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Marcos downplays Liza-Sara rift, shrugs off calls to sack DepEd chief
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Dwight de Leon
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23/04/2024 14:29
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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr is sworn in as the 17th President of the Philippines, at the National Museum of Fine Arts on June 30, 2022. Alecs Ongcal/Rappler
Rappler.com
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, April 23, appeared to douse the fire caused by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos’ revelation that she is not on good terms with Vice President Sara Duterte.
In an ambush interview in Occidental Mindoro on Tuesday, Marcos also brushed aside suggestions to remove Duterte, the Department of Education (DepEd) secretary, from his Cabinet.
“Any of the Cabinet secretaries will be replaced kapag hindi nila ginagawa ang trabaho nila. All the other things are not part of the discussion. Kapag hindi na kaya, nagkasakit, sabihin mo lang, papalitan ka namin. Kapag hindi talaga marunong o korap, tatanggalin ka talaga namin. Hindi naman ganoon si Inday,” he said.
(Any of the Cabinet secretaries will be replaced if they don’t do their job. All the other things are not part of the discussion. If they are sick or can’t take it any longer, just say so and we will replace you. If you are incapable or corrupt, we will sack you. Inday Sara isn’t any of those.)
The rare tell-all interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna on Friday, April 19 saw the President’s wife lambast Sara for supposedly laughing when his father – former president Rodrigo Duterte – accused Marcos of being “bangag” or under the influence during a rally against charter change in Davao City in January.
It is unclear if Sara indeed laughed at the joke, as video feeds of the event didn’t cut to her reaction during the controversial moment, but she came out with a video statement on Monday, April 23, saying that the First Lady’s “personal feelings have nothing to do with my mandate as a government official.”
Marcos claimed there is no need to patch things up, believing that the country’s second-in-command understands where his wife is coming from.
“I think that she also understands how the First Lady feels, when you have to sit there and listen to these attacks that are being made against your husband,” Marcos said.
“But mag-uusap kami ni VP Sara tungkol diyan. Huwag niya masyadong dibdibin, hindi naman siya ang mga nagsabi tungkol sa kung anu-ano. Madali naman sigurong plantsahin lahat ng naging isyu,” he added.
(VP Sara and I will talk about that. She shouldn’t let it get to her, since she was not the one who said bad stuff about me. All these issues can easily be ironed out.)
Marcos also said he is a lucky husband for having a protective wife who always comes to his defense, but offered an explanation on why Liza reacted that way.
“Ang First Lady, hindi sanay sa pulitika ‘yan e. Kami, manhid na kami diyan, sa insulto. Siya, hindi siya galing sa political family, kaya siguro she still has to learn, magpalagpas nang kaunti ng ibang masasakit at maaanghang na salita,” he added.
(The First Lady is not used to politics. We have been numb to insults, while she still has to learn to ignore the hurtful accusations because she did not come from a political family.)
The Marcoses and the Dutertes – two major political families in the Philippines – teamed up in the 2022 elections, a partnership that resulted in a landslide election victory both for the dictator’s son and the outgoing president’s daughter.
It was, according to analysts, a “marriage of convenience” that has been difficult to maintain.
The Vice President has a feud with the President’s cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez. The House of Representatives under Romualdez denied Vice President’s confidential funds in the 2024 budget.
The President also once said his government was studying the possibility of rejoining the International Criminal Court, which is investigating Mr. Duterte’s bloody drug war. He had also said, however, that his government will not recognize ICC jurisdication over the Phiippine.
In January, the former president accused Marcos of illegal drug use, a claim that the incumbent chief executive laughed off and attributed to Mr. Duterte’s continued fentanyl use. – Rappler.com
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This is a good tactic by President Marcos Jr. He is developing an image of “psychological invincibility” against the tirades of the Duterte political dynasty. This will make the latter complacent until President Marcos Jr. executes his real plan against them. Philippine Presidential theatrics (with PBBM as lead actor) have leveled up.
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Bishop, environment groups file petition against OceanaGold
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Joann Manabat - CMS
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23/04/2024 14:18
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CANCEL. Civil society representatives hold a press conference prior to the filing of a petition to cancel OceanaGold Philippines' mining permit, on April 22, 2024.
Contributed photo
PAMPANGA, Philippines – The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bayombong and local environmental groups filed a petition to cancel the mining permit of gold and copper producer OceanaGold Philippines Incorporated before the Regional Trial Court in Bayombong town, Nueva Vizcaya, on Monday, April 22.
Led by the town’s Bishop Elmer Mangalinao, together with the Didipio Earth Savers Multipurpose Association (DESAMA) and Alyansa ng Magsasaka para sa Kalikasan ng Kasibu (AMKKAS), the group filed a petition for certiorari and mandamus to cancel the 2021 renewal of the financial or technical assistance agreement (FTAA) issued to OceanaGold for allegedly violating the constitutional guarantee of local autonomy as well as failure to conduct prior consultation and a new environmental impact assessment.
OceanaGold Philippines’ parent firm is based in Canada and Australia.
Mangalinao, during his homily last Sunday, said there was no environmental impact assessment prior to the renewal, and pointed out that open-pit mining is not permitted in their province. He called on churchgoers to stand behind them for their environment.
“Hindi nagkaroon ng panibagong environmental impact assessment. Mismo ang Environment Code ng Nueva Vizcaya ay hindi pinahihintulutan ang pagkakaroon ng open-pit mining. I am putting myself on the line for our environment. And I ask you to rally behind us,” Mangalinao said in a press release.
(There was no new environmental impact assessment. The Environment Code of Nueva Vizcaya itself does not allow open-pit mining. I am putting myself on the line for our environment. And I ask you to rally behind us.)
In 2018, local officials of Nueva Vizcaya vowed to block the renewal of OceanaGold’s mining permit due to environmental and human rights issues that the company allegedly neglected. Three years later, OceanaGold was allowed by the national government to resume its mining operations despite reports of alleged violation of environmental laws and failure to consult.
OceanaGold Philippines, according to a March 2022 Technical Report on Didipio, said they have all the necessary permits, certificates, licenses, and agreements to conduct its operations, including the renewed FTAA with a 25-year period, an amended environmental compliance certificate (ECC), and a final mine rehabilitation decommissioning plan and fund to pay for end-of-mine-life rehabilitation. The company said in a March 2024 prospectus that its amended ECC was approved on April 26, 2022.
Based on the FTAA, 60% of the net revenue is shared with the national government while 40% goes to OceanaGold.
Legal Rights and Natural Resources Center (LRC) said the national government is required to conduct local consultation and secure prior consent for every environmentally critical project, including the renewal of the FTAA.
The group’s legal counsel, Ryan Roset, said their petition also includes an appeal to stop the mining operations.
“Bukod don, may aspeto din kasi na dapat ipatigil yung operation. Kasi nung nagkaroon ng renewal ng FTAA ay hindi nakonsulta yung mga local government units so walang approval, hindi rin nagkaroon ng consultation sa mga communities na alam naman natin na statutorily granted a guaranteed right in process,” Roset told Rappler in an interview on Monday.
(Apart from that, there is also an aspect to stop the operation. When there was a renewal of the FTAA, the local government units were not consulted so there was no approval, nor was there a consultation with the communities that are statutorily granted a guaranteed right of process.)
“Although humihingi tayo ng prayer na itigil ang operation kasi nga hindi nasunod ang tamang proseso,. Napagkaitan yung mga tao and the local government unit,” he added.
(Although we are asking for prayers to stop the operation since the right process wasn’t followed. The locals and the local government unit were deprived.)
Erenio Bobolla, former Didipio village chief, said there have been many complaints regarding the mining company’s operations. He noted that during his term as barangay captain, the council had issued numerous resolutions opposing or stopping OceanaGold’s mining operations.
However, in a statement obtained by Rappler, incumbent village chief Henry Guay said they received thousands of letters from the residents of Didipio in support of the FTAA renewal which were submitted to Malacanañang and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources including the statement of opposition to the renewal.
“Bilang kumakatawan sa mga residente ng Barangay Didipio, nais kong bigyang-diin na suportado ng nakararami sa Didipio ang operasyon ng OceanaGold. Sa katunayan, naghain kami ng Barangay Resolution No. 13, series of 2024 noong ika-5 ng Pebrero na hinihikayat ang DESAMA na tanggapin ang imbitasyon ng OceanaGold para makipagusap na hanggang ngayon hindi ginagawa ng DESAMA,” Guay said in his signed statement.
(As a representative of the residents of Barangay Didipio, I would like to emhpasize that the majority of Didipio residents support the operation of OceanaGold. In fact, we filed Barangay Resolution No. 13, series of 2004 last February 5 to encourage DESAMA to accept the invitation for talks which until now they have not done.)
In a statement sent to Rappler, OceanaGold said they have not received a copy of the petition. However, they said they complied with mining regulations and other requirements prior to the grant of the permit to operate.
“We have not received a copy of the complaint, but we can assure you that OGPI, as a mining partner of the government, goes beyond compliance in adhering to the Philippines’ strict mining regulations, including what is required from us based on our Financial or Technical Assistance Agreement (FTAA),” the company said.
“We have an Environmental Impact Assessment which was required prior to the grant of an Environment Compliance Certificate for the Didipio Mine. Likewise, we have complied with the requirement of community endorsements prior to the grant of permit to operate the mine. We respect all opinions of our stakeholders and we continue to be open for dialogue and productive engagements.”
The Didipio gold-copper mine was estimated to have 42.2 metric tons of stockpile reserves as of December 2021. Construction of the open pit mining started in 2011 and commercial open pit production in 2013.
Citing data from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, OceanaGold Philippines said it was the second largest producer of gold and copper in 2023. Operations in Didipio Mine were restrained by the local government from July 2019 to July 2021, which forced them to lay off workers.
Philippine mines’ total production value from gold (with silver), copper (with gold and silver), chromite, nickel, and iron reached P214 billion as of December 2022. – Rappler.com
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I appreciate Bishop Elmer Mangalinao’s efforts, together with the Didipio Earth Savers Multipurpose Association (DESAMA) and Alyansa ng Magsasaka para sa Kalikasan ng Kasibu (AMKKAS). However, underneath almost every environmental issue is money, which is a strong driving force in the actions of government officials and corporate owners.
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Results, team standings: 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference, Spikers’ Turf Open Conference
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jisaga0269
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02/05/2024 19:25
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CHAMPS. The Creamline Cool Smashers celebrate a winning play.
PVL IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines – Hard-hitting volleyball rolls off at the professional and semi-pro levels as the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference and the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference hit the homestretch!
Here are the results and team standings of both leagues:
FINALS
MAY 12
MAY 9
BATTLE FOR BRONZE
MAY 12
MAY 9
SEMIFINALS
Standings (win-loss-points)
Results
MAY 5
MAY 1
APRIL 30
ELIMINATIONS
Wins-Losses (Points | Set Ratio)
* – Semifinalsx – Eliminated
FINALS
SEMIFINALS
Standings (win-loss-points)
* – Finals
ELIMINATIONS
Wins-Losses (Points)
* – Semifinalsx – Eliminated
– Rappler.com
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What to expect from the first University of the Philippines-Visayas Fair
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Waya Lao
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23/04/2024 10:08
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Miagao, Philippines – The UP Fair has been one of the most anticipated events in some University of the Philippines campuses. This year, UP Visayas will have its first-ever UP Fair – that will serve as a celebration of artistry and advocacies combined in one event.
This highly anticipated event is entitled “SILAKBO: The UPV Fair 2024” with the theme, “Hugyaw kang Katilingban kag Pag-himakas Tubtob sa Pang-pungsodnon nga Demokrasya kag Kahilwayan (The clamor and movement of the masses toward collective democracy and liberation)!” It is a three-day activity scheduled from April 23 to 25, 6 pm to 11 pm, at the UP Visayas Miagao Campus football field. This is open to both students and non-UPV students.
Here’s what you should know before going to SILAKBO: The UPV Fair 2024.
Similar to other campuses, the UPV Fair in Miagao is be cause-oriented. Proceeds from the first day concert will go to the Asian Medical Students Association-West Visayas State University (AMSA-WVSU) chapter’s medical outreach project.
This event is in collaboration with several advocacy groups such PH Pub for Public Health: Project PAWrdise for Animal Welfare, UPV College of Arts and Sciences Student Council (UPV CAS SC) for No To Cha-Cha, and SAMAKAKA-UPV for Wage Hike that will feature their respective booths during the event.
The organizers have also partnered with public transportation drivers of Miagao to help with their income and ensure that audiences from the city can travel back safely by providing them with a means of transportation.
During the three-day event, Tumindig at Tumingkad, Tinig Gubat, and SILAKBO Sectors’ Night will take place and will be organized by several student organizations. They will feauture local artists such as The Ridleys, Autotelic, MusikangBayan, DJ Young, and Clyde Ortencio, among others.
You may access the full lineup below:
These are the ticket prices for the event:
You may get your tickets at the Lean Alejandro Hall (CUB) or through this link.
The following bundle tickets are also available on site at the same venue:
Meanwhile, there will be free admission on SILAKBO Sectors’ Night, the third and last day of the fair.
Before entering the venue, make sure to bring your ticket upon entrance. It is also highly encouraged to support booths and local businesses around the area. To ensure safety, smoking, bringing of sharp objects and alcoholic beverages, and littering are strictly prohibited.
Organizers also remind attendees to stay hydrated given the heat. – with reports from Allaine Kate A. Leda/Rappler.com
Allaine Kate A. Leda is a Rappler intern from West Visayas State University – Main Campus. She is currently a fourth-year student taking up Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.
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RESULTS: April 2024 Pharmacists Licensure Examination
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clescudero0258
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23/04/2024 14:59
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The following is a press release from the Professional Regulation Commission.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 1,185 out of 2,147 passed the Pharmacists Licensure Examination given by the Board of Pharmacy in the National Capital Region, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Koronadal, Lucena, Pampanga, Rosales, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga this April 2024.
The members of the Board of Pharmacy who gave the licensure examination are Hon. Anthony Aldrin C. Santiago, officer-in-charge; Dr. Mildred B. Oliveros and Dr. Adelina C. Royo, members.
The results were released in four working days after the last day of examination.
Starting June 10, 2024, registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done online. Please go to www.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration. Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), two pieces passport-sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), two sets of documentary stamps, and one piece short brown envelope. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.
The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examination WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.
The top performing schools in the April 2024 Pharmacists Licensure Examination as per Commission Resolution No. 2017-1058(C) series of 2017:
The successful examinees who garnered the 10 highest places in the April 2024 Pharmacists Licensure Examination are the following:
Check out the full results here:
– Rappler.com
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Visayas needs 10% increase in power capacity to stave off blackouts
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Herbie G
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23/04/2024 14:38
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LeAnne Jazul/Rappler
BACOLOD, Philippines – Visayas needs at least 250 megawatts more to prevent power outages from taking place, a Department of Energy (DOE) official said on Tuesday, April 23.
The official, Engineer Joey Rey Malleza, head of the DOE’s Industry Management Division in Visayas, gave the stark warning even as he stressed that an immediate 10% boost in generated power could stave off blackouts, citing a surge in demand that threatens the region’s power stability.
The increase in requirement of as much as 10% is based on an annual increase in peak demand of more than 9% in the Visayas. The projection is being updated annually.
From 2022 to 2023, he said, Visayas saw a 9.36% spike in peak demand, and as of April 22, the afternoon demand reached 2,469 MW, with the evening demand slightly lower at 2,290 MW.
“We are currently operating with a negative operating margin of approximately 35 MW in the evening, which needs to be sourced externally, either from the Luzon or Mindanao grids,” Malleza said.
He attributed recent alert levels in the power grid to the substantial uptick in power demand, exacerbated by unplanned outages and power plants’ reduced capacities across the Visayas.
Malleza said about a dozen power plants in the Visayas experienced unplanned outages, while seven others underwent derating due to various reasons, including technical issues, fuel shortages, and maintenance operations.
However, he clarified that the outages did not occur simultaneously but took place on separate occasions over the past several days.
“Some of these have since returned to service during the weekend. Also, some of the plants are in reduced output due to plant age, low steam capacity from geothermal sources, scheduled maintenance, among others,” he said.
According to Malleza, projections from the Philippine Energy Plan indicate that by 2030, Visayas will require a power-generating capacity ranging from 4,423 MW to 4,495 MW to meet its needs.
In response to the situation, he said the energy department is closely coordinating with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and generation companies to minimize power interruptions.
Malleza urged all stakeholders to adhere to the Grid Operating and Maintenance Program (GOMP) for efficient scheduling of repairs and maintenance.
The DOE has also reiterated its call for public cooperation in reducing power consumption, particularly during peak hours, through energy conservation practices.
Expressing concern, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson called for more investments in renewable energy projects in the province.
Lacson has been emphasizing the provincial government’s commitment to clean and sustainable energy, positioning Negros Occidental as a leading advocate for green initiatives.
However, Frank Carbon, chief executive officer of the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), said there was a critical need for new power-generating plants, both fossil-based and renewable, to address the escalating power demand in Visayas.
He said baseload power plants should complement renewable energy sources to ensure a stable and reliable power supply for the entire Visayas region.
Carbon also raised questions about the status of the Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection Project (MVIP), urging authorities to tap the Mindanao power grid that is enjoying excess power.
“It is said that it can transmit around 450 MW of power from Mindanao. So, what happened? Where’s Mindanao’s excess power right now?” Carbon asked.
Luzon is also facing a similar problem, prompting Senator Risa Hontiveros to call on the DOE to provide a lasting solution.
“We’ve had enough. Paulit-ulit ang pagkukulang ng NGCP. Ang kuryente, pampagaan yan ng buhay, hindi pampabigat. Kailangan na natin ng isang totoo at sustainable na solusyon sa harap ng sabay-sabay na outages ng mahigit 20 planta,” read part of a statement released by Hontiveros’ office on Tuesday.
(We’ve had enough. The shortcomings of the NGCP are becoming repetitive. Electricity should lighten our lives, not weigh us down. We need a genuine and sustainable solution in the face of simultaneous outages affecting over 20 plants.)
Citing NGCP data, Hontiveros said some 2,325 MW of electricity is currently unavailable as 22 power plants are undergoing forced outages, with another operating on derated capacity.
She noted that these alerts are frequently attributed to malfunctioning power plants and dwindling reserves.
