officials warned that they would be compelled to “take the appropriate action” against Young if he forced the issue. – Rappler.com
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PH, China mull resumption of Duterte-era joint coast guard committee | Bea Cupin | 02/07/2024 20:02 | CHINESE HARASSMENT. The China Coast Guard brandishes weapons, uses sirens, and threatens Filipino soldiers already moored alongside the BRP Sierra Madre during a June 17, 2024 resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal.
Armed Forces of the Philippines
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines and China discussed the “possible resumption” of a Duterte-era Joint Coast Guard Committee (JCGC), during a bilateral meeting on issues in the South China Sea.
Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong met in Manila on Tuesday, July 2, for the 9th meeting of the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea.
“Noting recent incidents in the South China Sea, both sides recognized that there is a need to restore trust, rebuild confidence, and create conditions conducive to productive dialogue and interaction,” said the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
It’s the first BCM meeting since China Coast Guard (CCG) personnel blocked, harassed, towed, and boarded Philippine Navy rubber boats during a military resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on June 17.
“The two sides discussed their respective positions on Ayungin Shoal and affirmed their commitment to de-escalate tensions without prejudice to their respective positions,” the DFA said.
Manila and Beijing said there was “substantial progress on developing measures to manage the situation at sea, but significant differences remain.”
“Both sides agreed to continue discussions to find a mutually-acceptable resolution to the issues,” the statement added.
In a separate statement, China said the BCM meeting was a “candid and constructive exchange of views…on handling the situation at Ren’ai Jiao.” Ren’ai Jiao is what China calls Ayungin Shoal.
In a statement released by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Beijing insisted that it has “sovereignty” over the Spratlys, including Ayungin Shoal. The ministry said they “[urged] the Philippine side to stop maritime infringement and provocation at once” and to “abide by the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC)” and “return to the right track of properly handling disputes through dialogue and consultation.”
Beijing also said it urged Manila to “promote the easing and cooling down of the maritime situation, and stabilize China-Philippines relations from further deterioration.”
The JCGC was established as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the CCG signed during former president Rodrigo Duterte’s state visit to China in October 2016.
Manila and Beijing also signed an “Arrangement on Improving Philippines-China Maritime Communication Mechanisms” and “agreed to discuss further how to operationalize this mechanism,” the DFA said.
The two countries also agreed to “continued discussions on the possibility of convening an academic forum among scientists and academics on marine scientific and technological cooperation.”
This would not be the first time for the Philippines and China to emphasize possible cooperation between its two coast guards during a BCM.
In the 8th BCM meeting hosted by Shanghai in January 2024, the two countries promised to improve “maritime communication mechanism” not just between diplomats but between their respective coast guards.
Likewise, discussions to improve communication mechanism in general are also not new. Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Beijing and Manila agreed to establish a hotline of sorts, to manage tensions in the South China Sea. But the DFA itself noted that in instances where tensions rose, China either did not pick up the phone or was slow to respond.
Tensions in the West Philippine Sea, or parts of the South China Sea that include the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), have gone up in the past year or so, particularly in flashpoints like Ayungin Shoal and Scarborough Shoal. – Rappler.com
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2 Chinese linked to Porac POGO sued for human trafficking | Jairo Bolledo | 02/07/2024 20:23 | COMPLAINTS. Department of Justice prosecutors receive the complaints filed against two Chinese connected with the Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga on July 2, 2024.
Sourced photo
MANILA, Philippines – The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), along with civilians, filed criminal complaints against two Chinese connected with a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga for various offenses, including human trafficking and kidnapping.
On Tuesday, July 1, Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutors received the complaints filed by the PAOCC and unspecified complainants against Qin Ren Gou, 37, originally from Hunan province, China, and Jiang Shi Guang, 41, from Heibei province. The two Chinese face the following criminal complaints:
The Chinese sued were related to Lucky South 99, the controversial POGO “checked” by the PAOCC and other Philippine authorities in early June. Workers from the said POGO claimed to have been trafficked and tortured. The two respondents are currently under the PAOCC’s custody.
DOJ prosecutors explained they cannot disclose yet the names of the civilian complainants, who are Chinese, due to security concerns. Complainants claimed they were restrained to a bed frame, kept locked for several days, and was beaten.
Tangled connections
The events in the controversial POGO in Porac, Pampanga have attracted the public’s attention due to the personalities involved and corruption within government.
Dennis Cunanan, a convicted pork barrel scam player, was allegedly hired by Lucky South 99 to run its corporate communications and government relations arm. The operation against the Porac POGO also opened the discussion of a possible leak within government since some foreigners were caught leaving before PAOCC even reached the area to conduct a “welfare check.”
The latest complaints were the second set of suits filed in relation to POGOs. Last month, Philippine authorities also filed a qualified trafficking complaint against Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, Cunanan, and 12 others, in relation to their alleged ties to Zun Yuan Technology Incorporated. The said POGO, located within Guo’s jurisdiction, was raided in March over alleged human trafficking.
Aside from her alleged ties with the illegal POGO, Guo is also in hot water over her real identity and citizenship. During Senate probes, lawmakers flagged Guo’s shady background. Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros even raised the question of whether Guo was an “asset” planted by China to infiltrate local politics. The mayor also claimed in one of the public hearings that she couldn’t remember basic details about her life.
The National Bureau of Investigation recently confirmed that the fingerprints of Guo and Guo Hua Ping, the Chinese woman suspected to be her true identity, had matched. This is evidence against the local official, which could be used to prove that she may be Chinese and not Filipino. – Rappler.com
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Gilas prospect AJ Edu continues Japan journey, signs with Nagasaki after Toyama stint | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 18:46 | KEY COG. Filipino import AJ Edu in action with Toyama in the Japan B. League.
Japan B. League
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas prospect AJ Edu is set to continue his career with the Japan B. League, signing with the Nagasaki Velca on Tuesday, July 2, at the conclusion of his stint with the Toyama Grouses.
This marks the 6-foot-10 forward’s second stop in his budding professional career, one year after linking up with Toyama – fellow Gilas star Dwight Ramos’ former team. Nagasaki, in turn, was Gilas gunner Jordan Heading’s former squad.
Edu now joins a team that marked a rapid ascent in the B. League ranks since its formation in 2020. After setting a Division 3 winning percentage record of 93% off a 42-3 season romp in 2021, the Velca were elevated to Division 2 in 2022 before rising to Division 1 this year.
The 24-year-old highflyer is expected to further boost Nagasaki’s contention bid after standing out in his rookie season with averages of 13.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.7 blocks.
Edu, however, is currently out of commission with a torn meniscus. He is set to miss Gilas’ Olympic Qualifying Tournament bid in Riga, Latvia, which starts on Thursday, July 4. – Rappler.com
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Results, schedule: 2024 FIVB Women’s Challenger Cup | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 17:40 | Volleyball World
MANILA, Philippines – Filipinos will again be treated to world-class volleyball as the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup kicks off in Manila on Thursday, July 4, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, with games running until Sunday, July 7.
Hosted a few minutes away from the site of the 2024 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Challenge Cup, the world-level Challenger Cup will serve as a qualifier for the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL), and features a formidable eight-team field, including star-studded Alas Pilipinas.
Including the world No. 55 Philippines, all Challenger Cup teams are must-see attractions as half the participants are within the world’s top 20, bannered by No. 13 Belgium.
The Challenger Cup immediately starts with the quarterfinals, as all eight countries face off in a series of do-or-die matches, followed by the knockout semifinals and the winner-take-all final.
Here is the schedule of the four-day tournament, with results to follow as they become available.
– Rappler.com
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UP shores up frontline anew, taps one-and-done Quentin Millora-Brown | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 14:34 | VETERAN. Quentin Millora-Brown (42) handles the ball.
UP OASD
MANILA, Philippines – The UP Fighting Maroons continue to strengthen their lineup ahead of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament, tapping 6-foot-10 Filipino-American big man Quentin Millora-Brown on Tuesday, July 2.
Immediately eligible to play as a one-and-done recruit, Millora-Brown is expected to fill in the gargantuan shoes of former league MVP Malick Diouf, who graduated after back-to-back silver-medal finishes in Seasons 85 and 86.
A well-traveled college standout, Millora-Brown suited up for Citadel last year for his senior season and averaged 11.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.5 blocks. This comes after a three-year stint in Vanderbilt and a rookie season in Rice University.
“His entry to our team is another big thing because he can help step up from the loss of Malick,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde in Filipino in a release.
Millora-Brown is tabbed to stand out in an already crowded Maroons frontline featuring the likes of Nigerian Dikachi Udodo, Francis Lopez, Sean Alter, Aldous Torculas, Gani Stevens, Mark Belmonte, and Seven Gagate.
UP, the newly crowed Filoil preseason champion, is once again one of the top contenders for Season 87 alongside defending champion La Salle. – Rappler.com
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The Philippine Senate: From statesmen to showmen | jpcruz0306 | 02/07/2024 16:30 | David Castuciano/Rappler
“There is one dream that we all Filipinos share: that our children may have a better life than we have had. To make this country, our country, a nation for our children,” former senator and human rights activist Jose Diokno said.
“I am not a dove nor am I a hawk. I am a Kalaw, a truly Filipino bird,” former senator Eva Kalaw said, opposing the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos and the US for wanting to send Filipino troops to the Vietnam War.
“Independence, like freedom, is never granted. It is always asserted and affirmed. Its defense is an everyday endeavor – sometimes in the field of battle, oftentimes in the contest of conflicting wills and ideas. It is a daily struggle that may never end – for as long as we live,” former Senate president Jovito Salonga wrote.
These are some of the pronouncements of great Filipino statesmen from the past.
Of late, however, the Senate has been mired in controversy, if not protracted drama. Seemingly stripped of the formality of statesmanship, senators danced and sang, while one dared groom his mustache during a hearing. In the previous Congress, one senator was even caught playing a game on his iPad while in session.
From the 8th Congress after the EDSA People Power revolution all the way to the 19th Congress, Rappler analyzed demographic trends and patterns including hometowns, gender, age, education, and professions. Have these factors affected the composition of the Senate?
The data showed that since the 8th Congress, most of the senators came from Luzon, specifically Metro Manila, a vote-rich region. Only a few came from Mindanao and the Visayas.
Ateneo political science department chair and professor Carmel Abao attributes this to the proximity of candidates from the capital region to the seat of power, giving them the advantage of having more resources and networks to launch their national campaigns.
Regions like Calabarzon and Central Luzon – also vote-rich – have frequently seen their candidates in the Senate. Abao noted that campaigning in the Visayas and Mindanao is more challenging due to logistical and population density issues.
The large number of senators coming from Manila, according to University of the Philippines political science professor Jean Franco, also affects the discussions and priorities in the Senate, which tend to be national in focus.
She noted, however, that the lower chamber, where district representatives are elected and which represents mostly local issues, balances the agenda of the chambers.
With the current dominance of senators from Metro Manila, Franco also hopes for more diverse representation across other regions of the Philippines, reminiscent of the time when senators were elected by district under the Jones Law.
Enacted by the US Congress, the Jones Law aimed to promote autonomy for the Philippines which was colonized by the Americans. It established the Philippine legislature, which comprises the Senate and the House of Representatives. This bicameral Congress governed the country from October 1916 to November 1935.
Despite comprising nearly half the Philippines’ population, women remain underrepresented in the Senate.
Abao and Franco both said that the dominance of men in the Senate reflects a societal preference for male leaders over females.
“The Congress and Senate reflect our society’s gender inequality. It’s still a system that’s favorable to men,” Abao said.
There has been a gradual increase in female representation, but women senators remain a minority, and the country has yet to see a female Senate president.
The 18th and current 19th Congresses had the highest number of women senators in history, with seven seats occupied by women. These milestones, however, have not translated into substantive policy advancements for women, Franco and Abao said.
Many women senators, they noted, hail from political dynasties or are associated with influential male politicians like Makati’s Jejomar Binay, the late Renato Cayetano of Taguig–Pateros–Muntinlupa, former president Ferdinand E. Marcos of Ilocos Norte, and Manuel Villar of Las Piñas–Muntinlupa.
Incumbent Senator Grace Poe, meanwhile, is the adopted daughter of the late Fernando Poe Jr. and Susan Roces, former king and queen, respectively, of the national box office. Fernando Poe Jr. ran for president in 2004 but lost to Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in an election marred by allegations of cheating, most notably the infamous “Hello Garci” scandal.
Historical data on senators since the 8th Congress also show a trend of more senior lawmakers in terms of age. From the 8th to the 12th Congress, senators aged 50 to 59 dominated the upper chamber. Starting the 13th Congress, however, the Senate saw an influx of relatively younger legislators in their 40s.
In the 15th and 16th Congresses, there were at least seven and eight senators, respectively, who were “senior citizens.” By the 18th Congress, however, there were again at least 11 senators in their 50s.
The two scholars attributed the success of elder politicians to their long-established national presence, as well as their capacity to launch a national campaign.
In the 19th Congress, most of the senators, eleven in total, are in their 50s. Six senators are in their 60s, while another six are in their 40s.
The eldest senator in the present chamber is Cynthia Villar, 73, while the youngest is her son, Mark, at 45. Fifteen out of the 24 senators are Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964. The other nine senators belong to Generation X, born between 1966 and 1980.
The minimum age to be a senator in the Philippines is 35 years old.
Given the low number of young lawmakers, Franco said that “young people should push for representation in the Senate.” The median age of the Philippine population is 24.5 years old, the youngest in the region, according to the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office report in 2021.
The Philippines does not have a stringent educational requirement for aspiring senators or elected officials in general. The 1987 Constitution says that as long as you can read and write, you’re good to go.
Despite this, the majority of senators, especially during the 8th Congress, have held post-graduate degrees, mostly in law. This trend continued up to the current 19th Congress.
Abao, however, said that the high educational background of senators has not produced “evidence-based policymaking.”
“To what extent do they utilize available knowledge in their decision-making? Because that’s not very obvious,” she said.
Without naming names, Abao pointed out that some lawmakers, for example, have used the Bible to argue against the reproductive health law in a secular setting and have relied on personal experiences in discussions on divorce.
“Formal education is necessary but not sufficient. Someone might have extensive formal education but lack rootedness in society and empathy for the people affected by their policies,” she said. In other words, knowledge that is rooted in society, and which can be incredibly valuable, is not dependent on a college degree.
While many senators in the 19th Congress flexed their master’s and doctorate degrees from premier institutions, at least four senators did not complete college, among them, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, Bong Revilla Jr., and Raffy Tulfo.
Imee claims to have earned a degree from Princeton University, but the institution told Rappler previously in an email, that she did not finish her degree.
Other senators who made it to the Senate’s table despite not having college degrees were Anna Dominique “Nikki” M.L. Coseteng, journalist Francisco Tatad, actor-turned-politician Joseph E. Estrada, and incumbent President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. College degrees, however, are not the be-all and end-all of successful or meaningful legislation, much less success in life.
Tatad, an accomplished journalist, was barred from pursuing his degree at the University of Santo Tomas for allegedly “insulting” school authorities, the Varsitarian reported. Following this, he worked as a reporter for Agence France-Presse.
Meanwhile, Bongbong, like his sister, claimed to have a college degree from Oxford University, but clarified that the special diploma given to him in 1978 “was not a full graduate diploma.”
For Franco, who used to work in the Senate, the quality of legislation cannot be solely attributed to educational attainment. Senators have staff, a secretariat, a bill drafting division, and receive input from the executive and experts, she said.
Thus, a senator’s performance cannot be judged by bills alone. Wit can be tested when lawmakers defend their respective bills on the floor, she said.
Lawyers, celebrities
Throughout history, the Philippine Senate has been dominated by lawyers. During the 8th Congress,14 of the 24 Senate seats were occupied by lawyers.
Abao explained that this trend reflects the public perception that legal expertise fits well with legislative work.
She, however, noticed that the professional backgrounds of elected senators are not diverse enough to adequately mirror sectoral needs and interests. Based on the labor department’s February 2024 survey, the majority, or 60% of Filipinos worked in the service sector, 21% in agriculture, and 18% in the industry sector.
For Franco, one doesn’t have to be a lawyer to be a senator. Ideally, a senator, according to Franco, should also be a policy wonk, someone who understands the issues, and looks at laws based on evidence.
The Senate has also been a hub for “career politicians” – many of whom have transitioned from local to national roles. These include Imee Marcos, Joel Villanueva, Nancy Binay, Sherwin Gatchalian, and Miguel Zubiri. Many of them come from political dynasties.
Filipino voters, according to Franco, have a penchant for electing celebrity senators. Even in the 1950s, celebrities were elected, but their numbers surged post-1986 due to the restoration of media freedom after Marcos’ repressive Martial Law.
Abao said that the Senate, and politics in general, have become a retirement haven for aging celebrities.
“When you’re an older celebrity, your career path often leads to politics because it also relies on popularity. It’s easy to win an election if you’re a celebrity, so many of them [go that route],” Abao said in a mix of Filipino and English.
Under the 19th Congress, there are four from the action film industry who became senators: Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Jinggoy Estrada, and neophyte lawmaker Robin Padilla, who led the senatorial race in 2022, besting other longtime politicians.
Other previously elected celebrity senators are Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Ramon Revilla, Joseph Estrada, Nikki Coseteng, and Agapito “Butz” Aquino.
Former media personalities have also made their mark in the Senate. Notable examples include broadcast journalist Orlando “Orly” Mercado, writer Blas Ople, former diplomatic reporter Tatad, Raul Manglapus, and Noli de Castro of ABS-CBN.
In the 19th Congress, there are three of them: Senators Risa Hontiveros, Raffy Tulfo, and Loren Legarda.
Military representation in the Senate is not quite common. Among the select few who have transitioned from battlefield to the Senate are former commander of the AFP’s National Capital Region Defense Command Rodolfo “Pong” Biazon, Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan II, and Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV.
There were also a couple of former policemen who made it to the Senate like Robert Barbers, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Alfredo Lim, and most recently Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
Few businessmen are present in the Senate. Under the 19th Congress, there’s the mother and son tandem of Cynthia and Manny Villar. Their family owns the Philippines’ biggest home builder, Vista Land. The family’s patriarch, Manny, who was recognized by Forbes as the richest Filipino in the country in 2024, also used to be Senate president.
Despite the educational backgrounds and professional qualifications of many senators, the quality of legislation and debate in the upper chamber has remained cause for concern.
As political analysts suggested, the Senate’s demographic trends highlight the exclusivity of the chamber and the need for more inclusive representation.
“Demographics should suggest inclusivity, age matters, gender matters, education matters to the extent that the discourse is evidence-based, as well as professional background,” Abao said.
“If you want better policy, I guess we should go for better inclusion, better representation, not just [be] dominated by political families,” the Ateneo professor added.
Abao emphasized that the capability and the causes championed by senators are what truly matter.
“Basta marunong kang makinig, marunong kang magsalita, marunong kang mag-isip, puwede kang maging senador basta may dala-dala ka,” she said. (As long as you know how to listen, speak, think, you can be a senator as long as you carry something with you.)
There aren’t too stiff requirements to be a senator in the Philippines. One can run for the Senate so long as an individual can read and write, is a registered voter, at least 35 years old on election day, a natural-born Filipino citizen, and a resident of the Philippines for at least two years immediately preceding the day of election.
While these criteria may seem less stringent compared to corporate jobs, the role of senators is crucial because decisions – from bills they file and vote for, to the issues they scrutinize – have a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people.
As the 2025 midterm elections approach, the question remains: What kind of senators will Filipinos elect? Will they continue to favor politicians in the traditional mold or will they opt for greater inclusivity and representation? – Rappler.com
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The trend of favoring traditional politicians is expected to continue. President Marcos Jr., a traditional politician proficient in high-tech disinformation and allegedly significant wealth of unknown origin, is anticipated to surround himself with like-minded individuals. Achieving greater inclusivity and representation seems unattainable unless a genuine and transformative social change occurs.
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La Mesa Ecopark reopens after 4-month closure | Iya Gozum | 02/07/2024 17:52 | La Mesa Ecopark, dubbed as Metro Manila's last green frontier, reopens to the public on Satuday, June 29.
MANILA, Philippines – The La Mesa Ecopark, the public park near the La Mesa Dam, reopened its gates on Saturday, June 29, four months after temporarily cosing down.
The reopening marks the completion of the first of a three-phase park redevelopment.
The ecopark and watershed are considered Metro Manila’s last green frontiers situated north of Metro Manila.
The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), Manila Water, and the Quezon City government, led the opening on Saturday, intending to promote watershed conservation, biodiversity preservation, forest protection, and climate action.
Located in Novaliches, the 33-hectare area hosts over 220 species of flora and fauna, according to an assessment done by the Center for Conservation Innovation PH.
“We would like to envision transforming the La Mesa Ecopark as a destination that offers experiential and environmental learning,” said Reginald Andal, executive director of Manila Water Foundation.
The first completed phase features the eco-academy hall, eco-view deck, souvenir shop, picnic areas, nipa huts, plant nursery, and food park.
Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as guided bird watching, nature walking, forest paintball, wall climbing, rappelling, and archery tag.
Residents of Quezon City can enter for free with their QCitizen card while visitors from other cities can enter for a minimal fee of ₱20. Some facilities will have additional fees separate from the entrance fee.
As of now, the park will only accommodate a maximum of 1,000 reserved slots per day, made through MWF’s website. The management will not entertain walk-ins yet.
The park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 7 am to 4 pm. It is closed on Mondays for maintenance.
Phases 2 and 3 are set to be completed by 2025.
“This is not a small step. We’re awaiting phase 2 and phase 3 because that’s where the meat of the matter is—biodiversity,” said JV Emmanuel de Dios, president and chief executive officer of the Manila Water Company.
Phase 2 will include the lagoon suitable for recreational fishing activities, the Neptune garden, and Flower Hill. Phase 3 will include a forest area for hiking, trekking, and biking.
The opening ceremony also acknowledges the support of its recognition partners, Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, PAGCOR, Quezon City government, and Wilcon Depot honoring them with the ‘Kasangga ng Kalikasan’ award.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte proudly said they are the only city in the Philippines that belongs to the C40 Alliance of Global Cities for the Environment.
“Quezon City is really the trailblazer and the pioneer city in promoting climate action and sustaining the environment,” Belmonte said.
“We will nurture its natural beauty and ensure its rich biodiversity thrives for future generations,” she added.
Under the law, La Mesa Ecopark and La Mesa Watershed are under the joint authority of MWSS and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. These sites are used for intensive restoration, rehabilitation, and water quality monitoring.
Earlier this year, ABS-CBN Foundation ended its 25-year stewardship of the ecopark and the nature reserve. – Erika Sinaking/Rappler.com
Erika Sinaking is a Rappler intern from Adamson University. She is a third year student taking up Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
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Tara na! Top 10 destinations of Filipino travelers for 2024, according to Google | Steph Arnaldo | 02/07/2024 16:09 | TOURIST SPOTS. Caticlan, Manila, and Singapore are among the most popular travel destinations.
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MANILA, Philippines – Still unsure where to spend your next vacation leave? Take inspiration from fellow Filipino travelers and book your flight to these top-searched tourist destinations in the Philippines and around Asia!
Google has released a list of the top 10 most-searched destinations of Filipino travelers from June to August 2024, based on the query volumes on Google Flights.
According to Google’s data, the top three travel trends of the year so far include immersive cultural experiences. More travelers are seeking “enriching cultural exchanges,” and want to discover local cuisines. Local food tours are popular in the Asia-Pacific. More travelers are also looking for nature-based travel and sustainability, with many booking tree-planting activities.
Here are the top 10 travel destinations of Filipinos.
First on the list is the country’s chief city and capital! Google recommends Manila as the “perfect spot for families,” with historical and leisure sites like Fort Santiago and Luneta Park. Manila also houses the historical Walled City of Intramuros and the Casa Manila Museum, for history buffs and art enthusiasts to immerse in.
The National Museum is also a popular tourist site, showcasing collections of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts dating back to the 17th century. It is open to the public and free of charge.
Referred to as the gateway to Boracay’s finest beaches, Caticlan remains on the radar of beachgoers in the country. It is a barangay in Malay, Aklan, located at the northern tip of Panay Island and hosts one of two airports that serve as jump-off points to Boracay.
Boracay was one of Time‘s 50 World’s Greatest Places in 2022. Aside from enjoying its iconic sunsets and white-sand beach, travelers can enjoy a wide range of water activities, from snorkeling to riding a jet ski! There’s much more to indulge in here – good food, drinks, souvenirs, the island nightlife, and more.
Balancing tradition and modernity, the eclectic city of Tokyo is among the favorite tourist spots of Filipinos for good reason.
Google recommends visiting the world-famous Asakusa, where the more traditional vibe of Tokyo is preserved. Here you can visit the Buddhist temple Sensoji, craft shops, street food stalls, the mid-19th century Hanayashiki amusement park, and rent kimonos. Anime fans can also visit locations of their favorite series or movies, as well as the Ghibli Museum.
A maayo nga adlaw (good day) is promised in Cebu, the Visayas’ “Queen City of the South.” Cebu witnesses an influx of tourists in January during the Feast of Santo Niño or the Sinulog Festival. The city also boasts historic places like the Basilica de Santo Niño and Magellan’s Cross, and tourist draws like the Temple of Leah. For beach bums, Moalboal is a municipality in Cebu famous for its reef and dive sites and sardine run.
Cebu is also home to the famous lechon (roasted pig), tuslob buwa (rice dipped in pig brain and soy sauce mix), Carcar chicharon, and dried mangoes.
Visa-free Hong Kong is just a two-hour plane ride away from the Philippines.
Google suggests tourists visit Ngong Ping Plateau’s Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, founded by three monks in 1906. On the same island, you can ride one of Asia’s longest aerial cable car systems in Ngong Ping 360, taking you from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping with stunning views. Of course, a visit to Hong Kong Disneyland will entertain the inner child in you!
Bangkok is famous for its grand palaces, heritage sites, and temples. Tourists can visit the 18th-century Grand Palace and also various Buddhist temples like Wat Arun.
Shopping is all the rage here too, so pay a visit to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is among the largest open-air markets in the world. Get a taste of Thailand’s famous delicacies – Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, Thai Milk Tea, and more.
Singapore’s Changi Airport alone is a grand spectacle and has contributed to the Lion City’s seventh spot in the Google list.
Crowds can usually be found around the Singapore River to marvel at the Merlion, the half-mermaid, half-lion statue that spews water and stands at 8.6 meters and weighs 70 tons. Tourists can swim at the iconic infinity pool in Marina Bay Sands, where you can also catch a glimpse of the city’s skyline. Singapore’s Garden by the Bay is also a famous spot, as well as the city’s hawker centers for the best street food.
Taipei is Taiwan’s capital city and economic and cultural center. It is located at the eastern edge of the Eurasian tectonic plate, making it surprisingly mountainous for an island this small.
Taipei’s landmarks include its modern cosmopolitan architecture, Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Halls, and the natural beauty of Yangmingshan National Park and Nangang District Hiking Trail. Don’t miss the hot springs of Xinbeitou, where guests can soak in the benefits of the water’s minerals after a long walk on one of the city’s nature trails.
South Korea’s capital is not only the birthplace of K-pop, but it’s also a tourist haven of good food, nightlife, shopping centers, colorful dance clubs, and 24/7 cafes offering panoramic views of the city.
Filipinos love the beach, and with the country’s rising temperatures, who can blame them? Last but not the least is Mindanao’s own Del Carmen!
Del Carmen, a fifth-class municipality in Surigao del Norte, continues to draw tourists due to its natural beauty and lush scenery. It houses the country’s largest mangrove sanctuary, hectares of coconut trees, peaceful islands, and the Sugba Lagoon.
Del Carmen is also near Siargao’s famous landmarks like Guyam Island, Daku Island, and the Cloud 9 Surfing Area. – with reports from Fore Esperanza/Rappler.com
Fore Esperanza is a Rappler intern.
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Jollibee Group acquires majority stake in Korea’s Compose Coffee for $340 million | Ralf Rivas | 02/07/2024 17:06 | MANILA, Philippines – Filipino global food chain Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) is acquiring 70% of Compose Coffee, among South Korea’s most popular low cost coffee stores.
JFC said it acquired the shares for $340 million (around P20 billion). Private equity firms Titan Dining II LP and Elevation Equity Partners Korea Limited retain 5% and 25% of Compose Coffee, respectively.
Compose Coffee is the fastest growing coffee chain in South Korea, with 2,470 franchised stores. It boasts the largest in-house coffee roasting plant in Korea, which enables it to distribute specialty beans at low cost.
The company, with V of BTS as brand ambassador, also boasts of a debt-free balance sheet, “superior cash returns and excellent profitability margins.”
JFC said Compose Coffee is the biggest acquisition in terms of number of stores, bringing the group’s total store network closer to 10,000 stores. More than 66% of JFC’s stores are already outside the Philippines.
Compose Coffee and its roasting facility JMCF Co. Ltd. were founded in Busan in 2014. The brand was named South Korea’s favorite coffee shop at the 2023 Korea’s Most Loved Brand Awards, an event organized by Forbes Korea and sponsored by South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT and Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy.
“The business that Compose Coffee has built in the past 10 years is impressive and we are excited to play a major role in its next phase of growth. We believe that Compose Coffee is a compelling strategic fit for JFC and is on track to becoming the largest, fastest growing and leading value coffee player in South Korea,” said JFC chairman Tony Tan Caktiong. – Rappler.com
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‘Much-improved choice’: Groups, lawmakers hail Angara’s appointment as DepEd chief | Bonz Magsambol | 02/07/2024 16:52 | File photo of Senator Sonny Angara
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MANILA, Philippines – Education groups welcomed the appointment of Senator Sonny Angara as the new secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), with the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) saying that he is a “much-improved choice.”
“ACT has known Senator Angara to be open to dialogues with teachers’ unions and organizations and consistent in his stand for increasing the salaries and improving the benefits of teachers, as well as addressing some problems of the education system,” the biggest teachers’ group said in a statement on Tuesday, July 2.
ACT also took a potshot at Vice President Sara Duterte, who had red-tagged their members when she was DepEd chief. (READ: Sara Duterte brings red-tagging to DepEd)
“ACT hopes that Sen. Angara will remain to be amicable, different from his red-tagger predecessor. We anticipate seeing him asserting some of his progressive stance on education concerns even if they run counter to the administration’s policies that only exacerbate the education crisis,” the group said.
ACT noted that Angara will assume the DepEd leadership at a time when the Philippine education system is facing an unprecedented learning crisis.
He inherits a gargantuan problem in the education sector, including the poor performance of Filipino students in global education assessments. A World Bank report showed that 9 in 10 Filipino students aged 10 are struggling to read simple text.
“Game-changing measures are urgently needed to overturn the decline of our country’s education quality and to sufficiently capacitate the education system to perform its role in nation-building,” ACT said.
The Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), which was among those that recommended Angara’s appointment as DepEd chief, noted that the senator “authored landmark legislations in education including the Free College Law and the Free Kindergarten Law” and “He has “also served as the chairman of the Senate committee on youth, where he pushed for greater opportunities for the youth to participate in policy-making and nation-building.”
In a statement congratulating Angara, the Makati Business Club (MBC) cited the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s latest Program for International Assessment Report (PISA), where the Philippines ranked last among Association of Southeast Asian Nation members in the areas of science, reading, and mathematics.
“These results highlight the urgent need for an experienced leader who will be able to transform and revive the Philippine education system. A well educated population is key to creating a competitive workforce that will be able to keep up with rapid technological developments given the acceleration of artificial intelligence,” MBC said.
“MBC looks forward to working with Senator Angara and wishes him all the best in this critical role, to ensure that elementary and high school principals and teachers are equipped with the literacy, technical, and character skills needed to prepare Filipino children and youth to meet the challenges of the future,” it added.
The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) said that it would have been ideal for an educator or a member of the academic sector to get the top DepEd post – especially as there are “many qualified individuals” who meet this critera – but it respects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to tap Angara for the post.
“As we have previously stated, we are willing to work with whoever takes the role to improve the agency and education sector. To start, we hope that the incoming secretary engages with stakeholders, especially teachers. He will encounter significant challenges, but addressing these can lead to substantial progress in our education system,” TDC said.
“Senator Angara will face formidable challenges in DepEd, and we stand ready to cooperate to overcome these for the education sector’s benefit. But, we vow to be vigilant in preventing any attempt to use DepEd for partisan politics. For now, we welcome the Senator to the Department and request a meeting with him at his earliest convenience,” it added.
TDC also presented 10 “critical areas” that Angara would have to immediately attend to, ranging from support for legislation proposing salary increases for teachers, to revising “the curriculum to align with our socio-cultural context and reinstate Philippine history in high school.”
Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros said that Angara is “one of the most qualified and acceptable DepEd Secretaries among education reform advocates.”
“Bilang nakasama at nakatrabaho, mula sa Kamara hanggang sa Senado (As someone who has worked with him, from the House to the Senate), Senator Sonny’s work as legislator and as member of EDCOM 2 speaks volumes of his commitment and aspiration for a better education sector,” she said in a statement
As EDCOM 2 commissioner, Angara promised a comprehensive review of the K to 12 program.
Senate President Chiz Escudero, who had endorsed Angara’s appointment to Marcos last week, said: “Secretary Angara’s task ahead is indeed gargantuan, but I have full confidence in his ability to lead the DepEd with excellence and integrity. His proven track record in legislative work, particularly in education reform, uniquely positions him to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Senator Migz Zubiri said that Angara “is more than qualified to head our most important agency, with the biggest share in the national budget no less.”
“Senator Sonny brings to the DepEd his brilliant fiscal mind, being a former chair of the Senate finance panel, and his heart for our youth, being part of the EDCOM II,” Zubiri said.
Angara’s Senate term ends in 2025. Escudero had said that there might be no need to replace Angara since his term is ending in less than a year anyway. – Rappler.com
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President Marcos Jr. has appointed a political ally to lead the DepEd. Senator Angara, a politician, is being questioned whether he will bring “politics” into DepEd, similar to what VP Sara has done. Being an experienced legislator but not a DepEd bureaucrat raises concerns. In any case, this situation is seen as evidence that the Political Patronage System is functioning effectively in our government.
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The Philippine Senate: From statesmen to showmen | jpcruz0306 | 02/07/2024 16:30 | David Castuciano/Rappler
“There is one dream that we all Filipinos share: that our children may have a better life than we have had. To make this country, our country, a nation for our children,” former senator and human rights activist Jose Diokno said.
“I am not a dove nor am I a hawk. I am a Kalaw, a truly Filipino bird,” former senator Eva Kalaw said, opposing the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos and the US for wanting to send Filipino troops to the Vietnam War.
“Independence, like freedom, is never granted. It is always asserted and affirmed. Its defense is an everyday endeavor – sometimes in the field of battle, oftentimes in the contest of conflicting wills and ideas. It is a daily struggle that may never end – for as long as we live,” former Senate president Jovito Salonga wrote.
These are some of the pronouncements of great Filipino statesmen from the past.
Of late, however, the Senate has been mired in controversy, if not protracted drama. Seemingly stripped of the formality of statesmanship, senators danced and sang, while one dared groom his mustache during a hearing. In the previous Congress, one senator was even caught playing a game on his iPad while in session.
From the 8th Congress after the EDSA People Power revolution all the way to the 19th Congress, Rappler analyzed demographic trends and patterns including hometowns, gender, age, education, and professions. Have these factors affected the composition of the Senate?
The data showed that since the 8th Congress, most of the senators came from Luzon, specifically Metro Manila, a vote-rich region. Only a few came from Mindanao and the Visayas.
Ateneo political science department chair and professor Carmel Abao attributes this to the proximity of candidates from the capital region to the seat of power, giving them the advantage of having more resources and networks to launch their national campaigns.
Regions like Calabarzon and Central Luzon – also vote-rich – have frequently seen their candidates in the Senate. Abao noted that campaigning in the Visayas and Mindanao is more challenging due to logistical and population density issues.
The large number of senators coming from Manila, according to University of the Philippines political science professor Jean Franco, also affects the discussions and priorities in the Senate, which tend to be national in focus.
She noted, however, that the lower chamber, where district representatives are elected and which represents mostly local issues, balances the agenda of the chambers.
With the current dominance of senators from Metro Manila, Franco also hopes for more diverse representation across other regions of the Philippines, reminiscent of the time when senators were elected by district under the Jones Law.
Enacted by the US Congress, the Jones Law aimed to promote autonomy for the Philippines which was colonized by the Americans. It established the Philippine legislature, which comprises the Senate and the House of Representatives. This bicameral Congress governed the country from October 1916 to November 1935.
Despite comprising nearly half the Philippines’ population, women remain underrepresented in the Senate.
Abao and Franco both said that the dominance of men in the Senate reflects a societal preference for male leaders over females.
“The Congress and Senate reflect our society’s gender inequality. It’s still a system that’s favorable to men,” Abao said.
There has been a gradual increase in female representation, but women senators remain a minority, and the country has yet to see a female Senate president.
The 18th and current 19th Congresses had the highest number of women senators in history, with seven seats occupied by women. These milestones, however, have not translated into substantive policy advancements for women, Franco and Abao said.
Many women senators, they noted, hail from political dynasties or are associated with influential male politicians like Makati’s Jejomar Binay, the late Renato Cayetano of Taguig–Pateros–Muntinlupa, former president Ferdinand E. Marcos of Ilocos Norte, and Manuel Villar of Las Piñas–Muntinlupa.
Incumbent Senator Grace Poe, meanwhile, is the adopted daughter of the late Fernando Poe Jr. and Susan Roces, former king and queen, respectively, of the national box office. Fernando Poe Jr. ran for president in 2004 but lost to Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in an election marred by allegations of cheating, most notably the infamous “Hello Garci” scandal.
Historical data on senators since the 8th Congress also show a trend of more senior lawmakers in terms of age. From the 8th to the 12th Congress, senators aged 50 to 59 dominated the upper chamber. Starting the 13th Congress, however, the Senate saw an influx of relatively younger legislators in their 40s.
In the 15th and 16th Congresses, there were at least seven and eight senators, respectively, who were “senior citizens.” By the 18th Congress, however, there were again at least 11 senators in their 50s.
The two scholars attributed the success of elder politicians to their long-established national presence, as well as their capacity to launch a national campaign.
In the 19th Congress, most of the senators, eleven in total, are in their 50s. Six senators are in their 60s, while another six are in their 40s.
The eldest senator in the present chamber is Cynthia Villar, 73, while the youngest is her son, Mark, at 45. Fifteen out of the 24 senators are Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964. The other nine senators belong to Generation X, born between 1966 and 1980.
The minimum age to be a senator in the Philippines is 35 years old.
Given the low number of young lawmakers, Franco said that “young people should push for representation in the Senate.” The median age of the Philippine population is 24.5 years old, the youngest in the region, according to the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office report in 2021.
The Philippines does not have a stringent educational requirement for aspiring senators or elected officials in general. The 1987 Constitution says that as long as you can read and write, you’re good to go.
Despite this, the majority of senators, especially during the 8th Congress, have held post-graduate degrees, mostly in law. This trend continued up to the current 19th Congress.
Abao, however, said that the high educational background of senators has not produced “evidence-based policymaking.”
“To what extent do they utilize available knowledge in their decision-making? Because that’s not very obvious,” she said.
Without naming names, Abao pointed out that some lawmakers, for example, have used the Bible to argue against the reproductive health law in a secular setting and have relied on personal experiences in discussions on divorce.
“Formal education is necessary but not sufficient. Someone might have extensive formal education but lack rootedness in society and empathy for the people affected by their policies,” she said. In other words, knowledge that is rooted in society, and which can be incredibly valuable, is not dependent on a college degree.
While many senators in the 19th Congress flexed their master’s and doctorate degrees from premier institutions, at least four senators did not complete college, among them, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, Bong Revilla Jr., and Raffy Tulfo.
Imee claims to have earned a degree from Princeton University, but the institution told Rappler previously in an email, that she did not finish her degree.
Other senators who made it to the Senate’s table despite not having college degrees were Anna Dominique “Nikki” M.L. Coseteng, journalist Francisco Tatad, actor-turned-politician Joseph E. Estrada, and incumbent President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. College degrees, however, are not the be-all and end-all of successful or meaningful legislation, much less success in life.
Tatad, an accomplished journalist, was barred from pursuing his degree at the University of Santo Tomas for allegedly “insulting” school authorities, the Varsitarian reported. Following this, he worked as a reporter for Agence France-Presse.
Meanwhile, Bongbong, like his sister, claimed to have a college degree from Oxford University, but clarified that the special diploma given to him in 1978 “was not a full graduate diploma.”
For Franco, who used to work in the Senate, the quality of legislation cannot be solely attributed to educational attainment. Senators have staff, a secretariat, a bill drafting division, and receive input from the executive and experts, she said.
Thus, a senator’s performance cannot be judged by bills alone. Wit can be tested when lawmakers defend their respective bills on the floor, she said.
Lawyers, celebrities
Throughout history, the Philippine Senate has been dominated by lawyers. During the 8th Congress,14 of the 24 Senate seats were occupied by lawyers.
Abao explained that this trend reflects the public perception that legal expertise fits well with legislative work.
She, however, noticed that the professional backgrounds of elected senators are not diverse enough to adequately mirror sectoral needs and interests. Based on the labor department’s February 2024 survey, the majority, or 60% of Filipinos worked in the service sector, 21% in agriculture, and 18% in the industry sector.
For Franco, one doesn’t have to be a lawyer to be a senator. Ideally, a senator, according to Franco, should also be a policy wonk, someone who understands the issues, and looks at laws based on evidence.
The Senate has also been a hub for “career politicians” – many of whom have transitioned from local to national roles. These include Imee Marcos, Joel Villanueva, Nancy Binay, Sherwin Gatchalian, and Miguel Zubiri. Many of them come from political dynasties.
Filipino voters, according to Franco, have a penchant for electing celebrity senators. Even in the 1950s, celebrities were elected, but their numbers surged post-1986 due to the restoration of media freedom after Marcos’ repressive Martial Law.
Abao said that the Senate, and politics in general, have become a retirement haven for aging celebrities.
“When you’re an older celebrity, your career path often leads to politics because it also relies on popularity. It’s easy to win an election if you’re a celebrity, so many of them [go that route],” Abao said in a mix of Filipino and English.
Under the 19th Congress, there are four from the action film industry who became senators: Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Jinggoy Estrada, and neophyte lawmaker Robin Padilla, who led the senatorial race in 2022, besting other longtime politicians.
Other previously elected celebrity senators are Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Ramon Revilla, Joseph Estrada, Nikki Coseteng, and Agapito “Butz” Aquino.
Former media personalities have also made their mark in the Senate. Notable examples include broadcast journalist Orlando “Orly” Mercado, writer Blas Ople, former diplomatic reporter Tatad, Raul Manglapus, and Noli de Castro of ABS-CBN.
In the 19th Congress, there are three of them: Senators Risa Hontiveros, Raffy Tulfo, and Loren Legarda.
Military representation in the Senate is not quite common. Among the select few who have transitioned from battlefield to the Senate are former commander of the AFP’s National Capital Region Defense Command Rodolfo “Pong” Biazon, Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan II, and Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV.
There were also a couple of former policemen who made it to the Senate like Robert Barbers, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Alfredo Lim, and most recently Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
Few businessmen are present in the Senate. Under the 19th Congress, there’s the mother and son tandem of Cynthia and Manny Villar. Their family owns the Philippines’ biggest home builder, Vista Land. The family’s patriarch, Manny, who was recognized by Forbes as the richest Filipino in the country in 2024, also used to be Senate president.
Despite the educational backgrounds and professional qualifications of many senators, the quality of legislation and debate in the upper chamber has remained cause for concern.
As political analysts suggested, the Senate’s demographic trends highlight the exclusivity of the chamber and the need for more inclusive representation.
“Demographics should suggest inclusivity, age matters, gender matters, education matters to the extent that the discourse is evidence-based, as well as professional background,” Abao said.
“If you want better policy, I guess we should go for better inclusion, better representation, not just [be] dominated by political families,” the Ateneo professor added.
Abao emphasized that the capability and the causes championed by senators are what truly matter.
“Basta marunong kang makinig, marunong kang magsalita, marunong kang mag-isip, puwede kang maging senador basta may dala-dala ka,” she said. (As long as you know how to listen, speak, think, you can be a senator as long as you carry something with you.)
There aren’t too stiff requirements to be a senator in the Philippines. One can run for the Senate so long as an individual can read and write, is a registered voter, at least 35 years old on election day, a natural-born Filipino citizen, and a resident of the Philippines for at least two years immediately preceding the day of election.
While these criteria may seem less stringent compared to corporate jobs, the role of senators is crucial because decisions – from bills they file and vote for, to the issues they scrutinize – have a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people.
As the 2025 midterm elections approach, the question remains: What kind of senators will Filipinos elect? Will they continue to favor politicians in the traditional mold or will they opt for greater inclusivity and representation? – Rappler.com
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The trend of favoring traditional politicians is expected to continue. President Marcos Jr., a traditional politician proficient in high-tech disinformation and allegedly significant wealth of unknown origin, is anticipated to surround himself with like-minded individuals. Achieving greater inclusivity and representation seems unattainable unless a genuine and transformative social change occurs.
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FACT CHECK: Imee Marcos did not resign from Senate | jpcruz0306 | 02/07/2024 16:00 | Claim: Senator Imee Marcos resigned from the Senate.
Why we fact-checked this: The YouTube video containing the claim has 30,668 views, 1,000 likes, and 164 comments as of writing. It was uploaded on June 16 by a channel with 117,000 subscribers.
The video’s title bears the claim: “OMG: Kinarma na! Imee gumawa ng ingay nag-resign na / Palasyo pugad ng kawatan kumpirmado PBBM.”
(OMG: Karma struck! Imee made a fuss, has already resigned. Palace is a nest of thieves, PBBM confirmed.)
The facts: The title and thumbnail of the YouTube video are clickbait. The video neither discussed the claim nor provided any evidence regarding Marcos’ supposed resignation.
Marcos remains on the list of senators of the 19th Congress. There are also no official statements released by the Marcos camp or any news reports about her alleged resignation.
Last May 23, Marcos took an oath before the Supreme Court as a new member of the Senate Electoral Tribunal, alongside her colleagues JV Ejercito, Nancy Binay, Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, and Robinhood Padilla.
Marcoses and the Dutertes: The video only highlights the senator’s remarks last May, which were seemingly directed at her brother President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s claim that the previous Aquino and Duterte administrations had done nothing to rehabilitate areas devastated by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) more than 10 years ago.
In a May 24 press release, Senator Marcos refuted her brother’s claim and acknowledged the help of then-mayor Rodrigo Duterte and other individuals and organizations in the aftermath of Yolanda.
The senator had previously affirmed her staunch alliance with the Dutertes. In 2023, she spoke up to support former president Duterte who had allowed a hero’s burial for her father in 2016, and endorsed her inclusion in the PDP-Laban’s senatorial slate in 2019. Marcos recently reiterated her all-out support for Vice President Sara Duterte after the latter resigned from the Marcos Cabinet. (READ: Everything you need to know about Sara Duterte’s resignation from the Marcos Cabinet)
Marcos siblings: This is not the first time that Senator Marcos openly criticized her brother’s policies and statements, indicating an apparent rift between the siblings.
In 2022, Senator Marcos initially opposed the Maharlika wealth fund. She also joined a protest in September 2023 calling for the resignation of her brother’s then-finance chief, Benjamin Diokno, due to his economic policies.
Critics, however, dismiss the senator’s supposed opposition to the Marcos administration as a publicity stunt for her political agenda. – Shane Cameron/Rappler.com
Shane Cameron is a Rappler intern. She is studying Development Communication at the University of the Philippines Los Baños.
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Tensions rise in Cagayan de Oro as group protests vs LWUA, water district manager | Herbie G | 02/07/2024 16:18 | PROTEST. A resident joins the protest organized by the Bantay Tubig Movement on Tuesday, July 2, in front of the Cagayan de Oro Water District’s main office.
Franck Dick Rosete/Rappler
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Tensions rose on Tuesday, July 2, as a group led by a former city councilor protested, demanding the removal of the interim manager of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) and calling for the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) to stay out of the public utility’s affairs.
Protesters, including several barangay officials, took to the streets with banners bearing anti-LWUA messages and seeking the removal of COWD interim manager Fermin Jarales. One banner read that the LWUA “is not welcome in Cagayan de Oro.”
The street protest, staged by the group Bantay Tubig Movement (BTM), came several days after the COWD’s interim board approved a cease-and-desist order against the utility’s sidelined general manager due to his alleged continuous interference despite the LWUA takeover of the water district.
City hall night market team head Enrico Salcedo, a former city councilor and BTM convenor, said the street protest was launched to pressure COWD’s interim officials to rescind or rid the firm’s contract with its primary supplier of provisions, which they see as onerous.
Protesters said the interim officials have not acted on their call to address the COWD’s 2017 contract with the Manny V. Pangilinan-controlled Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Incorporated (COBI).
On June 18, BTM submitted a manifesto, signed by 17,228 residents, to the COWD to protest a clause in the contract that allows COBI to adjust its water rate every three years. Salcedo’s group said the provision was disadvantageous to the COWD and the city’s water consumers.
Jarales, however, said the COWD’s interim board has been deliberating on the contract and is now addressing the financial aspects of the 2017 agreement after establishing its position on the legal aspect.
“Once our report is finished, it will be presented to them for consultation,” Jarales said.
The LWUA, the regulator of public water utilities in the provinces, took over the COWD on May 29, following the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for it to intervene after a water supply crisis briefly gripped Cagayan de Oro. The crisis stemmed from an unresolved debt dispute of over P400 million between the COWD and COBI.
The problem resulted in a temporary supply disconnection on May 14.
A cease-and-desist order, issued on Friday, June 28, directed COWD’s sidelined general manager, Engineer Antonio Young, to stop discharging the functions of a general manager.
Young was prohibited from interfering in the COWD’s operations and administration, including the signing of documents and checks.
The engineer was also barred from entering the COWD office and other facilities unless authorized by Jarales.
The COWD interim board’s drastic move came after its members were informed that Young had allegedly been presenting himself as the COWD’s functioning general manager despite the LWUA takeover.
Jarales alleged that there was an instance when a document couldn’t be signed due to a resolution passed by the sidelined COWD board because employees were instructed to follow no one but Young. In a May 29 press conference, Young confirmed that the board issued the resolution.