“Paanong naging sabay-sabay yung mga outages ng mahigit 20 planta? At sasabihin lahat ng yun ay unplanned outages? Kung hindi nila yan maipaliwanag, hindi na rin nakakapagtaka na paikot-ikot at paulit-ulit ang problemang ito,” Hontiveros said.
(How did over 20 plants experience outages simultaneously? And are they claiming all of these are unplanned outages? If they can’t explain that, it’s no wonder this problem keeps going in circles.)
Hontiveros demanded a clear explanation from the energy department as consumers endure rotational outages and higher power bills. –Rappler.com
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Ex-Cebu town treasurer receives probation 23 years after graft conviction
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Herbie G
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23/04/2024 12:49
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Shutterstock.com
MANILA, Philippines – Sentenced to life imprisonment for graft 23 years ago, a former town treasurer in Cebu province was granted probation by the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan and released from jail.
Former Compostela, Cebu town treasurer Dominador Maravillas was convicted in 2001 along with the late town mayor Gilbert Wagas for malversation of public funds, amounting to P367,618, and both were sentenced to reclusion perpetua. They were also fined equivalent to the misappropriated amount and disqualified from government employment.
The Sandiganbayan noted Maravillas’ advanced age as a factor minimizing the probability of flight risk.
Wagas died in 2017 while serving his sentence at the New Bilibid Prison, while Maravillas was only arrested on February 18, 2021, following a bench warrant issued by the Sandiganbayan in December 2020.
The 4th Division of the Sandiganbayan, in a resolution issued on April 7, granted Maravillas probation after a regional court reduced his sentence from 40 years of imprisonment to merely two to four years.
He had filed a petition with the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 29 in Cebu, invoking Republic Act No. 10951, a law which allows penalties for various offenses to be adjusted. The RTC granted his petition on October 12, 2023.
The RTC ruling allowed Maravillas to bring his case to the Sandiganbayan where he invoked the Probation Law, arguing that his reduced sentence now qualified him for probation since it fell below the six-year threshold.
He had also petitioned to be released and placed under the custody of a barangay councilor, Josias Aguanta Peñalosa, who guaranteed his appearance in court when required.
Upon review, the Sandiganbayan granted Maravillas’ application for probation, noting that there were no disqualifications applicable to his case.
The court ordered his release from the Asturias Municipal Police Station jail in Cebu. –Rappler.com
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Cebu water district resists as Local Water Utilities Administration appoints new chief
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jsitchon0312
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23/04/2024 10:05
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CONFLICT. The power struggle in the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) continues in April 2024.
Jacqueline Hernandez/Rappler
CEBU, Philippines – The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) announced in a social media post on Monday evening, April 22, that it would continue to recognize the board faction led by lawyer Jose Daluz III, ignoring the Local Water Utilities Administration’s (LWUA) new appointee for the water firm’s interim officer-in-charge.
“The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) remains firm in its stance on the status quo and will continue to recognize only the current Board of Directors (BOD), comprised of Chairman Jose Daluz III, Vice Chairman Miguelito Pato, Secretary May Seno, and General Manager Edgar H. Donoso,” the MCWD said.
In March, LWUA administrator Jose Salonga enforced a takeover of the water district, citing MCWD’s high non-revenue water (NRW) rates and failure to fulfill its obligations to the water administration.
On April 12, LWUA appointed lawyer John Dx Lapid as the new general manager of the water district following the suspension of Donoso. Lapid later resigned on April 16, stating in a now-edited Facebook post that he was “being used for politics”.
This time, the LWUA has appointed another lawyer for the job.
“In view of the 90-day preventive suspension of MCWD General Manager Edgar Donoso, the LWUA-installed Interim Board of Directors has designated Atty. Joselito Thomas P. Baena as interim Officer-in-charge,” a statement posted on the Cebu City Public Information Office’s (PIO) social media page read.
Since May 2023, the MCWD has been embroiled over the quarrel between Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama and Daluz. Both parties have exchanged allegations on the “mismanagement” of the water district and attempts to privatize MCWD.
In MCWD’s statement, they said that all of the water firm’s managers and employees would strictly adhere to directives from the Daluz-led board and Donoso.
They stressed that the organization would safeguard its office premises against any potential intrusions, comply with proper government regulations, and uphold its charter as stated in Presidential Decree No. 198.
In a statement on April 16, the MCWD alleged that Lapid and Cebu City government officials “invaded” the MCWD main building, harassed security personnel and forced their way into the general manager’s office on the evening of April 15.
“We have implemented increased security measures to prevent unauthorized access by non-MCWD personnel. Access for consumers is restricted solely to the Customer’s Area on the ground floor,” the MCWD said.
Baena told Rappler on Monday afternoon, April 22, that he had just received the offer to be the interim board’s appointed officer-in-charge and accepted it on the same day.
According to the lawyer, the appointment would only be for the duration of Donoso’s 90-day preventive suspension which was implemented by LWUA on April 12.
In a statement posted on Cebu City PIO’s social media page, Baena said that his first order of business would be to “stabilize the situation” and to coordinate with MCWD officers and employees, and other stakeholders.
“The focus should be on how we can mitigate the effects of El Niño and the water crisis. There’s time for everything but right now our focus should be on the real problem at hand,” Baena told Rappler.
Baena also shared in the statement that he plans to reach out to barangay officials and community leaders in urban and upland areas to address challenges in water supply.
As of this writing, around 50,000 households, mostly in Cebu City, are experiencing severe water shortages due to some dams operating at half capacity.
“Our priority is to bring calmness and reason, to bring some positive energy for a paradigm shift,” Baena said. – Rappler.com
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Marcos downplays Liza-Sara rift, shrugs off calls to sack DepEd chief
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Dwight de Leon
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23/04/2024 14:29
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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr is sworn in as the 17th President of the Philippines, at the National Museum of Fine Arts on June 30, 2022. Alecs Ongcal/Rappler
Rappler.com
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, April 23, appeared to douse the fire caused by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos’ revelation that she is not on good terms with Vice President Sara Duterte.
In an ambush interview in Occidental Mindoro on Tuesday, Marcos also brushed aside suggestions to remove Duterte, the Department of Education (DepEd) secretary, from his Cabinet.
“Any of the Cabinet secretaries will be replaced kapag hindi nila ginagawa ang trabaho nila. All the other things are not part of the discussion. Kapag hindi na kaya, nagkasakit, sabihin mo lang, papalitan ka namin. Kapag hindi talaga marunong o korap, tatanggalin ka talaga namin. Hindi naman ganoon si Inday,” he said.
(Any of the Cabinet secretaries will be replaced if they don’t do their job. All the other things are not part of the discussion. If they are sick or can’t take it any longer, just say so and we will replace you. If you are incapable or corrupt, we will sack you. Inday Sara isn’t any of those.)
The rare tell-all interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna on Friday, April 19 saw the President’s wife lambast Sara for supposedly laughing when his father – former president Rodrigo Duterte – accused Marcos of being “bangag” or under the influence during a rally against charter change in Davao City in January.
It is unclear if Sara indeed laughed at the joke, as video feeds of the event didn’t cut to her reaction during the controversial moment, but she came out with a video statement on Monday, April 23, saying that the First Lady’s “personal feelings have nothing to do with my mandate as a government official.”
Marcos claimed there is no need to patch things up, believing that the country’s second-in-command understands where his wife is coming from.
“I think that she also understands how the First Lady feels, when you have to sit there and listen to these attacks that are being made against your husband,” Marcos said.
“But mag-uusap kami ni VP Sara tungkol diyan. Huwag niya masyadong dibdibin, hindi naman siya ang mga nagsabi tungkol sa kung anu-ano. Madali naman sigurong plantsahin lahat ng naging isyu,” he added.
(VP Sara and I will talk about that. She shouldn’t let it get to her, since she was not the one who said bad stuff about me. All these issues can easily be ironed out.)
Marcos also said he is a lucky husband for having a protective wife who always comes to his defense, but offered an explanation on why Liza reacted that way.
“Ang First Lady, hindi sanay sa pulitika ‘yan e. Kami, manhid na kami diyan, sa insulto. Siya, hindi siya galing sa political family, kaya siguro she still has to learn, magpalagpas nang kaunti ng ibang masasakit at maaanghang na salita,” he added.
(The First Lady is not used to politics. We have been numb to insults, while she still has to learn to ignore the hurtful accusations because she did not come from a political family.)
The Marcoses and the Dutertes – two major political families in the Philippines – teamed up in the 2022 elections, a partnership that resulted in a landslide election victory both for the dictator’s son and the outgoing president’s daughter.
It was, according to analysts, a “marriage of convenience” that has been difficult to maintain.
The Vice President has a feud with the President’s cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez. The House of Representatives under Romualdez denied Vice President’s confidential funds in the 2024 budget.
The President also once said his government was studying the possibility of rejoining the International Criminal Court, which is investigating Mr. Duterte’s bloody drug war. He had also said, however, that his government will not recognize ICC jurisdication over the Phiippine.
In January, the former president accused Marcos of illegal drug use, a claim that the incumbent chief executive laughed off and attributed to Mr. Duterte’s continued fentanyl use. – Rappler.com
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This is a good tactic by President Marcos Jr. He is developing an image of “psychological invincibility” against the tirades of the Duterte political dynasty. This will make the latter complacent until President Marcos Jr. executes his real plan against them. Philippine Presidential theatrics (with PBBM as lead actor) have leveled up.
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In DENR vs Masungi public spat, conservation takes a backseat
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Iya Gozum
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23/04/2024 12:50
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The long-running animosity between the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and conservation group Masungi Georeserve Foundation Inc. (MGFI) erupted, with the latter openly calling for the resignation of DENR chief Toni Yulo-Loyzaga.
Tensions rose when Loyzaga said MGFI’s 2017 contract, which gave them conservation work of more than 2,700 hectares in the Upper Marikina Watershed, was “void from the beginning.”
It was a bold move for Loyzaga, who has evaded select highly controversial issues and the media.
Negotiate, groups told the DENR. MGFI, while mum on the call, sent the media a compilation of the statements of groups like Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, Caritas Philippines, and Alyansa Tigil Mina.
But the negotiating table wasn’t exactly uncharted territory for the DENR and MGFI.
In 2021, before the debacle surrounding the 2017 contract or the memorandum of agreement (MOA) erupted, DENR Calabarzon Regional Executive Director Nilo Tamoria sent a letter to the MGFI, requesting to transform their MOA into a Special Use Agreement in Protected Areas (SAPA) contract.
A SAPA would make MGFI a second party in relation to the use and development of land (ecotourism facilities, camp sites, among other uses) within the protected area for a set duration of 25 years.
This would cure the contested provision in the MOA that gives a private entity “perpetual” claim – unconstitutional under a law that gives only 25 years to project proponents.
“The law requires a certain type of agreement with the DENR on special uses of protected areas. We are bound by this law,” then-DENR secretary Jim Sampulna said in 2022.
“The conversion of a MOA into a SAPA is also an opportunity for the DENR to correct its course and to cure defects in the MOA. Such defects include unconstitutional provisions, and provisions that violate the ENIPAS Act, and the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act.”
MGFI didn’t want the SAPA.
In a response dated September 9, 2021, Ben Dumaliang, president of MGFI, said the MOA is a “joint public interest national government project” between the now-warring parties.
“It is not a SAPA as it is not meant to make a profit but to rebuild and rewild a forest,” the letter read. Dumaliang said MGFI did not engage in the business for profit or give dividends to its members as it is a foundation, unlike private corporations or individuals.
“The advances and progress made by Masungi also stand out against the backdrop of rampant watershed destruction going on around us,” Dumaliang wrote.
“It is disturbing that certain DENR officials are training their guns not at those countless wrongdoings or misplaced MOAs and instruments but at the good, rare, selfless work of Masungi – never mind if the watershed suffers.”
So here’s the quandary: the DENR may have the stronger legal argument, but it’s hard put to convince the public about its stewardship of protected areas. Not with recent issues on Chocolate Hills, Mt. Apo, and the alleged cult in Surigao del Norte, hounding the department.
MGFI, meanwhile, could not see the fundamental conflict in a situation where a private entity manages state-owned land in perpetuity, whether or not they profit from it.
That wasn’t the last time a renegotiation was broached. The Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB), under then-director Natividad Bernardino, and the MGFI had a meeting in 2022. A BMB presentation showed that both parties at that time agreed to explore the possible drafting of a revised MOA. This was supposed to include government shares and a definite term. It didn’t push through.
Rappler asked a representative of MGFI if they would pursue a SAPA now, but has yet to receive a response as of writing.
Profit is not the concern, MGFI would say. The issue is that they “use [their] own resources, risk the lives of park rangers and officers” to continue forest restoration.
This is the reason why Blue Star Construction and Development Corporation (BSCDC) is billing the government P1.2 billion for incurred expenses over the agency’s “unrealized delivery” of Lot 10, or the Masungi Georeserve. This is the popular ecotourism destination known for the karst limestone formations, the Discovery Trail, and the iconic sapot where tourists can take pictures.
BSCDC is owned by Dumaliang and is the parent company of MGFI. It is responsible for structures seen inside the Masungi Georeserve, such as the hanging bridges and bamboo house.
BSCDC’s billing, dated April 11, 2024, includes legal and security costs, and a P100,000 monthly rental to a private individual who holds a title over the land where the parking area of the georeserve is situated. The DENR said the billing has no legal basis. The Presidential Communications Office even amplified the press release on its Facebook page.
“The contracts entered into by BSCDC had legal infirmities ranging from unlawful excise of land for housing purposes in a National Park to award of contracts without bidding,” the investigation committee of the DENR said in a statement.
To clarify, the 2017 contract refers to the Masungi Geopark or the conservation effort of 2,700 hectares in the Upper Marikina Watershed.
The billing that BSCDC sent to the government was for the expenses “unnecessarily incurred by Blue Star because of the DENR’s failure to deliver Lot 10 free and clear of illegal occupants and encumbrances” as stated in their contract, said MGFI.
BSCDC was originally contracted by the government in 1997, under a joint venture agreement (JVA), to build a housing project. This is now Garden Cottages, where accommodations and event venues operate.
The contract was later supplemented in 2002, extending land size to 300 hectares, where now stands the georeserve.
“Facilities such as meeting venues and researcher and staff quarters are existing and refurbished structures inside the titled Garden Cottages project, a joint venture development project beside the Masungi Georeserve,” MGFI managing trustee Billie Dumaliang told Rappler on Wednesday, April 24.
“These are used only for small and sustainable events. BSCDC allows MGFI to occasionally use these facilities for trainings and intimate events to help support its conservation efforts. All conservation fees for experiences and services involving these facilities go to the foundation and are used to help the upkeep of the areas MGFI takes care of.”
The BSCDC billing or statement of account was sent by the DENR – not BSCDC – to the press. Besides the copy sent to reporters, the DENR included in its press release the findings of its investigation committee: that MGFI did not have clearances from the Protected Area Management Board, free and prior consent from indigenous people, environmental clearance certificate, and accreditation from the Department of Tourism.
On the same day, MGFI released a statement “daring” Loyzaga to come to the georeserve “to show to the public where the alleged hotel, swimming pool, and resort” are. Neither Loyzaga nor the DENR, however, made any mention of a hotel or swimming pool. But they did refer to the georeserve as a resort with “accommodations” and event venues for rent.
Dumalaing further said that If she cannot come and substantiate the claims, Loyzaga should resign. “The office of [the] DENR Secretary is crucial to the future of our nation and it must have the highest integrity.”
Loyzaga did not respond to the “invitation.”
MGFI said the trails in the georeserve are covered by a certificate of non-coverage, “which is the equivalent of the Environmental Compliance Certificate for projects with insignificant environmental impact as defined by the Philippines Environmental Impact System.”
The simple answer is: the government.
But even that answer has many nuances. A document obtained by Rappler which maps the existing titles and agreements showed overlapping claims of private individuals, indigenous groups in the Upper Marikina Watershed. Thrown in the mix are mineral production sharing agreement titles.
For instance, Lot 10, where the Masungi Georeserve stands, is the same parcel of land that the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) had announced last year to be the site of their national headquarters.
Such conflicts have given rise to episodes of violence, injuring several rangers employed by MGFI. (READ: Under attack, Masungi rangers live to fight another day for the forests)
Yet the question of ownership is also misguided. The assets of, and structures in, the georeserve and the geopark are owned by MGFI and BSCDC. The lands within the protected areas are clearly government’s. Or more accurately, the public’s.
Both camps have decided to take the matter to the court of public opinion, given that claims and other courses of action have been exhausted.
That the DENR prolonged the issue, instead of immediately canceling the contract as they did with the alleged cult in Surigao del Norte, shows that the agency is aware it could easily lose the publicity war.
In a country where pools and resorts in protected areas seem to be unsurprising, the public will tend to empathize with a developer that has shown seriousness in conservation efforts – even if it means overlooking some wrinkles.
On the eve of Earth Day, advocates and artists gathered in Quezon City for a concert in support of MGFI. Some government officials sent prerecorded messages. Even actress Nadine Lustre appeared virtually.
MGFI estimated around 500 people came. It speaks a lot about the public’s hope for their natural resources. And this hope goes beyond warring parties. – Rappler.com
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The parties should go to Court. Let the Judiciary decide between their conflicting claims.
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It all started with ‘bangag’: How rift between Liza Marcos, Sara Duterte began
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Dwight de Leon
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19/04/2024 10:25
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RIFT. Vice President Sara Duterte and First Lady Liza Marcos. Photos by Eloisa Lopez and Angie de Silva/Rappler
Photos by Eloisa Lopez and Angie de Silva/Rappler; Graphics by David Castuciano/Rappler
This ongoing telenovela in Philippine politics has a new episode after First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos broke her silence to attack Vice President Sara Duterte in a revealing, no-holds-barred interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna.
“She crossed the line,” she said in the YouTube video uploaded in the wee hours of Friday, April 19.
The rift began after Sara attended a protest in Davao against charter change in January. In a rally that saw former president Rodrigo Duterte accuse his successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of drug use, the First Lady couldn’t take it anymore.
At one point during that rally, Mr. Duterte rambled onstage, saying: “Si Bongbong, bangag ‘yan (Bongbong is high on drugs).”
According to Liza, she saw the Vice President laugh at her father’s jab in one of the video feeds, a response that did not sit well with her. (It is unclear if Sara indeed laughed during that exact moment, as the professional livestream from Rodrigo Duterte’s Facebook page did not pan to the Vice President.)