A day later, however, Jarales issued a memorandum directing all COWD employees to report only to the interim board and general manager following the takeover. He asked the workers to maintain their professionalism and prevent any sabotage.
“In the interim period, it is the interim management that will handle the operation of COWD,” Jarales told Rappler in an interview on Monday, July 1.
On June 25, Jarales issued another memorandum, directing Young to perform tasks he was authorized to do in a work-from-home setting, an order which the sidelined manager questioned before the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) and Civil Service Commission (CSC).
Based on Jarales’ order, Young’s new working arrangement was implemented to prevent him from carrying out unauthorized actions.
Rappler sought comment from Young, but he declined to give a statement, following his lawyer’s advice.
Earlier, however, Young said he couldn’t just abandon his post despite the LWUA takeover, adding that he was still awaiting the response of the OGCC.
Young also pointed out in a previous interview that working from home would not be possible for him because it would hamper the operations of the water district. He said he remained the authorized COWD signatory.
The COWD’s interim officials warned that they would be compelled to “take the appropriate action” against Young if he forced the issue. – Rappler.com
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Still no white knight: Okada parent ends talks with Dennis Uy’s Emerald Bay casino resort | Ralf Rivas | 02/07/2024 13:02 | MANILA, Philippines – Dennis Uy still has no white knight to fund the stalled development of Emerald Bay casino in Cebu, after the parent company of Okada Manila officially walked away from discussions.
In a stock exchange filing on Tuesday, July 2, Uy’s PH Resorts (PHR) said they received a letter from Tiger Resort Leisure and Entertainment Inc. (TRLEI), one of the parent companies of Okada Manila, terminating the term sheet signed last December 8, 2023.
PHR confirmed that the two companies were in talks for TRLEI to acquire “significant majority ownership” of its subsidiaries, namely Lapulapu Leisure, Inc. and Lapulapu Land Corporation, the companies that operate the Emerald Bay Project. Originally, the parties intended to execute the definitive agreements under the term sheet in July 2024.
“[T]his development shall give PHR the opportunity to engage with other parties which have already expressed their keen interest in the Emerald Bay Project, but have been unable to formalize due to the restrictions under the TRLEI deal,” PHR president Raymundo Escalona said.
Escalona assured shareholders that the Cebu casino would materialize, as the company works towards another transaction, “be it an acquisition, joint venture, or otherwise, that will ensure the completion of the Emerald Bay Project.”
TRLEI is the third company to walk away from the deal.
In 2022, Enrique Razon’s Bloomberry Resorts signed a term sheet with PHR, which included other projects in Clark, Pampanga. The deal fell through 10 months later.
Shortly after the failed sale to Razon, PHR started talks with AppleOne Properties. Talks were terminated in December 2023.
Located in Mactan, Cebu, Emerald Bay was envisioned to be a premier integrated resort casino in the Visayas, offering 146 gaming tables, 729 electronic gaming machines, and 780 hotel rooms with five villas. – Rappler.com
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FAST FACTS: Gilas Pilipinas’ last shot at Paris Olympics | delfin.dioquino editor | 22/06/2024 16:35 | FAN FAVORITE. Justin Brownlee and Gilas Pilipinas wave to the crowd after winning over Hong Kong in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – It has been over five decades since the Philippines sent a basketball team to the Olympics in the 1972 Munich Games.
This group of Gilas Pilipinas hopes to end that drought as it sees action in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia, that will run from July 2 to 7.
It will be the Philippines’ last shot at the Paris Games after it failed to clinch an Olympic berth rewarded to the best Asian nation in the previous FIBA World Cup – a distinction that went to Japan.
Here are some fast facts about the Nationals’ road to the Olympics:
Formidable competition awaits the Filipinos in Riga as they face host and world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia in Group A.
The 37th-ranked Philippines will play two games in as many days, with Latvia up first on Thursday, July 4, at 12 am, Manila time.
It will then be a quick turnaround for the Nationals as they play again in less than 24 hours against Georgia at 8:30 pm on July 4.
The two teams pose a significant challenge to the Filipinos, with Latvia and Georgia both making the last 16 of the World Cup, where the Philippines finished 24th.
Latvia even went as far as the quarterfinals, only losing by a single possession to eventual champion Germany, as it placed fifth.
Aside from the Philippines, Latvia, and Georgia, three more teams will take part in the OQT in Riga as Brazil, Cameroon, and Montenegro lock horns in Group B.
Brazil ranks 12th in the world, Montenegro is 17th, and Cameroon is 68th.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the crossover semifinals, where the No. 1 teams from Groups A and B will face the No. 2 squads in their opposite groups in a pair of knockout matches.
Winners of the semifinals face off in a do-or-die clash to determine which team will punch a ticket to the Paris Games.
Only the last team standing in Riga will qualify for the Olympics.
It is the same case in the other three OQT legs to be held simultaneously in Valencia, Spain; Piraeus, Greece; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Spain, Lebanon, Angola, Finland, Poland, and the Bahamas duke it out in Valencia; Greece, Slovenia, New Zealand, Croatia, Egypt, and Dominican Republic battle in Piraeus, and Puerto Rico, Italy, Lithuania, Mexico, Bahrain, and Ivory Coast compete in San Juan.
The winners of the four OQT legs will complete the 12-team Olympic cast bannered by defending champion USA and host France, which disputed the gold medal in the previous Tokyo Games.
Canada, Germany, Serbia, South Sudan, Australia, and Japan also qualified. – Rappler.com
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Rappler Recap: Sonny Angara is new DepEd chief | Bonz Magsambol | 02/07/2024 15:30 | MANILA, Philippines – Senator Sonny Angara will replace Vice President Sara Duterte as secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), Malacañang announced on Tuesday, July 2.
Angara will assume the role on July 19, as Duterte ends her one-month transition following her resignation from the Marcos Cabinet.
Angara’s Senate term ends in 2025. What happens to his Senate seat?
Rappler’s Bonz Magsambol gives a recap of events leading to Angara’s appointment as DepEd chief. – Rappler.com
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UP shores up frontline anew, taps one-and-done Quentin Millora-Brown | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 14:34 | VETERAN. Quentin Millora-Brown (42) handles the ball.
UP OASD
MANILA, Philippines – The UP Fighting Maroons continue to strengthen their lineup ahead of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament, tapping 6-foot-10 Filipino-American big man Quentin Millora-Brown on Tuesday, July 2.
Immediately eligible to play as a one-and-done recruit, Millora-Brown is expected to fill in the gargantuan shoes of former league MVP Malick Diouf, who graduated after back-to-back silver-medal finishes in Seasons 85 and 86.
A well-traveled college standout, Millora-Brown suited up for Citadel last year for his senior season and averaged 11.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.5 blocks. This comes after a three-year stint in Vanderbilt and a rookie season in Rice University.
“His entry to our team is another big thing because he can help step up from the loss of Malick,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde in Filipino in a release.
Millora-Brown is tabbed to stand out in an already crowded Maroons frontline featuring the likes of Nigerian Dikachi Udodo, Francis Lopez, Sean Alter, Aldous Torculas, Gani Stevens, Mark Belmonte, and Seven Gagate.
UP, the newly crowed Filoil preseason champion, is once again one of the top contenders for Season 87 alongside defending champion La Salle. – Rappler.com
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Marcos gets cheers for NIR, jeers for inflation, rights concerns from Negros | Herbie G | 02/07/2024 11:43 | BACOLOD ADDRESS. President Marcos Jr. addresses a crowd during his visit in Bacolod City on June 27, 2024.
Negros Occidental PIO
BACOLOD, Philippines – The Marcos Jr. administration received mixed reactions on Negros Island as it entered its third year, with local leaders cheering the creation of the Negros Island Region (NIR) and activists jeering at its failure to address concerns about red-tagging, extrajudicial killings, and rising inflation.
The recent creation of the NIR marked a milestone, especially for local leaders who have long been pushing for it.
Even Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who supported the 2022 presidential bid of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s strongest rival, former vice president Leni Robredo, was all praises for the current administration for the NIR creation shortly before the President concluded his second year in office.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for making the dream of One Negros a reality,” said Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez.
Marcos signed Republic Act 12000, paving the way for the rebirth of NIR, carving out Negros Occidental from Western Mindanao, and Negros Oriental and Siquijor from Central Visayas to form the new region.
The region was first established in 2015 by the late former president Benigno Simeon Aquino through Executive Order 183, but it was abolished by his successor, ex-president Rodrigo Duterte, two years later.
Although Duterte cited financial constraints as the basis for its abolition, it was widely perceived that it was his way of getting back at political leaders of the Negros provinces where he lost to former senator and interior secretary Mar Roxas in the 2016 presidential elections.
Frank Carbon, chief executive officer of the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), said the legislative creation of the NIR will serve as Marcos Jr.’s legacy for the Negrense people.
“With NIR, more investments will create more and better-paying jobs that will help eradicate poverty and insurgency,” Carbon said.
Negros Occidental 5th District Representative Dino Yulo said the NIR’s rebirth should pave the way for an inter-provincial road network that would impact the government’s efforts toward sustainable peace and order on Negros Island.
Negros Occidental Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer said NIR is a fulfilled promise of the President to the Negrenses, which he made during the 2022 presidential campaign.
“It means he (Marcos) never failed us,” Ferrer said.
The MBCCI and the General Alliance of Workers Association (GAWA), however, said much work still has to be done, and one is to provide a stable power supply in the NIR.
Carbon and GAWA’s secretary general, Wennie Sancho, said Negros’ quest for power security must be prioritized by Marcos as he embarks on his third year in office.
“The creation of NIR will be futile without a dependable, sustainable, and affordable power supply,” said Sancho, who is also one of the leaders of Power Watch Negros (PWN).
Carbon called for the creation of a regional power development council to address the unique power needs of the island.
He said, “We need to have our power development roadmap to come up with a viable and doable energy security program.”
Negros Island alone, he said, needs at least 300 megawatts (MW).
But as the island’s economy progresses, and to address the intermediate, peaking, ancillary, and surplus power needs, Carbon said as much as 450 MW needs to be generated.
Meanwhile, GAWA called on the Marcos Jr. administration and legislators to approve the proposed P100 across-the-board wage increase to help workers cope with rising inflation.
“A P100 daily pay hike for private sector workers is a significant benefit,” Sancho said.
The minimum wage in Negros Occidental is P480 a day, and Sancho said it was not enough given the recent inflation rates across the country.
Wilson Gamboa Jr., convenor of both Amlig Tubig and Amlig Kuryente in Bacolod City, said the Marcos Jr. administration failed to address inflation concerns, which aggravated the problem of rising poverty and hunger rates.
“Sad to say, almost everything now is beyond the reach of the poorest of the poor in Bacolod and Negros Occidental,” Gamboa said.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that inflation accelerated to 3.9% in May from 3.8% in April.
Add to that, Gamboa said, is the continuing corruption at all levels of government.
“Tapos, lingawon lang kita sa paayuda-ayuda (Then, we will just be entertained by the aid distribution),” he said.
Marcos was in Bacolod City on June 27, where he distributed cash aid of P10,000 each to 8,315 families adversely affected by the El Niño phenomenon. He also gave the Bacolod City government and Negros Occidental funds to help them with their El Niño disaster response efforts.
“The concern of the President for the Negrenses is truly felt. We can count on President Marcos to stand with us through challenges and triumphs alike,” said Lacson.
Human rights advocates on Negros Island, meanwhile, raised grave concerns over the series of killings of civilians and unarmed persons on Negros Island.
The Human Rights Advocates Negros (HRAN) said the killings were reminiscent of the situation in southern Negros during the first Marcos administration.
HRAN criticized the military, accusing it of justifying the violence by making it look like those who were killed were rebels who engaged soldiers.
The group cited as examples the deaths of Emaryn Pastedio, Christopher Ebarle, and Jose Caramihan in Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental, in February. HRAN said they were civilians killed on suspicion that they were members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Worse, according to HRAN, the Marcos Jr. administration did not heed calls for the abolition of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and turned a blind eye to the red-tagging of people and groups critical of government policies. – Rappler.com
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Sonny Angara named as new education secretary | Bonz Magsambol | 02/07/2024 11:49 | Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara as the new secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), effective July 19.
Angara, whose Senate term was supposed to end in 2025, will replace Vice President Sara Duterte, who resigned as DepEd chief on June 19.
A press release from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Tuesday, July 2, said Marcos made the announcement during a Cabinet meeting in Malacañang, although Angara was not present during the meeting.
“Sonny has agreed to take on the brief of the Department of Education,” Marcos said, as quoted by the PCO.
The PCO said key educational organizations had endorsed Angara for DepEd chief, including the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations and the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities.
Angara was also among those recommended by Philippine Business for Education to Marcos, along with Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Kiko Benitez, and Synergeia Foundation president Milwida Guevara.
“DepEd is arguably the most important department given the crucial role of education,” said Marcos.
In a statement on Tuesday, Angara thanked Marcos for choosing him to lead the DepEd.
“This significant responsibility is one I accept with humility and a profound sense of duty,” he said.
“I am committed to working with all sectors of society, including my predecessor, Vice President Sara Duterte, to ensure that every Filipino child has access to quality education. I look forward to building upon her accomplishments,” Angara added.
Marcos was supposed to announce his choice for DepEd chief over the weekend, but he said on Saturday, June 29, that he needed “more time” to choose, given the demands of the job and the “valid concerns” raised by various stakeholders.
Senate President Chiz Escudero had earlier endorsed Angara’s appointment as education secretary.
“I was one of the first, if not the first, to actually recommend him to become the DepEd secretary given his competence, given his track record, given his experience,” Escudero said in a chance interview with reporters on Monday, July 1.
Escudero earlier said, in response to questions, that there might be no need to replace Angara in the Senate since his term is ending in less than a year anyway. (READ: What happens when a lawmaker gets appointed to the Cabinet?)
“I think that it should not be filled up because holding a special election will incur cost. So I think we’ll just wait for his term to expire. There will only be 23 sitting senators,” the Senate President had said.
Commission on Elections Chairman George Garcia said on Tuesday that Angara’s Senate seat will remain vacant “unless there is a call from the Senate to call for a special election.”
Angara inherits a gargantuan problem in the education sector, including the poor performance of Filipino students in global education assessments. A World Bank report showed that 9 in 10 Filipino students aged 10 are struggling to read simple text.
Angara, the son of the late Senate president and educator Edgardo Angara, began his political career as Aurora congressman from 2004 to 2013. During his time at the House of Representatives, he was also active in advocating for education and welfare of Filipino youth. He was a co-author of the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 or the K to 12 program in the lower chamber.
Angara was first elected as a senator in 2013. He authored bills concerning the education sector, among others. He was a commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education or EDCOM 2, which aims to address education woes.
As EDCOM 2 commissioner, Angara promised a comprehensive review of the K to 12 program.
“The DepEd and EDCOM 2 will work hand-in-hand in reviewing the K to 12 program and come out with recommendations to improve the curriculum, which the DepEd has found to be congested, that some prerequisites of identified essential learning competencies are missing or misplaced, and that a significant number of learning competencies cater to high cognitive demands,” Angara said in his Manila Bulletin column in April 2023.
Under her watch, Sara Duterte began the review of the K to 12 curriculum amid growing clamor from the public to either revise it or scrap it. She had committed to make the program “relevant to produce competent, job-ready, active, and responsible citizens.” The review was not yet done at the time of her resignation.
Angara, a lawyer like the Vice President, earned his undergraduate degree in international relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1994. He obtained his law degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 2000 and his Master of Laws degree at Harvard Law School in 2003. – with a report from Dwight de Leon/Rappler.com
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What is required is simple enough – declutter the curriculum and a return to the basics – reading, ‘riting, ‘rithmetic and critical/creativity thinking. And ironically, Angara’s first huge task is to depoliticize DepED and tell all politicians to back off.
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Google Translate adds 110 new languages, including support for Hiligaynon, Bikol, Waray, and more | Victor Barreiro Jr. | 02/07/2024 14:22 | MANILA, Philippines – Google announced last Thursday, June 27, it added support for 110 new languages to Google Translate, thanks to some help from its PaLM 2 large language model.
While about a quarter of the 110 languages added were said to come from Africa, Google said it also added support for five Philippine languages: Bikol, Hiligaynon, Kapampangan, Pangasinan, and Waray. Google Translate supported translations for Tagalog (called Filipino on the service), Cebuano, and Ilocano prior to this.
Aside from this, Cantonese was also added as a highly-requested feature, alongside the Shahmukhi variety of Punjabi – the most spoken language in Pakistan – and the Papua New Guinean creole Tok Pisin.
Isaac Caswell, Google’s senior software engineer at Google Translate, said in a blog post that “PaLM 2 was a key piece to the puzzle.” PaLM 2 helped Google Translate to more efficiently learn languages which were closely related to each other.
“As technology advances, and as we continue to partner with expert linguists and native speakers, we’ll support even more language varieties and spelling conventions over time,” Caswell said.
The added language support brings the total number of languages Google can translate for users to 133, with a list of the added supported languages available here.
Users can take advantage of the new supported language translation options by visiting the service or downloading the respective Google Translate app for their device. – Rappler.com
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‘Blessed to be here’: Joakim Noah relishes first Manila visit | delfin.dioquino editor | 01/07/2024 15:30 | BIG MAN. Joakim Noah leads a Jr. NBA and WNBA clinic in Manila, Philippines.
NBA Philippines
MANILA, Philippines – The Filipinos’ incomparable passion for basketball once again captivated a visitor, this time former NBA big man Joakim Noah.
The two-time NBA All-Star stayed in the country for about a week, doing various activities like serving as a global liquor brand ambassador, playing pickup basketball, and teaching the next generation of Filipino hoopers.
“I didn’t get to see the professional leagues, but it was very interesting to see being out here and seeing how much the people in Manila really love basketball,” Noah told Rappler in an exclusive interview.
“There’s a real resilience and a competitive spirit. We even played a pickup game the other day. So I definitely felt that energy from the people,” he added.
“You could feel that basketball is really part of the culture.”
Noah, the 2014 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, is known mostly for his time with the Chicago Bulls, helping the team during a short revival of the franchise powered by Derrick Rose.
The Bulls, one of the more popular franchises in the Philippines owing to their six championships in the 1990s, continue to attract fans.
As soon as he arrived from a 30-hour flight, Noah received a warm welcome from Filipinos, with the 6-foot-11 center signing autographs and gamely posing for photos.
“I’m almost 40 years old and I haven’t played in a professional game in almost five years,” said Noah, who last played professionally with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2020.
“And to see that the people still know the Chicago Bulls from when I was playing there 10 years ago, I feel really blessed to be here.”
Noah concluded his stay in the Philippines by leading the joint Junior NBA and WNBA camp at the Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong City on Sunday, June 30.
Guiding 50 teenage boys and girls, Noah was joined by Natalia Andre, an ex-pro basketball player herself.
Noah also led the unveiling of the refurbished CCP Bukaneg Court located just behind the main building of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in Pasay City on Friday, June 28.
The court, renovated by French cognac distiller Hennessy, is part of the company’s global initiative dubbed “In the Paint.”
It was designed by local artist Kiefer “Kiefsix” Indiongco, who used indigenous elements in the color scheme. He also designed the Nike Courtyard in Taguig City, which was opened in 2023.
“[Noah’s] a huge cultural activist. He’s an art enthusiast himself. He does a lot of community work and authentic collaboration with us,” program head Pascale Kalambaie said.
“He does a lot of work in Africa, across the US and Asia as well, so he’s a great ambassador as well.” – Rappler.com
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WATCH: SB19 performs ‘GENTO’ in Japanese channel ‘The First Take’ | Ysa Abad | 02/07/2024 9:27 | SB19. The P-pop group appears in 'The First Take'
SB19
MANILA, Philippines – P-pop powerhouse SB19 has captured the attention of the international scene anew as they performed their hit single “GENTO” in the Japanese YouTube channel “The First Take.”
The group appeared on the channel’s 449th episode, which was released on Monday, July 1. Wearing casual ensembles in shades of green and blue, members Ken, Justin, Josh, Pablo, and Stell delivered an updated rendition of their 2023 song in just one take.
To note, “The First Take” channel is known for inviting singers and artists for a one-take-only performance.
“It was a true first take. So we were very nervous and overwhelmed, but it was fun and an amazing experience,” SB19 shared in a press statement.
Following their appearance, SB19 became the first Filipino act and Southeast Asian group to grace the music media outlet. Other international artists who previously performed in the channel include Harry Styles, Avril Lavigne, and K-pop acts BTS’ V, ITZY, and RIIZE.
The P-pop trailblazers said that they’re grateful for the opportunity to represent the Philippines in the said channel. “We are honored to showcase our music and culture to the world through ‘The First Take,’” they added.
“GENTO,” which is part of the group’s PAGTATAG! EP, has gained massive popularity since its release. In June 2023, “GENTO” made it to Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart, joining the ranks of hits by notable international artists such as Selena Gomez, BTS, Fifty Fifty, and ENHYPEN.
Numerous celebrities outside of the Philippines have also participated in the viral “GENTO” dance challenge on TikTok, which saw stars like Super Junior’s Eunhyuk, 2NE1’s Minzy, and the members of CRAVITY post their own takes on the trend.
SB19 made their debut in October 2018. Their hits include “Bazinga,” “Moonlight,” “Freedom,” “MAPA,” “Ilaw,” and “Alab,” among others.
In October 2023, SB19 announced the establishment of their label 1Z Entertainment, with the group’s leader Pablo serving as its chief executive officer. In December 2023, the group announced that it secured ownership of its group name and logo. – Rappler.com
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‘We want to play against the best’: Brownlee embraces daunting task in FIBA OQT | delfin.dioquino editor | 30/06/2024 18:41 | ALL SMILES. Justin Brownlee (32) and Kai Sotto (11) in action for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas needs to go through the eye of the needle if it wants to end a decades-long absence in the Olympics.
For Justin Brownlee, it is supposed to be like that.
The beloved naturalized player embraced the daunting task that awaits the Nationals in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament that will be staged in Riga, Latvia, from July 2 to 7 as they go up against a pair of top 25 squads.
Bunched in Group A with the Philippines are world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia.
“It is going to be very tough for us but that is why we’re here. We want to play against the best in the world, and of course, if you want to be in the Olympics and qualify, you got to play with the best in the world,” Brownlee said.
“I think it is going to be a great experience for us and we’re definitely not going to take it lightly. We’re definitely going in there to win.”
Brownlee and the national team got a taste of the level of competition that is expected in the OQT as they tangled with world No. 15 Poland and No. 24 Turkey in a pair of tuneup games.
Although the Filipinos came out winless in those friendlies, they showed that they can go toe-to-toe with European squads.
Gilas Pilipinas gave the Turkish a scare before absorbing an 84-73 loss then fell short of a massive upset against a Polish side bolstered by NBA player Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs in a nail-biting 82-80 defeat.
Foes in the OQT pose a tougher challenge.
Latvia – bannered by Charlotte Hornets forward Davis Bertains and former NBA players Rodion Kurucs and Dairis Bertans – aims to bank on its home advantage in its bid to reach the Olympics for the first time since 1936.
Meanwhile, Georgia shoots for a maiden Olympic appearance behind NBA players Goga Bitadze of the Orlando Magic and Sandro Mamukelashvili of the Spurs.
Brownlee, though, feels the Philippines is up to the task as it seeks to send a basketball team to the Olympics for the first time since 1972.
“No matter if they’re ranked higher than us, they put on their shoes just like we put on our shoes,” said Brownlee, who averaged 25.5 points and 4 rebounds against Turkey and Poland.
“We come in to represent the country in the right way, in the best way we can.” – Rappler.com
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Rich get richer again: PBA approves Blackwater-TNT trade for Rey Nambatac | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 12:56 | FRIEND TURNED FOE. Rey Nambatac in action for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – The Blackwater franchise is once again responsible for boosting a Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) team in the PBA as the league approved on Tuesday, July 2, a trade that will send star guard Rey Nambatac to the TNT Tropang Giga for reserves Kib Montalbo and Jewel Ponferada.
TNT is also throwing in a 2028 second-round pick to the Bossing, who will be gutted with star power anew just a few weeks removed from a promising 2024 Philippine Cup campaign that netted them a 3-0 start before fizzling out to a 4-7 finish.
The Tropang Giga, meanwhile, are getting a shot in the arm with Nambatac, a do-it-all floor general who averaged 11.1 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in his last conference with Blackwater.
The flagship MVP franchise is coming off a lackluster 2023-2024 season for their lofty standards, finishing eighth out of 12 in the Commissioner’s Cup, and fourth in the Philippine Cup via a first-round playoffs exit at the hands of Rain or Shine.
With more titles in sight, TNT is acquiring Nambatac in exchange for Montalbo, who recently averaged 3.4 points and 2.1 assists in the Philippine Cup, and Ponferada, who normed 4.5 points and 2.3 boards in the same conference.
Nambatac joins a star-studded Tropang Giga core led by Calvin Oftana, Roger Pogoy, Jayson Castro, and Kelly Williams, while Blackwater will lean on the likes of Christian David, Troy Rosario, Rey Suerte, and RK Ilagan with their star guard gone. – Rappler.com
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Rich get richer again: PBA approves Blackwater-TNT trade for Rey Nambatac | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 12:56 | FRIEND TURNED FOE. Rey Nambatac in action for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – The Blackwater franchise is once again responsible for boosting a Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) team in the PBA as the league approved on Tuesday, July 2, a trade that will send star guard Rey Nambatac to the TNT Tropang Giga for reserves Kib Montalbo and Jewel Ponferada.