“You are getting suweldo (salary) from the government, you are supposed to be the alter ego,” Liza said. “That’s not right. That’s entitled politics. You’re in the government. You’re the vice president. Bad shot na ‘yan sa akin (I already have a bone to pick with her), unless she says sorry. She crossed the line.”
“Nasaktan ako, because my husband will do everything to protect you. You ran together, ‘di ba? Sama-sama tayong babangon muli. Pupunta ka sa rally, tatawagan iyong presidente mong bangag, you’re going to laugh. Tama ba ‘yun? Even Leni Robredo never did that,” she added.
(I was hurt, because my husband will do everything to protect you. You ran together, right? Our motto was we would rise together. Then you will attend a rally where your president is being called high. Then you’re going to laugh. Is that right? Even Leni never did that.)
The tensions between the First Lady and the second-in-command are not exactly surprising, as their body gestures in the past months have indicated a rough patch in their relationship.
During the departure ceremony for Marcos’ trip to Vietnam a few days after the Davao rally, Liza and Sara were seen ignoring each other despite being seated next to each other.
The two had also ignored or declined requests for comment on the status of their relationship since January.
The alliance between the Marcos and Duterte families resulted in a landslide victory in the 2022 elections, but maintaining that “marriage of convenience” – as some analysts call it – has been everything but easy.
Sara has feuded with the President’s cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez, whose House of Representatives later denied Sara’s request for P650 million in confidential funds.
President Marcos also once said the government was studying the possibility of rejoining the International Criminal Court, which is investigating Mr. Duterte’s bloody drug war.
The former president accused Marcos of being part of a drug watch list; the incumbent chief executive fired back by saying the old man from Davao was suffering the longterm effects of continued use of fentanyl.
President Marcos has still defended Sara publicly, and shrugged off calls to remove her (she is concurrent education secretary) from his Cabinet.
When asked earlier this week about his relationship with the Duterte family, Mr. Marcos could only describe it like a Facebook status: “It’s complicated.”
– Rappler.com
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World’s workers increasingly at risk as climate changes, ILO says
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Acor Arceo
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23/04/2024 13:25
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DROUGHT. A farmer removes dried plants from his parched paddy field on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, India, September 8, 2015.
Amit Dave/Reuters
GENEVA, Switzerland – More than 70% of the global workforce is exposed to risks linked to climate change that cause hundreds of thousands of deaths each year, the International Labour Organization (ILO) said on Monday, April 22, adding governments would need to act as the numbers rise.
Workers, especially the world’s poorest, are more vulnerable than the general population to the dangers of climate extremes such as heat waves, droughts, wildfires, and hurricanes because they are often the first exposed, or exposed for longer periods and at greater intensity.
As climate change accelerates, governments and employers are struggling to protect employees, the ILO said in a report.
“A staggering number of workers are already being exposed to climate change-related hazards in the workplace, and these figures are only likely to get worse,” the report entitled “Ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate” said in its conclusions.
“As [the hazards] evolve and intensify, it will be necessary to re-evaluate existing legislation or create new regulations and guidance.”
Some countries have improved heat protections for workers, such as Qatar, whose policies came under scrutiny ahead of the 2022 soccer World Cup.
However, rules to govern other dangers like growing pesticide use for agricultural workers are less common.
“We do have some [countries] that already limit exposure to high temperatures and also limit exposure to air pollution, but we rarely have occupational exposure limits set for the other hazards,” said Manal Azzi, ILO senior specialist on occupational safety and health.
The share of global workers exposed to the most widespread hazard, surging temperatures, has risen by around 5 percentage points over the last two decades to 70.9%, the report said.
Other climate dangers often co-exist, creating a “cocktail of hazards,” the report said, with UV radiation and air pollution each affecting 1.6 billion people.
Because a worker is likely to be exposed to multiple dangers at once, an ILO spokesperson said it was impossible to calculate exactly what portion of the 3.4-billion global workforce was at risk.
Climate-related hazards are being linked to cancer, kidney dysfunction, and respiratory illnesses, leading to deaths or debilitating chronic conditions or disabilities.
Air pollution is the most deadly risk, causing some 860,000 work-related deaths among outdoor workers annually, the ILO report said. Excessive heat causes 18,970 occupational deaths each year and UV radiation kills 18,960 through non-melanoma skin cancer, it said.
“The greatest impacts will be felt by the working poor, those working in the informal economy, seasonal workers, and workers in micro and small enterprises,” the report said.
In some cases, the very technologies meant to slow climate change like solar panels and lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles can end up producing new dangers since they contain toxic chemicals, it said.
The ILO plans a major meeting in 2025 of government, employer, and worker representatives to provide policy guidance on climate hazards. – Rappler.com
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GAME SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 86 volleyball
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jisaga0269
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08/05/2024 20:35
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It’s down to the last two teams standing as the University of Santo Tomas and National University battle for the UAAP volleyball championship in both the women’s and men’s divisions!
The league’s best separate themselves from the pack as the Final Four showdown kicks off! Here’s the schedule:
UAAP Season 86 volleyball action intensifies as the second round of the men’s and women’s divisions begins on Wednesday, March 20.
The contenders will separate themselves from the pack, with each game determining which teams will make the Final Four. Here’s the schedule:
Volleyball action is back in the UAAP!
Stars from both men’s and women’s divisions are set to ply their growing skill sets once again in front of thousands of fans, beginning on Saturday, February 17 and Sunday, February 18, both at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Here are the first-round schedules for both divisions:
*The March 13 games will be played at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Notable matches include women’s champion La Salle’s debut against contending Adamson on Saturday, 4 pm, at MOA, while men’s three-time defending titlist NU rolls into an immediate finals rematch with UST on Sunday, 12 pm, also at the same venue.
La Salle and NU – finalists in the last two women’s tournaments with one title won each – will wrap up their first-round schedule on March 16, 2 pm at Araneta. – Rappler.com
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SC overturns dismissal of disqualification petition against Cagayan governor
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Herbie G
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23/04/2024 9:51
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ADDRESS. Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba addresses his supporters.
Governor Manuel Mamba FB page
MANILA, Philippines – The Supreme Court (SC) has overturned the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) dismissal of a disqualification petition filed against Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba, a ruling seen as a turning point in the legal case surrounding the 2022 gubernatorial elections and which has the potential of sparking a political crisis in the province.
The SC, in an April 22 statement released by its public information office, said the Comelec “gravely abused its discretion in dismissing the petition for disqualification” against Mamba.
It also sent the case back to the Comelec en banc for proper disposition of the disqualification petition.
The ruling, penned by Associate Justice Jhosep Lopez on April 16, stemmed from a petition for certiorari filed by Mamba’s rival in the gubernatorial race, Maria Zarah Rose De Guzman-Lara.
Her victory in the SC set a precedent for similar election disputes in the future. As the case goes back to the Comelec, a political crisis in Cagayan province over Mamba’s eligibility has taken shape.
De Guzman-Lara brought her case to the SC where she contested Comelec’s dismissal of her petition to disqualify Mamba from the May 2022 local elections.
The case dates back to May 10, 2022, when De Guzman-Lara lodged a petition accusing Mamba of engaging in massive vote-buying and unlawful disbursement of public funds.
Despite her efforts, Mamba was proclaimed the duly elected governor of Cagayan on May 11, 2022, by the Provincial Board of Canvassers.
Initially, the 2nd Division of the Comelec disqualified Mamba on December 14, 2022, citing violations of election laws. However, the decision was subsequently overturned by the Comelec en banc, which saw De Guzman-Lara’s petition untimely due to technicalities related to the filing process, particularly on the period it was filed.
The SC noted that De Guzman-Lara emailed the petition accusing Mamba of vote-buying and misusing public funds at 6:21 pm on May 10, 2022. Just hours later, at 1:39 am on May 11, 2022, the Provincial Board of Canvassers declared Mamba as the winner of the Cagayan gubernatorial race.
The Comelec en banc rejected De Guzman-Lara’s petition, asserting that it was filed too late. It considered De Guzman-Lara’s email petition, although filed after office hours on May 10, as filed the next working day, at 8 am on May 11, 2022.
The High Tribunal’s ruling, however, held that De Guzman-Lara’s petition was filed via e-mail within a period provided by Section 3, Rule 25 of the Comelec rules.
The SC stated that the interpretation of the term “day” should adhere to the 24-hour definition stipulated in the Civil Code, allowing petitions for disqualification to be filed within the same day as the candidate’s proclamation.
It also emphasized the need for Comelec to adapt its procedures to accommodate modern technological advancements, such as email filings. It noted that government institutions such as the Comelec, which are equipped with sophisticated resources, should be capable of receiving petitions outside traditional office hours.
“Practicable realities borne by technological advances must likewise be considered, such as those resulting from filings made through email. Actual receipt of pleadings by email is not limited to the physical structures of an agency, which remain open during certain hours of the day,” read part of the statement from the SC. –Rappler.com
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I appreciate this Supreme Court ruling, penned by Associate Justice Jhosep Lopez on April 16. I agree: “Practicable realities borne by technological advances must likewise be considered.” COMELEC should adapt to these “practicable realities.”
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Becoming Gilas’ next naturalized player a ‘no-brainer’ for Boatwright
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delfin.dioquino editor
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22/04/2024 20:35
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PROSPECT. Bennie Boatwright (second to left) with SBP president Al Panlilio, SBP executive director Erika Dy, Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone and team manager Richard del Rosario.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – Bennie Boatwright did not have to think twice when he got asked to become Gilas Pilipinas’ next naturalized player.
His splendid stay in the country while playing for San Miguel convinced Boatwright to accept the offer from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas as his naturalization went underway.
“Living here, experiencing the culture, experiencing everything, and my teammates, coaches, they all made me feel welcomed, so it’s a no-brainer,” said Boatwright.
Boatwright took the PBA by storm when came in as replacement import in the Commissioner’s Cup, steering the Beermen to the championship following a six-game conquest of Magnolia in the finals.
A 6-foot-8 big man with a sweet shooting stroke, the 27-year-old Boatwright averaged 30.3 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in his first tour of duty in the PBA.
Boatwright said he got approached by San Miguel Corporation sports director Alfrancis Chua if he wanted to be naturalized after their semifinal sweep of Ginebra and he immediately agreed.
“Couple of players mentioned it to me and coaches were like asking me if I’m open to it. After we played Ginebra, boss Al asked me if I was open to it and I said for sure. And that’s where it started,” Boatwright said.
Now playing in the Chinese Basketball Association for the Shanxi Loongs, Boatwright returned to the country and met with SBP president Al Panlilio for the first time on Saturday, April 20.
The federation chief liked what he saw in Boatwright and even compared him to current naturalized player Justin Brownlee.
“I told him that he’s a bigger, younger version of Brownlee,” said Panlilio in a story posted on the SBP website. “He’s very excited to be chosen, to be part of the Gilas journey.”
Boatwright will join a growing naturalized player pool that also includes NBA veteran Jordan Clarkson and former UAAP MVP Ange Kouame. – Rappler.com
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‘Overwhelming feeling’: UST rookie Angge Poyos smashes another UAAP volleyball record
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Jasmine Payo
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21/04/2024 21:02
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ROOKIE SENSATION. UST freshman Angge Poyos sustains her stellar play.
UAAP
MANILA, Philippines – UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos isn’t done smashing UAAP records.
With the elimination round not even over yet, UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos reset another UAAP women’s volleyball scoring record for a first-year player.
Poyos claimed the highest total point output for a rookie with 268 points after scoring 25 in the Golden Tigresses’ quick 25-19, 25-9, 25-17 victory against UE on Sunday, April 21.
The 5-foot-7 outside hitter eclipsed the record of former Ateneo star Faith Nisperos, who had 267 points set in Season 84 in 2022.
Poyos pulled off the feat even before the playoffs and despite missing one game and playing staggered minutes in another due to illness.
“I didn’t expect to reach that point, but I’m happy to have a record,” Poyos told Rappler after the game.
“The season’s not yet over, so I need to perform in the remaining games,” she added.
Last April 3, Poyos also set the UAAP scoring record in a single game by a rookie with 31 points against Adamson.
Already a standout even before joining UST, Poyos was pursued heavily by the Tigresses when she was in high school.
The Bohol native quickly showed her potential during the offseason, where she helped lead UST to a podium finish in the 2023 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals, as well as the Collegiate Pre-Season Championship.
It was in these tournaments where the 20-year-old was hailed as 1st and 2nd Best Outside Hitter, respectively.
Despite all the accolades, humility remains paramount for the talented hitter.
“For me, it’s an overwhelming feeling as a rookie, since I get to break records like that,” she said. “For me, I will always keep my feet firm on the ground.”
Poyos and the Golden Tigresses now look forward to playing their final elimination-round assignment against defending champion La Salle on Saturday, April 27.
But the freshman hopes to use the team’s whole week off to recuperate after suffering from a dehydration episode, which kept her out against the UP Fighting Maroons last April 10.
The young UST star was still not 100 percent during FEU’s stunning 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10 upset win three days later, where she could have added to the tally.
Poyos knows, though, that she needs to go all out on Saturday, with La Salle out for revenge after its opening-day loss to UST.
Even more important, the twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four will be up for grabs as both squads, along with NU, remain tied on top with 11-2 records.
“Of course, it’s a big motivation, since I have returned from dehydration… I’m ready against La Salle,” said Poyos. – Rappler.com
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LIST: Filipino athletes who qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics
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jisaga0269
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12/03/2024 21:31
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CHAMPION. The Philippines' EJ Obiena celebrates after winning the gold medal in the men's pole vault in the 19th Asian Games.
Dylan Martinez/REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – The clock is ticking for the world’s best athletes to punch their tickets to the 2024 Paris Olympics, and so far, the Philippines is on track to once again be well-represented in the top quadrennial multi-sport showpiece.
Several Filipino standouts have already qualified to fly the flag in Paris, with many more in the wings waiting for their shot at ultimate sporting glory.
The Philippines will have a lot to prove in the 2024 Olympics after a historic 2021 run in Tokyo, where living legend Hidilyn Diaz won the country’s first-ever gold through a masterful weightlifting display.
Additionally, the 19-strong Filipino delegation also secured the nation’s biggest medal haul ever in a single Olympics, with Diaz’s gold topping a big four-medal tally, boosted by two silvers and one bronze from boxers Carlo Paalam, Nesthy Petecio, and Eumir Marcial, respectively.
Here is the updated list of athletes hoping to make more history for the Philippines in Paris, in chronological order of qualification:
First on the list is one of the Philippines’ best hopes for a 2024 Olympics medal, pole vaulting superstar EJ Obiena.
Ranked No. 2 in the world just behind reigning Olympic champion Mondo Duplantis, the 28-year-old is looking to capitalize on a monumental 2023 season highlighted by notching a new personal and Asian record 6-meter jump on June 10, 2023 and an early Paris qualification on July 3, 2023.
Looking to prove doubters wrong after a controversial split with his old coach, artistic gymnastics phenom Carlos Yulo punched his Olympic ticket on October 1, 2023, and has continuously trained to perfect his craft just in time for Paris.
At just 24 years old, the two-time world champion, six-time Asian champion, and nine-time Southeast Asian (SEA) Games champion is gunning for his first Olympic gold, particularly in his floor exercise pet event.
Prior to even stepping foot in Paris, Aleah Finnegan is already a history maker for Philippine gymnastics, as her qualification on October 3, 2023, marked the first time a Filipina gymnast qualified for the Olympics since 1964.
Only representing the Philippines for two years so far since her 2022 SEA Games debut, the 21-year-old prodigy is out to make herself a household name with a stellar Olympics debut, and perhaps, win even more hearts with her first medal.
Another familiar face in the upcoming Olympics, boxing star Eumir Marcial is up for another round (or two, or three) with the world’s best, and is looking for a better shine to his 2021 bronze medal.
Qualified for Paris on October 4, 2023, the 28-year-old veteran makes a forced jump to the men’s 80kg class after his favored 75kg division was scrapped for the 2024 Games and is now out to prove himself and the world that he can still bring his best foot forward in the ring even in uncharted territory.
One of the Philippines’ best female boxers today, 31-year-old Nesthy Petecio is right in the middle of her athletic prime, and now has a golden opportunity to improve on her historic 2021 Olympic silver with a return trip to the sport’s biggest stage.
After qualifying on March 12, 2024, Petecio returns to the women’s 57kg event in Paris, where she has a chance to make more history for Filipina boxing.
Making her Olympics debut in July, Aira Villegas joins Petecio as the other Filipina boxer who will give the Philippines a much-needed extra medal chance, this time at the women’s 50kg class after also booking her spot on March 12, 2024.
At 29 years old, the Leyte native already has significant experience under her belt to make her go toe-to-toe with other world-class sluggers and possibly snag an Olympic medal in just her first try.
Weightlifter John Ceniza looks all set for an Olympic debut after securing his Paris Games spot after a strong performance in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup men’s 61kg event in Phuket, Thailand, on April 2, 2024.
The 26-year-old rising Cebuano star stayed well inside the qualification cutoff as only the top 10 in each weight category will compete in the sport’s biggest stage.
Elreen Ando sealed her Olympic return after a solid showing in the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand on April 3, 2024 to secure her place in the women’s 59kg division of the Paris Games.
The 25-year-old Cebuana weightlifter, though, had to do it at the expense of Hidilyn Diaz – the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist – as only one weightlifter per country per weight category will advance to Paris. She bested Diaz with a total lift of 228kg in the World Cup to stay inside the top 10 qualification cutoff.
Ando, who shattered the Southeast Asian Games record last year, aims to surpass her Olympic debut performance where she finished seventh in the Tokyo Games in 2021.
Reigning Southeast Asian Games champion Vanessa Sarno secured a spot in the Paris Games on April 7, 2024, paving the way for the Philippines to have its biggest weightlifting contingent in the Olympics in nearly four decades.
The 20-year-old pride of Bohol stayed inside the top 10 of the women’s 71kg class in the IWF Olympic Qualification Ranking after an impressive stint in the World Cup where she shattered her own national record in the snatch event.
Far from the Olympic radar, Levi Jung-Ruivivar pulled off the improbable to become the Philippines’ third gymnastic bet in the Paris Games.
The Filipino-American teen, who narrowly reached the final as the last qualifier, captured a silver in the women’s uneven bars of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series in Doha, Qatar on April 19, 2024.