TNT is also throwing in a 2028 second-round pick to the Bossing, who will be gutted with star power anew just a few weeks removed from a promising 2024 Philippine Cup campaign that netted them a 3-0 start before fizzling out to a 4-7 finish.
The Tropang Giga, meanwhile, are getting a shot in the arm with Nambatac, a do-it-all floor general who averaged 11.1 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in his last conference with Blackwater.
The flagship MVP franchise is coming off a lackluster 2023-2024 season for their lofty standards, finishing eighth out of 12 in the Commissioner’s Cup, and fourth in the Philippine Cup via a first-round playoffs exit at the hands of Rain or Shine.
With more titles in sight, TNT is acquiring Nambatac in exchange for Montalbo, who recently averaged 3.4 points and 2.1 assists in the Philippine Cup, and Ponferada, who normed 4.5 points and 2.3 boards in the same conference.
Nambatac joins a star-studded Tropang Giga core led by Calvin Oftana, Roger Pogoy, Jayson Castro, and Kelly Williams, while Blackwater will lean on the likes of Christian David, Troy Rosario, Rey Suerte, and RK Ilagan with their star guard gone. – Rappler.com
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Who’s Matatag? Meet the Palarong Pambansa 2024 mascot | clescudero0258 | 29/06/2024 13:38 | Have you seen the official mascot for the 2024 Palarong Pambansa?
It’s a blue bird named Matatag, wearing an athletic kit and carrying a torch. Inspired by the Cebu flowerpecker, the bird is endemic to the island province whose capital city is also the host of this year’s national tournament.
Matatag “symbolizes resilience and revival, mirroring the bird’s own story,” said a post on the Palarong Pambansa 2024 Facebook page.
The Cebu flowerpecker is marked critically endangered as of 2021 in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. It was first feared to be extinct in the 20th century, but then was rediscovered in 1992 in a forest patch near Tabunan, Cebu, according to research published in the Bird Conservation International journal.
Presence of the bird species has since been recorded by Bird Life International in the forests of Nug-as in Alcoy, Mount Lantos in Argao, and Dalaguete.
There remains to be 85-105 Cebu flowerpeckers as of 2005, with 60-70 of them mature, according to the international organization. The species’ population continues to be small, fragmented, and declining due to “catastrophic deforestation.”
Many conservation efforts have been organized to protect the Cebu flowerpecker population and restore forest habitats. In 2007, the Philippine government passed Republic Act 9486, establishing the Central Cebu Protected Landscape.
In the late 2010s, advocates launched the Cebu flowerpecker conservation project, organizing a series of activities for conservation awareness, research, capacity building, and habitat management.
“Matatag’s story reflects the daily struggles of athletes to balance sports and academics, building character, resilience, and strength to face life’s challenges,” said the Palarong Pambansa organizing committee.
“As we celebrate athletic excellence, Matatag also embodies the crucial message of ecological conservation, highlighting the urgent need to protect the critically endangered Cebu flowerpecker.” – Rappler.com
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Sonny Angara named as new education secretary | Bonz Magsambol | 02/07/2024 11:49 | Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara as the new secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), effective July 19.
Angara, whose Senate term was supposed to end in 2025, will replace Vice President Sara Duterte, who resigned as DepEd chief on June 19.
A press release from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Tuesday, July 2, said Marcos made the announcement during a Cabinet meeting in Malacañang, although Angara was not present during the meeting.
“Sonny has agreed to take on the brief of the Department of Education,” Marcos said, as quoted by the PCO.
The PCO said key educational organizations had endorsed Angara for DepEd chief, including the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations and the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities.
Angara was also among those recommended by Philippine Business for Education to Marcos, along with Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Kiko Benitez, and Synergeia Foundation president Milwida Guevara.
“DepEd is arguably the most important department given the crucial role of education,” said Marcos.
In a statement on Tuesday, Angara thanked Marcos for choosing him to lead the DepEd.
“This significant responsibility is one I accept with humility and a profound sense of duty,” he said.
“I am committed to working with all sectors of society, including my predecessor, Vice President Sara Duterte, to ensure that every Filipino child has access to quality education. I look forward to building upon her accomplishments,” Angara added.
Marcos was supposed to announce his choice for DepEd chief over the weekend, but he said on Saturday, June 29, that he needed “more time” to choose, given the demands of the job and the “valid concerns” raised by various stakeholders.
Senate President Chiz Escudero had earlier endorsed Angara’s appointment as education secretary.
“I was one of the first, if not the first, to actually recommend him to become the DepEd secretary given his competence, given his track record, given his experience,” Escudero said in a chance interview with reporters on Monday, July 1.
Escudero earlier said, in response to questions, that there might be no need to replace Angara in the Senate since his term is ending in less than a year anyway. (READ: What happens when a lawmaker gets appointed to the Cabinet?)
“I think that it should not be filled up because holding a special election will incur cost. So I think we’ll just wait for his term to expire. There will only be 23 sitting senators,” the Senate President had said.
Commission on Elections Chairman George Garcia said on Tuesday that Angara’s Senate seat will remain vacant “unless there is a call from the Senate to call for a special election.”
Angara inherits a gargantuan problem in the education sector, including the poor performance of Filipino students in global education assessments. A World Bank report showed that 9 in 10 Filipino students aged 10 are struggling to read simple text.
Angara, the son of the late Senate president and educator Edgardo Angara, began his political career as Aurora congressman from 2004 to 2013. During his time at the House of Representatives, he was also active in advocating for education and welfare of Filipino youth. He was a co-author of the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 or the K to 12 program in the lower chamber.
Angara was first elected as a senator in 2013. He authored bills concerning the education sector, among others. He was a commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education or EDCOM 2, which aims to address education woes.
As EDCOM 2 commissioner, Angara promised a comprehensive review of the K to 12 program.
“The DepEd and EDCOM 2 will work hand-in-hand in reviewing the K to 12 program and come out with recommendations to improve the curriculum, which the DepEd has found to be congested, that some prerequisites of identified essential learning competencies are missing or misplaced, and that a significant number of learning competencies cater to high cognitive demands,” Angara said in his Manila Bulletin column in April 2023.
Under her watch, Sara Duterte began the review of the K to 12 curriculum amid growing clamor from the public to either revise it or scrap it. She had committed to make the program “relevant to produce competent, job-ready, active, and responsible citizens.” The review was not yet done at the time of her resignation.
Angara, a lawyer like the Vice President, earned his undergraduate degree in international relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1994. He obtained his law degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 2000 and his Master of Laws degree at Harvard Law School in 2003. – with a report from Dwight de Leon/Rappler.com
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What is required is simple enough – declutter the curriculum and a return to the basics – reading, ‘riting, ‘rithmetic and critical/creativity thinking. And ironically, Angara’s first huge task is to depoliticize DepED and tell all politicians to back off.
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Cash-strapped PNCC told to pay Malaysian firm seeking compensation since 1994 | Ralf Rivas | 02/07/2024 8:27 | MANILA, Philippines – A Malaysian firm seeking compensation for undelivered service obligations of the Philippine National Construction Corporation (PNCC) found further backing from the latest decision of the Commission on Audit (COA)
COA granted the claim of Asiavest Equity SDN BHD against PNCC for payment of a 1994 judgment award by the Pasig Regional Trial Court, amounting P174.5 million, as well as lawyer’s fees totaling P300,000.
PNCC is likely to pay up much more, possibly reaching over a billion, as COA stipulated that it should also pay interest of 12% per year from April 1994 to June 2013, and 6% annual interest from July 2013 until it is fully paid.
The issue stems from the deal struck between Asiavest and the Construction Development Corporation of the Philippines (which later transformed into PNCC), where they entered into a contract to build infrastructure in Pahang, Malaysia.
PNCC, backed by various bonds and guarantees from Asiavest, bagged four contracts, but failed to deliver. This prompted the state of Pahang to go after Asiavest’s performance bonds.
The Pahang government and Asiavest entered into a compromise agreement, with the latter paying up some 3.9 Malaysian ringgit.
Asiavest filed a case against PNCC before the Pasig Court in April 1994. PNCC was declared to be in default after it failed to answer the complaint despite being granted three extensions.
PNCC elevated the case up to the Supreme Court, which upheld the ruling in favor of Asiavest in 2016.
Despite this, PNCC still did not pay up, forcing Asiavest to file a petition before COA to compel the company to settle its obligations.
According to its website, PNCC has been struggling financially and has refrained from actively engaging in the construction business since 2002. It has instead focused on the operation and maintenance of its tollways
From 1987 to 2001, PNCC still implemented selected construction projects, but this resulted in losses.
According to its mission statement, it aims to achieve financial viability by 2025, and aims to be an “effective and capable partner of the government in tollroad and other related infrastructure development.” – Rappler.com
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Grab launches Advance Booking for airport trips | lkyu0285 | 02/07/2024 10:13 | MANILA, Philippines – Ride-hailing app Grab is launching a new Advance Booking feature to take the stress away from passengers who have to book rides to the airport during the early morning or rush-hour periods.
According to Grab, Advance Booking “guarantees on-time rides to the airport via the GrabAirport fleet.” Passengers can reserve a ride as early as seven days before or as soon as two hours before the scheduled trip.
Currently, the new service is only available for trips going to airports in Metro Manila, such as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Grab may expand availability in cities and regions outside the capital by the second half of 2024.
Passengers can select their pick-up location and the specific airport terminal for drop-off. Drivers are also guaranteed to arrive at the scheduled pick-up time, with passengers being offered a P100 courtesy credit for instances when a driver arrives late for a pre-booked ride. Should any service disruption occur, Grab said its app will “swiftly and seamlessly reassign the ride to an alternative driver-partner.”
Here are some things to keep in mind when using the Advance Booking service:
“We are enhancing the experience of airport rides on Grab with the launch of Advance Booking. Our new Grab Advance Booking product goes beyond offering mere airport transfers – it provides travelers the peace of mind they deserve. This new service has been engineered to have guaranteed on-time rides every time, enabling every Filipino traveler to leave their homes with the confidence they’ll have a ride to make their flight on time,” Grab Philippines head of mobility EJ Dela Vega said in a press release on Monday, July 1. – Rappler.com
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Ex-PCGG chief accountant not off the hook over P8.3-million disallowed incentives | Ralf Rivas | 02/07/2024 9:01 | MANILA, Philippines – Former Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) chief accountant Lourdes Navarro was denied her petition to be relieved of liability in relation to disallowances issued against cash incentives paid to agency officials in 2012 and 2013 totaling P8.3 million, with the Commission on Audit (COA) saying that she was expected to be knowledgeable of the transactions.
The COA en banc said that as chief accountant, Navarro was expected to “know the laws and rules on the grant of the disallowed benefits when she certified on the disbursement vouchers (DVs) that supporting documents are complete.”
In its 10-page decision, COA said Navarro should have notified her superiors that the expenditures were illegal. Without a document to support this, Navarro’s position that she acted in good faith would not stand.
Included in the disallowance were P3.4 million in gift checks of PCGG officials and employees, P1.65 million in calamity assistance, P1.1 million in goodwill incentives, and P1.4 million collective negotiation agreement incentives.
However, the appeal of PCGG administrative officer Conrado Afable to be dropped was granted, as he only released the funds through the preparation of pay envelopes and distribution of benefits to intended recipients.
COA said Afable was not a certifying officer and did not exercise discretion, making his function not directly related to the cause of the disallowance. – Rappler.com
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CBCP to hold highest-level meeting for first time in Mindanao | Paterno Esmaquel II | 02/07/2024 8:09 | OPENING MASS. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines holds the opening Mass for its annual retreat, at San Isidro Labrador Cathedral in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, July 1, 2024.
CBCP News
MANILA, Philippines – The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is set to hold its highest-level meeting, its biannual plenary assembly, for the first time in Mindanao from Saturday to Monday, July 6 to 8.
The CBCP – which is composed of 83 active bishops, 5 priest-administrators, and 39 retired bishops – will convene at Chali Resort and Conference Center in Cagayan de Oro City for its 128th plenary assembly.
CBCP secretary-general Monsignor Bernardo Pantin said the plenary will tackle the Jubilee 2025 celebrations in the country. Held every 25 years, the Jubilee is the worldwide holy year that highlights forgiveness from sins, freedom from debt and slavery, and hope in the face of challenges.
“Let us pray for the bishops as they gather, discuss and pray about the future of the Church in the Philippines,” said Pantin.
The plenary assembly will be preceded by a bishops’ retreat at the Benedictine monks’ Transfiguration Abbey in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, from Tuesday to Thursday, July 2 to 4, according to CBCP News.
The Vatican’s foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, is one of the speakers during the retreat. Gallagher is making an official trip to the Philippines from Monday to Saturday, July 1 to 6, and is the first secretary for relations with states of the Holy See to embark on such a visit.
In the past, the CBCP plenary assembly was always held at Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila. The country’s capital, after all, was often viewed as the seat of Catholicism in the country – led by powerful figures such as Jaime Cardinal Sin – even as other cities such as Cebu take pride in their own displays of faith.
The Filipino bishops decided in 2019, however, “if they could try to go back to regional meetings, regional assemblies,” said Pantin in a 2023 interview with Rappler. That was why in 2016 and 2018, the CBCP broke tradition and held plenary assemblies in Cebu. In 2023, they held one in Kalibo, Aklan province.
Explaining the Kalibo plenary assembly, Pantin said in 2023: “The purpose really is to give people the awareness that the bishops speak together, they discuss. At least the bishops can also be nearer to the people. That is why there will be Masses with the people there: so that the people can see the bishops of the entire Philippines.” – Rappler.com
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While pleased with progress, Cone aims to squeeze more out of Gilas in FIBA OQT bid | delfin.dioquino editor | 01/07/2024 17:53 | COMMAND. Head coach Tim Cone calling the shots for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Now that Gilas Pilipinas has shown it can go toe-to-toe with top teams from Europe, the next goal for the squad is to actually pull off wins when the “real fight” – as head coach Tim Cone calls it – begins.
Although delighted with the way the Nationals battled against Turkey and Poland in a pair of friendly games, Cone aims to squeeze more out of his wards in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
The road to a coveted spot in the Paris Games is an uphill climb for the Philippines as it faces world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia in the group stage.
“I’ve been pleased with our progress in the games. We’re proving to ourselves that we can play with these guys, but we can’t be satisfied with getting close,” Cone said through a message exchange.
“We need to get over the hump and that means more attention to detail.”
Sticking with their 11-man roster minus injured guard Scottie Thompson, the Filipinos gave world No. 24 Turkey a run for its money before absorbing a 73-84 loss in Istanbul.
The Philippines played better against Poland – ranked 15th in the world and reinforced by NBA player Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs – as it fell short of a massive upset in an 80-82 defeat in Sosnowiec.
Protecting the ball is a major concern for Gilas after it totaled more turnovers (40) than assists (39) in the two tune-up matches.
There is little room for error in the OQT, with host Latvia determined to reach the Olympics for the first time since 1936 as it put together a solid team led by Charlotte Hornets forward Davis Bertans, Arturs Zagars, and Rodions Kurucs.
Georgia is also bringing its NBA players, with Goga Bitadze (Orlando Magic) and Sandro Mamukelashvili (San Antonio Spurs) leading its bid for a maiden Olympic appearance.
“This is not supposed to be a fun trip, it’s supposed to be the hardest thing we will ever do in our basketball lives,” said Cone. “The guys are pushing and I love it. But we still need more.”
Cone and Gilas arrived in Latvia on Sunday, June 30, and he hopes for the team to settle down amid a grueling European trip that saw it travel to three countries in less than a week.
“Hopefully, now that we’re here in Riga, things will normalize for us the next couple of days and we can catch our breath and focus on the tournament,” said Cone.
The Philippines will play two games in less than 24 hours as it tangles with Latvia and Georgia at 12 am and 8:30 pm, respectively, on Thursday, July 4 (Manila time). – Rappler.com
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[OPINION] You don’t always need a journalism degree to be a journalist | Jene-Anne Pangue | 02/07/2024 9:30 | Initially, my goal was simple: I just wanted to shed light on the research found by my university online. Our institution produces intriguing studies that deserve public attention. I just wanted to have a wider audience because people have to know about the findings of academic research, such as the high coliform level of river basins in Aklan, and what’s happening in the province’s environmental front.
Unlike my peers, my academic identity did not align with communication studies. I’m an agriculture student with a heart for journalism from the province of Aklan. That’s why when I applied to the Aries Rufo Fellowship of Rappler, no one knew about it besides my college dean who recommended me for the program.“What will I do there? Am I qualified? I am not from a journalism school.” I remember doubting myself multiple times. But in the end, I decided to take the chance, and fortunately, I was chosen as one of the pioneer batch of campus journalists of this fellowship.
My undergraduate program is both physically and mentally demanding. The whole duration of the fellowship was a balancing act for me: I had an 8 am to 5 pm full-time class, I was an active leader in the university, editor of a student publication, and had other community engagements to focus on. Despite these challenges, I managed to produce 11 community stories, four of which highlighted the offerings of Aklan beyond Boracay Island.
This includes what makes our oysters tastier than any other provinces in the Philippines, where to buy the ‘best dried fish’ in Aklan, and how PWDs in town can be ‘Person with this Ability’ as they craft Nito products for living.
I also covered controversial issues in the province, such as villagers protesting the planned wind farm expansion, which could affect the way of life of the locals and harm Boracay’s sole source of potable water. I co-authored a story about developers in Boracay using ‘forcible entry’ to fence off Boracay’s Ati Land.
I encountered the hardships that every journalist faces: difficulties in obtaining data, agencies unwilling to grant interviews, political pressure, and censorship, among many others. I vividly remember traveling for three hours, only to be told that I should leave the venue of a public committee hearing because a campus journalist like me was not invited to attend it.
The story I was most invested in was my investigative work about the Nabaoy River and its fight against the renewable energy project in Aklan which I spent five months studying. During those times, I was excited to finish my class every week, so I could go down to the community, which is a three-hour drive away from home, to engage with locals, experts, and environmentalists who were rallying to preserve this river.
With pride and honor, I am so happy to have been able to whip up a wave after creating some ripples. A week after this story was published in Rappler, those who initially said yes to reendorsing the project, had a change of heart and are set to relocate the turbines away from Nabaoy River. This is a win not just for me, but for the community I write about.
Whenever we submit community stories, Rappler emphasizes ethical journalism and the importance of integrity, accuracy, and accountability – that there would be external pressures, but the ethics of storytelling should be at the core of your values. These values are not exclusively taught within the confines of a classroom but are ingrained through hands-on experience and a commitment to journalistic principles.
As an associate editor of Eamigas Publication, the lessons and techniques that I learned, from AI usage to data gathering methods, up to writing and editing, were applied to the editorial processes of our publication. This training ground has taught me, as campus writer, to go beyond just university updates. We should touch what’s happening outside and be aware of what’s happening in our community.
Rappler taught me that you don’t need a journalism degree to be a journalist. The mantle of journalism transcends formal education. It underscores the notion that journalism is more than just a profession. It is a commitment to truth-seeking and a dedication to serving the public interest. – Rappler.com
Jed Nykolle Harme is the associate editor of Aklan State University’s Eamigas Publication and the editor-in-charge of Explained PH-Aklan. She was also an Aries Rufo Journalism fellow of Rappler for 2023-2024.
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In shock move, Mason Amos leaves Ateneo after just one season | delfin.dioquino editor | 01/07/2024 21:09 | DRIVE. Mason Amos in action for the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the UAAP Season 86.
UAAP
MANILA, Philippines – In a stunning turn of events in UAAP basketball, Mason Amos left the Ateneo Blue Eagles as he is reportedly set to join rival La Salle Green Archers.
Amos – who is with Gilas Pilipinas in Riga, Latvia, for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament – announced his departure from Ateneo on Monday, July 1, after news of his transfer to La Salle broke.
“I will forever be proud to have represented the school and thankful. I love you Ateneo. It may be a goodbye, but you will always have a place in my heart,” Amos wrote on Instagram.
The move came as a surprise, as the Filipino-Australian standout spent just one season with the Blue Eagles in the UAAP.
He helped Ateneo reach the Final Four in Season 86, averaging 8.7 points and 3.3 rebounds, before they were booted out by the UP Fighting Maroons in the semifinals.
A 6-foot-7 big man who boasts a sweet stroke from beyond the arc, Amos is the latest player to depart the Blue Eagles’ nest after the likes of Kai Ballungay, Jared Brown, and Geo Chiu also bid the school goodbye.
“To my teammates – with a heavy heart, I would like to express that you guys have been a huge part of my life. I am thankful for everything that we were able to share,” said Amos.
“I have no regrets having fought by your side. I am thankful that you guys taught me lessons and that we were able to create memories I will cherish forever. I love you guys and that’ll never change.”
At La Salle, Amos bolsters an already stacked team that is also set to welcome former San Beda Red Lions guard Jacob Cortez and former NU Bulldogs guard Kean Baclaan.
He is eligible to play for the Green Archers in Season 88 in 2025.
“To the Ateneo community, I am grateful for the opportunities you have given me. I am grateful for the memories I have been able to create and cherish. I am grateful to all the great people I have met during my time,” he said.
“I am grateful for all the challenges you have presented me. I am grateful that I was able to be apart of something bigger than myself. I am forever thankful for the love you have given me constantly day in and day out.”
In the meantime, Amos is focused on helping the Philippines qualify for the Paris Games as they battle Latvia and Georgie the group stage of the OQT, which will run from July 2 to 7. – Rappler.com
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Ateneo will come out of this more stronger. Perhaps not a champipm team this year but definitely better. I would say this is not a good decision for Amos. He shows that he does not value team loyalty and his new teammates are well aware of this.
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‘When we fight, we win’: Sofitel workers assured jobs if hotel reopens | Michelle Abad | 03/07/2024 9:00 | SETTLED. Sofitel unions, management, and Philippine labor officials pose for a photo after arriving at an agreement in a conciliation meeting on July 2, 2024.
Sentro
MANILA, Philippines – After weeks of picketing outside the hotel over their imminent job losses and sitting through hours of conciliation meetings, workers of the now-closed Sofitel Philippine Plaza have gotten assurance from their employers that they may return to their jobs should the hotel reopen.
The two unions of Sofitel for rank-and-file workers and supervisors under the National Union of Workers in Hotel, Restaurant, and Allied Industries (NUWHRAIN), together with the management, arrived at a settlement on Tuesday evening, July 2. The hotel closed on July 1.
A copy of the settlement agreement obtained by Rappler provides that in the event the hotel reopens under the same company, within 15 days from the actual reopening, employees who did not accept the separation package may report to work.
“The hotel shall accept them back, under the same terms and conditions in the applicable CBA (collective bargaining agreement). Thereupon, the employment relationship shall resume,” the agreement states.
The agreement also provides that “the two unions shall continue to exist” for workers who chose not to avail the separation package. The employment relationship for these types of workers is suspended, and a “no work, no pay” policy applies for the time the hotel is closed.
This means that the hotel management heeded all the demands of the workers, which Nestor Cabada, longtime Sofitel worker and NUWHRAIN Philippine Plaza chapter president earlier said were retention of jobs, and respect for their unions and CBA.
Prior to the resolution, the workers cried alleged union busting from Sofitel over uncertainties in the closure’s circumstances. Philippine Plaza Holdings Incorporated (PPHI) president Esteban Peña Sy earlier said that the reason for the closure was for safety reasons linked to building integrity. However, he also said that management is “not certain about the future of the hotel.”
The workers questioned why their jobs needed to be terminated when the possibility of reopening was still up in the air.
Philippine labor officials mediated the conciliation meetings between the Sofitel management and workers. The parties arrived at a settlement on the fifth hearing on Tuesday.
“This is a momentous victory for our members and our union. Against tremendous odds, we have once again proven that united, the workers would ultimately win!” Cabada told Rappler on Wednesday, July 3.
Cabada also acknowledged the support the unions received from fellow trade unionists in the Philippines and abroad, including groups like Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (Sentro), NAGKAISA, and the International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations.
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, who attended the last conciliation hearing, said the DOLE is “pleased” with the resolution, commending both Sofitel unions and management for their “patience, perseverance, and firm resolve to arrive at a mutually beneficial agreement.”
“The DOLE will continue to assist both parties to ensure faithful compliance with the terms of the settlement,” he said in a message to Rappler on Wednesday.
Sentro said the victory would not have been possible without the “strong unity” of Sofitel’s workers and the “invaluable solidarity that the supportive public provided.”
Deputy Minority Leader Senator Risa Hontiveros, in particular, issued a resolution seeking an inquiry into the legitimacy of the closure, the treatment of employees, and its potential impact on labor policies in the hospitality sector.
“Sofitel is the beloved hotel that it is because of the service that we workers provide. We are happy that the agreement between our parties reflects this fundamental fact,” Sentro said in a statement on Tuesday.
“When the working people fight, when we unite, and when we struggle together, victories are always possible,” Sentro said. “The Sofitel campaign’s victory is an important reminder: When workers organize, when we fight, we win!” – Rappler.com
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Cebu Pacific picks Airbus for biggest aircraft order in PH history | lkyu0285 | 02/07/2024 17:14 | AIRBUS. Cebu Pacific receives a brand-new A320 neo plane assembled in Tianjin, China.