With her medal breakthrough, Jung-Ruivivar hiked her qualification points to become the country’s 10th Olympian in Paris.
Joanie Delgaco became the Philippines’ first female rower to qualify for the Olympics on April 21, 2024 after a strong performance in the women’s single sculls of the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Olympic Qualification Regatta in Chungju, South Korea.
Delgaco finished fourth in the 2,000-meter event, staying in the top five to earn her ticket to Paris.
Philippine fencing booked a return trip to the Olympic stage after three decades as Samantha Catantan topped the continental Paris Games qualifiers.
A former UAAP standout, Catantan ruled the women’s foil category in the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifier in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates on April 27, 2024 to become the first Filipino fencer to earn an Olympic spot since Walter Torres competed in the 1992 Barcelona Games.
A fourth gymnast joined the Philippines’ Olympic cast as Filipino-American Emma Malabuyo sealed her bid with a medal-winning performance in the qualifiers.
Malabuyo, a varsity member of the University of California, Los Angeles, claimed her spot in the Paris Games after bagging a bronze in the individual all-around of the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championships on May 24, 2024 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Olympic silver medalist Carlo Paalam made sure to book a return trip to the sport’s biggest stage.
Although the Cagayan de Oro boxer took a longer route after falling short in the two previous qualifiers, Paalam did so convincingly this time, winning all of his five bouts in the the men’s 57kg of the World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand to claim his Paris Games ticket on June 1, 2024.
Paalam, who had a thrilling debut run in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 before settling for silver, hiked Philippine boxing’s Olympic contingent to four.
Make that five Filipino boxers in the Paris Games.
Hergie Bacyadan made Philippine boxing the biggest contingent for the country in this year’s Olympics after earning her spot in the women’s 75kg.
A former world champion in the combat sport vovinam, Bacyadan earned a unanimous decision win over Venezuela’s Maryelis Yriza in the World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand on June 2, 2024 to book her ticket to Paris.
Earning another trip to the Olympics, golfer Bianca Pagdanganan completed the 60-women field after making the Paris Games cut-off in the world rankings released on June 25, 2024.
But the 26-year-old Pagdanganan aims for a better showing this time after finishing 43rd in the Tokyo edition in 2021.
Golfer Dottie Ardina reached the quadrennial showpiece for the first time after making the the 60-women cut-off for the Paris Games released on June 25, 2024.
The 30-year-old Ardina competed in just two LPGA events this year, but looks to rebound in Paris after a tough season.
Filipina-Japanese judoka Kiyomi Watanabe secured a second consecutive Olympic stint after clinching one of the two continental quotas reserved for Asia in the women’s -63kg category on June 25, 2024.
The 27-year-old bet targets a better showing in the Paris Olympics after a first-round exit in the Tokyo Games.
Lauren Hoffman earned her Paris Olympics spot via the world rankings in the women’s 400m hurdles on July 2, 2024.
Hoffman – the Filipino-American who holds the national record in the women’s 100m hurdles – 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.
Another hurdler made it to the Paris Olympics via the world rankings as John Cabang Tolentino qualified on July 2, 2024.
Tolentino, a Filipino residing in Spain, finished 30th out of 40 qualifiers in the men’s 110m hurdles, just a couple of months after setting the Philippine record in the same event.
Swimmer Kayla Sanchez advanced to the Olympics for the second straight edition as she qualified via universality on July 3, 2024.
Helping Canada win a silver and a bronze in the Tokyo Games, Sanchez will represent the Philippines this time a year after her citizenship switch as she is set to see action in the women’s 100m freestyle.
Like Kayla Sanchez, Jarod Hatch formalized his Olympic entry via universality on July 3, 2024.
Hatch, who won three medals in the previous Southeast Asian Games, will compete in the men’s 100m butterfly. – Rappler.com
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Long-term plan: DLSU remains cautious despite Angel Canino resuming spiking practice
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jisaga0269
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21/04/2024 19:58
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RETURN IMMINENT. La Salle's Angel Canino (12) joins the Lady Spikers' huddle in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – Ever since UAAP women’s volleyball MVP Angel Canino suffered a freak cut accident on her spiking arm that emotionally rocked the defending champion La Salle Lady Spikers, fans have seen encouraging updates with each passing game that the sophomore sensation sat out.
First, Canino joined her teammates and uplifted their spirits despite sporting an arm sling. The sling only lasted one game, but Canino remained confined to mere non-spiking activities in pregame warmups.
The biggest improvement for the star spiker’s status eventually came on Sunday, April 21, as she resumed full spiking drills with the rest of the Lady Spikers ahead of their rivalry match with underdog Ateneo at the Araneta Coliseum.
Although Canino still did not suit up in the eventual 25-12, 25-12, 25-18 shellacking – La Salle’s 14th straight win over Ateneo – her limited appearance in practice was enough to send fans buzzing anew on when she may actually return.
Assistant coach Noel Orcullo once again remained vague about Canino’s return, but he remained positive that it is coming soon enough.
“Her recovery progress has been great. So far, she’s been undergoing therapy,” he said in Filipino, adding that there was still no plan to deploy Canino against the Blue Eagles.
“We really hope she can return soon. If not against UST, then in the semifinals.”
UAAP | WATCH:She's spiking. 👀 For the first time since accidentally cutting her right arm, UAAP MVP Angel Canino is spiking in warmups ahead of La Salle's rivalry bout with Ateneo!Canino had only been assisting in warmups without spiking until today.#UAAPSeason86 pic.twitter.com/0HPRj0zyQn
After dispatching Ateneo, La Salle has no more low-stakes games left in its schedule, as the UST Golden Tigresses await next on Saturday, April 27, with the winner seizing one of the coveted Final Four twice-to-beat berths.
Whether or not Canino finally gets the green light, Orcullo is just pleased that the Lady Spikers finally found their fire without their best scoring option and fiercest on-court leader.
“Today, they played extremely well. It was so solid despite still a few lapses in the third set, but the first two sets were what we’ve been looking for from them,” he continued. “Hopefully, this continues until this Saturday for the game against UST.”
“We just keep telling them, never forget to play within the system. To have a solid game, just stay together, follow instructions, and follow the system.” – Rappler.com
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VP Sara Duterte responds to First Lady Liza Marcos | The wRap
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Cara Angeline Oliver
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22/04/2024 22:46
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Here are today’s headlines – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:
Vice President Sara Duterte responds to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ criticisms against her in an interview with radio personality Anthony Taberna.
Two mayors of key cities in Western Visayas – Iloilo and Bacolod City – throw their support behind First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos in her word war with Vice President Sara Duterte.
Iloilo City is placed under a state of calamity due to drought brought by the El Niño phenomenon.
The Philippines thanks the G7 foreign ministers for rejecting China’s ‘baseless and expansive’ claims of the West Philippine Sea.
A fire that broke out Monday, April 22, in the parking lot extension of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport damages 19 vehicles.
Joanie Delgaco will be the Philippines’ first female rower in the Olympics as the Philippines celebrates its 100th year participating in the Summer Games. — Rappler.com
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Guess who showed up at the P412-million aid distribution event in Benguet
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Miriam Grace Go
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22/04/2024 22:42
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RIDING ON ILOCANO PRIDE. The House Speaker's tarpaulins are placed side-by-side President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s, his Ilocano cousin.
Mia Magdalena Fokno/Rappler
The greatest show on Benguet Earth turned out to be a coup both for House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap.
According to the Philippine Information Agency, about 80,000 Benguet residents were expected to flock to the Benguet State University grounds for the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) on Sunday and Monday, April 21 and 22.
Another 12,000 attended the “Pagkakaisa” concert Sunday night.
This is no mean feat because it was one of the hottest days in the province. Benguet people are also usually reserved and would be very hard to gather, despite the concert with Bamboo, Darren Espanto, Rocksteddy, ILT Band, and local chanteuse Ingrid Payaket.
House Speaker Romualdez was able to bring in 68 House representatives – the most number in the 14 other BPSFs held earlier around the country.
Most of the representatives came from the Northern Luzon Alliance (NLA) headed by Ilocos Sur 2nd District Representative Kristine Meehan Singson, who is a deputy speaker in the House.
The NLA originally included only representatives from the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, and Cordillera regions. It has since expanded its membership beyond territorial boundaries to include key representations from vital sectors, such as party-list representatives.
Romualdez asked the NLA weeks before to join his Benguet foray, a source said.
He needed the NLA, which was started by Meehan’s father, Candon Mayor Eric Singson, and political kingpin Luis “Chavit” Singson, Eric’s cousin.
The NLA has not been loyal to former President Rodrigo Duterte, as not all of the members had voted as a bloc for Duterte’s flagship legislation.
But President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. administered the oath-taking of the recent NLA members last November.
Political observers say Speaker Romualdez, the President’s cousin, is courting the loyalty of the Ilocano bloc, as he is not exactly popular in this part of the country.
The large crowd at the BPSF was also a big boost for his political career. People queued as early as 5 am, and the resulting traffic jam in La Trinidad reached up to neighboring Baguio City.
“In this Service Fair, the various branches of the government willingly come to you to deliver the help you need for our collective development,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker was made an adopted son of La Trinidad with the moniker “Batakagan” or “Brightest Star.”
Benguet congressman Yap is also still courting the Benguet voters, even if he did win in a landslide in 2022. Before that, Yap was ACT-CIS party-list representative, but was designated as the caretaker representative of Benguet when congressman Nestor Fongwan died in 2019.
Yap is still largely seen as a Duterte ally, particularly a close friend of Davao Mayor Paolo Duterte, but the Benguet BPSF, which is a political gimmick of President Marcos, is seen as a paradigm shift for Yap.
The fair was set to roll out a total of P412 million in cash aid and government programs. A total of 70 participating national government agencies delivered over 326 services directly to the people of Benguet, and distributed some P261 million in financial aid.
Services available at the fair range from health, education, and agriculture to livelihood, social services, and regulatory support. In a new initiative for the BPSF, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) installation will be available for free, requiring only a minimum load of P500 per sticker, with support from the North Luzon Expressway.
“There will be payouts of cash assistance for pre-identified beneficiaries, along with food, raffle items, and several surprises for those who avail themselves of the services,” Yap said.
The “Pagkakaisa” concert was brought from Manila by Romualdez. The ILT Band actually means I Love Tacloban Band. – Rappler.com
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WOW Sooooo early! Wag magpabudol sa mga #@#$%%%^&.
Noted: “Political observers say Speaker Romualdez, the President’s cousin, is courting the loyalty of the Ilocano bloc, as he is not exactly popular in this part of the country.” More likely, this is part of the Marcos-Romualdez clan’s plan of keeping the 2028-2032 Presidency for themselves. In addition, the Duterte Political Dynasty is very angry at this.
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VP Sara Duterte responds to First Lady Liza Marcos | The wRap
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Cara Angeline Oliver
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22/04/2024 22:46
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Here are today’s headlines – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:
Vice President Sara Duterte responds to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ criticisms against her in an interview with radio personality Anthony Taberna.
Two mayors of key cities in Western Visayas – Iloilo and Bacolod City – throw their support behind First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos in her word war with Vice President Sara Duterte.
Iloilo City is placed under a state of calamity due to drought brought by the El Niño phenomenon.
The Philippines thanks the G7 foreign ministers for rejecting China’s ‘baseless and expansive’ claims of the West Philippine Sea.
A fire that broke out Monday, April 22, in the parking lot extension of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport damages 19 vehicles.
Joanie Delgaco will be the Philippines’ first female rower in the Olympics as the Philippines celebrates its 100th year participating in the Summer Games. — Rappler.com
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BIFF top leader, 11 others killed in Maguindanao military ops
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Ralf Rivas
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22/04/2024 21:44
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COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Wanted by the authorities for several years, the top leader of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters-Karialan faction (BIFF-Karialan), Mohiden Animbang, alias Kagui Karialan, was killed, along with his 11 followers, in a fierce battle in Barangay Kitango, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao Del Sur.
Major General Alex Rillera, commander of the Joint Task Force-Central, said in a phone interview on Monday evening, April 22, that they received several confirmatory reports that among those killed during today’s encounter is Kumander Kagui Karialan.
“We are receiving several confirmatory reports that Kumander Karialan was among those killed, including the confirmation of the town mayor of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, finally, we cornered them,” Rillera said.
Rillera said that they had been conducting relentless operations against the troops of Karialan— whose group has allied with and pledged loyalty to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terror group and has been the headache in peace and security in the said town, as he described.
The military official said that several days ago they managed to follow the trails of the elusive terror leader and his men, but to some point they could not explicitly execute the pursuit operation as they didn’t want to cross the territories controlled by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
“We didn’t pursue them at first; we didn’t want to be tagged as peace spoilers, so we waited until they came from their hiding place, and we managed to corner them in Barangay Kitango,” Rillera said in a phone interview.
“He has been a pain in the ass for many; the town has been the center point of the atrocities for several years because of him. We hope this time stability and peace will be felt in the area,” Rillera added.
The firefight lasted the whole day today, from 6 am this morning until late afternoon.
“Initially, we sent choppers to intensify our efforts, but later on, I decided to pull it out because we don’t want to use excessive force, according to Rillera.
The top military commander of Central Mindanao said that troops from the 1st Brigade Combat Team of Brig. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara led the joint operations. Cagara served as the ground commander.
13 high-powered firearms were retrieved by the government authorities from the slain BIFF members.
BIFF-Karialan has been blamed for several bombing incidents, attacks on government troops, and involvement in countless atrocities in the Bangsamoro region.
On Wednesday, April 24, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., presidential adviser on peace, reconciliation, and unity, commended the 6th Infantry Division for displaying “professionalism, bravery and, most importantly, steadfast commitment to safeguarding the peace and security of the region.”
He also emphasized the “key role played by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leadership and its commanders in supporting the AFP’s successful operations against Animbang and his men.”
“We, therefore, urge the other members of the BIFF to abandon the armed violence and return to the folds of the law. There is no longer any reason for you to engage in violent acts, as the dividends of peace are now upon us,” Galvez said in a statement.
“Moving forward, we must all work together to address the challenges in achieving genuine peace and security. We must not allow these instruments of unpeace to negate the gains we have made under the Bangsamoro peace process. Let us all stand united in defeating violent extremism and building a peaceful, progressive and prosperous future for all,” he added. – Rappler.com
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Guess who showed up at the P412-million aid distribution event in Benguet
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Miriam Grace Go
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22/04/2024 22:42
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RIDING ON ILOCANO PRIDE. The House Speaker's tarpaulins are placed side-by-side President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s, his Ilocano cousin.
Mia Magdalena Fokno/Rappler
The greatest show on Benguet Earth turned out to be a coup both for House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap.
According to the Philippine Information Agency, about 80,000 Benguet residents were expected to flock to the Benguet State University grounds for the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) on Sunday and Monday, April 21 and 22.
Another 12,000 attended the “Pagkakaisa” concert Sunday night.
This is no mean feat because it was one of the hottest days in the province. Benguet people are also usually reserved and would be very hard to gather, despite the concert with Bamboo, Darren Espanto, Rocksteddy, ILT Band, and local chanteuse Ingrid Payaket.
House Speaker Romualdez was able to bring in 68 House representatives – the most number in the 14 other BPSFs held earlier around the country.
Most of the representatives came from the Northern Luzon Alliance (NLA) headed by Ilocos Sur 2nd District Representative Kristine Meehan Singson, who is a deputy speaker in the House.
The NLA originally included only representatives from the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, and Cordillera regions. It has since expanded its membership beyond territorial boundaries to include key representations from vital sectors, such as party-list representatives.
Romualdez asked the NLA weeks before to join his Benguet foray, a source said.
He needed the NLA, which was started by Meehan’s father, Candon Mayor Eric Singson, and political kingpin Luis “Chavit” Singson, Eric’s cousin.
The NLA has not been loyal to former President Rodrigo Duterte, as not all of the members had voted as a bloc for Duterte’s flagship legislation.
But President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. administered the oath-taking of the recent NLA members last November.
Political observers say Speaker Romualdez, the President’s cousin, is courting the loyalty of the Ilocano bloc, as he is not exactly popular in this part of the country.
The large crowd at the BPSF was also a big boost for his political career. People queued as early as 5 am, and the resulting traffic jam in La Trinidad reached up to neighboring Baguio City.
“In this Service Fair, the various branches of the government willingly come to you to deliver the help you need for our collective development,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker was made an adopted son of La Trinidad with the moniker “Batakagan” or “Brightest Star.”
Benguet congressman Yap is also still courting the Benguet voters, even if he did win in a landslide in 2022. Before that, Yap was ACT-CIS party-list representative, but was designated as the caretaker representative of Benguet when congressman Nestor Fongwan died in 2019.
Yap is still largely seen as a Duterte ally, particularly a close friend of Davao Mayor Paolo Duterte, but the Benguet BPSF, which is a political gimmick of President Marcos, is seen as a paradigm shift for Yap.
The fair was set to roll out a total of P412 million in cash aid and government programs. A total of 70 participating national government agencies delivered over 326 services directly to the people of Benguet, and distributed some P261 million in financial aid.
Services available at the fair range from health, education, and agriculture to livelihood, social services, and regulatory support. In a new initiative for the BPSF, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) installation will be available for free, requiring only a minimum load of P500 per sticker, with support from the North Luzon Expressway.
“There will be payouts of cash assistance for pre-identified beneficiaries, along with food, raffle items, and several surprises for those who avail themselves of the services,” Yap said.
The “Pagkakaisa” concert was brought from Manila by Romualdez. The ILT Band actually means I Love Tacloban Band. – Rappler.com
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WOW Sooooo early! Wag magpabudol sa mga #@#$%%%^&.
Noted: “Political observers say Speaker Romualdez, the President’s cousin, is courting the loyalty of the Ilocano bloc, as he is not exactly popular in this part of the country.” More likely, this is part of the Marcos-Romualdez clan’s plan of keeping the 2028-2032 Presidency for themselves. In addition, the Duterte Political Dynasty is very angry at this.
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RESULTS: April 2024 Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination
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lfangeles0309
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22/04/2024 20:50
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The following is a press release from the Professional Regulation Commission.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 1,337 out of 1,758 passed the Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination given by the Board of Real Estate Service in NCR, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, and Tacloban this April 2024.