Lance Spencer Yu/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – It’s official: Cebu Pacific has chosen Airbus to supply up to 152 aircraft in what will become the largest aircraft order in Philippine history.
The low cost carrier signed a binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the European aerospace giant for the purchase of up to 152 A321neo aircraft for $24 billion, or P1.4 trillion based on list prices.
Cebu Pacific has some wiggle room to tweak its final purchase order based on market demand, given that the MOU covers firm orders for up to 102 A321neo planes, along with purchase rights for 50 A320neo Family aircraft.
“The order is designed to provide Cebu Pacific with maximum flexibility to adapt fleet growth to market conditions, with the ability to switch between the A321neo and A320neo,” Cebu Pacific chief executive officer Michael Szucs said in a Philippine Stock Exchange disclosure on Tuesday, July 2.
The new planes will also be powered with Pratt and Whitney GTF engines. Cebu Pacific has long used engines from the the American manufacturer, although in 2023, supply chain problems involving Pratt and Whitney forced Cebu Pacific and other airlines to ground their planes due to “faulty” engines. (READ: What’s causing the rise in flight cancellations and delays?)
The purchase agreement is expected to be finalized by the third quarter of 2024. Although it could take years for the planes to be fully delivered, by 2035, the Gokongwei-owned airline could quadruple the aircraft deployed in its regional hubs across the Philippines. In the first quarter of 2024, Cebu Pacific successfully rode the surge in holiday and international travel to more than double its net income compared to Q1 2023.
Cebu Air, the parent company of Cebu Pacific, had a total of 87 aircraft in its operating fleet as of March 31, 2024. It leases 20 Airbus CEO planes, 30 Airbus NEO planes, and 2 ATR 72-600 planes, while it owns 11 Airbus CEO planes, 10 Airbus NEO planes, 12 ATR 72-600 planes, and 2 ATR 72-500 planes.
Cebu Pacific’s decision to go with Airbus for its massive aircraft order comes just as Airbus’ rival Boeing struggles with declining plane deliveries and concerns surrounding safety standards, especially after a mid-air panel blowout during an Alaska Airlines flight. In late May, Saudia also picked Airbus for Saudi Arabia’s largest-ever plane order, according to a CNN report. – Rappler.com
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Beatdowns continue: Puerto Rico thrashes winless Gilas Boys by 45 in FIBA U17 World Cup | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 23:07 | LEAGUES APART. Gilas Boys' Wacky Ludovice attempts a jump shot over the Puerto Rico defense in the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – The Gilas Pilipinas under-17 team remained winless in the FIBA U17 World Cup after suffering yet another lopsided defeat, this time at the hands of Puerto Rico, 98-53, on Tuesday, July 2, at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul, Turkiye (Turkey).
In contrast to their first two outings, where Gilas Boys were immediately put away by their opponents in just the opening period, the Filipinos actually got off to a great start against Puerto Rico with a 24-16 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Gilas Boys were firing from all cylinders in the first 10 minutes of the ball game, shooting an efficient 8-of-13 field goal clip, including a near-perfect 5-of-6 mark from the two-point area.
Unfortunately, the Philippines failed to sustain its fiery start as Puerto Rico turned things around in the second frame and outscored Gilas Boys, 32-6, for a 48-30 edge at halftime.
Gilas Boys never got back to within single digits the rest of the way as the Puerto Ricans cruised to their first win of the tournament and handed the Filipinos – coached by Josh Reyes – their third loss in as many games.
Jordan Dill spearheaded Puerto Rico’s balanced attack with 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting, while Vincent Stewart posted a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds.
Jahrel Vigo, Rogny Santiago, and Justin Roman, meanwhile, all had 10 markers each for the Puerto Ricans.
For the first time in three matches, two players scored in double figures for Gilas Boys, with Joaquin Ludovice finishing with 13 and Kurt Velasquez tallying 11 on a combined 8-of-26 shooting.
CJ Amos – who led Gilas Boys’ furious start – dropped all his 8 points in the first quarter, while Bonn Daja chipped in 7 markers.
After a fourth-place finish in Group A, the Philippines hopes to pull off an improbable upset when it goes up against world No. 1 USA in the Round of 16 on Wednesday, July 3.
The Americans are coming off a historic 146-62 thrashing of China on Tuesday, setting a new record for most points scored in an U17 World Cup game.
The winners in the Round of 16 move up to the quarterfinals, while the losers fall to the classification games.
Puerto Rico 98 – Dill 15, Stewart 11, Vigo 10, Santiago R. 10, Roman 10, Santiago M. 9, Quinones 7, Cruz 6, Rosa 6, Montes 6, Pino 4, Colon 4.
Philippines 53 – Ludovice 13, Velasquez 10, Amos 8, Daja 7, Banal 3, Chua 3, Alegre 3, Gomez de Liaño 3, Diao 2, Morales 1, Williams 0, Arejola 0.
Quarters: 16-24, 48-30, 78-34, 98-53.
– Rappler.com
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Jollibee Group acquires majority stake in Korea’s Compose Coffee for $340 million | Ralf Rivas | 02/07/2024 17:06 | MANILA, Philippines – Filipino global food chain Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) is acquiring 70% of Compose Coffee, among South Korea’s most popular low cost coffee stores.
JFC said it acquired the shares for $340 million (around P20 billion). Private equity firms Titan Dining II LP and Elevation Equity Partners Korea Limited retain 5% and 25% of Compose Coffee, respectively.
Compose Coffee is the fastest growing coffee chain in South Korea, with 2,470 franchised stores. It boasts the largest in-house coffee roasting plant in Korea, which enables it to distribute specialty beans at low cost.
The company, with V of BTS as brand ambassador, also boasts of a debt-free balance sheet, “superior cash returns and excellent profitability margins.”
JFC said Compose Coffee is the biggest acquisition in terms of number of stores, bringing the group’s total store network closer to 10,000 stores. More than 66% of JFC’s stores are already outside the Philippines.
Compose Coffee and its roasting facility JMCF Co. Ltd. were founded in Busan in 2014. The brand was named South Korea’s favorite coffee shop at the 2023 Korea’s Most Loved Brand Awards, an event organized by Forbes Korea and sponsored by South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT and Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy.
“The business that Compose Coffee has built in the past 10 years is impressive and we are excited to play a major role in its next phase of growth. We believe that Compose Coffee is a compelling strategic fit for JFC and is on track to becoming the largest, fastest growing and leading value coffee player in South Korea,” said JFC chairman Tony Tan Caktiong. – Rappler.com
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Lauren Hoffman, John Tolentino hurdle way to Paris Olympics | delfin.dioquino editor | 03/07/2024 8:37 | FOCUS. Lauren Hoffman and John Cabang Tolentino in action in the 2024 Philippine Athletics Championships.
Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – Two more athletes joined the Philippines’ Olympic roster as hurdlers Lauren Hoffman and John Cabang Tolentino earned their Paris Games berths.
The Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) on late Tuesday, July 2, announced the qualification of Hoffman (women’s 400m hurdles) and Tolentino (men’s 110m hurdles), who will both debut in the Olympics.
Hoffman accomplished the feat by the skin of her teeth as she made the 40-entry cutoff at the 39th spot, collecting just enough points to advance.
It was a tight battle in the women’s 400m hurdles, with 32 athletes hitting the qualifying standard and just eight making it through by world rankings position to complete the field.
Robyn Brown, who ruled the event for the Philippines in the Asian Athletics Championships last year, fell short after ending up at 53rd.
Meanwhile, Tolentino – a Filipino residing in Spain – clinched his Olympic seat with hardly any scare as he finished 30th out of 40 qualifiers in the men’s 110m hurdles.
Hoffman and Tolentino raised the number of Filipino track and field athletes who will see action in Paris to three, with pole vaulter EJ Obiena leading the pack as one of the Philippines’ strongest medal bets.
Like Brown, other Filipino hopefuls Kristina Knott, Eric Cray, and Janry Ubas failed to make the cut as the qualification period closed on June 30.
Gunning for back-to-back Olympic appearances, Knott placed 57th in the 48-entry women’s 200m, while Cray – also eyeing a return trip to the Summer Games – wound up at 50th in the 40-entry men’s 400m hurdles.
Ubas landed at 42nd in the 32-entry men’s long jump.
PATAFA, though, clings on to the chance that Knott gets a reallocated quota place when World Athletics releases its final list of athletes eligible for the Olympics on July 7.
With Hoffman and Tolentino qualifying, the Philippines is set to send 22 athletes to Paris – its biggest delegation in the Olympics in over three decades since 26 represented the country in the 1992 Barcelona Games.
Included in the count are swimmers Kayla Sanchez and Jarod Hatch, whose universality slots are expected to be confirmed by World Aquatics on Wednesday, July 3. – Rappler.com
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Dave Ildefonso follows in father Danny’s footsteps, declares for PBA draft | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 20:57 | KBL STINT. Dave Ildefonso in action.
Suwon KT Sonicboom
MANILA, Philippines – With two days to spare before the deadline, Dave Ildefonso expressed his intention to join the upcoming PBA Rookie Draft on Tuesday, July 2.
The son of former PBA MVP Danny Ildefonso said he is returning to local hoops after not receiving any new overseas offers.
“I didn’t have offers from abroad, and [playing in the PBA] has been a dream of mine,” said Ildefonso during Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas’ media day in Mandaluyong City.
“Ever since my father played in the PBA, I want to follow his footsteps and try to achieve what he achieved. I will apply for this upcoming draft, but I don’t know if I could still submit, that’s the problem,” he added, referring to the Thursday, July 4, 5 pm deadline.
Ildefonso, who exhausted his playing years with Ateneo following the Blue Eagles’ UAAP Season 85 men’s basketball title win over UP, played in limited minutes with Korean Basketball League team Suwon KT.
During his second and final season with the team, he averaged 4.4 points, 1.0 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.7 turnovers in 10.6 minutes.
Suwon KT replaced Ildefonso with Fil-Italian guard Dalph Panopio, a former Gilas Pilipinas prospect, as its Asian import.
“As a player, if you know you’re not being used much in the last season of your contract, you begin to think of what’s next in the future…. Plan A, Plan B…what will I do if I got signed?” said Ildefonso.
“If I won’t get signed, what’s next? We were trying to negotiate [for a return], but the team went in a different direction with Dalph, which is, I think, a much better fit for them.”
If he had his way, Ildefonso mentioned that he would like to be drafted by Converge, where his dad coaches as an assistant, Rain or Shine with brother Shaun, or San Miguel, where he would be the second Ildefonso to wear a Beermen jersey.
Danny, who played from 1998 to 2013 under the San Miguel Beermen franchise, won eight PBA titles, three Finals MVPs, two league MVPs, and five Best Player of the Conference awards, cementing his legacy as one of the best ever. – Rappler.com
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Marcos approves P6.3-trillion budget proposal for 2025 | Dwight de Leon | 02/07/2024 16:19 | CHIEF EXECUTIVE. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who chairs the National Economic and Development Authority Board, presides over a meeting in Malacañang in April 2024.
Presidential Communications Office
MANILA, Philippines – The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is seeking a national budget of P6.352 trillion for 2025.
A press release from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Marcos approved the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) Fiscal Year 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP) during a Cabinet meeting in Malacañang on Tuesday, July 2.
The request is 10.1% higher than the current year’s P5.768 trillion national budget.
According to a Malacañang press release, the sector that gets the lion’s share of the budget proposal is education, in accordance with the 1987 Constitution.
Also top priorities of the government are the sectors of public works, health, interior and local government, and defense, the PCO added.
Based on a DBM briefer, the administration also wants to prioritize infrastructure development, human capital development, food security, enterprise development, research and development, digital transformation of the government, climate-smart and disaster-resilient development, and a comprehensive devolution strategy for 2025.
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman previously said that the executive branch targets to submit the proposed budget to Congress on July 29, a week after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Congress is tasked to scrutinize the proposed national budget, going through the House first before the Senate.
Once the budget bill hurdles both chambers, the president signs it into law, called the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for the fiscal year.
It is usually during the budget season in Congress that government agencies get evaluated on how they utilized their current budget, and what they want to achieve with their funding request for the succeeding year.
Last year’s budget deliberations centered on the swift disbursement of Vice President Sara Duterte’s confidential funds in 2022. The controversy resulted in the House’s denial of her request for confidential funds for 2024. – Rappler.com
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‘We have to be at our best’: Little room for error as Gilas shoots for Olympics | delfin.dioquino editor | 30/06/2024 23:10 | ADORED. Gilas Pilipinas in action in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – There is little room for error as Gilas Pilipinas tries to do something special in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) in Riga, Latvia.
Team manager Richard del Rosario said the Nationals have to be at the top of their game against Latvia and Georgia after getting a feel of what to expect in the OQT following a pair of friendly matches versus Turkiye (Turkey) and Poland.
Although Gilas dropped both tuneup games, with Turkey earning an 84-73 win and Poland escaping with an 82-80 victory, the Filipinos showed they have a fighting chance against top European teams.
“We were good against Turkey, we were better against Poland, but we have to be at our best from here on out,” said Del Rosario.
Minimizing its mistakes is a priority for the Philippines after it coughed up a combined 40 turnovers against Turkey and Poland.
That is more than the 39 assists the Filipinos totaled in the same two matches.
Defending the three-point line is also a point of concern as Turkey and Poland sank 14 and 11 triples, respectively, with their proficiency from beyond the arc spelling the difference in their triumphs.
In terms of strength, Gilas has been dominant on the boards as it recorded twice as many rebounds against Poland, 42-21.
The Philippines won the rebounding battle against Turkey as well, 39-29.
“We need to limit our turnovers and get locked in defensively. It’s not just about competing, it’s all about winning,” said Del Rosario.
Through the OQT, the Nationals hope to end the Philippines’ decades-long absence in Olympic basketball since the country last sent a team to the Summer Games in 1972.
Standing in the Filipinos’ way are two formidable squads in world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia, which both made the last 16 in the previous FIBA World Cup.
“We will put them under the microscope and look for ways to win,” said Del Rosario.
Gilas will play two games in less than 24 hours as it tangles with Latvia at 12 am and Georgia at 8:30 pm on Thursday, July 4 (Manila time). – Rappler.com
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Bersamin, Chinese envoy meet as POGO-linked crimes under scrutiny | Dwight de Leon | 02/07/2024 19:53 | MEETING. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin meets with Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian on July 2, 2024, discussing how to strengthen their partnership to fight organized crime.
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission
MANILA, Philippines – China reaffirmed to the Marcos administration its cooperation with the government’s crackdown on Philippine offshore gaming operators, which comes on the heels of a Senate probe into allegations that a mayor with POGO ties is an asset of Beijing.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin met with Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian on Tuesday, July 2, and the two parties discussed how to “strengthen their partnership” in the fight against organized crime.
“China expressed its appreciation for the recent actions taken by Philippine law enforcement authorities to counter illegal offshore gambling and to rescue several Chinese nationals,” the PAOCC press release read. “The Chinese embassy in the Philippines has been actively collaborating and maintaining open communication channels with their Philippine counterparts throughout this process.”
“The strengthened cooperation between China and the Philippines sends a clear message to criminal syndicates operating across borders that their malicious activities will not be tolerated nor allowed to undermine the security and stability of these nations,” it added.
China urged the Philippines in June to put an end to offshore gambling, which it called a “social ill” that encourages crimes of kidnapping, human trafficking, and murder.
POGOs sprouted across the Philippines beginning 2016, and grew exponentially in the succeeding years, as operators took advantage of liberal gaming laws under the administration of Rodrigo Duterte. Many POGO operators are run by Chinese nationals, as gambling in their home country is banned.
In the past year, Beijing helped Manila shut down five POGO hubs and repatriate a thousand Chinese individuals.
Scrutiny against POGO operators has intensified as the Senate investigates Alice Guo, the suspended mayor of Bamban, Tarlac. According to government documents, Guo was at one point a major shareholder of Baofu Land Development, owner of the property where a POGO hub operated in her municipality.
Senator Risa Hontiveros also believes Guo was planted by China to infiltrate local politics in the Philippines.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) later confirmed that the mayor’s fingerprints matched with those of Guo Hua Ping, who arrived in the Philippines from China in 2003.
“She is a Chinese national masquerading as Filipino citizen to facilitate crimes being committed by POGO,” Hontiveros had said.
Prior to the NBI bombshell, Guo insisted she was not a Chinese spy, and denied allegations of involvement in money laundering, human trafficking, and kidnapping schemes.
She had also written to Bersamin, requesting a fair investigation into her life. – Rappler.com
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Zamboanga mayor suspends business permit of fireworks firm after deadly blast | Herbie G | 02/07/2024 16:50 | AFTERMATH. The aftermath of the explosion of a firecracker warehouse in Zamboanga City on June 29, 2024.
Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe
ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – Mayor John Dalipe has suspended the business permit of a company whose stockpile of firecrackers exploded on Saturday, June 29, killing five people and injuring 38 others.
Dalipe issued the order on Monday, July 1, suspending the business permit of Jonathan Chua, the owner of Next Step Fireworks Shoppe. The explosion occurred in a warehouse at Marquez Drive, Barangay Tetuan, Zamboanga City.
Until the suspension order, Chua was the only holder of a permit to engage in such a business in Zamboanga.
Superintendent Christopher Morales, the Bureau of Fire Protection’s (BFP) Zamboanga City Fire District marshal, said they have yet to determine the cause of the explosion.
Morales reported that the explosion and subsequent fire caused an estimated P62.5 million in property damage. A warehouse and a residential house were destroyed, while 15 other structures were damaged.
Dr. Elmeir Apolinario, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief, said on Tuesday, July 2, that 30 of the 38 wounded victims sustained minor injuries, while the remaining eight were critically injured.
“Their injuries are not life-threatening,” Apolinario said.
Morales recommended the imposition of a total ban on the sale and use of firecrackers in Zamboanga City to prevent similar incidents in the future.
However, officials said the city council needs to amend the existing ordinance that allows the use of fireworks for entertainment purposes, subject to terms and conditions.
Personnel from the BFP, CDRRMO, Explosive Ordnance Demolition, military’s Task Force Zamboanga, Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources, City Engineer’s Office, and the village council of Tetuan conducted clearing operations at the blast site to pave the way for the opening of the area to civilians and motorists, including nearby residents.
They retrieved several boxes of drenched pyrotechnics from the blast site and brought them to Barangay Muti for proper disposal.
Meanwhile, Dalipe said he would order the City Engineer’s Office, police, and village officials to inspect all warehouses and storage facilities in Zamboanga City to ensure they operate in accordance with existing laws. – Rappler.com
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2 Chinese linked to Porac POGO sued for human trafficking | Jairo Bolledo | 02/07/2024 20:23 | COMPLAINTS. Department of Justice prosecutors receive the complaints filed against two Chinese connected with the Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga on July 2, 2024.
Sourced photo
MANILA, Philippines – The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), along with civilians, filed criminal complaints against two Chinese connected with a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga for various offenses, including human trafficking and kidnapping.
On Tuesday, July 1, Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutors received the complaints filed by the PAOCC and unspecified complainants against Qin Ren Gou, 37, originally from Hunan province, China, and Jiang Shi Guang, 41, from Heibei province. The two Chinese face the following criminal complaints:
The Chinese sued were related to Lucky South 99, the controversial POGO “checked” by the PAOCC and other Philippine authorities in early June. Workers from the said POGO claimed to have been trafficked and tortured. The two respondents are currently under the PAOCC’s custody.
DOJ prosecutors explained they cannot disclose yet the names of the civilian complainants, who are Chinese, due to security concerns. Complainants claimed they were restrained to a bed frame, kept locked for several days, and was beaten.
Tangled connections
The events in the controversial POGO in Porac, Pampanga have attracted the public’s attention due to the personalities involved and corruption within government.
Dennis Cunanan, a convicted pork barrel scam player, was allegedly hired by Lucky South 99 to run its corporate communications and government relations arm. The operation against the Porac POGO also opened the discussion of a possible leak within government since some foreigners were caught leaving before PAOCC even reached the area to conduct a “welfare check.”
The latest complaints were the second set of suits filed in relation to POGOs. Last month, Philippine authorities also filed a qualified trafficking complaint against Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, Cunanan, and 12 others, in relation to their alleged ties to Zun Yuan Technology Incorporated. The said POGO, located within Guo’s jurisdiction, was raided in March over alleged human trafficking.
Aside from her alleged ties with the illegal POGO, Guo is also in hot water over her real identity and citizenship. During Senate probes, lawmakers flagged Guo’s shady background. Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros even raised the question of whether Guo was an “asset” planted by China to infiltrate local politics. The mayor also claimed in one of the public hearings that she couldn’t remember basic details about her life.
The National Bureau of Investigation recently confirmed that the fingerprints of Guo and Guo Hua Ping, the Chinese woman suspected to be her true identity, had matched. This is evidence against the local official, which could be used to prove that she may be Chinese and not Filipino. – Rappler.com
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Gilas prospect AJ Edu continues Japan journey, signs with Nagasaki after Toyama stint | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 18:46 | KEY COG. Filipino import AJ Edu in action with Toyama in the Japan B. League.
Japan B. League
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas prospect AJ Edu is set to continue his career with the Japan B. League, signing with the Nagasaki Velca on Tuesday, July 2, at the conclusion of his stint with the Toyama Grouses.
This marks the 6-foot-10 forward’s second stop in his budding professional career, one year after linking up with Toyama – fellow Gilas star Dwight Ramos’ former team. Nagasaki, in turn, was Gilas gunner Jordan Heading’s former squad.
Edu now joins a team that marked a rapid ascent in the B. League ranks since its formation in 2020. After setting a Division 3 winning percentage record of 93% off a 42-3 season romp in 2021, the Velca were elevated to Division 2 in 2022 before rising to Division 1 this year.
The 24-year-old highflyer is expected to further boost Nagasaki’s contention bid after standing out in his rookie season with averages of 13.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.7 blocks.
Edu, however, is currently out of commission with a torn meniscus. He is set to miss Gilas’ Olympic Qualifying Tournament bid in Riga, Latvia, which starts on Thursday, July 4. – Rappler.com
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Google Translate adds 110 new languages, including support for Hiligaynon, Bikol, Waray, and more | Victor Barreiro Jr. | 02/07/2024 14:22 | MANILA, Philippines – Google announced last Thursday, June 27, it added support for 110 new languages to Google Translate, thanks to some help from its PaLM 2 large language model.
While about a quarter of the 110 languages added were said to come from Africa, Google said it also added support for five Philippine languages: Bikol, Hiligaynon, Kapampangan, Pangasinan, and Waray. Google Translate supported translations for Tagalog (called Filipino on the service), Cebuano, and Ilocano prior to this.
Aside from this, Cantonese was also added as a highly-requested feature, alongside the Shahmukhi variety of Punjabi – the most spoken language in Pakistan – and the Papua New Guinean creole Tok Pisin.
Isaac Caswell, Google’s senior software engineer at Google Translate, said in a blog post that “PaLM 2 was a key piece to the puzzle.” PaLM 2 helped Google Translate to more efficiently learn languages which were closely related to each other.
“As technology advances, and as we continue to partner with expert linguists and native speakers, we’ll support even more language varieties and spelling conventions over time,” Caswell said.
The added language support brings the total number of languages Google can translate for users to 133, with a list of the added supported languages available here.
Users can take advantage of the new supported language translation options by visiting the service or downloading the respective Google Translate app for their device. – Rappler.com
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Results, schedule: 2024 FIVB Women’s Challenger Cup | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 17:40 | Volleyball World
MANILA, Philippines – Filipinos will again be treated to world-class volleyball as the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup kicks off in Manila on Thursday, July 4, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, with games running until Sunday, July 7.
Hosted a few minutes away from the site of the 2024 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Challenge Cup, the world-level Challenger Cup will serve as a qualifier for the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL), and features a formidable eight-team field, including star-studded Alas Pilipinas.
Including the world No. 55 Philippines, all Challenger Cup teams are must-see attractions as half the participants are within the world’s top 20, bannered by No. 13 Belgium.
The Challenger Cup immediately starts with the quarterfinals, as all eight countries face off in a series of do-or-die matches, followed by the knockout semifinals and the winner-take-all final.
Here is the schedule of the four-day tournament, with results to follow as they become available.
– Rappler.com
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The Philippine Senate: From statesmen to showmen | jpcruz0306 | 02/07/2024 16:30 | David Castuciano/Rappler
“There is one dream that we all Filipinos share: that our children may have a better life than we have had. To make this country, our country, a nation for our children,” former senator and human rights activist Jose Diokno said.
“I am not a dove nor am I a hawk. I am a Kalaw, a truly Filipino bird,” former senator Eva Kalaw said, opposing the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos and the US for wanting to send Filipino troops to the Vietnam War.
“Independence, like freedom, is never granted. It is always asserted and affirmed. Its defense is an everyday endeavor – sometimes in the field of battle, oftentimes in the contest of conflicting wills and ideas. It is a daily struggle that may never end – for as long as we live,” former Senate president Jovito Salonga wrote.
These are some of the pronouncements of great Filipino statesmen from the past.
Of late, however, the Senate has been mired in controversy, if not protracted drama. Seemingly stripped of the formality of statesmanship, senators danced and sang, while one dared groom his mustache during a hearing. In the previous Congress, one senator was even caught playing a game on his iPad while in session.
From the 8th Congress after the EDSA People Power revolution all the way to the 19th Congress, Rappler analyzed demographic trends and patterns including hometowns, gender, age, education, and professions. Have these factors affected the composition of the Senate?
The data showed that since the 8th Congress, most of the senators came from Luzon, specifically Metro Manila, a vote-rich region. Only a few came from Mindanao and the Visayas.
Ateneo political science department chair and professor Carmel Abao attributes this to the proximity of candidates from the capital region to the seat of power, giving them the advantage of having more resources and networks to launch their national campaigns.
Regions like Calabarzon and Central Luzon – also vote-rich – have frequently seen their candidates in the Senate. Abao noted that campaigning in the Visayas and Mindanao is more challenging due to logistical and population density issues.
The large number of senators coming from Manila, according to University of the Philippines political science professor Jean Franco, also affects the discussions and priorities in the Senate, which tend to be national in focus.
She noted, however, that the lower chamber, where district representatives are elected and which represents mostly local issues, balances the agenda of the chambers.
With the current dominance of senators from Metro Manila, Franco also hopes for more diverse representation across other regions of the Philippines, reminiscent of the time when senators were elected by district under the Jones Law.
Enacted by the US Congress, the Jones Law aimed to promote autonomy for the Philippines which was colonized by the Americans. It established the Philippine legislature, which comprises the Senate and the House of Representatives. This bicameral Congress governed the country from October 1916 to November 1935.
Despite comprising nearly half the Philippines’ population, women remain underrepresented in the Senate.
Abao and Franco both said that the dominance of men in the Senate reflects a societal preference for male leaders over females.
“The Congress and Senate reflect our society’s gender inequality. It’s still a system that’s favorable to men,” Abao said.
There has been a gradual increase in female representation, but women senators remain a minority, and the country has yet to see a female Senate president.
The 18th and current 19th Congresses had the highest number of women senators in history, with seven seats occupied by women. These milestones, however, have not translated into substantive policy advancements for women, Franco and Abao said.
Many women senators, they noted, hail from political dynasties or are associated with influential male politicians like Makati’s Jejomar Binay, the late Renato Cayetano of Taguig–Pateros–Muntinlupa, former president Ferdinand E. Marcos of Ilocos Norte, and Manuel Villar of Las Piñas–Muntinlupa.
Incumbent Senator Grace Poe, meanwhile, is the adopted daughter of the late Fernando Poe Jr. and Susan Roces, former king and queen, respectively, of the national box office. Fernando Poe Jr. ran for president in 2004 but lost to Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in an election marred by allegations of cheating, most notably the infamous “Hello Garci” scandal.
Historical data on senators since the 8th Congress also show a trend of more senior lawmakers in terms of age. From the 8th to the 12th Congress, senators aged 50 to 59 dominated the upper chamber. Starting the 13th Congress, however, the Senate saw an influx of relatively younger legislators in their 40s.
In the 15th and 16th Congresses, there were at least seven and eight senators, respectively, who were “senior citizens.” By the 18th Congress, however, there were again at least 11 senators in their 50s.
The two scholars attributed the success of elder politicians to their long-established national presence, as well as their capacity to launch a national campaign.
In the 19th Congress, most of the senators, eleven in total, are in their 50s. Six senators are in their 60s, while another six are in their 40s.
The eldest senator in the present chamber is Cynthia Villar, 73, while the youngest is her son, Mark, at 45. Fifteen out of the 24 senators are Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964. The other nine senators belong to Generation X, born between 1966 and 1980.
The minimum age to be a senator in the Philippines is 35 years old.
Given the low number of young lawmakers, Franco said that “young people should push for representation in the Senate.” The median age of the Philippine population is 24.5 years old, the youngest in the region, according to the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office report in 2021.
The Philippines does not have a stringent educational requirement for aspiring senators or elected officials in general. The 1987 Constitution says that as long as you can read and write, you’re good to go.
Despite this, the majority of senators, especially during the 8th Congress, have held post-graduate degrees, mostly in law. This trend continued up to the current 19th Congress.
Abao, however, said that the high educational background of senators has not produced “evidence-based policymaking.”
“To what extent do they utilize available knowledge in their decision-making? Because that’s not very obvious,” she said.
Without naming names, Abao pointed out that some lawmakers, for example, have used the Bible to argue against the reproductive health law in a secular setting and have relied on personal experiences in discussions on divorce.
“Formal education is necessary but not sufficient. Someone might have extensive formal education but lack rootedness in society and empathy for the people affected by their policies,” she said. In other words, knowledge that is rooted in society, and which can be incredibly valuable, is not dependent on a college degree.
While many senators in the 19th Congress flexed their master’s and doctorate degrees from premier institutions, at least four senators did not complete college, among them, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, Bong Revilla Jr., and Raffy Tulfo.
Imee claims to have earned a degree from Princeton University, but the institution told Rappler previously in an email, that she did not finish her degree.
Other senators who made it to the Senate’s table despite not having college degrees were Anna Dominique “Nikki” M.L. Coseteng, journalist Francisco Tatad, actor-turned-politician Joseph E. Estrada, and incumbent President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. College degrees, however, are not the be-all and end-all of successful or meaningful legislation, much less success in life.
Tatad, an accomplished journalist, was barred from pursuing his degree at the University of Santo Tomas for allegedly “insulting” school authorities, the Varsitarian reported. Following this, he worked as a reporter for Agence France-Presse.
Meanwhile, Bongbong, like his sister, claimed to have a college degree from Oxford University, but clarified that the special diploma given to him in 1978 “was not a full graduate diploma.”
For Franco, who used to work in the Senate, the quality of legislation cannot be solely attributed to educational attainment. Senators have staff, a secretariat, a bill drafting division, and receive input from the executive and experts, she said.
Thus, a senator’s performance cannot be judged by bills alone. Wit can be tested when lawmakers defend their respective bills on the floor, she said.
Lawyers, celebrities
Throughout history, the Philippine Senate has been dominated by lawyers. During the 8th Congress,14 of the 24 Senate seats were occupied by lawyers.
Abao explained that this trend reflects the public perception that legal expertise fits well with legislative work.
She, however, noticed that the professional backgrounds of elected senators are not diverse enough to adequately mirror sectoral needs and interests. Based on the labor department’s February 2024 survey, the majority, or 60% of Filipinos worked in the service sector, 21% in agriculture, and 18% in the industry sector.
For Franco, one doesn’t have to be a lawyer to be a senator. Ideally, a senator, according to Franco, should also be a policy wonk, someone who understands the issues, and looks at laws based on evidence.
The Senate has also been a hub for “career politicians” – many of whom have transitioned from local to national roles. These include Imee Marcos, Joel Villanueva, Nancy Binay, Sherwin Gatchalian, and Miguel Zubiri. Many of them come from political dynasties.
Filipino voters, according to Franco, have a penchant for electing celebrity senators. Even in the 1950s, celebrities were elected, but their numbers surged post-1986 due to the restoration of media freedom after Marcos’ repressive Martial Law.
Abao said that the Senate, and politics in general, have become a retirement haven for aging celebrities.
“When you’re an older celebrity, your career path often leads to politics because it also relies on popularity. It’s easy to win an election if you’re a celebrity, so many of them [go that route],” Abao said in a mix of Filipino and English.
Under the 19th Congress, there are four from the action film industry who became senators: Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Jinggoy Estrada, and neophyte lawmaker Robin Padilla, who led the senatorial race in 2022, besting other longtime politicians.
Other previously elected celebrity senators are Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Ramon Revilla, Joseph Estrada, Nikki Coseteng, and Agapito “Butz” Aquino.
Former media personalities have also made their mark in the Senate. Notable examples include broadcast journalist Orlando “Orly” Mercado, writer Blas Ople, former diplomatic reporter Tatad, Raul Manglapus, and Noli de Castro of ABS-CBN.
In the 19th Congress, there are three of them: Senators Risa Hontiveros, Raffy Tulfo, and Loren Legarda.
Military representation in the Senate is not quite common. Among the select few who have transitioned from battlefield to the Senate are former commander of the AFP’s National Capital Region Defense Command Rodolfo “Pong” Biazon, Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan II, and Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV.
There were also a couple of former policemen who made it to the Senate like Robert Barbers, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Alfredo Lim, and most recently Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
Few businessmen are present in the Senate. Under the 19th Congress, there’s the mother and son tandem of Cynthia and Manny Villar. Their family owns the Philippines’ biggest home builder, Vista Land. The family’s patriarch, Manny, who was recognized by Forbes as the richest Filipino in the country in 2024, also used to be Senate president.
Despite the educational backgrounds and professional qualifications of many senators, the quality of legislation and debate in the upper chamber has remained cause for concern.
As political analysts suggested, the Senate’s demographic trends highlight the exclusivity of the chamber and the need for more inclusive representation.
“Demographics should suggest inclusivity, age matters, gender matters, education matters to the extent that the discourse is evidence-based, as well as professional background,” Abao said.
“If you want better policy, I guess we should go for better inclusion, better representation, not just [be] dominated by political families,” the Ateneo professor added.
Abao emphasized that the capability and the causes championed by senators are what truly matter.
“Basta marunong kang makinig, marunong kang magsalita, marunong kang mag-isip, puwede kang maging senador basta may dala-dala ka,” she said. (As long as you know how to listen, speak, think, you can be a senator as long as you carry something with you.)
There aren’t too stiff requirements to be a senator in the Philippines. One can run for the Senate so long as an individual can read and write, is a registered voter, at least 35 years old on election day, a natural-born Filipino citizen, and a resident of the Philippines for at least two years immediately preceding the day of election.
While these criteria may seem less stringent compared to corporate jobs, the role of senators is crucial because decisions – from bills they file and vote for, to the issues they scrutinize – have a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people.
As the 2025 midterm elections approach, the question remains: What kind of senators will Filipinos elect? Will they continue to favor politicians in the traditional mold or will they opt for greater inclusivity and representation? – Rappler.com
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The trend of favoring traditional politicians is expected to continue. President Marcos Jr., a traditional politician proficient in high-tech disinformation and allegedly significant wealth of unknown origin, is anticipated to surround himself with like-minded individuals. Achieving greater inclusivity and representation seems unattainable unless a genuine and transformative social change occurs.
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La Mesa Ecopark reopens after 4-month closure | Iya Gozum | 02/07/2024 17:52 | La Mesa Ecopark, dubbed as Metro Manila's last green frontier, reopens to the public on Satuday, June 29.
MANILA, Philippines – The La Mesa Ecopark, the public park near the La Mesa Dam, reopened its gates on Saturday, June 29, four months after temporarily cosing down.
The reopening marks the completion of the first of a three-phase park redevelopment.
The ecopark and watershed are considered Metro Manila’s last green frontiers situated north of Metro Manila.
The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), Manila Water, and the Quezon City government, led the opening on Saturday, intending to promote watershed conservation, biodiversity preservation, forest protection, and climate action.
Located in Novaliches, the 33-hectare area hosts over 220 species of flora and fauna, according to an assessment done by the Center for Conservation Innovation PH.
“We would like to envision transforming the La Mesa Ecopark as a destination that offers experiential and environmental learning,” said Reginald Andal, executive director of Manila Water Foundation.
The first completed phase features the eco-academy hall, eco-view deck, souvenir shop, picnic areas, nipa huts, plant nursery, and food park.
Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as guided bird watching, nature walking, forest paintball, wall climbing, rappelling, and archery tag.
Residents of Quezon City can enter for free with their QCitizen card while visitors from other cities can enter for a minimal fee of ₱20. Some facilities will have additional fees separate from the entrance fee.
As of now, the park will only accommodate a maximum of 1,000 reserved slots per day, made through MWF’s website. The management will not entertain walk-ins yet.
The park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 7 am to 4 pm. It is closed on Mondays for maintenance.
Phases 2 and 3 are set to be completed by 2025.
“This is not a small step. We’re awaiting phase 2 and phase 3 because that’s where the meat of the matter is—biodiversity,” said JV Emmanuel de Dios, president and chief executive officer of the Manila Water Company.
Phase 2 will include the lagoon suitable for recreational fishing activities, the Neptune garden, and Flower Hill. Phase 3 will include a forest area for hiking, trekking, and biking.
The opening ceremony also acknowledges the support of its recognition partners, Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, PAGCOR, Quezon City government, and Wilcon Depot honoring them with the ‘Kasangga ng Kalikasan’ award.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte proudly said they are the only city in the Philippines that belongs to the C40 Alliance of Global Cities for the Environment.
“Quezon City is really the trailblazer and the pioneer city in promoting climate action and sustaining the environment,” Belmonte said.
“We will nurture its natural beauty and ensure its rich biodiversity thrives for future generations,” she added.
Under the law, La Mesa Ecopark and La Mesa Watershed are under the joint authority of MWSS and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. These sites are used for intensive restoration, rehabilitation, and water quality monitoring.
Earlier this year, ABS-CBN Foundation ended its 25-year stewardship of the ecopark and the nature reserve. – Erika Sinaking/Rappler.com
Erika Sinaking is a Rappler intern from Adamson University. She is a third year student taking up Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
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‘Much-improved choice’: Groups, lawmakers hail Angara’s appointment as DepEd chief | Bonz Magsambol | 02/07/2024 16:52 | File photo of Senator Sonny Angara
Angie de Silva/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – Education groups welcomed the appointment of Senator Sonny Angara as the new secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), with the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) saying that he is a “much-improved choice.”
“ACT has known Senator Angara to be open to dialogues with teachers’ unions and organizations and consistent in his stand for increasing the salaries and improving the benefits of teachers, as well as addressing some problems of the education system,” the biggest teachers’ group said in a statement on Tuesday, July 2.
ACT also took a potshot at Vice President Sara Duterte, who had red-tagged their members when she was DepEd chief. (READ: Sara Duterte brings red-tagging to DepEd)
“ACT hopes that Sen. Angara will remain to be amicable, different from his red-tagger predecessor. We anticipate seeing him asserting some of his progressive stance on education concerns even if they run counter to the administration’s policies that only exacerbate the education crisis,” the group said.
ACT noted that Angara will assume the DepEd leadership at a time when the Philippine education system is facing an unprecedented learning crisis.
He inherits a gargantuan problem in the education sector, including the poor performance of Filipino students in global education assessments. A World Bank report showed that 9 in 10 Filipino students aged 10 are struggling to read simple text.
“Game-changing measures are urgently needed to overturn the decline of our country’s education quality and to sufficiently capacitate the education system to perform its role in nation-building,” ACT said.
The Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), which was among those that recommended Angara’s appointment as DepEd chief, noted that the senator “authored landmark legislations in education including the Free College Law and the Free Kindergarten Law” and “He has “also served as the chairman of the Senate committee on youth, where he pushed for greater opportunities for the youth to participate in policy-making and nation-building.”
In a statement congratulating Angara, the Makati Business Club (MBC) cited the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s latest Program for International Assessment Report (PISA), where the Philippines ranked last among Association of Southeast Asian Nation members in the areas of science, reading, and mathematics.
“These results highlight the urgent need for an experienced leader who will be able to transform and revive the Philippine education system. A well educated population is key to creating a competitive workforce that will be able to keep up with rapid technological developments given the acceleration of artificial intelligence,” MBC said.
“MBC looks forward to working with Senator Angara and wishes him all the best in this critical role, to ensure that elementary and high school principals and teachers are equipped with the literacy, technical, and character skills needed to prepare Filipino children and youth to meet the challenges of the future,” it added.
The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) said that it would have been ideal for an educator or a member of the academic sector to get the top DepEd post – especially as there are “many qualified individuals” who meet this critera – but it respects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to tap Angara for the post.
“As we have previously stated, we are willing to work with whoever takes the role to improve the agency and education sector. To start, we hope that the incoming secretary engages with stakeholders, especially teachers. He will encounter significant challenges, but addressing these can lead to substantial progress in our education system,” TDC said.
“Senator Angara will face formidable challenges in DepEd, and we stand ready to cooperate to overcome these for the education sector’s benefit. But, we vow to be vigilant in preventing any attempt to use DepEd for partisan politics. For now, we welcome the Senator to the Department and request a meeting with him at his earliest convenience,” it added.
TDC also presented 10 “critical areas” that Angara would have to immediately attend to, ranging from support for legislation proposing salary increases for teachers, to revising “the curriculum to align with our socio-cultural context and reinstate Philippine history in high school.”
Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros said that Angara is “one of the most qualified and acceptable DepEd Secretaries among education reform advocates.”
“Bilang nakasama at nakatrabaho, mula sa Kamara hanggang sa Senado (As someone who has worked with him, from the House to the Senate), Senator Sonny’s work as legislator and as member of EDCOM 2 speaks volumes of his commitment and aspiration for a better education sector,” she said in a statement
As EDCOM 2 commissioner, Angara promised a comprehensive review of the K to 12 program.
Senate President Chiz Escudero, who had endorsed Angara’s appointment to Marcos last week, said: “Secretary Angara’s task ahead is indeed gargantuan, but I have full confidence in his ability to lead the DepEd with excellence and integrity. His proven track record in legislative work, particularly in education reform, uniquely positions him to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Senator Migz Zubiri said that Angara “is more than qualified to head our most important agency, with the biggest share in the national budget no less.”
“Senator Sonny brings to the DepEd his brilliant fiscal mind, being a former chair of the Senate finance panel, and his heart for our youth, being part of the EDCOM II,” Zubiri said.
Angara’s Senate term ends in 2025. Escudero had said that there might be no need to replace Angara since his term is ending in less than a year anyway. – Rappler.com
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President Marcos Jr. has appointed a political ally to lead the DepEd. Senator Angara, a politician, is being questioned whether he will bring “politics” into DepEd, similar to what VP Sara has done. Being an experienced legislator but not a DepEd bureaucrat raises concerns. In any case, this situation is seen as evidence that the Political Patronage System is functioning effectively in our government.
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FACT CHECK: Imee Marcos did not resign from Senate | jpcruz0306 | 02/07/2024 16:00 | Claim: Senator Imee Marcos resigned from the Senate.
Why we fact-checked this: The YouTube video containing the claim has 30,668 views, 1,000 likes, and 164 comments as of writing. It was uploaded on June 16 by a channel with 117,000 subscribers.
The video’s title bears the claim: “OMG: Kinarma na! Imee gumawa ng ingay nag-resign na / Palasyo pugad ng kawatan kumpirmado PBBM.”
(OMG: Karma struck! Imee made a fuss, has already resigned. Palace is a nest of thieves, PBBM confirmed.)
The facts: The title and thumbnail of the YouTube video are clickbait. The video neither discussed the claim nor provided any evidence regarding Marcos’ supposed resignation.
Marcos remains on the list of senators of the 19th Congress. There are also no official statements released by the Marcos camp or any news reports about her alleged resignation.
Last May 23, Marcos took an oath before the Supreme Court as a new member of the Senate Electoral Tribunal, alongside her colleagues JV Ejercito, Nancy Binay, Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, and Robinhood Padilla.
Marcoses and the Dutertes: The video only highlights the senator’s remarks last May, which were seemingly directed at her brother President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s claim that the previous Aquino and Duterte administrations had done nothing to rehabilitate areas devastated by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) more than 10 years ago.
In a May 24 press release, Senator Marcos refuted her brother’s claim and acknowledged the help of then-mayor Rodrigo Duterte and other individuals and organizations in the aftermath of Yolanda.
The senator had previously affirmed her staunch alliance with the Dutertes. In 2023, she spoke up to support former president Duterte who had allowed a hero’s burial for her father in 2016, and endorsed her inclusion in the PDP-Laban’s senatorial slate in 2019. Marcos recently reiterated her all-out support for Vice President Sara Duterte after the latter resigned from the Marcos Cabinet. (READ: Everything you need to know about Sara Duterte’s resignation from the Marcos Cabinet)
Marcos siblings: This is not the first time that Senator Marcos openly criticized her brother’s policies and statements, indicating an apparent rift between the siblings.
In 2022, Senator Marcos initially opposed the Maharlika wealth fund. She also joined a protest in September 2023 calling for the resignation of her brother’s then-finance chief, Benjamin Diokno, due to his economic policies.
Critics, however, dismiss the senator’s supposed opposition to the Marcos administration as a publicity stunt for her political agenda. – Shane Cameron/Rappler.com
Shane Cameron is a Rappler intern. She is studying Development Communication at the University of the Philippines Los Baños.
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.
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FAST FACTS: Gilas Pilipinas’ last shot at Paris Olympics | delfin.dioquino editor | 22/06/2024 16:35 | FAN FAVORITE. Justin Brownlee and Gilas Pilipinas wave to the crowd after winning over Hong Kong in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – It has been over five decades since the Philippines sent a basketball team to the Olympics in the 1972 Munich Games.
This group of Gilas Pilipinas hopes to end that drought as it sees action in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia, that will run from July 2 to 7.
It will be the Philippines’ last shot at the Paris Games after it failed to clinch an Olympic berth rewarded to the best Asian nation in the previous FIBA World Cup – a distinction that went to Japan.
Here are some fast facts about the Nationals’ road to the Olympics:
Formidable competition awaits the Filipinos in Riga as they face host and world No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia in Group A.
The 37th-ranked Philippines will play two games in as many days, with Latvia up first on Thursday, July 4, at 12 am, Manila time.
It will then be a quick turnaround for the Nationals as they play again in less than 24 hours against Georgia at 8:30 pm on July 4.
The two teams pose a significant challenge to the Filipinos, with Latvia and Georgia both making the last 16 of the World Cup, where the Philippines finished 24th.
Latvia even went as far as the quarterfinals, only losing by a single possession to eventual champion Germany, as it placed fifth.
Aside from the Philippines, Latvia, and Georgia, three more teams will take part in the OQT in Riga as Brazil, Cameroon, and Montenegro lock horns in Group B.
Brazil ranks 12th in the world, Montenegro is 17th, and Cameroon is 68th.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the crossover semifinals, where the No. 1 teams from Groups A and B will face the No. 2 squads in their opposite groups in a pair of knockout matches.
Winners of the semifinals face off in a do-or-die clash to determine which team will punch a ticket to the Paris Games.
Only the last team standing in Riga will qualify for the Olympics.
It is the same case in the other three OQT legs to be held simultaneously in Valencia, Spain; Piraeus, Greece; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Spain, Lebanon, Angola, Finland, Poland, and the Bahamas duke it out in Valencia; Greece, Slovenia, New Zealand, Croatia, Egypt, and Dominican Republic battle in Piraeus, and Puerto Rico, Italy, Lithuania, Mexico, Bahrain, and Ivory Coast compete in San Juan.
The winners of the four OQT legs will complete the 12-team Olympic cast bannered by defending champion USA and host France, which disputed the gold medal in the previous Tokyo Games.
Canada, Germany, Serbia, South Sudan, Australia, and Japan also qualified. – Rappler.com
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‘Personal vendetta’? Binay prepares ahead of Cayetano’s new Senate building probe | Bonz Magsambol | 02/07/2024 21:45 | File photos of Senators Nancy Binay and Alan Peter Cayetano
Binay (Senate PRIB); Cayetano (Rappler)
MANILA, Philippines – Ahead of the public hearing about the ballooning expenses of the P23-billion new Senate building on Wednesday, July 3, Senator Nancy Binay said she is preparing herself in case the probe would be used for “personal ambition or vendetta.”
“I have to prepare na kasi napagdaanan ko na to ‘eh, parang na-de-déjà vu na nga ako sa mga nangyayari. Ngayon na dapat paghandaan ko na hindi na dapat maulit ‘yong ganitong sistema na nagagamit ‘yong Senado for… personal ambition or vendetta,” Binay told reporters on Tuesday, July 2, when asked if she thinks she was being targeted by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, the current chair of the committee on accounts.
(I have to prepare because I passed through the same situation before. What’s happening now feels like deja vu, and I should prepare that this kind of system, wherein the Senate is being used for personal ambition or vendetta, won’t happen again.)
The committee on accounts is in charge of the Senate’s budget, expenses, audit, and other fiscal activities, including the ongoing construction of the new Senate building in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig. Binay is the former accounts committee chair.
The two lawmakers have been at odds in the past. It was Cayetano who led the year-long probe against the Binay family in Makati infrastructure projects in 2015, including the overpriced Makati building.
Barely a month into his leadership, Senate President Francis Escudero said he was shocked that the upper chamber’s new home will cost the government P23 billion to complete, a 158% increase from the original P8.9 billion. This prompted him to order a comprehensive review of the project.
The construction began under the leadership of former Senate president Tito Sotto. Former senator Panfilo Lacson was chair of the committee on accounts at that time before it was transferred to Binay.
The contract was awarded to Hilmarc’s Construction Corporation by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is the implementing agency of the project.
Hilmarc’s is the same company that was embroiled in the overpriced P2.3-billion Makati City Hall Building II way back in 2014. The project was initiated in 2007 under then-mayor Jejomar Binay and was completed in 2012 under his son, Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay Jr., who became mayor in 2010. (READ: Binay’s Makati building overshoots approved budget)
On Monday, July 1, Cayateno posted on Facebook that he had already received documents from the DPWH ahead of the Senate hearing.
During Tuesday’s press briefing, Binay reiterated that she held briefings with colleagues regarding updates of the new Senate building, including the staff of Escudero. However, she said Cayetano was not able to get briefed because he was absent at that time. She also said Cayetano has not reached out to her until now.