The members of the Board of Real Estate Service who gave the licensure examination are Ofelia C. Binag, Chairman; Rafael M. Fajardo, Jose Arnold M. Tan, and Pilar M. Torres-Banaag, Members.
The results were released in two (2) working days after the said examination.
Starting June 17, 2024, registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done online. Please go to www.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration. Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), 2 pieces passport-sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps, and 1 piece short brown envelope, and submission of Original Surety Bond, minimum amount of which is P20,000.00, with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)/Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) as Obligee. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.
The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examination will be announced later.
The top performing schools in the April 2024 Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination as per Commission Resolution No. 2017-1058(C) series of 2017:
The successful examinees who garnered the ten (10) highest places in the April 2024 Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination are the following:
Here’s the full list of passers:
– Rappler.com
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Indonesia court rejects election disputes, upholding president-elect Prabowo’s win
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Chito de la Vega
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22/04/2024 19:09
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PRABOWO AND GIBRAN. Indonesia's defene minister and presidential candidate, Prabowo Subianto, along with his running mate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who is the eldest son of Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Surakarta's Mayor, wave after registering themselves for next year's presidential election, at the election commission headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia, October 25, 2023.
Willy Kurniawan/Reuters
JAKARTA, Indonesia – An Indonesian court on Monday, April 22, rejected challenges from both losing candidates seeking a re-run of February’s presidential election and the disqualification of winner Prabowo Subianto and his running mate, bringing an end to all election disputes.
The Constitutional Court ruled that there was no evidence of systematic fraud and presidential “meddling”, nor that state bodies, regional officials and social assistance had been mobilized to sway polls in the world’s third-largest democracy.
“The plaintiff’s petition has no legal basis in its entirety,” said Chief Justice Suhartoyo, announcing the decision for one former candidate, ex-Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan. The other former candidate to dispute the result was Ganjar Pranowo, a former Central Java governor.
Five judges ruled in favor of rejecting both petitions, with three dissenting opinions, he said.
The Constitutional Court’s decisions are final and binding and representatives of both former candidates said they would respect the ruling.
Otto Hasibuan, a lawyer for Prabowo’s camp, said the ruling was “a victory for all Indonesians.”
Prabowo is scheduled to take office in October, replacing the hugely popular President Joko Widodo, better known as Jokowi.
The presidential palace respected the ruling and will help support the transition of the president-elect, palace spokesperson Ari Dwipayana said.
Anies and Ganjar had both separately alleged there was state interference to favor Prabowo, who won by a huge margin. They had also complained that Prabowo’s running mate, the current president’s 36-year-old son, should not have been allowed to take part.
In court, they had sought Prabowo’s disqualification, arguing the government’s widespread distribution of social aid, including handouts of rice, cash and fertiliser, in key areas had swayed the vote in his favor.
The administration and Prabowo rejected the allegations. During the court hearings, cabinet members denied that the aid had swayed voters while Prabowo, who won 58% of the vote, has dismissed the claim as baseless.
Judge Arief Hidayat, who cast one of the dissenting votes, argued that the president and state agencies lacked neutrality.
Anies and Ganjar, who won about 25% and 16% of votes respectively, had also alleged that tacit support from Jokowi had gifted Prabowo an unfair advantage.
Jokowi came under intense scrutiny in the election run-up, with critics alleging he abused his position to favor Prabowo, with the aim of preserving his legacy after a decade in charge of Southeast Asia’s biggest economy.
The losing candidates also complained to the Constitutional Court about the inclusion of Jokowi’s son Gibran Rakabuming Raka as Prabowo’s running mate, which was enabled by a decision in October by the same court to change eligibility rules.
The chief justice at the time was Jokowi’s brother-in-law, who was later reprimanded by an ethics panel for allowing intervention from an unspecified “external party”. He was barred from involvement in election-related cases.
Despite the ethical violation, the judges said on Monday there was no evidence of nepotism or presidential intervention in relation to that decision. – Rappler.com
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Fire in NAIA Terminal 3 parking lot burns 19 vehicles
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lkyu0285
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22/04/2024 18:19
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Manila International Airport Agency
MANILA, Philippines – A fire that broke out Monday, April 22, in the parking lot extension of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) damaged 19 vehicles.
According to unofficial reports gathered by MIAA, the fire originated from a “small grass fire” that rapidly grew and burned 19 vehicles in Terminal 3’s extension parking lot, which is unpaved and surrounded by grass. Photos and videos of the area show that multiple vehicles were completely charred by the blaze.
The MIAA Rescue and Firefighting Division declared fire out at 1:57 pm. No one was reported hurt or injured.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) first received a report about a fire in the area at 1:28 pm on Monday. Five firetrucks were immediately deployed, and the fire was placed under control by 1:40 pm.
The Bureau of Fire Protection is currently investigating the cause of the fire.
“Statements from the parking lot attendant and airport security directing traffic in the Terminal 3 vicinity as well as those assigned to adjacent parking lots will be taken to shed light on what happened,” the MIAA said in a statement issued on Monday.
“We are relieved to know that no one was hurt or injured in the incident. I have directed all pertinent MIAA units to give their full support to the BFP for the speedy completion of their investigation,” MIAA General Manager Eric Ines added. – Rappler.com
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Jacob Cortez raring to be part of La Salle’s championship system
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delfin.dioquino editor
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22/04/2024 18:10
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NEW RECRUIT. Jacob Cortez in action for the La Salle Green Archers.
Jacob Cortez Instagram page
MANILA, Philippines – Jacob Cortez reached the NCAA pinnacle with the San Beda Red Lions. Now, he aims to conquer one more quest – to win the UAAP championship with the La Salle Green Archers.
The 21-year-old will be the Archers’ point guard of the future, having transferred to La Salle in January after leading the Red Lions to the NCAA Season 99 title.
Now taking classes at La Salle, Cortez has been slowly integrating himself into the Archers’ system, which has already bore fruit with the UAAP Season 86 crown.
“We know La Salle runs a championship system,” said Cortez. “I’m excited. Everyone here supports me, helps me to know the system, [and] I know it will take me a long time to know all of it. But I have a year or more here to learn before playing.”
Cortez played three seasons at San Beda, the first of which saw him relegated to the reserve list before NCAA Season 97. He then went on to carve himself a spot in the rotation, the starting lineup, and eventually became the team leader in the following two seasons.
Cortez, long courted by La Salle, has been working closely with head coach Topex Robinson since his enrollment, integrating himself as one of the Archers’ cornerstones once his eligibility starts in Season 88.
“So far, coach Topex has been very supportive to me. He teaches me a lot about the team and the culture on the court and off of it. Not only him, other coaches and my teammates as well are also there to guide me. They treat me well here,” he said.
Cortez traces his roots to the green-and-white school, playing for La Salle Green Hills in his early high school years before he transferred to UST and San Beda.
The second-generation player also drew great influence from his father, Mike Cortez, who won two titles with La Salle in 2000 and 2001.
As his surname remains synonymous with the Green Archers, the younger Cortez is steadfast in leaving his own mark on the school, not just for his team but also for his family.
“My family’s familiarity in La Salle has been a big help. My family has been really there behind me, supporting me, even when I was still in high school in La Salle (Green Hills). I know they are excited for me to hopefully finish (college) in La Salle,” Cortez said.
Cortez is on track to play alongside La Salle mainstays Mike Phillips and Season 86 MVP Kevin Quiambao, if he opts to stay with the Green Archers after Season 87.
Cortez will also share the backcourt with former National University star Kean Baclaan, who is also eligible to play in Season 88.
Unfazed by the star power the team already boasts, Cortez promised to continue the grind until he ultimately steps onto a UAAP court.
“There are a lot of great players here that I’ll get to play with. I’m trying not to be satisfied. I’m keeping my routine. I’m working to keep in shape,” said Cortez.
Packed with high expectations coming in, the “Cool Cub” is dead set of his vision – a UAAP title.
“I came here simply to win, to win a championship with La Salle. One of my dreams is to win in the UAAP,” he said.
“But yes, we’re a long way to go. Right now, it’s just about the grind.” – Rappler.com
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Becoming Gilas’ next naturalized player a ‘no-brainer’ for Boatwright
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delfin.dioquino editor
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22/04/2024 20:35
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PROSPECT. Bennie Boatwright (second to left) with SBP president Al Panlilio, SBP executive director Erika Dy, Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone and team manager Richard del Rosario.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – Bennie Boatwright did not have to think twice when he got asked to become Gilas Pilipinas’ next naturalized player.
His splendid stay in the country while playing for San Miguel convinced Boatwright to accept the offer from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas as his naturalization went underway.
“Living here, experiencing the culture, experiencing everything, and my teammates, coaches, they all made me feel welcomed, so it’s a no-brainer,” said Boatwright.
Boatwright took the PBA by storm when came in as replacement import in the Commissioner’s Cup, steering the Beermen to the championship following a six-game conquest of Magnolia in the finals.
A 6-foot-8 big man with a sweet shooting stroke, the 27-year-old Boatwright averaged 30.3 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in his first tour of duty in the PBA.
Boatwright said he got approached by San Miguel Corporation sports director Alfrancis Chua if he wanted to be naturalized after their semifinal sweep of Ginebra and he immediately agreed.
“Couple of players mentioned it to me and coaches were like asking me if I’m open to it. After we played Ginebra, boss Al asked me if I was open to it and I said for sure. And that’s where it started,” Boatwright said.
Now playing in the Chinese Basketball Association for the Shanxi Loongs, Boatwright returned to the country and met with SBP president Al Panlilio for the first time on Saturday, April 20.
The federation chief liked what he saw in Boatwright and even compared him to current naturalized player Justin Brownlee.
“I told him that he’s a bigger, younger version of Brownlee,” said Panlilio in a story posted on the SBP website. “He’s very excited to be chosen, to be part of the Gilas journey.”
Boatwright will join a growing naturalized player pool that also includes NBA veteran Jordan Clarkson and former UAAP MVP Ange Kouame. – Rappler.com
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View from Manila: West Philippine Sea part of ‘most ambitious, complicated’ Balikatan war games
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Bea Cupin
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22/04/2024 19:14
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Philippines Exercise Director Major General Marvin Licudine, Philippine Army Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr., US Embassy representative Robert Ewing, Philippine Army Deputy Chief of Staff for Education, Training and Doctrine Major General Noel Beleran, and US Exercise Director Lieutenant General William Jurney, link arms during the opening ceremony of the annual Philippines-US joint military exercises or Balikatan, at at Camp Aguinaldo on April 22, 2024.
REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – The navies of the Philippines, United States, and France will sail together in the West Philippine Sea by end-April, as part of the 2024 Exercise Balikatan.
It’s just one of many firsts for what US Exercise Director Lieutenant General William Jurney described on Monday, April 22, as the “most effective, most ambitious, and most complicated” version of the yearly war games. The 39th iteration of the annual drills is taking place for three weeks from April 22 to May 10 in four Luzon provinces.
The joint exercises will be hosted in four Luzon provinces that are critical to regional security in the Indo-Pacific and South China Sea.
There’s Batanes, the Philippines’ northernmost province that’s close to the Taiwan Strait.
The two other staging areas – Palawan and Zambales – are provinces that face the West Philippine Sea and are just over 100 nautical miles away from features where tensions between Manila and Beijing run the most high: Ayungin Shoal off the coast of Palawan, and Bajo de Masinloc off the coast of Zambales. The Palawan activity – of the Philippines, US, and France jointly operating drills in the South China Sea, with no less than the PCG as their security – is more than likely to ruffle feathers in Beijing.
In Ilocos Norte, joint Philippine and US forces will sink the MT Lake Caliraya, a China-made oil tanker once commissioned by the Philippine Navy. The vessel will serve as the “enemy” ship during the drill.
Formerly called the MT Lapu-Lapu, it was built in 2007 at the Zhejiang Zhongxing Shipyard in Taizhou in China, according to a 2015 GMA News Online report. It was originally owned by the Philippine National Oil Company. It was commissioned into the Navy in 2015, only to be decommissioned in December 2020 to “pave the way for the arrival of new platforms.”
Beijing’s state-run Global Times wrote in its editorial that choosing to sink the China-made Caliraya was a “ludicrous performance by Manila” that supposedly “[shows] clear provocative intent.”
But officials said the Caliraya had long been meant to be a target of the PH-US joint exercise – as far back as July 2023, before the situation in the West Philippine Sea turned sour for Manila and Beijing.
It was supposed to be the subject of a Philippine and US Marines drill in 2023, but that did not push through when it ran aground in the waters of Morong, Bataan, as it was being towed towards Subic, Zambales.
Tensions between Manila and Beijing over the South China Sea are at their worst yet. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has described bilateral ties as at a “crossroads.”
Beijing and its embassy in Manila have repeatedly warned against the Philippines heading down the “wrong path,” especially after a historical trilateral meeting in the White House between the US, Japan, and the Philippines.
The Department of Foreign Affairs, in response to Beijing’s claims that the trilateral would “drive up tensions,” said it was Chinese actions in the region – both in the South China Sea against the Philippines and the East China Sea against Japan – that were causing tensions.
There’s another exercise that’ll probably upset Beijing, too: an “island-taking” exercise for the Special Forces of the Philippines and the US in Batanes. Major General Marvin Licudine said none of the drills – especially not the war games in Batanes – were “addressed to any aggressor” but merely to show Philippine-US interoperability and adherence to the rule of law.
A little over a week after the US, Japan, and Philippines expressed “serious concern” over Chinese activities in the South China and East China Seas, the Group of Seven expressed the same in a statement from its foreign ministers on April 19.
“We are seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas and reiterate our strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion,” the bloc said.
It added: “We continue to oppose China’s dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea and its repeated obstruction of countries’ high seas freedom of navigation and we express serious concern about the increasing use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippines vessels in this regard. There is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China’s militarization, coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea.”
The group, whose members are among the world’s most advanced economics (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and non-enumerated the European Union), emphasized the “universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea” and said the 2016 Arbitral Award was a “significant milestone.”
The award, the result of the Philippines bringing China to court in 2013, deemed Beijing’s sweeping claim of the South China Sea as invalid. “We reiterate that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on July 12, 2016, is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties,” said the Group of Seven.
Individually, G7 members (including the EU), have previously expressed concern over Chinese actions, particularly during resupplies to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, whether through their embassies or their foreign ministries back home.
Back in 2023, following a summit in Hiroshima, G7 leaders said they “remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas.” But it would be the first time for the powerful bloc to specifically call out China for its use of water cannons against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea.
Several members of the G7 will also be present at Balikatan, albeit as observers.
All in all, fourteen countries, including those from Southeast Asia, are part of the Philippine-hosted international observer program: Brunei, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
While their delegations will pale in comparison to the hundreds from France and Australia and the thousands from the US and the Philippines, their presence is still significant. Back in 2023, when only nine nations were observers to Balikatan, the Philippine defense department touted the expansion of the exercises. The 38th iteration of the Balikatan significantly expanded the scope of the International Observers Program as a “jump-off point for expanding the major exercises into multilateral engagements.”
Philippine and American officials were tight-lipped when asked if any other military would be joining in next year’s Balikatan. But who knows? France’s participation, after all, was prompted by its own request. – Rappler.com
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Fire engulfs 17th-century Isabela church during renovation
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Paterno Esmaquel II
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22/04/2024 21:20
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RAVAGED. Fire hits the historic Saint Ferdinand Parish Church in Ilagan City, Isabela, April 22, 2024.
Diocese of Ilagan via Radio Veritas
MANILA, Philippines – Fire engulfed a 17th-century parish in Isabela while its ceiling was being renovated on Monday morning, April 22, in yet another tragedy to strike a heritage church in this former Spanish colony.
Fire broke out at Saint Ferdinand Parish Church in IIagan City, Isabela, at around 11:30 am on Monday and was extinguished after an hour, according to the news service of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
“The fire ravaged everything,” said parish priest Father Ric-Zeus Angobang in an interview quoted by CBCP News.
Saint Ferdinand Parish Church was the first cathedral, the first seat of the bishop, of the Diocese of Ilagan when it was established in 1970. The current center of the diocese is the Cathedral of Saint Michael the Archangel in Gamu, Isabela.
The parish priest said the fire happened “while workers were installing steel trusses on the church’s ceiling,” reported CBCP News. He said they were working to install ceiling fans inside the parish building, their first major project since he became parish priest in August 2023.
“Nobody wants this [to happen], but we can surrender to God’s mercy and rise from these ashes, and work together to rebuild it,” Angobang said.
Saint Ferdinand Parish Church is the latest historical church building to be destroyed in the Philippines, a Spanish colony where Catholicism was the state religion for 300 years.
In June 2023, fire destroyed the convent of Saint Joseph Cathedral in Romblon, a cultural heritage site, while its restoration was still being planned. In July 2022, the centuries-old Vigan Cathedral almost split into half when a magnitude 7 earthquake jolted Luzon.
For many of these heritage churches, insufficient funds and lack of technical skills have impeded restoration efforts through the years. – Rappler.com
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Inside the alleged Ponzi scheme preying on the rich
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Ralf Rivas
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22/04/2024 18:57
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Millennial CEO Maria Franchesca “Mica” Tan may have had her finest year ever in 2017.
When her peers were still climbing up the corporate ladder, Tan, who was 27 at the time, was already busy buying stakes in companies and appearing on TV shows.
The private equity firm she founded in 2014, the MFT Group of Companies, was at its peak, growing in healthcare, food, and financial services.
2017 was also the year when the media started to pick up her incredible story: At just 13 years old, she was already busy investing in the stock market. At 15, she was already into foreign exchange.
In several interviews, Tan attributed her drive for business to her mother, who has a jewelry business. She would sell little treats at the hospital where her father, an oncologist, would do his rounds.
With her background in business, she was one of the featured mentors of the Shark Tank-like show called “The Final Pitch,” which aired in 2017 on the History Channel and the now defunct CNN Philippines. This stint catapulted her to the spotlight.
Her inspiring entrepreneurial spirit and ability to bridge young and old minds captured the attention of several shows and publications, including Bloomberg, BusinessWorld, Tatler, and even Rappler.
“I don’t latch on if you’re a baby boomer or a Gen X or a millennial. I think what has helped me work with teams with a lot more senior people is what they call intellectual humility. I think that humility is the cornerstone of leadership, and that’s something that regardless of age, I think, we should bring that with us,” Tan said in a Business Sense episode in 2021.
Tan had a stellar public image and compelling narrative, earning praises from the business community.
In 2022, she would even be nominated as EY entrepreneur of the year by the SGV Foundation.
But her nomination for the award would then be questioned* after several investors sounded the alarm over bounced checks. Some wrote a letter to SGV, urging them to remove Tan from the list of nominees. (*Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story said that Tan’s nomination for the 2022 EY entrepreneur of the year award was rescinded. This has been corrected as Tan’s name still appears on the list of finalists notwithstanding appeals to remove it.)
“Celebrating a successful entrepreneur with questionable integrity sends the wrong message to people as instead of rewarding a can-do spirit that is sustainable and beneficial to more than just the entrepreneur themselves, we instead reward unadulterated greed and questionable practices,” part of the letter to SGV Foundation read.
Tan’s name still appears on the list of 2022 entrepreneur of the year nominees uploaded on EY’s website.
By 2023, several investors filed complaints against Tan, triggering a bitter spat.
On Monday, April 22, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) brought the MFT Group and Tan’s and Foundry Ventures before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for criminal prosecution over their alleged illegal investment taking activities. Also implicated in the complaint was Isla Lipana & Co., which served as the independent auditor.
Tan’s MFT Group insisted they are a legitimate business. But for the SEC, the business had all the elements of a Ponzi scheme.
According to several minority investors of the MFT Group, Tan’s business revolved mostly on purchase order (PO) financing for different companies under their portfolio.
Tan would encourage people, mostly friends and acquaintances, to loan her money to invest in companies. Investors would then be guaranteed that after at least a year, with a maximum of five years, their money will grow and earn monthly interest.
The MFT Group guaranteed returns on investment between 12% and 18% of the initial investment. To maintain the program, interested investors were given a promissory note or a borrower-lender agreement as evidence of their investment, and post-dated checks with 1% to 1.5% monthly interest were issued to them.
Multiple sources Rappler spoke with said the minimum investment ranged between P1 million to P5 million, though others were eventually allowed to invest P100,000.
“This is not for ordinary Filipinos, since the amount is quite high. You need to have money to be in,” one source said.
Another individual, who requested anonymity, said he sank a total of P14 million into MFT. The source was encouraged to invest, as Tan paid on time and signed the checks herself, up until 2022 when payments started to get delayed.
Apart from monthly interest, Tan also incentivized investors and associates with travel perks. Should associates entice enough people to cumulatively invest P30 million, they would be able to fly to Balesin Island and other luxury destinations.
Rappler was able to see portions of the MFT Group’s newsletter showing that its employees did enjoy the amenities of Balesin Island. The newsletter also mentioned that staff were able to fly to Cambodia. It also teased about a trip to the Maldives.
Other sources claimed that some investors and associates were able to fly to Iceland, as well as New Zealand and Australia, as long as people were willing to put in new money. Rappler, however, could not independently verify this, as these activities were not mentioned in the newsletters.
MFT’s newsletter given to prospective investors highlighted some of the other endeavors of the company, including funding for the NU Bulldogs. The company also supposedly bankrolled a film called Nilalang, which starred Cesar Montano and Maria Ozawa. It competed in the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival.
Rappler was able to see portions of the complaint lodged by some investors, noting that they were promised commissions every time they were able to recruit new investors.
These complaints were brought to the SEC once checks started to bounce.
The SEC noted that the business model of the MFT Group and Foundry Ventures, another company of Tan, was basically a Ponzi scheme, “since their success and viability are anchored on the additional investments of existing investors and/or the investments of new investors.” The Commission noted that the nature of the promissory notes were “clearly investment contracts.”
The SEC issued a cease and desist order against the MFT Group and Foundry Ventures in January, where the officers and directors of the companies were directed to stop their investment solicitation activities without the necessary licenses from the SEC. The order was made permanent on April 1.
Some 30 of the MFT Group’s officers were found by the SEC to be accountable for 17 charges of misrepresentation* in their audited financial statements from 2018 to 2021, since they had reported dividend income that had no basis. (*Editor’s note: A previous version of the story said officers were found to be liable for falsification. This has been tweaked for accuracy.)
“The SEC noted that the amount received by the MFT Group from its investors should have been recognized in its books of accounts either as part of the company’s liabilities (creditor’s equity) or share capital (stockholder’s equity). This is consistent with the accounting equation that any increase in the asset of an entity must have a corresponding increase in the company’s liabilities or capital or both,” the SEC said.
“Based on the financial review conducted, no such amount reflected in the [audited financial statement] of the subject company would correspond to the monies invested by the investors to either equity or liabilities of the company. This clearly indicates that the monies received through the representations of the MFT Group of Companies were not recognized in the company’s books.”
The SEC’s strongly-worded statement went on to say that MFT’s auditor, Isla Lipana, colluded with the company in its fraudulent activities by making it appear that the financial statements of the company were fairly presented despite inconsistencies and inaccuracies in the audited financial statements.
“Considering that this discrepancy happened over the years, and given its significant impact on the financial position of the MFT Group, the same cannot be considered an isolated event. The fact that respondent auditors repeatedly engaged themselves in this kind of irregularity is a clear indication of its intention to conceal the actual financial status of the MFT Group, to the prejudice of its investors,” the SEC said.
In a statement, Isla Lipana said the MFT Group is their only audit client. The subsidiary, The Foundry, was not audited by the company. Isla Lipana went on to clarify that they have yet to issue their reports for 2022 and 2023 pending completion of audit procedures.
“We are committed to fully cooperate with an ongoing investigation by the Department of Justice,” Isla Lipana said.
In a statement on Monday, April 22, MFT Group stood firm that it did not engage in securities transactions, and nor did it violate the Revised Securities Act.
“We welcome the opportunity to clear our names and are hopeful that the DOJ will exonerate us. From the beginning, we were never shown a copy of the alleged complaints and it is only now that the SEC produced the alleged complaints for the DOJ,” the MFT Group and The Foundry said in a joint statement.
Prior to the SEC’s complaints, shareholders of the MFT Group and The Foundry insisted that transactions were “straightforward private loans between individuals and not securities.”
The companies are also committed to a five-year loan recovery program, with adjusted interest rates. They attributed the delayed payments to the pandemic’s economic impact.
“Honoring their loan obligations has been the foundation of the long-standing private transactions by the shareholders with their creditors. It is unfortunate that their spotless track record of timely payments was tarnished by the pandemic – something that is not isolated to this case but largely experienced by individuals and businesses alike, here and everywhere,” said Rey Villegas, a lawyer and private creditor of one of the shareholders of The Foundry.
In a press release, the MFT Group and The Foundry said that Villegas has agreed to the five-year loan restructuring program.
“He is one of the cooperative creditors who place confidence in the ability of MFT Group to bounce back and recover, which will ultimately lead to creditors getting paid,” the release said.
The SEC did not disclose just how much Tan’s companies owed investors, describing only how the MFT Group and The Foundry operated in a Ponzi-like scheme.
One investor who wished to remain anonymous told Rappler that he is no longer expecting Tan or the companies to return his P10 million.
“I’m okay, I am financially secure. But I feel sad for those who gave the smaller amounts, those who sold property or borrowed just to give P100,000. They are the ones who are truly suffering. I hope that Mica will prioritize them,” the source said. – Rappler.com
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La Niña: What ought to be done to be better prepared?
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Chay Hofilena
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22/04/2024 19:30
|
Alyssa Arizabal/Rappler
Part 1 | La Niña may happen in 2024. Here are the flood-risk areas in Metro Manila.
To avoid another Ondoy, a disaster resilience warned that interventions need to be customized according to each city’s needs. There is no “one size fits all” solution.
Guillermo Luz, chief resilience officer of non-profit Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), said that measures could be a combination of engineering interventions, infrastructure upgrades, or nature-based solutions to avoid runoffs from Sierra Madre.
The so-called evacuation centers in the Philippines are facilities that are not originally designed to be evacuation centers. Schools, basketball courts, and government buildings become evacuation centers when disasters hit.
“It’s important to kind of look at alternative sites and build evacuation centers – not always using our schools.… You don’t want to evacuate people into another area that’s still at risk. So we have to identify and build centers in areas which are low for hazards,” Luz said.
Metro Manila also faces earthquake-related hazards aside from flooding, as the West Valley Fault runs under the metropolis.
In March, the House of Representatives had submitted to the Senate the third reading copy of House Bill (HB) No. 7354, which, if passed into law, would mandate every city and municipality to have a permanent evacuation center. Thirteen cities in Metro Manila currently do not have one.
According to a discussion paper by the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department at the Lower House, one evacuation center that meets all the requirements of the bill would cost each Metro Manila local government unit (LGU) at least P65.7 million ($1.16 million)*.
If a structure were to be upgraded to be a permanent evacuation center, the cost starts at P49.3 million ($870,000). While Metro Manila has some of the wealthiest cities in the Philippines, the price tag is considerably high.
If lawmakers get their way, construction of, and upgrade to, permanent evacuation centers would be shouldered by the national government.
Apart from evacuation centers, Luz said that addressing drainage problems in the metropolis is of paramount importance. Metro Manila also needs more pumping stations to move water from submerged areas to prevent or reduce flooding faster.
“Floods occur not only during a typhoon, but during actual heavy rainfall now without having to hit typhoon status. I think one of the root problems is the drainage situation within Metro Manila,” Luz said.
At present, if another Ondoy struck the capital, Manila would turn into a “river.”
The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) runs 71 pumping stations to reduce flooding. The city of Manila houses the highest number of pumping stations at 27, followed by Malabon City at 16. But it is not enough.
The MMDA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), with a loan from the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, are building 20 new pumping stations and rehabilitating 36 existing ones through the $500-million Metro Manila Flood Management Project.
It also aims to clean waterways and drainage channels, build new drains if needed, and introduce solid waste management programs in barangays. Some 2,500 families living near waterways will be relocated.
The project is set to close in November, six years after it became effective. But as of February, only three of 36 pumping stations have completed upgrades and 10 are ongoing rehabilitation. Four of the 20 new ones are set to be bidded out.
In a message, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said that “the loan facility will probably be extended for another two years.” Artes had previously said that the loan has to be restructured and that the government was also proposing that the World Bank fund a 50-year drainage system master plan.
In a congressional oversight hearing on March 12, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian called out MMDA and DPWH, saying that the agencies need to play catch up given the prospect of La Niña in the latter half of the year.
Gatchalian pointed out that low-lying Navotas City has recently inaugurated new pumping stations built using its own funds. He asked DPWH: “If a local government can implement pumping stations right away, what seems to be the bottleneck in implementing pumping stations related to this project?”
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain responded that under the restructured program, the department will rehabilitate a total of 26 pumping stations and build only four – as opposed to the initial target of 36 and 20 pumping stations, respectively. Only 600 of the targeted 2,500 families will be relocated. In effect, the Philippine government reduced its targets to reach them.
Sadain explained that the coronavirus pandemic was among the reasons why the loan-funded project was delayed.
“We can still catch up the 30 (sic) pumping stations that are actually targeted for completion within the next two years,” the public works official said, giving assurances.
In the meantime, according to Sadain, the DPWH has built nine pumping stations using its budget.
Since Ondoy and Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), Luz said Metro Manila has seen a lot of progress in terms of disaster prevention. But a lot still needs to be done.
“I think one of the lessons we all learned as a country after that is the investment in preparedness and prevention. Right now, we have a lot less human lives lost since Yolanda. And there are many times actually that we have storms where zero lives are lost and I think that’s a good sign of progress,” Luz said.
The disaster resilience expert said that local governments have started investing in emergency operations and command centers, but at some point, there will be too many.
“To really kind of feel the full benefit of these centers, they should be connected to each other.… If you have connectivity to another network or sister center (in another city), then at least you still have your information intact, then you can somehow figure out a way to tap into the information,” Luz said.
“So I think the next big [step] is really sharing all the information. In disaster response and even in preparedness and prevention, it’s important that everyone sees the same picture,” he added.
He also said that mayors should invest in updated hazard maps and look at flood models to determine the most vulnerable areas and ensure that “those are always free and clear” of risks. Since Ondoy, damage to houses and infrastructure has significantly gone down but thousands of people remain affected, disrupting livelihood and schooling.
On an individual level, Luz said that Filipinos only have to do the bare minimum as citizens. First is to pay attention to weather reports and second is to be mindful of their trash.
To prepare households for floods or disasters, Luz suggested using PDRF’s PH72 as a guide, a simple tool adapted from San Francisco’s SF72, which details how people can prepare for the first 72 hours of a disaster. It includes information on what supplies to prepare and planning how to meet your family should you get separated during an emergency.
Similar to PH72, the Torreses of Marikina have devised their own system during disasters. For them, one can never be too complacent.
“Be ready at all times. Don’t ever think that your area will not be flooded,” Reizan said. “Each family member should know what to do. Prepare your documents. Ready your clothes and belongings. Save some money. You can never really rely on anyone but yourself.” – Rappler.com
*$1 = P56.60
All quotes were translated into English.
Vianca Jasmin Anglo is a data analyst pursuing a postgraduate degree in Human Development and Services. She was part of the public health, pandemic management, and response in the Philippines. Her years of experience in social development demonstrate her commitment to human well-being through data analysis.
Reporting for this story was supported by the Environmental Data Journalism Academy – a program of Internews’ Earth Journalism Network and Thibi.
METHODOLOGY
This data story examined the link between evacuation centers and flood risk in Metro Manila. We obtained the latest evacuation center data from the DILG – which appeared incomplete – and supplemented it with 2021 data from the OCD. Capacity information from these lists are incomplete, limiting our analysis to the evacuation center-to-population ratio.
Using spatial software and Google Sheets, spatial analysis was conducted to pinpoint the intersection between evacuation centers and their corresponding flood susceptibility category from HazardHunterPH. For the full description of our methodology, please read it here. Data cleaning and analysis can be accessed here. This story was a result of collaboration between the author, and the data and story mentors from Thibi, Thet Win Htut, and Aika Rey, respectively.
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1
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La Niña: What ought to be done to be better prepared?
|
Chay Hofilena
|
22/04/2024 19:30
|
Alyssa Arizabal/Rappler
Part 1 | La Niña may happen in 2024. Here are the flood-risk areas in Metro Manila.
To avoid another Ondoy, a disaster resilience warned that interventions need to be customized according to each city’s needs. There is no “one size fits all” solution.
Guillermo Luz, chief resilience officer of non-profit Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), said that measures could be a combination of engineering interventions, infrastructure upgrades, or nature-based solutions to avoid runoffs from Sierra Madre.
The so-called evacuation centers in the Philippines are facilities that are not originally designed to be evacuation centers. Schools, basketball courts, and government buildings become evacuation centers when disasters hit.
“It’s important to kind of look at alternative sites and build evacuation centers – not always using our schools.… You don’t want to evacuate people into another area that’s still at risk. So we have to identify and build centers in areas which are low for hazards,” Luz said.
Metro Manila also faces earthquake-related hazards aside from flooding, as the West Valley Fault runs under the metropolis.
In March, the House of Representatives had submitted to the Senate the third reading copy of House Bill (HB) No. 7354, which, if passed into law, would mandate every city and municipality to have a permanent evacuation center. Thirteen cities in Metro Manila currently do not have one.
According to a discussion paper by the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department at the Lower House, one evacuation center that meets all the requirements of the bill would cost each Metro Manila local government unit (LGU) at least P65.7 million ($1.16 million)*.
If a structure were to be upgraded to be a permanent evacuation center, the cost starts at P49.3 million ($870,000). While Metro Manila has some of the wealthiest cities in the Philippines, the price tag is considerably high.
If lawmakers get their way, construction of, and upgrade to, permanent evacuation centers would be shouldered by the national government.
Apart from evacuation centers, Luz said that addressing drainage problems in the metropolis is of paramount importance. Metro Manila also needs more pumping stations to move water from submerged areas to prevent or reduce flooding faster.
“Floods occur not only during a typhoon, but during actual heavy rainfall now without having to hit typhoon status. I think one of the root problems is the drainage situation within Metro Manila,” Luz said.
At present, if another Ondoy struck the capital, Manila would turn into a “river.”
The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) runs 71 pumping stations to reduce flooding. The city of Manila houses the highest number of pumping stations at 27, followed by Malabon City at 16. But it is not enough.
The MMDA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), with a loan from the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, are building 20 new pumping stations and rehabilitating 36 existing ones through the $500-million Metro Manila Flood Management Project.
It also aims to clean waterways and drainage channels, build new drains if needed, and introduce solid waste management programs in barangays. Some 2,500 families living near waterways will be relocated.
The project is set to close in November, six years after it became effective. But as of February, only three of 36 pumping stations have completed upgrades and 10 are ongoing rehabilitation. Four of the 20 new ones are set to be bidded out.
In a message, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said that “the loan facility will probably be extended for another two years.” Artes had previously said that the loan has to be restructured and that the government was also proposing that the World Bank fund a 50-year drainage system master plan.
In a congressional oversight hearing on March 12, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian called out MMDA and DPWH, saying that the agencies need to play catch up given the prospect of La Niña in the latter half of the year.
Gatchalian pointed out that low-lying Navotas City has recently inaugurated new pumping stations built using its own funds. He asked DPWH: “If a local government can implement pumping stations right away, what seems to be the bottleneck in implementing pumping stations related to this project?”
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain responded that under the restructured program, the department will rehabilitate a total of 26 pumping stations and build only four – as opposed to the initial target of 36 and 20 pumping stations, respectively. Only 600 of the targeted 2,500 families will be relocated. In effect, the Philippine government reduced its targets to reach them.
Sadain explained that the coronavirus pandemic was among the reasons why the loan-funded project was delayed.
“We can still catch up the 30 (sic) pumping stations that are actually targeted for completion within the next two years,” the public works official said, giving assurances.
In the meantime, according to Sadain, the DPWH has built nine pumping stations using its budget.
Since Ondoy and Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), Luz said Metro Manila has seen a lot of progress in terms of disaster prevention. But a lot still needs to be done.
“I think one of the lessons we all learned as a country after that is the investment in preparedness and prevention. Right now, we have a lot less human lives lost since Yolanda. And there are many times actually that we have storms where zero lives are lost and I think that’s a good sign of progress,” Luz said.
The disaster resilience expert said that local governments have started investing in emergency operations and command centers, but at some point, there will be too many.