“Ang nakakalungkot kasi ‘yong bagong chairperson ng committee as usual absent na naman siya so hindi siya nag-attend no’ng briefing ko ‘di ba? Which, ‘di ko naman kasalanan,” she said, alluding to Cayetano.
(What’s disappointing is that the new chairperson of the committee was absent as usual that’s why he wasn’t able to attend my briefing, which was not my fault at all.)
According to Senate records, Cayetano was the Senate top absentee from July 24, 2023 to February 21, 2024. He attended only 36 of the 54 regular sessions in the said period. He missed 18 sessions; four were due to official missions.
Reporters reached out to Cayetano’s office for comment, but they have yet to respond as of this posting.
On Monday, Escudero said he never said there were irregularities. “Nobody alleged irregularity. I’m not alleging any irregularity. I never alleged irregularity. I don’t know why people are sounding too defensive about this,” he added.
The Senate President said that it was his job to study and look for ways to bring down the cost.
Binay also claimed that there’s one senator sowing intrigue against her and the new Senate building, but she refused to name the said colleague.
Binay also said that the issue on the new Senate building is being used to fuel the Makati-Taguig feud.
“Noong una, ayaw kong maniwala ‘eh pero habang tumatagal parang doon tumutumbok na nagagamit lang ‘yung Senate building for his issue ‘di ba,” Binay said.
(At first, I don’t want to believe that it’s related to that, but as time goes by, it seems that the he is using the new Senate building for his own issues.)
The dispute between the Binays and the Cayetanos was compounded when Taguig won jurisdiction over 10 “embo” barangays that were previously under Makati.
Makati Mayor Abby Binay, whose term ends in 2025, expressed a desire to seek the Taguig mayorship in the same year. Meanwhile, Senator Binay said that she’s eyeing to run for mayor in Makati as her Senate term ends next year. – Rappler.com
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Marcos gets cheers for NIR, jeers for inflation, rights concerns from Negros | Herbie G | 02/07/2024 11:43 | BACOLOD ADDRESS. President Marcos Jr. addresses a crowd during his visit in Bacolod City on June 27, 2024.
Negros Occidental PIO
BACOLOD, Philippines – The Marcos Jr. administration received mixed reactions on Negros Island as it entered its third year, with local leaders cheering the creation of the Negros Island Region (NIR) and activists jeering at its failure to address concerns about red-tagging, extrajudicial killings, and rising inflation.
The recent creation of the NIR marked a milestone, especially for local leaders who have long been pushing for it.
Even Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who supported the 2022 presidential bid of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s strongest rival, former vice president Leni Robredo, was all praises for the current administration for the NIR creation shortly before the President concluded his second year in office.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for making the dream of One Negros a reality,” said Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez.
Marcos signed Republic Act 12000, paving the way for the rebirth of NIR, carving out Negros Occidental from Western Mindanao, and Negros Oriental and Siquijor from Central Visayas to form the new region.
The region was first established in 2015 by the late former president Benigno Simeon Aquino through Executive Order 183, but it was abolished by his successor, ex-president Rodrigo Duterte, two years later.
Although Duterte cited financial constraints as the basis for its abolition, it was widely perceived that it was his way of getting back at political leaders of the Negros provinces where he lost to former senator and interior secretary Mar Roxas in the 2016 presidential elections.
Frank Carbon, chief executive officer of the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), said the legislative creation of the NIR will serve as Marcos Jr.’s legacy for the Negrense people.
“With NIR, more investments will create more and better-paying jobs that will help eradicate poverty and insurgency,” Carbon said.
Negros Occidental 5th District Representative Dino Yulo said the NIR’s rebirth should pave the way for an inter-provincial road network that would impact the government’s efforts toward sustainable peace and order on Negros Island.
Negros Occidental Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer said NIR is a fulfilled promise of the President to the Negrenses, which he made during the 2022 presidential campaign.
“It means he (Marcos) never failed us,” Ferrer said.
The MBCCI and the General Alliance of Workers Association (GAWA), however, said much work still has to be done, and one is to provide a stable power supply in the NIR.
Carbon and GAWA’s secretary general, Wennie Sancho, said Negros’ quest for power security must be prioritized by Marcos as he embarks on his third year in office.
“The creation of NIR will be futile without a dependable, sustainable, and affordable power supply,” said Sancho, who is also one of the leaders of Power Watch Negros (PWN).
Carbon called for the creation of a regional power development council to address the unique power needs of the island.
He said, “We need to have our power development roadmap to come up with a viable and doable energy security program.”
Negros Island alone, he said, needs at least 300 megawatts (MW).
But as the island’s economy progresses, and to address the intermediate, peaking, ancillary, and surplus power needs, Carbon said as much as 450 MW needs to be generated.
Meanwhile, GAWA called on the Marcos Jr. administration and legislators to approve the proposed P100 across-the-board wage increase to help workers cope with rising inflation.
“A P100 daily pay hike for private sector workers is a significant benefit,” Sancho said.
The minimum wage in Negros Occidental is P480 a day, and Sancho said it was not enough given the recent inflation rates across the country.
Wilson Gamboa Jr., convenor of both Amlig Tubig and Amlig Kuryente in Bacolod City, said the Marcos Jr. administration failed to address inflation concerns, which aggravated the problem of rising poverty and hunger rates.
“Sad to say, almost everything now is beyond the reach of the poorest of the poor in Bacolod and Negros Occidental,” Gamboa said.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that inflation accelerated to 3.9% in May from 3.8% in April.
Add to that, Gamboa said, is the continuing corruption at all levels of government.
“Tapos, lingawon lang kita sa paayuda-ayuda (Then, we will just be entertained by the aid distribution),” he said.
Marcos was in Bacolod City on June 27, where he distributed cash aid of P10,000 each to 8,315 families adversely affected by the El Niño phenomenon. He also gave the Bacolod City government and Negros Occidental funds to help them with their El Niño disaster response efforts.
“The concern of the President for the Negrenses is truly felt. We can count on President Marcos to stand with us through challenges and triumphs alike,” said Lacson.
Human rights advocates on Negros Island, meanwhile, raised grave concerns over the series of killings of civilians and unarmed persons on Negros Island.
The Human Rights Advocates Negros (HRAN) said the killings were reminiscent of the situation in southern Negros during the first Marcos administration.
HRAN criticized the military, accusing it of justifying the violence by making it look like those who were killed were rebels who engaged soldiers.
The group cited as examples the deaths of Emaryn Pastedio, Christopher Ebarle, and Jose Caramihan in Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental, in February. HRAN said they were civilians killed on suspicion that they were members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Worse, according to HRAN, the Marcos Jr. administration did not heed calls for the abolition of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and turned a blind eye to the red-tagging of people and groups critical of government policies. – Rappler.com
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Ticket prices, seat plan: Kim Ji-won’s ‘BE MY ONE’ fan meeting in Manila | jreyes0314 | 02/07/2024 19:34 | Kim Ji-won's Instagram
MANILA, Philippines – Concert promoter PULP Live World released on Tuesday, July 2, the ticket prices, seat plan, and perks for Kim Ji-won’s BE MY ONE fan meeting in Manila.
The South Korean actress’ fan meeting will be held on August 3 at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City.
Prepare to be lovestruck by KIM JI WON! 🌟Here's the official seat plan for her 2024 KIM JI WON 1ST FANMEETING <BE MY ONE> IN MANILA on August 3, 2024, at the @NewFrontierPh. Check out the seating options and choose your desired spot to experience this unforgettable event!… pic.twitter.com/oQdq77aR1G
Ticket prices are as follows:
The Unionbank presale will happen on July 20 from 10 am to 10 pm, while the general public will be able to secure their tickets on July 21 from 12 pm onwards. All tickets may be purchased via TicketNet online and physical TicketNet outlets.
All ticket types are entitled to a photo card set, souvenir show card, and a hi-bye opportunity with the Queen of Tears actress.
Signed posters will be raffled off to those seated in the Royalty, VIP, Orchestra A, Loge, and Orchestra B sections, while those in Royalty and VIP sections will get the chance to receive signed polaroids. Meanwhile, only Royalty ticket holders are entitled to a group photo opportunity Kim Ji-won.
Kim Ji-won is a South Korean actress best known for her roles in the Korean dramas Queen of Tears, Fight For My Way, and My Liberation Notes, among others.
Her BE MY ONE fan meeting comes just months after her Queen of Tears co-star Kim Soo-hyun wrapped up his Eyes on You fan meeting in Manila on June 29. – Rappler.com
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Giant killer: Brownlee flirts with triple-double as Gilas Pilipinas shocks Latvia in FIBA OQT | delfin.dioquino editor | 03/07/2024 23:57 | FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas pulled off a massive upset to open the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament as it stunned world No. 6 Latvia in its own turf, hacking out an 89-80 win in Riga on Wednesday, July 3 (Thursday, July 4, Manila time).
Justin Brownlee delivered timely buckets down the stretch and finished with a near triple-double of 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists to propel the Philippines to a 1-0 record in Group A.
Kai Sotto chalked up 18 points and 8 rebounds in the nail-biting win, which saw the Filipinos build a lead as big as 26 points before they held off a gritty comeback from the Latvians.
Dwight Ramos chimed in 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, June Mar Fajardo added 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals, while Chris Newsome fired 10 points as the Nationals fueled hopes of advancing to the semifinals.
Rodions Kurucs tallied 18 points and 7 rebounds to pace Latvia, which dropped to 1-1.
📊 26 PTS I 9 REB I 9 ASTJustin Brownlee delivered an extraordinary near triple-double performance vs Latvia, earning TCL Player Of The Game honors!#FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/JjGsQu1mNe
Is Justin Brownlee the MJ of the Philippines? 🐐🇵🇭 #FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/l9QQjJgblV
🇵🇭 Gilas Pilipinas upset Latvia and claim their first win against European opposition in an official FIBA competition since 1960! #FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/hwhSkvMTP1
Whether Gilas Pilipinas can hold its own against a world-class team will be put to the test in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
The Philippines will open its campaign against the world No. 6 hosts as it seeks to pull off a massive upset at the Arena Riga on Wednesday, July 3 (Thursday, July 4, Manila time).
Getting a win will be a tall order for the Filipinos, especially after the Latvians defended their turf against world No. 23 Georgia by way of an 83-55 romp to kick off hostilities in Group A.
Latvia shot the lights out against a Georgian side bannered by NBA players Sandro Mamukelashvili and Goga Bitadze as it went 30-of-61 from the field, including 12-of-29 from beyond the arc.
Spearheaded by Charlotte Hornets forward Davis Bertans, Latvia finished fifth in the previous FIBA World Cup, losing by just a single possession to eventual champion Germany in the quarterfinals.
But the Philippines banks on the belief that it can get the job done following close losses to world No. 15 Poland and No. 24 Turkey in a pair of friendly games.
Justin Brownlee is expected to lead the way for the Filipinos after averaging 25.5 points and 4 rebounds in those tuneup matches.
Game time is 12 am. – Rappler.com
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RESULTS: June 2024 Mechanical Engineers and Certified Plant Mechanics Special Professional Licensure Examinations | lfangeles0309 | 03/07/2024 18:41 | The following is a press release from the Professional Regulation Commission.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 19 out of 100 passed the Mechanical Engineers Special Professional Licensure Examination and 1 out of 2 passed the Certified Plant Mechanics Special Professional Licensure Examination given by the Board of Mechanical Engineering in: Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Al Ahmadi, Kuwait; Al-Khobar, Jeddah and Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Doha, Qatar; Manama, Bahrain; and Singapore last June 2024.
The members of the Board of Mechanical Engineering who gave the licensure examination are Engr. Rodulfo L. Tablante, Chairman; Engr. Manuel L. Paulino and Engr. Ramon F. Solis, Members.
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), 2 pieces passport sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps and 1 piece short brown envelope. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.
The following is the performance of schools:
Here’s the full list of passers:
– Rappler.com
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Cayetano-led hearing on new Senate office gets too personal, Binay walks out | Bonz Magsambol | 03/07/2024 20:33 | FEUD. Senators Nancy Binay and Alan Peter Cayetano trade barbs during the public hearing on the new senate building project on July 3, 2024.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
The feud between Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Nancy Binay took center stage in a hearing that was supposed to shed light on the ballooning cost of the new Senate building construction in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City.
Cayetano, chair of the Senate committee on accounts, launched a probe into the issue on Wednesday, July 3, after Senate President Chiz Escudero ordered a “comprehensive review.”
The Senate President had said he was shocked after learning that it would cost the government P23 billion to complete the new Senate building. Escudero, however, said, he never claimed there were irregularities, and that he was just doing his job to find ways to bring down the cost.
The committee on accounts is in charge of the Senate’s budget, expenses, audit, and other fiscal activities, including the ongoing construction of the new Senate home in Fort Bonifacio. Binay is the former accounts committee chair.
At the hearing, Binay refuted Cayetano’s claim that the cost now stands at P23 billion. She said it was only P21.7 billion. Unconvinced, Cayetano insisted that cost had reached P23 billion because of the land acquisition.
“You’ve been going around saying na mali ‘yung number namin. Kung mali, correct it, pero ang nagbigay ng number sa amin staff mo. So anong problema? Ginugulo mo ‘yung hearing eh. Kung sasabihin mo mali, ano ang tamang number?” Cayetano asked Binay. But Binay wasn’t able to get the chance to explain because Cayetano would always interrupt her.
(You’ve been going around saying that our numbers are wrong. If wrong, then correct them, but these numbers are from your staff. So what’s the problem? You’re disturbing the hearing. If wrong, what’s the correct number?”
“Ang problema sa ‘yo, you keep going around and saying ‘gusto ko makausap si Alan, gusto ko makausap si Chiz.’ Nagkita pa tayo sa party hindi mo naman kami kinakausap tapos ngayon manggugulo ka sa hearing,” Cayatano told Binay.
(The problem with you is that you keep going around and saying, “I want to talk to Alan, I want to talk to Chiz.” We even saw each other at a party, but you didn’t talk to us, and then now, you’re disturbing the hearing.)
The two traded barbs for like 20 minutes. Cayetano even insinuated that Binay influenced the media to favor her narrative.
“Ano bang intention mo na guguluhin mo ang hearing natin? It’s P23 billion total. Ang dami mo nang inimbento sa media, imbento ka naka-10 interview ka, baka ito naman ‘yung Makati-Taguig. Eh hindi mo man lang iniba question sa radyo. Lahat pare pareho question, eksakto pa eh, eh di halatang ikaw nagbigay ng question,” Cayetano said.
(What’s your intention in disturbing our hearing? It’s P23 billion in total. You said a lot of lies to the media and did 10 interviews and telling them that it’s related to the Makati-Taguig issue. You didn’t even change questions in radio interviews. Every interview had the same exact questions. It’s apparent that it’s you who gave the questions.)
Binay responded by saying, “Bakit naman ako magbibigay ng question sa media? Baka gawain ‘nyo yung nagbibigay ng tanong. Excuse me!” (Why would I give questions to the media? Maybe it’s you who gives questions. Excuse me!)
The two lawmakers had been at odds in the past. It was Cayetano who led the year-long probe against the Binay family in Makati infrastructure projects in 2015, including the overpriced Makati building.
The contract of the new Senate building was awarded to Hilmarc’s Construction Corporation by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is the implementing agency of the project. Hilmarc’s is the same company that was embroiled in the overpriced P2.3-billion Makati City Hall Building II way back in 2014. The project was initiated in 2007 under then-mayor Jejomar Binay and was completed in 2012 under his son, Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay Jr., who became mayor in 2010. (READ: Binay’s Makati building overshoots approved budget)
Binay said the DPWH, which was invited by Cayetano to answer questions, was not given the chance to explain their side because they always got interrupted by the committee chairman.
At some point of their heated exchange, Cayetano resorted to name-calling, saying that Binay’s name is Lourdes, and not “Marites” (a Filipino slang for gossipmongers).
“Sinasabi mo na may kinalaman ito sa Makati-Taguig issue. Sasabihin mo may sumasaksak sa likod mo. Ano iisipin nila? Ma’am isa lang sasabihin ko sa ‘yo, Lourdes pangalan mo at hindi Marites. Ayusin natin ito. Nakakahiya na,” Cayetano said.
(You’re telling us that this hearing has something to do with Makati-Taguig issue. You said that someone is backstabbing you. What will they think? Ma’am, I’ll tell you one thing, your name is Lourdes, not Marites. Let’s fix this. This is embarrassing.)
In a press conference on Tuesday, July 2, Binay claimed that there’s one senator sowing intrigue against her and the new Senate building, but she refused to name the said colleague. (READ: ‘Personal vendetta’? Binay prepares ahead of Cayetano’s new Senate building probe)
Towards the end of their heated exchange, Binay asked the DPWH if there was a P23-billion amount in their documents, to which DPWH Undersecretary Emil Sadain responded, “There is none.”
After the DPWH responded, Binay told Cayetano, “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I made my point. There’s no such thing as P23 billion sa (in) DPWH.” Then she walked out of the room.
The dispute between the Binays and the Cayetanos was compounded when Taguig won jurisdiction over 10 “embo” barangays that were previously under Makati.
Makati Mayor Abby Binay, whose term ends in 2025, expressed a desire to seek the Taguig mayorship in the same year. Meanwhile, Senator Binay said that she’s eyeing to run for mayor in Makati as her Senate term ends next year. – Rappler.com
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Round 2 of the Binay vs. Cayetano match is an intriguing watch from start to finish, another captivating display of the Philippine Political Circus.
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No match: USA boots out Gilas Boys in FIBA U17 World Cup with 96-point whipping | Jasmine Payo | 03/07/2024 23:18 | OVERPOWERED. Gilas Boys’ Joaquin Ludovice tries to drive past USA’s Caleb Holt in the FIBA U17 World Cup.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – The Gilas Boys’ misery continues in the FIBA U17 World Cup.
Pitted against world No. 1 USA in the Round of 16, the Gilas Pilipinas under-17 team did not stand a chance as it suffered a 141-45 whipping on Wednesday, July 3, at the Ahmet Comert Sports Hall in Istanbul, Turkiye (Turkey).
With the loss, the Josh Reyes-mentored Gilas Boys – who absorbed their fourth lopsided defeat in five days – officially crashed out of medal contention and will move down to the classification games on Friday, July 5.
Just a day after setting the most points scored in a U17 World Cup game with 146 markers, USA did not waste any time putting the Philippines away as it stormed to a 24-5 start in the first 5 minutes, before finishing the opening frame with a whopping 30-point edge, 43-13.
By halftime, USA’s lead grew even larger to 57 points, 80-23, with Cameron Boozer and Koa Peat leading the charge with 16 and 14 points, respectively.
The Americans continued their onslaught of Gilas Boys in the second half, dropping 26 points in the third quarter and 35 markers in the final frame, as they wrapped up the one-sided affair with their biggest lead at 96 points.
Although they fell short of breaking their 146-point scoring record they set against China on Tuesday, July 2, the undefeated Americans reset their record for most assists in a single game with 49 dimes.
Peat finished with a game-high 22 points on 11-of-13 shooting, while Boozer – the son of former NBA star Carlos – ended up with 20 markers on a near-perfect 10-of-11 field goal clip.
The six-time U17 champion USA shot an ultra-efficient 62-of-95 clip from the field, while the Philippines only converted on 13 of its 64 attempts.
For the second game in a row, UST high school guard Joaquin Ludovice topscored for Gilas Boys with 15 points, as CJ Amos backstopped him with 10.
The 5-foot-9 Ludovice came up with 13 points in the Philippines’ 98-53 loss to Puerto Rico on Tuesday.
Paul Diao added 7 markers for Gilas Boys, while Edryn Morales and Bonn Daja chimed in 6 and 5, respectively.
USA 141 – Peat 22, Boozer Cam. 20, Haralson 16, Holt 14, Cenac 14, Boozer Cay. 12, Stokes 12, McCoy 11, Smith 9, Dybantsa 7, Mandaquit 4, Toombs 0.
Philippines 45 – Ludovice 15, Amos 10, Diao 7, Morales 6, Daja 5, Williams 2, Banal 0, Chua 0, Velasquez 0, Arejola 0, Alegre 0, De Liaño 0.
Quarters: 43-13, 80-23, 106-35, 141-45.
– Rappler.com
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DSWD may accept donations from tobacco industry – DOJ | Michelle Abad | 03/07/2024 20:26 | MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is free to accept donations from individuals and businesses linked to the tobacco industry, according to the legal opinion of the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla signed a six-page legal opinion saying that the DSWD accepting donations from individuals and businesses in the tobacco industry would not violate Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2010-01 of the Civil Service Commission and the Department of Health, particularly Section 3.3.
The JMC prohibits government officials and employees from soliciting or accepting, directly or indirectly, any gifts, favors, gratuities, entertainment, loans, or anything of monetary value in the course of official duties. It also covers any official operations or transactions that an entity in the tobacco industry may affect.
According to the DOJ, the prohibition in the JMC is a reiteration of the same prescription found in Section 7(d) of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
This section of the law reads: “Public officials and employees shall not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties or in connection with any operation being regulated by, or any transaction which may be affected by the functions of their office.”
The DOJ said that both the JMC and the public sector’s code of conduct refer to individuals – public officials and employees – and not the government agency as a whole.
“Given that the prohibition under JMC No. 2010-01 only expressly covers public officials and employees, the same cannot be interpreted to broadly extend to the national government, local government, and other government agencies, subdivisions, and offices,” the DOJ said.
The JMC also imposes a penalty on the erring individual public official or employee, not the agency or department itself.
Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian requested the legal opinion from the DOJ, prompted by three mobile clinics accepting donations from a tobacco company for the use of social welfare and disaster response operations. Gatchalian believed that accepting donations was not prohibited.
In his letter, Gatchalian noted that a 2018 administrative order (AO) from former president Rodrigo Duterte’s DSWD held that “DSWD personnel regardless of rank and status shall limit interactions with the tobacco industry to those strictly necessary for its regulation.”
A year later, the DSWD issued AO No. 11, expanding the prohibition against receiving gifts from any individual or business linked to the tobacco industry.
“As correctly pointed out in your letter,” the DOJ wrote, “existing national laws regarding the regulation of tobacco in the country do not explicitly restrict donations made by persons or businesses involved in the tobacco industry to government agencies.”
The justice department advised the DSWD to internally address AO No. 11’s “overreaching inclusion” of both the agency and its officials and employees in the coverage of prohibitions.
The JMC’s prohibition of donations from the tobacco industry is in line with the country’s compliance with its international commitments under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).
The DOJ added that the WHO FCTC does not oblige countries to outright ban or prohibit the tobacco industry’s donations to the government. – Rappler.com
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Potential No. 1 pick Justine Baltazar joins PBA Draft | delfin.dioquino editor | 03/07/2024 21:23 | BIG MAN. Justine Baltazar in action for the Pampanga Giant Lanterns in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – The upcoming PBA Draft set on July 14 just got arguably its biggest draw as Justine Baltazar headlines the pool of rookie hopefuls.
According to a story on the PBA website, the 6-foot-9 Baltazar, who is touted as the potential No. 1 pick owing to his size and versatile skill set, submitted his application on Wednesday, July 3.
The former La Salle big man, a three-time UAAP Mythical Team member, gives the PBA another shot after a change of heart last year that saw him withdraw from the draft, instead taking his talents to the Japan B. League.
Baltazar signed with the Hiroshima Dragonflies in 2022, but his B. League stint proved short-lived as he parted ways with the club in the middle of the season.
After a botched attempt to sign with the Seoul Samsung Thunders, which also resulted in a two-year ban from the Korean Basketball League, he opted to play for his home team Pampanga in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
Baltazar led the Giant Lanterns to the MPBL crown last season and won the MVP and Finals MVP honors.
Maintaining his dominant form, the former Gilas Pilipinas standout averages 14.2 points, 14.5 rebounds, 6 assists, and 1.1 steals in the current MPBL season.
Baltazar is expected to be selected by the Converge FiberXers, who own the top pick after a dismal season that saw them compile a 3-19 record and finish last in the two conferences.
Converge team owner Dennis Anthony Uy hails from Pampanga, while Pampanga Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, who coaches the Giant Lanterns, is closely tied with the FiberXers.
Baltazar joins the growing draft pool that includes other top prospects CJ Cansino, Jerom Lastimosa, Dave Ildefonso, Caelan Tiongson, Evan Nelle, and Jonnel Policarpio.
Policarpio, also a La Salle product like Baltazar, bid the Green Archers goodbye on Wednesday to pursue his PBA aspirations.
The deadline for application is on Thursday, July 4.
After Converge, Blackwater will pick second followed by Terrafirma at No. 3, Phoenix at No. 4, NorthPort at No. 5, NLEX at No. 6, Rain or Shine at No. 7 and 8, Magnolia at No. 9, and Barangay Ginebra at No. 10.
Meralco and San Miguel, which each won a championship last season, will select at No. 11 and 12, respectively. – Rappler.com
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Cayetano-led hearing on new Senate office gets too personal, Binay walks out | Bonz Magsambol | 03/07/2024 20:33 | FEUD. Senators Nancy Binay and Alan Peter Cayetano trade barbs during the public hearing on the new senate building project on July 3, 2024.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
The feud between Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Nancy Binay took center stage in a hearing that was supposed to shed light on the ballooning cost of the new Senate building construction in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City.
Cayetano, chair of the Senate committee on accounts, launched a probe into the issue on Wednesday, July 3, after Senate President Chiz Escudero ordered a “comprehensive review.”
The Senate President had said he was shocked after learning that it would cost the government P23 billion to complete the new Senate building. Escudero, however, said, he never claimed there were irregularities, and that he was just doing his job to find ways to bring down the cost.
The committee on accounts is in charge of the Senate’s budget, expenses, audit, and other fiscal activities, including the ongoing construction of the new Senate home in Fort Bonifacio. Binay is the former accounts committee chair.
At the hearing, Binay refuted Cayetano’s claim that the cost now stands at P23 billion. She said it was only P21.7 billion. Unconvinced, Cayetano insisted that cost had reached P23 billion because of the land acquisition.
“You’ve been going around saying na mali ‘yung number namin. Kung mali, correct it, pero ang nagbigay ng number sa amin staff mo. So anong problema? Ginugulo mo ‘yung hearing eh. Kung sasabihin mo mali, ano ang tamang number?” Cayetano asked Binay. But Binay wasn’t able to get the chance to explain because Cayetano would always interrupt her.
(You’ve been going around saying that our numbers are wrong. If wrong, then correct them, but these numbers are from your staff. So what’s the problem? You’re disturbing the hearing. If wrong, what’s the correct number?”
“Ang problema sa ‘yo, you keep going around and saying ‘gusto ko makausap si Alan, gusto ko makausap si Chiz.’ Nagkita pa tayo sa party hindi mo naman kami kinakausap tapos ngayon manggugulo ka sa hearing,” Cayatano told Binay.
(The problem with you is that you keep going around and saying, “I want to talk to Alan, I want to talk to Chiz.” We even saw each other at a party, but you didn’t talk to us, and then now, you’re disturbing the hearing.)
The two traded barbs for like 20 minutes. Cayetano even insinuated that Binay influenced the media to favor her narrative.
“Ano bang intention mo na guguluhin mo ang hearing natin? It’s P23 billion total. Ang dami mo nang inimbento sa media, imbento ka naka-10 interview ka, baka ito naman ‘yung Makati-Taguig. Eh hindi mo man lang iniba question sa radyo. Lahat pare pareho question, eksakto pa eh, eh di halatang ikaw nagbigay ng question,” Cayetano said.
(What’s your intention in disturbing our hearing? It’s P23 billion in total. You said a lot of lies to the media and did 10 interviews and telling them that it’s related to the Makati-Taguig issue. You didn’t even change questions in radio interviews. Every interview had the same exact questions. It’s apparent that it’s you who gave the questions.)
Binay responded by saying, “Bakit naman ako magbibigay ng question sa media? Baka gawain ‘nyo yung nagbibigay ng tanong. Excuse me!” (Why would I give questions to the media? Maybe it’s you who gives questions. Excuse me!)
The two lawmakers had been at odds in the past. It was Cayetano who led the year-long probe against the Binay family in Makati infrastructure projects in 2015, including the overpriced Makati building.
The contract of the new Senate building was awarded to Hilmarc’s Construction Corporation by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is the implementing agency of the project. Hilmarc’s is the same company that was embroiled in the overpriced P2.3-billion Makati City Hall Building II way back in 2014. The project was initiated in 2007 under then-mayor Jejomar Binay and was completed in 2012 under his son, Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay Jr., who became mayor in 2010. (READ: Binay’s Makati building overshoots approved budget)
Binay said the DPWH, which was invited by Cayetano to answer questions, was not given the chance to explain their side because they always got interrupted by the committee chairman.
At some point of their heated exchange, Cayetano resorted to name-calling, saying that Binay’s name is Lourdes, and not “Marites” (a Filipino slang for gossipmongers).
“Sinasabi mo na may kinalaman ito sa Makati-Taguig issue. Sasabihin mo may sumasaksak sa likod mo. Ano iisipin nila? Ma’am isa lang sasabihin ko sa ‘yo, Lourdes pangalan mo at hindi Marites. Ayusin natin ito. Nakakahiya na,” Cayetano said.
(You’re telling us that this hearing has something to do with Makati-Taguig issue. You said that someone is backstabbing you. What will they think? Ma’am, I’ll tell you one thing, your name is Lourdes, not Marites. Let’s fix this. This is embarrassing.)
In a press conference on Tuesday, July 2, Binay claimed that there’s one senator sowing intrigue against her and the new Senate building, but she refused to name the said colleague. (READ: ‘Personal vendetta’? Binay prepares ahead of Cayetano’s new Senate building probe)
Towards the end of their heated exchange, Binay asked the DPWH if there was a P23-billion amount in their documents, to which DPWH Undersecretary Emil Sadain responded, “There is none.”
After the DPWH responded, Binay told Cayetano, “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I made my point. There’s no such thing as P23 billion sa (in) DPWH.” Then she walked out of the room.
The dispute between the Binays and the Cayetanos was compounded when Taguig won jurisdiction over 10 “embo” barangays that were previously under Makati.
Makati Mayor Abby Binay, whose term ends in 2025, expressed a desire to seek the Taguig mayorship in the same year. Meanwhile, Senator Binay said that she’s eyeing to run for mayor in Makati as her Senate term ends next year. – Rappler.com
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Round 2 of the Binay vs. Cayetano match is an intriguing watch from start to finish, another captivating display of the Philippine Political Circus.
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FACT CHECK: No application link for Landbank scholarship program | Lorenz Pasion | 03/07/2024 19:59 | Claim: Landbank of the Philippines is accepting applications for its educational assistance program for school year 2024-2025 through an online link.
Why we fact-checked this: The Facebook post containing the claim was posted by the admin of a group named “4p’s Updates” with over 444,100 followers.
The post claims that the Landbank scholarship program is open to all students from the elementary to college levels enrolled in both public and private institutions. It includes an online link to the application, which supposedly closes on July 15.
As of writing, the post already has 1,700 reactions, 1,600 comments, and 2,000 shares. It has also been circulating in similar Facebook groups on scholarships and financial assistance programs allegedly offered by various government agencies.
Similar posts bearing the Landbank logo have also been posted in the same group repeatedly over the past weeks as the start of the school year approaches.
The facts: The application link is fake. Landbank has not yet opened applications for its Iskolar ng Landbank Program (ILP) for the school year 2024-2025. According to a February 27 public advisory on its website, any announcements regarding the application and screening process for the program will be released exclusively through Landbank’s official channels.
On June 25, Landbank warned the public about scams circulating on social media, saying that any announcements on cash assistance or scholarship programs from unauthorized Facebook groups or pages are not affiliated with the bank, its subsidiaries, or its foundation.
Only for graduating high school students: Contrary to the claim in the misleading post, the ILP, established in 2023, only accepts applications from graduating high school students “with a minimum average grade of 90% or belonging to the top 10% of their class.” The program does not cover elementary students or current high school and college students.
Eligible applicants are limited to the bank’s primary mandated sector – children or grandchildren of an agrarian reform beneficiary or small farmers and fishers.
Possible phishing scam: The link provided in the post does not direct users to the official Landbank website, but to a blog site with a supposed application form posted on its main page.
Filling out the application form with personal information, including school IDs, could potentially expose users to phishing scams. (READ: Phishing 101: How to spot and avoid phishing)
Rappler has already refuted several false claims regarding purported scholarship programs offered by various government agencies.
– Jerry Yubal Jr./Rappler.com
Jerry Yubal Jr. is a graduate of Aries Rufo Journalism fellow of Rappler for 2023-2024. 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. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time.
Got comments, questions, or insights about this story? Download the Rappler Communities app for iOS, Android, or web, tap the Community tab, and join any of our chat rooms. See you there!
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Results, schedule: 2024 FIVB Women’s Challenger Cup | jisaga0269 | 02/07/2024 17:40 | Volleyball World
MANILA, Philippines – Filipinos will again be treated to world-class volleyball as the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup kicks off in Manila on Thursday, July 4, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, with games running until Sunday, July 7.
Hosted a few minutes away from the site of the 2024 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Challenge Cup, the world-level Challenger Cup will serve as a qualifier for the 2025 Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL), and features a formidable eight-team field, including star-studded Alas Pilipinas.
Including the world No. 55 Philippines, all Challenger Cup teams are must-see attractions as half the participants are within the world’s top 20, bannered by No. 13 Belgium.
The Challenger Cup immediately starts with the quarterfinals, as all eight countries face off in a series of do-or-die matches, followed by the knockout semifinals and the winner-take-all final.
Here is the schedule of the four-day tournament, with results to follow as they become available.
– Rappler.com
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Giant killer: Brownlee flirts with triple-double as Gilas Pilipinas shocks Latvia in FIBA OQT | delfin.dioquino editor | 03/07/2024 23:57 | FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas pulled off a massive upset to open the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament as it stunned world No. 6 Latvia in its own turf, hacking out an 89-80 win in Riga on Wednesday, July 3 (Thursday, July 4, Manila time).
Justin Brownlee delivered timely buckets down the stretch and finished with a near triple-double of 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists to propel the Philippines to a 1-0 record in Group A.
Kai Sotto chalked up 18 points and 8 rebounds in the nail-biting win, which saw the Filipinos build a lead as big as 26 points before they held off a gritty comeback from the Latvians.
Dwight Ramos chimed in 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, June Mar Fajardo added 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals, while Chris Newsome fired 10 points as the Nationals fueled hopes of advancing to the semifinals.
Rodions Kurucs tallied 18 points and 7 rebounds to pace Latvia, which dropped to 1-1.
📊 26 PTS I 9 REB I 9 ASTJustin Brownlee delivered an extraordinary near triple-double performance vs Latvia, earning TCL Player Of The Game honors!#FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/JjGsQu1mNe
Is Justin Brownlee the MJ of the Philippines? 🐐🇵🇭 #FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/l9QQjJgblV
🇵🇭 Gilas Pilipinas upset Latvia and claim their first win against European opposition in an official FIBA competition since 1960! #FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/hwhSkvMTP1
Whether Gilas Pilipinas can hold its own against a world-class team will be put to the test in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
The Philippines will open its campaign against the world No. 6 hosts as it seeks to pull off a massive upset at the Arena Riga on Wednesday, July 3 (Thursday, July 4, Manila time).
Getting a win will be a tall order for the Filipinos, especially after the Latvians defended their turf against world No. 23 Georgia by way of an 83-55 romp to kick off hostilities in Group A.
Latvia shot the lights out against a Georgian side bannered by NBA players Sandro Mamukelashvili and Goga Bitadze as it went 30-of-61 from the field, including 12-of-29 from beyond the arc.
Spearheaded by Charlotte Hornets forward Davis Bertans, Latvia finished fifth in the previous FIBA World Cup, losing by just a single possession to eventual champion Germany in the quarterfinals.
But the Philippines banks on the belief that it can get the job done following close losses to world No. 15 Poland and No. 24 Turkey in a pair of friendly games.
Justin Brownlee is expected to lead the way for the Filipinos after averaging 25.5 points and 4 rebounds in those tuneup matches.
Game time is 12 am. – Rappler.com
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Mason Amos transfer sad, painful for Ateneo ‘kuyas’ | Jasmine Payo | 03/07/2024 17:18 | TRUE FORM. Impressive Ateneo rookie Mason Amos flashes his clutch game.
UAAP SEASON 86 MEDIA TEAM
MANILA, Philippines – Sweet-shooting big man Mason Amos’ shock move from the Ateneo Blue Eagles to bitter rival De La Salle Green Archers left a former teammate “hurt” and an ex-team star likewise “sad.”
Amos, who is part of Gilas Pilipinas‘ Olympic Qualifying Tournament roster currently competing in Riga, Latvia, will be eligible to play for the Archers starting UAAP Season 88 in 2025.
Former teammate Geo Chiu admitted that like many others, he was caught off guard by the decision.
“Just like what everyone feels right now, it hurts… there’s a cut in here,” Chiu said in a mix of English and Filipino, while making a gesture soothing his chest.
“I just try to be in the middle as much as possible. I get the other side, but I’m also trying to understand Mason… there’s so many things he’s going through right now,” he added.
“It still hurts, because you didn’t expect it.”
Amid rumors that UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao may exit any time, Amos – who needs to serve a one-year residency – will join a much different La Salle roster two seasons from now.
By then, Taft’s offseason recruits – Kean Baclaan, Jacob Cortez, and Fil-Bulgarian Alex Konov – will be up and running for coach Topex Robinson.
UAAP | WATCH:MASAKIT. Former Ateneo Blue Eagle Geo Chiu says he feels “hurt” about Mason Amos’ transfer to La Salle. pic.twitter.com/fdhdJCt4s6
Former UAAP MVP Kiefer Ravena said he “respects” Amos’ move, especially if it’s for his personal improvement.
“For me, it’s a little bit tough for the kid. Especially now, he’s got something on his plate which is the OQT,” said Ravena.
“But then again, as an Atenean, I respect his decision. He has to make moves that would be beneficial for his career. It’s sad to see him leave,” he continued.
“There’s always a lot of emotions involved when it comes to school pride, and your loyalty is there when you transfer from one school to another, that’s why there are hurt feelings and bridges burned.”
On his Instagram post last Monday, July 1, Amos confirmed earlier reports of his departure.
“I will forever be proud to have represented the school and thankful. I love you Ateneo,” the Filipino-Australian big said. “It may be a goodbye, but you will always have a place in my heart.”
During his lone season with Ateneo, he averaged 8.7 points and 3.3 rebounds before the team bowed out in the semifinals against the UP Fighting Maroons.
Prior to Amos’ decision, key cogs Kai Balunggay, Jared Brown, and Chiu also bid the team farewell.
Ravena himself was a transferee from La Salle Green Hills, where he starred during his elementary days, to the Ateneo Blue Eaglets, where he won a championship in 2010.
The floor general also caused quite a stir in 2021 when he spurned the NLEX Road Warriors for Japan B. League squad Shiga Lakestars (now Lakes).
He had since left the franchise after three years as its Asian import, recently signing a two-year deal with Yokohama.
“[In] a professional level, it differs. People would understand it. Some people won’t, but I guess he (Amos) has his own reasons but we would have to respect that,” said Ravena.
Both Chiu and Ravena are set to see action for Strong Group–Pilipinas in the Jones Cup in Taipei from July 13-21.
UAAP | WATCH:RESPECT. Kiefer Ravena says he “understands” and “respects” Mason Amos’ move to La Salle. #UAAPSeason87 pic.twitter.com/aIYjhmMnvW
– Rappler.com
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How to watch Gilas Pilipinas’ FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 games | delfin.dioquino editor | 03/07/2024 19:11 | TRIO. Dwight Ramos (24) with Gilas Pilipinas teammates Kai Sotto (11) and Calvin Oftana (18) in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas gets one last shot at the Paris Games as it plunges to action in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
The lowest-ranked team in Group A, world No. 37 Philippines faces an uphill climb against No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia, needing a top-two finish to advance to the crossover semifinals.
Making the road to the Olympics more difficult is the hectic schedule as the Filipinos play back-to-back matches in less than 24 hours, first against Latvia at 12 am then against Georgia at 8:30 pm on Thursday, July 4 (Manila time).
But the Nationals are up to the challenge.
“This is not supposed to be a fun trip, it is supposed to be the hardest thing we will ever do in our basketball lives,” said Philippines head coach Tim Cone.
Here are ways to watch Gilas Pilipinas’ games:
For free television, the matches will be shown live on One Sports and RPTV, while Cignal subscribers can check the games out on One Sports+.
Pilipinas Live offers streaming for both battles against Latvia and Georgia through its website and mobile app.
The matches can also be streamed live through the Smart LiveStream App for free.
Those who want to cheer alongside their fellow fans can attend the watch parties at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City to be hosted by insecticide spray brand Baygon.
Gates open at 9:30 pm on Wednesday, July 3, for the Latvia game and at 6 pm on Thursday, July 4, for the Georgia match.
To spice up the watch party, Baygon will stage games, including a free throw shootout, and do a giveaway of its products.
Fans can also catch Rappler Sports’ play-by-play updates on game days.
– Rappler.com
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How to watch Gilas Pilipinas’ FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 games | delfin.dioquino editor | 03/07/2024 19:11 | TRIO. Dwight Ramos (24) with Gilas Pilipinas teammates Kai Sotto (11) and Calvin Oftana (18) in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas gets one last shot at the Paris Games as it plunges to action in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
The lowest-ranked team in Group A, world No. 37 Philippines faces an uphill climb against No. 6 Latvia and No. 23 Georgia, needing a top-two finish to advance to the crossover semifinals.
Making the road to the Olympics more difficult is the hectic schedule as the Filipinos play back-to-back matches in less than 24 hours, first against Latvia at 12 am then against Georgia at 8:30 pm on Thursday, July 4 (Manila time).
But the Nationals are up to the challenge.
“This is not supposed to be a fun trip, it is supposed to be the hardest thing we will ever do in our basketball lives,” said Philippines head coach Tim Cone.
Here are ways to watch Gilas Pilipinas’ games:
For free television, the matches will be shown live on One Sports and RPTV, while Cignal subscribers can check the games out on One Sports+.
Pilipinas Live offers streaming for both battles against Latvia and Georgia through its website and mobile app.
The matches can also be streamed live through the Smart LiveStream App for free.
Those who want to cheer alongside their fellow fans can attend the watch parties at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City to be hosted by insecticide spray brand Baygon.
Gates open at 9:30 pm on Wednesday, July 3, for the Latvia game and at 6 pm on Thursday, July 4, for the Georgia match.
To spice up the watch party, Baygon will stage games, including a free throw shootout, and do a giveaway of its products.
Fans can also catch Rappler Sports’ play-by-play updates on game days.
– Rappler.com
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RESULTS: June 2024 Mechanical Engineers and Certified Plant Mechanics Special Professional Licensure Examinations | lfangeles0309 | 03/07/2024 18:41 | The following is a press release from the Professional Regulation Commission.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 19 out of 100 passed the Mechanical Engineers Special Professional Licensure Examination and 1 out of 2 passed the Certified Plant Mechanics Special Professional Licensure Examination given by the Board of Mechanical Engineering in: Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Al Ahmadi, Kuwait; Al-Khobar, Jeddah and Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Doha, Qatar; Manama, Bahrain; and Singapore last June 2024.
The members of the Board of Mechanical Engineering who gave the licensure examination are Engr. Rodulfo L. Tablante, Chairman; Engr. Manuel L. Paulino and Engr. Ramon F. Solis, Members.
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), 2 pieces passport sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps and 1 piece short brown envelope. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.
The following is the performance of schools:
Here’s the full list of passers:
– Rappler.com
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Mapua gets CHED okay to offer Arizona State University courses | Russell Ku | 03/07/2024 11:54 | The following is a press release from the Commission on Higher Education.
International education is now made more available to Filipino students after the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) approved the first transnational higher education (TNHE) programs of Mapua University and Arizona State University (ASU).
CHED has authorized Mapua University to offer the following TNHE programs starting this school year:
Through the flexible transnational higher education modes, in four years, students can acquire double degrees or can be guaranteed an advance entry into a master’s program in ASU.
“Through the Transnational Higher Education Law, we create another pathway for Filipino students to access and acquire international education in order to enhance their skills in specialized areas and competitiveness in the global field,” CHED Secretary Popoy De Vera said.
Through this partnership between Mapua and ASU, one of the most innovative universities in the US, Mapua equips interested students with world-class training in international business, cross-cultural relations, global political economy, and regional business environments.
ASU is a public HEI recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and US Department of Education (USDE). It is ranked 200th in the 2025 QS World University Rankings and 155th in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.
Moreover, ASU has retained the top spot as the Most Innovative School in the US for eight consecutive years as reported by the US News & World Report.
Meanwhile, Mapua University is a CHED-recognized Philippine higher education institution ranked within 601-650 in 2024 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asia and 1501+ in the Times Higher Education.
The Transnational Higher Education Act (Republic Act No. 11448), enacted in 2019, aims to develop a globally competitive workforce, talents, and innovations.
CHED is mandated in this law to develop effective transnational higher education programs and institutions in the Philippines. – Rappler.com
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PUP JME champions women, inclusivity in ‘Kaleidoscope’ event | Vixey Marie | 03/07/2024 15:52 | The following is a press release from the PUP Junior Marketing Executives.
The PUP Junior Marketing Executives (JME) marks a significant milestone heralding their first-ever event themed “Kaleidoscope: Championing Gender Equality, Amplifying Women’s Narrative,” dedicated to celebrating women.
At the heart of Kaleidoscope is a commitment to sharing authentic stories and unfiltered narratives of women. This event serves as a platform where women from diverse backgrounds can openly discuss the obstacles they’ve faced, the valuable lessons they’ve learned, and the triumphs they’ve achieved.
With a core mission to celebrate and acknowledge the triumphs of every woman in our society, this event embodies the essence of empowerment, emphasizing that regardless of gender, individuals can chart their own path to success.
Kaleidoscope isn’t just about women; it’s about inclusivity, reaching out to all genders who have faced barriers in their quest to be seen and heard.
Highlights:
Join us for this transformative event on Saturday, July 6, from 1 pm to 5 pm at the Polytechnic University Manila Claro M. Recto Hall. This event promises to bring kaleidoscopic change, a moment to witness and celebrate the diverse and vibrant stories of women who inspire us all.
Make HERstory by registering here.
For more information, visit the Kaleidoscope website.
– Rappler.com
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After ‘insulting’ P35 NCR wage hike, workers ramp up national campaign | Michelle Abad | 03/07/2024 17:34 | CONTINUED CAMPAIGN. Various trade unions call for more significant increases for minimum wage earners in a press conference on July 3, 2024.
SENTRO
MANILA, Philippines – After the Metro Manila regional wage board approved what workers called a measly P35 increase for minimum wage earners in the region, labor groups are doubling down lobbying and campaign efforts to pass the bill granting a more substantial across-the-board base pay, labor groups said in a press briefing on Wednesday, July 3.
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Monday, July 1, approved a P35 increase for minimum wage earners, bringing the base salary in the non-agriculture sector from P610 to P645, and in the agriculture sector and establishments employing 15 or less workers from P573 to P608.
Various groups were dismayed by the decision, especially amid the months-long deliberations in Congress for increases worth at least triple what the Metro Manila board approved. The capital region traditionally has the highest minimum wage in the country.
Luke Espiritu, Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino president, said his group was looking to do a “saturation drive” to help bring the campaign down to workers in local communities.
These include a “mobile propaganda team” which will explain the wage issue to communities, distribute leaflets and posters, and conduct a signature campaign for the proposed national wage increase.
“The purpose of this is so we can have efforts from the ground in speaking to district-level members of the House from the workers’ community, so we can gather more support for the legislated wage increase of at least P150,” Espiritu said in a mix of Filipino and English.
He encouraged other trade unions to join in the effort.
Meanwhile, other labor groups have also continued lobbying efforts despite Congress being adjourned.
Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) legislative officer Paul Gajes said in the Wednesday briefing that even before Congress adjourned its Second Regular Session sine die in May, the group distributed co-authorship forms for House Bill No. 7871, the version of the bill authored by TUCP Representative and Deputy Speaker Raymond Mendoza seeking a P150 wage increase.
“It is a continued effort, together with the National Wage Coalition, we are doing some lobbying, especially now, as an offshoot of the P35-increase that the wage board provided – we will all the more double our efforts to push for the approval of the P150 legislated wage hike,” Gajes said.
The proposed wage increases in both chambers of Congress range from P100 to P750 based on various versions of the bill. In the Senate, the labor committee has passed the P100 version. Its counterpart at the House has yet to approve any of the versions.
Rene Magtubo, spokesperson for the Nagkaisa labor coalition, also said there was a continued lobbying effort, even in preparation for the bill’s discussion at the plenary level.
“Positibo kami dadami lalo ang susuporta lalo sa wage hike lalo na nakita [ng mga mambabatas] ang kapalpakan ng wage board (We are positive that we will gather more support for the wage hike, especially since lawmakers have seen the failure of the wage board),” said Magtubo.
On Labor Day, May 1, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered regional wage boards to reassess workers’ salaries.
Magtubo said that the small increase from the Metro Manila wage board should entice lawmakers to fast-track deliberations of the bill. Employers groups have resisted the increases, citing inability to afford them. Others have said the proposed national increases may cause inflation or job losses – a stand Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma shares.
“In the Senate, the employers argued the same. But what did the senators do? They said we should give a P100-increase. In the House, what are they discussing? A P150-increase. Why, then, did the wage board approve P35?” Magtubo said in Filipino.
“Siguro ito na yung pinakamalaking batayan para umaksyon yung Kongreso, lalo na yung lower house, itong napakababa at nakakainsultong wage increase na ibinigay ng NCR wage board,” he added.
(This must be the most significant basis for Congress to take action, especially the lower house, against the measly and insulting wage that the NCR wage board has given.)
Gajes said that for 16 years, productivity has been on the rise, but real wages of Filipino workers have been left behind. Even when increases are given, he said, these are small increments that could not sustain workers’ needs.
“If this continues – and we tie it up with the modern form of slavery which is endo or contractualization – then we are creating a permanent class of poor people, with these poverty wages. There is no real improvement in terms of our working class,” said Gajes.
“Our government is not serious in addressing the problem of hunger… [and] the stunted growth of children. We always talk about our poor PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) performance, right? These are all offshoots of malnutrition of children. Many of their parents are minimum wage earners,” he added.
Congress is set to resume session on July 22. – Rappler.com
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