“To really kind of feel the full benefit of these centers, they should be connected to each other.… If you have connectivity to another network or sister center (in another city), then at least you still have your information intact, then you can somehow figure out a way to tap into the information,” Luz said.
“So I think the next big [step] is really sharing all the information. In disaster response and even in preparedness and prevention, it’s important that everyone sees the same picture,” he added.
He also said that mayors should invest in updated hazard maps and look at flood models to determine the most vulnerable areas and ensure that “those are always free and clear” of risks. Since Ondoy, damage to houses and infrastructure has significantly gone down but thousands of people remain affected, disrupting livelihood and schooling.
On an individual level, Luz said that Filipinos only have to do the bare minimum as citizens. First is to pay attention to weather reports and second is to be mindful of their trash.
To prepare households for floods or disasters, Luz suggested using PDRF’s PH72 as a guide, a simple tool adapted from San Francisco’s SF72, which details how people can prepare for the first 72 hours of a disaster. It includes information on what supplies to prepare and planning how to meet your family should you get separated during an emergency.
Similar to PH72, the Torreses of Marikina have devised their own system during disasters. For them, one can never be too complacent.
“Be ready at all times. Don’t ever think that your area will not be flooded,” Reizan said. “Each family member should know what to do. Prepare your documents. Ready your clothes and belongings. Save some money. You can never really rely on anyone but yourself.” – Rappler.com
*$1 = P56.60
All quotes were translated into English.
Vianca Jasmin Anglo is a data analyst pursuing a postgraduate degree in Human Development and Services. She was part of the public health, pandemic management, and response in the Philippines. Her years of experience in social development demonstrate her commitment to human well-being through data analysis.
Reporting for this story was supported by the Environmental Data Journalism Academy – a program of Internews’ Earth Journalism Network and Thibi.
METHODOLOGY
This data story examined the link between evacuation centers and flood risk in Metro Manila. We obtained the latest evacuation center data from the DILG – which appeared incomplete – and supplemented it with 2021 data from the OCD. Capacity information from these lists are incomplete, limiting our analysis to the evacuation center-to-population ratio.
Using spatial software and Google Sheets, spatial analysis was conducted to pinpoint the intersection between evacuation centers and their corresponding flood susceptibility category from HazardHunterPH. For the full description of our methodology, please read it here. Data cleaning and analysis can be accessed here. This story was a result of collaboration between the author, and the data and story mentors from Thibi, Thet Win Htut, and Aika Rey, respectively.
Error.
Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines.
There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation.
How does this make you feel?
|
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https://www.rappler.com/environment/la-nina-things-to-do-better-prepared/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_medium=Social&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0gsZvAILgODm2mSqZbKGGNv6tM22Pa1U0r9DlKrf-ZYaopdQzQUzDjAiE_aem_NIFnF5PCkEKI9jF2QNe2kA
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1
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LIST: Alternative routes due to EDSA-Kamuning flyover closure starting May 1
|
Miriam Grace Go
|
22/04/2024 19:33
|
FLYOVER. Southbound portion of the EDSA-Kamuning flyover.
Department of Public Works and Highways' Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Monday, April 22, the rerouting scheme that will take effect on May 1 when the southbound lane of the EDSA-Kamuning flyover in Quezon City partially closes.
The MMDA said the partial closure, to give way to the by-phase retrofitting of the structure, will last until October 25.
The schedule it gave didn’t match the earlier announcement by the Department of Public Works and Highways, which said on April 5 that the partial closure of the southbound lane would start on Thursday, April 25, and would likely last for 11 months or until March 2025.
The government is retrofitting the EDSA-Kamuning flyover to strengthen it in case of powerful earthquakes.
“Even though the flyover will be partially closed during the rehabilitation, it will still be passable to public utility buses on the EDSA bus carousel,” MMDA Acting Chairman Don Artes said in a press conference on Monday.
“Although the southbound lane of the Kamuning flyover will not be entirely closed, we are advising the motorists, especially private vehicles, to use the Mabuhay Lanes as alternate routes,” he said.
The MMDA said it would look into the possibility of allowing emergency vehicles to use the busway in the flyover.
Below are the alternative routes that private vehicles can take when the partial closure is implemented. Rappler organized the MMDA list to identify five routes:
Route 1
Route 2
Route 3
Route 4
Route 5
– Rappler.com
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RESULTS: April 2024 Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination
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lfangeles0309
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22/04/2024 20:50
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The following is a press release from the Professional Regulation Commission.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 1,337 out of 1,758 passed the Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination given by the Board of Real Estate Service in NCR, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, and Tacloban this April 2024.
The members of the Board of Real Estate Service who gave the licensure examination are Ofelia C. Binag, Chairman; Rafael M. Fajardo, Jose Arnold M. Tan, and Pilar M. Torres-Banaag, Members.
The results were released in two (2) working days after the said examination.
Starting June 17, 2024, registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done online. Please go to www.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration. Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), 2 pieces passport-sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps, and 1 piece short brown envelope, and submission of Original Surety Bond, minimum amount of which is P20,000.00, with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)/Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) as Obligee. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.
The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examination will be announced later.
The top performing schools in the April 2024 Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination as per Commission Resolution No. 2017-1058(C) series of 2017:
The successful examinees who garnered the ten (10) highest places in the April 2024 Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination are the following:
Here’s the full list of passers:
– Rappler.com
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Inside the alleged Ponzi scheme preying on the rich
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Ralf Rivas
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22/04/2024 18:57
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Millennial CEO Maria Franchesca “Mica” Tan may have had her finest year ever in 2017.
When her peers were still climbing up the corporate ladder, Tan, who was 27 at the time, was already busy buying stakes in companies and appearing on TV shows.
The private equity firm she founded in 2014, the MFT Group of Companies, was at its peak, growing in healthcare, food, and financial services.
2017 was also the year when the media started to pick up her incredible story: At just 13 years old, she was already busy investing in the stock market. At 15, she was already into foreign exchange.
In several interviews, Tan attributed her drive for business to her mother, who has a jewelry business. She would sell little treats at the hospital where her father, an oncologist, would do his rounds.
With her background in business, she was one of the featured mentors of the Shark Tank-like show called “The Final Pitch,” which aired in 2017 on the History Channel and the now defunct CNN Philippines. This stint catapulted her to the spotlight.
Her inspiring entrepreneurial spirit and ability to bridge young and old minds captured the attention of several shows and publications, including Bloomberg, BusinessWorld, Tatler, and even Rappler.
“I don’t latch on if you’re a baby boomer or a Gen X or a millennial. I think what has helped me work with teams with a lot more senior people is what they call intellectual humility. I think that humility is the cornerstone of leadership, and that’s something that regardless of age, I think, we should bring that with us,” Tan said in a Business Sense episode in 2021.
Tan had a stellar public image and compelling narrative, earning praises from the business community.
In 2022, she would even be nominated as EY entrepreneur of the year by the SGV Foundation.
But her nomination for the award would then be questioned* after several investors sounded the alarm over bounced checks. Some wrote a letter to SGV, urging them to remove Tan from the list of nominees. (*Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story said that Tan’s nomination for the 2022 EY entrepreneur of the year award was rescinded. This has been corrected as Tan’s name still appears on the list of finalists notwithstanding appeals to remove it.)
“Celebrating a successful entrepreneur with questionable integrity sends the wrong message to people as instead of rewarding a can-do spirit that is sustainable and beneficial to more than just the entrepreneur themselves, we instead reward unadulterated greed and questionable practices,” part of the letter to SGV Foundation read.
Tan’s name still appears on the list of 2022 entrepreneur of the year nominees uploaded on EY’s website.
By 2023, several investors filed complaints against Tan, triggering a bitter spat.
On Monday, April 22, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) brought the MFT Group and Tan’s and Foundry Ventures before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for criminal prosecution over their alleged illegal investment taking activities. Also implicated in the complaint was Isla Lipana & Co., which served as the independent auditor.
Tan’s MFT Group insisted they are a legitimate business. But for the SEC, the business had all the elements of a Ponzi scheme.
According to several minority investors of the MFT Group, Tan’s business revolved mostly on purchase order (PO) financing for different companies under their portfolio.
Tan would encourage people, mostly friends and acquaintances, to loan her money to invest in companies. Investors would then be guaranteed that after at least a year, with a maximum of five years, their money will grow and earn monthly interest.
The MFT Group guaranteed returns on investment between 12% and 18% of the initial investment. To maintain the program, interested investors were given a promissory note or a borrower-lender agreement as evidence of their investment, and post-dated checks with 1% to 1.5% monthly interest were issued to them.
Multiple sources Rappler spoke with said the minimum investment ranged between P1 million to P5 million, though others were eventually allowed to invest P100,000.
“This is not for ordinary Filipinos, since the amount is quite high. You need to have money to be in,” one source said.
Another individual, who requested anonymity, said he sank a total of P14 million into MFT. The source was encouraged to invest, as Tan paid on time and signed the checks herself, up until 2022 when payments started to get delayed.
Apart from monthly interest, Tan also incentivized investors and associates with travel perks. Should associates entice enough people to cumulatively invest P30 million, they would be able to fly to Balesin Island and other luxury destinations.
Rappler was able to see portions of the MFT Group’s newsletter showing that its employees did enjoy the amenities of Balesin Island. The newsletter also mentioned that staff were able to fly to Cambodia. It also teased about a trip to the Maldives.
Other sources claimed that some investors and associates were able to fly to Iceland, as well as New Zealand and Australia, as long as people were willing to put in new money. Rappler, however, could not independently verify this, as these activities were not mentioned in the newsletters.
MFT’s newsletter given to prospective investors highlighted some of the other endeavors of the company, including funding for the NU Bulldogs. The company also supposedly bankrolled a film called Nilalang, which starred Cesar Montano and Maria Ozawa. It competed in the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival.
Rappler was able to see portions of the complaint lodged by some investors, noting that they were promised commissions every time they were able to recruit new investors.
These complaints were brought to the SEC once checks started to bounce.
The SEC noted that the business model of the MFT Group and Foundry Ventures, another company of Tan, was basically a Ponzi scheme, “since their success and viability are anchored on the additional investments of existing investors and/or the investments of new investors.” The Commission noted that the nature of the promissory notes were “clearly investment contracts.”
The SEC issued a cease and desist order against the MFT Group and Foundry Ventures in January, where the officers and directors of the companies were directed to stop their investment solicitation activities without the necessary licenses from the SEC. The order was made permanent on April 1.
Some 30 of the MFT Group’s officers were found by the SEC to be accountable for 17 charges of misrepresentation* in their audited financial statements from 2018 to 2021, since they had reported dividend income that had no basis. (*Editor’s note: A previous version of the story said officers were found to be liable for falsification. This has been tweaked for accuracy.)
“The SEC noted that the amount received by the MFT Group from its investors should have been recognized in its books of accounts either as part of the company’s liabilities (creditor’s equity) or share capital (stockholder’s equity). This is consistent with the accounting equation that any increase in the asset of an entity must have a corresponding increase in the company’s liabilities or capital or both,” the SEC said.
“Based on the financial review conducted, no such amount reflected in the [audited financial statement] of the subject company would correspond to the monies invested by the investors to either equity or liabilities of the company. This clearly indicates that the monies received through the representations of the MFT Group of Companies were not recognized in the company’s books.”
The SEC’s strongly-worded statement went on to say that MFT’s auditor, Isla Lipana, colluded with the company in its fraudulent activities by making it appear that the financial statements of the company were fairly presented despite inconsistencies and inaccuracies in the audited financial statements.
“Considering that this discrepancy happened over the years, and given its significant impact on the financial position of the MFT Group, the same cannot be considered an isolated event. The fact that respondent auditors repeatedly engaged themselves in this kind of irregularity is a clear indication of its intention to conceal the actual financial status of the MFT Group, to the prejudice of its investors,” the SEC said.
In a statement, Isla Lipana said the MFT Group is their only audit client. The subsidiary, The Foundry, was not audited by the company. Isla Lipana went on to clarify that they have yet to issue their reports for 2022 and 2023 pending completion of audit procedures.
“We are committed to fully cooperate with an ongoing investigation by the Department of Justice,” Isla Lipana said.
In a statement on Monday, April 22, MFT Group stood firm that it did not engage in securities transactions, and nor did it violate the Revised Securities Act.
“We welcome the opportunity to clear our names and are hopeful that the DOJ will exonerate us. From the beginning, we were never shown a copy of the alleged complaints and it is only now that the SEC produced the alleged complaints for the DOJ,” the MFT Group and The Foundry said in a joint statement.
Prior to the SEC’s complaints, shareholders of the MFT Group and The Foundry insisted that transactions were “straightforward private loans between individuals and not securities.”
The companies are also committed to a five-year loan recovery program, with adjusted interest rates. They attributed the delayed payments to the pandemic’s economic impact.
“Honoring their loan obligations has been the foundation of the long-standing private transactions by the shareholders with their creditors. It is unfortunate that their spotless track record of timely payments was tarnished by the pandemic – something that is not isolated to this case but largely experienced by individuals and businesses alike, here and everywhere,” said Rey Villegas, a lawyer and private creditor of one of the shareholders of The Foundry.
In a press release, the MFT Group and The Foundry said that Villegas has agreed to the five-year loan restructuring program.
“He is one of the cooperative creditors who place confidence in the ability of MFT Group to bounce back and recover, which will ultimately lead to creditors getting paid,” the release said.
The SEC did not disclose just how much Tan’s companies owed investors, describing only how the MFT Group and The Foundry operated in a Ponzi-like scheme.
One investor who wished to remain anonymous told Rappler that he is no longer expecting Tan or the companies to return his P10 million.
“I’m okay, I am financially secure. But I feel sad for those who gave the smaller amounts, those who sold property or borrowed just to give P100,000. They are the ones who are truly suffering. I hope that Mica will prioritize them,” the source said. – Rappler.com
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Labor groups call for heat-specific protection policies for workers
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Michelle Abad
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20/04/2024 11:09
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WORKERS. Workers at the recovery and fencing project of PNR contractors at the Alabang station, on April 4, 2024.
Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – As heat indexes stay above 40°C in various parts of the country, labor groups urged employers and lawmakers to create and implement policies specifically catering to workers dealing with heat stress.
Groups representing workers in construction and public services have said that some of their members have suffered heat stroke and difficulty in coping with the heat, whether on the field or in an office.
“Current laws and regulations fall short in addressing the challenges and stresses faced by workers due to extreme heat,” the Nagkaisa labor coalition said on April 10.
The Department of Health (DOH) has advised the public to take precautions as threats of heat-related illnesses rise.
Construction workers easily come to mind when imagining sun-exposed labor. But even at times when the heat is not as extreme, construction workers are exposed to various hazards and risks.
Santiago Nolla, secretary general of the National Union of Building and Construction Workers (NUBCW), said construction workers are among the most vulnerable as they are exposed to harsh weather conditions and toxic materials. His group represents more than 3,000 construction workers nationwide.
Now with El Niño, a weather phenomenon that occurs when ocean surface temperatures warm up in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, construction workers experience heightened risks.
Nolla said that the union has so far monitored a handful of heat stroke cases in Metro Manila and Central Luzon. Even though the numbers may not indicate a sharp rise, this is still unusual, he noted.
The International Labor Organization uses the term “3D” to describe the hazardous conditions that construction workers regularly face: dirty, difficult, and dangerous conditions.
“Kahit wala tayong El Niño o La Niña, tuwing papasok sila sa trabaho, lagi nga nilang sinasabi na ang isang paa nila nasa hukay na. Kasi hindi mo alam kung lalabas ka pa nang buhay…kasi puwede kang maasksidente anumang oras,” Nolla said in an interview with Rappler on Wednesday, April 17.
(Even if there is no El Niño or La Niña, when they go to work, they always say that they have one foot in the grave. Because you never know if you’re going to come out of it alive…because you might run into an accident at any given time.)
It does not help that many construction workers do not have security of tenure, serving short-term contractual jobs that often do not have social protection and benefits. The NUBCW’s estimate is 95% of the industry with no social security.
Annie Geron, president of the Public Services Labor Independent Confederation (PSLINK), said their members have reported heat-related ailments like dizziness, high blood pressure, and dehydration during work. Their confederation represents over 114,000 rank and file employees from public sector worker unions from national government agencies, state and local universities and colleges, government-owned and controlled corporations, and local government units.
The top-of-mind examples Geron gave among their heat-affected members are public school teachers, sanitation inspectors, local healthcare workers, and other government workers who often do field work.
“Yung mga nasa frontline services na pumupunta sa field, nahihirapan sila kasi doon sa pagkukomyut nila, going to and from doon sa kanilang assigned areas…. So hindi naman sila makapamili ng oras kasi ‘yun ‘`yung trabaho nila. Pupunta talaga sila at exposed talaga sila dun sa pagkokomyut at dun sa init ng araw,” she told Rappler on Wednesday.
(Those on frontline services and going to the field, they have a hard time during their commute, going to and from their assigned areas…. They can’t just choose their schedules, because that’s what their job demands. They really have to go, and they are exposed to the heat of the sun when they commute.)
Like Nolla, Geron said that these recent heat-related reports did not usually show up in more neutral temperatures.
In 2023, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) issued Labor Advisory No. 8, which provides for safety and health measures to prevent and control heat stress in workplaces.
In the advisory, employers are directed to assess risk exposure of workers alongside their existing comorbidities and implement control measures like ventilation and heat insulation, and adjustment of rest breaks and work locations to allow recovery from heat exposure, provision of “temperature-appropriate uniforms,” and provision of free and adequate potable water.
The DOLE also advises employers to consider implementing flexible work arrangements to limit workers’ exposure to extreme heat and strenuous activities. This includes the possible adjustment of work hours.
“[Employers must] provide relevant and useful information about heat stress, its symptoms, and how to avoid it, [as well as] implement occupational safety and health programs and have an emergency preparedness and response plan in the event of heat-related incidents,” the Occupational Safety and Health Center said in an email to Rappler.
Nolla said that adjustment of working hours to nighttime would be especially useful for the construction sector, noting that this is occasionally done among road builders for the reason of not disrupting traffic in the day.
“Kakaunti ang maaabala mo, hindi pa masyadong mainit, tapos makapagtrabaho nang maayos ‘yung mga manggagawa. Kasi kung isasabay mo ‘yan ngayon sa panahon ngayon, sobrang init. ‘Yung performance nila hindi na talaga quality,” he said.
(You would bother less people, it isn’t too hot, and the workers would be able to do their jobs better. Because if you make them work amid the weather now, it’s so hot. Their performance will no longer be of quality.)
PSLINK, meanwhile, has a comprehensive list of recommendations for heat-related stress, including:
“Panahon na para kilalanin natin na ‘yung climate change, ‘no? ‘Yung environment, ito na ‘yung kongkretong epekto. Kung baga, kung sa bagyo at saka sa mga calamities, mas severe, ito naman, pagdating doon sa heat, mas mataas,” said Geron.
(Now is the time for us to recognize climate change. This is the concrete effect on our environment. As storms and calamities are more severe, so are heat indexes getting higher.)
The Nagkaisa coalition went beyond employer responsibilities and called for a comprehensive strategy to mitigate impacts of extreme heat on workers. While some collective bargaining agreements address concerns from typhoons, floods, fires, and earthquakes, the coalition said there was a “gap” for heat waves.
The coalition pushed for several bills pending in Congress which may address this, such as Senate Bill 652 that sought a five-day special emergency leave, House Bill 988 for an increased incentive leave, and House Bill 663 proposing a two-day calamity leave.
“By advocating for a unified and robust policy that includes provisions for heat waves… Nagkaisa is championing a proactive and protective stance for the health and welfare of Filipino workers against the evolving challenges posed by climate change,” said Nagkaisa chairperson Sonny Matula. – Rappler.com
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2024 World Press Photo contest winners announced
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Leanne Jazul
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22/04/2024 15:43
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RED SKIES, GREEN WATERS. Neighbors play board games under a sky lit by gas flares. The story aims to portray the harmful effects of industry on both the environment and the social fabric of Venezuela.
Adriana Loureiro Fernandez for The New York Times
MANILA, Philippines — An image of Inas Abu Maamar cradling the body of her niece Saly, who was killed along with four other family members when an Israeli missile struck their home in Khan Younis, Gaza, on October 17, 2023, taken by Mohammed Salem of Reuters, was adjudged Photo of the Year.
The image was composed with care and respect, offering both a metaphorical and literal glimpse into unimaginable loss, according to the jury.
More than 61,000 entries by nearly 4,000 photographers from 130 countries were judged first by six regional juries, and the winners were then chosen by a global jury consisting of the regional jury chairs plus the global jury chair.
“All of the winning images have such power to convey a specific moment, while also resonating beyond their own subject and time. This is what we were hoping to find. Our Photo of the Year truly encapsulates this sense of impact; it is incredibly moving to view and at the same time an argument for peace, which is extremely powerful when peace can sometimes feel like an unlikely fantasy,” Global jury chair Fiona Shields, the Guardian’s head of photography, said.
In Madagascar, lack of public awareness surrounding dementia means that people displaying symptoms of memory loss are often stigmatized. For years, Paul Rakotozandriny, “Dada Paul,” 91, who lives with dementia, has been cared for by his daughter Fara Rafaraniriana, 41.
Their story illustrates the Malagasy principle of valim-babena – the duty of grown children to help their parents. With its dignified, intimate approach, Lee-Ann Olwage’s project presents another perspective on the issue, resonating with families across the world, while at the same time challenging conflict-focused stereotypes of Africa.
Since 2019, Mexico’s immigration policies have undergone a significant shift, transforming from a nation historically open to migrants and asylum seekers at its southern border to a country that enforces stringent immigration policies.
Drawing from his own first-hand experience of migrating from his native Venezuela to Mexico in 2017, photographer Alejandro Cegarra initiated this project in 2018. The jury felt that this photographer’s own position as a migrant afforded a sensitive human-centered perspective that centers on the agency and resilience of migrants.
Amid tens of thousands of civilian and military casualties and an effective stalemate that has lasted for months, there are no signs of peace on the horizon for Russia’s war in Ukraine.
While news media updates its audience with statistics and maps, and international attention drifts elsewhere, photographer Julia Kochetova has created a website that brings together photojournalism with the personal documentary style of a diary to show the world what it is like to live with war as an everyday reality.
This project weaves together photographic images with poetry, audio clips, and music in collaboration with a Ukrainian illustrator and DJ.
South East Asia and Oceania, Stories: Battle for Sovereignty
Africa, Singles: Returning Home from War
Asia, Stories: Afghanistan on the Edge
Europe, Singles: A Father’s Pain
Europe, Stories: Kakhovka Dam: Flood in a War Zone
North and Central America, Singles: A Day in the Life of a Quebec Fire Crew
North and Central America, Stories: Saving the Monarchs
South America, Singles: Drought in the Amazon
South East Asia and Oceania, Singles: Fighting, Not Sinking
World Press Photo Executive Director, Joumana El Zein Khoury said, “Each of these winning photographers is intimately and personally familiar with their topics. This helps them bring a deeper understanding to the rest of us, which hopefully leads to empathy and compassion.” – Rappler.com
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Fire in NAIA Terminal 3 parking lot burns 19 vehicles
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lkyu0285
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22/04/2024 18:19
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Manila International Airport Agency
MANILA, Philippines – A fire that broke out Monday, April 22, in the parking lot extension of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) damaged 19 vehicles.
According to unofficial reports gathered by MIAA, the fire originated from a “small grass fire” that rapidly grew and burned 19 vehicles in Terminal 3’s extension parking lot, which is unpaved and surrounded by grass. Photos and videos of the area show that multiple vehicles were completely charred by the blaze.
The MIAA Rescue and Firefighting Division declared fire out at 1:57 pm. No one was reported hurt or injured.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) first received a report about a fire in the area at 1:28 pm on Monday. Five firetrucks were immediately deployed, and the fire was placed under control by 1:40 pm.
The Bureau of Fire Protection is currently investigating the cause of the fire.
“Statements from the parking lot attendant and airport security directing traffic in the Terminal 3 vicinity as well as those assigned to adjacent parking lots will be taken to shed light on what happened,” the MIAA said in a statement issued on Monday.
“We are relieved to know that no one was hurt or injured in the incident. I have directed all pertinent MIAA units to give their full support to the BFP for the speedy completion of their investigation,” MIAA General Manager Eric Ines added. – Rappler.com
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FACT CHECK: Sara Duterte not the only VP who got more votes than elected presidents
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Lorenz Pasion
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22/04/2024 18:14
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Claim: Sara Duterte is the only vice president who got more votes than the elected president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Why we fact-checked this: The claim can be found in an April 19 post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter): “This is the reason why they are AFRAID & TREATENED [sic] of VP Inday Sara Duterte. She is the ONLY VP who got more votes than the President.” As of writing, the post had 8,139 views, 135 comments, 46 shares, and 237 reactions.
During the May 9, 2022 elections, Marcos was elected president with 31,629,783 votes while Duterte was elected vice president with 32,208,417 votes.
The facts: Duterte was not the only vice president in Philippine history who got more votes than the elected president. Here are other instances:
All figures above can also be found on the now-defunct website The Philippine Presidency Project, with some commentary on the results of the 1941 elections. The website also lists different figures for the 1998 elections, although Arroyo’s votes still outnumber Estrada’s votes.
For elections held in 1998 and earlier, the figures above also match those found in the book Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook: Volume II: South East Asia, East Asia and the South Pacific except for small differences in the following:
Previous related fact-checks: Rappler has previously fact-checked claims related to election results:
– Percival Bueser/Rappler.com
Percival Bueser is a graduate of Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program. This fact check was reviewed by a member of Rappler’s research team and a senior editor. Learn more about Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program here.
Keep us aware of suspicious Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, articles, or photos in your network by contacting us at factcheck@rappler.com. You may also report dubious claims to the #FactsFirstPH tipline by messaging Rappler on Facebook or Newsbreak via Twitter direct message. You may also report through our Viber fact check chatbot. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time.
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Jacob Cortez raring to be part of La Salle’s championship system
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delfin.dioquino editor
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22/04/2024 18:10
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NEW RECRUIT. Jacob Cortez in action for the La Salle Green Archers.
Jacob Cortez Instagram page
MANILA, Philippines – Jacob Cortez reached the NCAA pinnacle with the San Beda Red Lions. Now, he aims to conquer one more quest – to win the UAAP championship with the La Salle Green Archers.
The 21-year-old will be the Archers’ point guard of the future, having transferred to La Salle in January after leading the Red Lions to the NCAA Season 99 title.
Now taking classes at La Salle, Cortez has been slowly integrating himself into the Archers’ system, which has already bore fruit with the UAAP Season 86 crown.
“We know La Salle runs a championship system,” said Cortez. “I’m excited. Everyone here supports me, helps me to know the system, [and] I know it will take me a long time to know all of it. But I have a year or more here to learn before playing.”
Cortez played three seasons at San Beda, the first of which saw him relegated to the reserve list before NCAA Season 97. He then went on to carve himself a spot in the rotation, the starting lineup, and eventually became the team leader in the following two seasons.
Cortez, long courted by La Salle, has been working closely with head coach Topex Robinson since his enrollment, integrating himself as one of the Archers’ cornerstones once his eligibility starts in Season 88.
“So far, coach Topex has been very supportive to me. He teaches me a lot about the team and the culture on the court and off of it. Not only him, other coaches and my teammates as well are also there to guide me. They treat me well here,” he said.
Cortez traces his roots to the green-and-white school, playing for La Salle Green Hills in his early high school years before he transferred to UST and San Beda.
The second-generation player also drew great influence from his father, Mike Cortez, who won two titles with La Salle in 2000 and 2001.
As his surname remains synonymous with the Green Archers, the younger Cortez is steadfast in leaving his own mark on the school, not just for his team but also for his family.
“My family’s familiarity in La Salle has been a big help. My family has been really there behind me, supporting me, even when I was still in high school in La Salle (Green Hills). I know they are excited for me to hopefully finish (college) in La Salle,” Cortez said.
Cortez is on track to play alongside La Salle mainstays Mike Phillips and Season 86 MVP Kevin Quiambao, if he opts to stay with the Green Archers after Season 87.
Cortez will also share the backcourt with former National University star Kean Baclaan, who is also eligible to play in Season 88.
Unfazed by the star power the team already boasts, Cortez promised to continue the grind until he ultimately steps onto a UAAP court.
“There are a lot of great players here that I’ll get to play with. I’m trying not to be satisfied. I’m keeping my routine. I’m working to keep in shape,” said Cortez.
Packed with high expectations coming in, the “Cool Cub” is dead set of his vision – a UAAP title.
“I came here simply to win, to win a championship with La Salle. One of my dreams is to win in the UAAP,” he said.
“But yes, we’re a long way to go. Right now, it’s just about the grind.” – Rappler.com
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Philippine Airlines resumes Clark-Basco flights starting July 2
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lkyu0285
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22/04/2024 13:25
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PAL AIRCRAFT. This 86-seater De Havilland Dash 8-400 will serve the Clark-Basco route.
Philippine Airlines
MANILA, Philippines – Philippine Airlines (PAL) is soon restarting flights between Clark International Airport (CRK) and Basco, Batanes.
The flag carrier will operate four weekly flights every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday starting July 2, 2024. The route will be serviced by an 86-seater turboprop De Havilland Dash 8-400 next generation.
Here is the flight schedule:
The resumed route now allows travelers in Central and Northern Luzon to fly directly to Basco without needing to go to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila. PAL also operates daily flights between NAIA and Basco.
PAL currently operates daily flights from Clark to Cebu, thrice weekly to Caticlan (Boracay), and four times weekly to Busuanga (Coron).
Earlier in April, boutique airline Sunlight Air also launched more domestic routes from its new hub in CRK. Meanwhile, low-cost carriers Jetstar Asia and HK Express also announced new flights to and from CRK.
“We are delighted to revive our Clark-Basco service commencing in the third quarter of 2024,” PAL president and chief operating officer Stanley Ng said. “We will endeavor to reopen more routes out of Clark as we continue to grow our network from Central Luzon.” – Rappler.com
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FACT CHECK: ‘Cure’ for eye conditions not approved by Doc Willie Ong, FDA
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Lorenz Pasion
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22/04/2024 17:29
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Claim: The product Keshi Eye Drops, which claims to treat myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and other vision conditions, is endorsed by cardiologist and online health personality Dr. Willie Ong and approved by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Why we fact-checked this: The claim was made in a Facebook video by the page “Titis Manta-Eyes care liquid,” which has 948 likes and 6,900 followers. As of writing, the video has gained 323 shares, 2,500 comments, and 4,000 reactions.
Photos of Ong and his wife were used at the beginning of the video, with a voiceover claiming that Ong recommends the non-surgical eye drops. The post also claims that the product is FDA-approved, supported by accompanying text and audio.
The facts: Keshi Eye Drops is not included in the FDA’s list of approved drug products. Neither is it endorsed by Ong, who has repeatedly clarified that he does not endorse supposed health products linked to him. In previous correspondence with Rappler, Ong said that the sole product he and his wife endorse is Birch Tree Advance, a nutritional milk formulated for seniors.
Cure for vision conditions: Myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism are types of refractive errors that affect one’s ability to see clearly. These are typically caused by problems with the shape of the eye or cornea, or aging of the eye lens. Most cases can be treated using glasses, contact lenses, or vision correction surgery.
In 2021, the US FDA approved an eye drop that could help treat presbyopia or age-related farsightedness. However, there are no similar reports of eye drops being approved as a treatment for other types of vision conditions.
Previous false claims: Rappler has debunked posts that use the name, images, and videos of Ong to promote purported health products. These supposed health treatments are not registered with the Philippine FDA:
– Chinie Ann Jocel R. Mendoza/Rappler.comChinie Ann Jocel R. Mendoza is a graduate of Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program. This fact check was reviewed by a member of Rappler’s research team and a senior editor. Learn more about Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program here.
Keep us aware of suspicious Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, articles, or photos in your network by contacting us at factcheck@rappler.com. You may also report dubious claims to the #FactsFirstPH tipline by messaging Rappler on Facebook or Newsbreak via Twitter direct message. You may also report through our Viber fact check chatbot. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time.
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Feeling bookish? What to expect at the Philippine Book Festival in April
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Steph Arnaldo
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04/04/2024 15:58
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Dennis Mendoza
MANILA, Philippine – So many books to read, so little time! Let the book hoarding begin again as the Philippine Book Festival returns for its second year from April 25 to 28 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City.
The festival is organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), a government agency tasked with advancing the country’s literary industry. They said that the four-day event is meant to “promote a culture of reading and develop the publishing industry in the Philippines.”
“It’s an engaging activation space that brings together large-scale procurers of books and learning materials and the Philippine publishing industry with Philippine creatives at the heart of it,” said NBDB Chairman Dante Francis “Klink” Ang II at a media launch held on Wednesday, April 3.
“We’re going to have more than 160 exhibitors [and] hundreds of [programs] for everyone,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.
Aquino-Tugade also emphasized the importance of events like these for Filipinos. “The country needs more reading spaces that encourage conversation, creation, and collaboration.”
The event will feature a variety of talks, workshops, and events catered to people of different interests, as well other highlights bookworms can look forward to at the 2024 edition!
Fans of author and historian Ambeth Ocampo can look forward to his book signing session called Ambeth Without the Overcoat. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a book signing and meet-and-greet with author Gwy Saludes in A Day with Gwy Saludes.
Trip to Quiapo will be presented by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee. You can also look forward to Dahling Nick: A Tribute to National Artist Nick Joaquin.
Festival-goers can also participate in sessions like Comics Can Change the World with Patti Ramos and Zine-making 101 with Bunny Luz.
The festival will feature the Rare Book Collection by the National Library of the Philippines, with new additions for the public to view. The Philippine Book Festival’s Book Bar, a curated collection of award-winning books, will also be available to attendees. The exhibit Guhit Pambata will display works by Filipino children’s book illustrators.
The event also offers attendees the chance to participate through Cosplay Filipiniana for fans who want to cosplay as characters from Filipino literature.
The festival will highlight works divided into their four popular realms: Kid Lit for children, Komiks to showcase our country’s komiks industry, Booktopia for lovers of fiction and non-fiction, and Aral Aklat for textbooks and educational materials.
Attendees can participate in talks, activities, and workshops based on their interests at the Creators Lab, Main Stage, and Kids-at-Play sections.
The Philippine Book Festival is intended to support not only the Philippine literary industry but Filipinos themselves. Ang emphasized the agency’s plans to “improve access for every Filipino reader, democratize distribution, and enable our publishers and authors to keep producing Philippine books.”
The Philippine Book Festival was first held in 2023 from June 2 to 4 at the World Trade Center. It was then brought to SMX Davao City from August 18 to 20.
The four-day festival will be open this year from 8 am to 8 pm, April 25 to 28. Entrance is free of charge. – Rappler.com
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Marcos puts ex-CA justice in charge of PCGG; no more Duterte appointees left
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Dwight de Leon
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22/04/2024 16:35
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MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named retired Court of Appeals (CA) justice Melchor Sadang as the new chairperson of the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG), the agency tasked to recover his family’s ill-gotten wealth, Malacañang announced on Monday, April 22.
Sadang replaces lawyer John Agbayani, the last Duterte administration appointee in the PCGG.
He is the fifth person placed by Marcos in the PCGG, after commissioners Marco Bautista, Angelo Vergel de Dios, Rogelio Quevedo, and Elihu Ybañez.
Sadang retired from the appellate court in August 2017. In February 2023, he joined a five-man panel tasked to screen hundreds of police who submitted courtesy resignations as part of the internal cleansing project under the Marcos administration.
The PCGG was formed shortly after the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution ousted Marcos’ father, dictator Ferdinand Marcos, and forced his family into exile in Hawaii.
The agency, attached to the Department of Justice, is mandated to recover the wealth stolen by the Marcos family and the patriarch’s cronies from government coffers during his 21-year rule.
The government has already recovered P174 billion in ill-gotten wealth, but is going after P125 billion more.
There have been calls to abolish the PCGG, especially during the administration of Marcos Jr.’s predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, but those proposals languished in Congress.
There are refiled bills in the House of Representatives seeking to get rid of the PCGG under the current administration, but these proposals have not been taken up at the committee level.
The Marcos administration has given the agency a combined budget of P326 million in the past two years. – Rappler.com
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Marcos puts ex-CA justice in charge of PCGG; no more Duterte appointees left
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Dwight de Leon
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22/04/2024 16:35
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MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named retired Court of Appeals (CA) justice Melchor Sadang as the new chairperson of the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG), the agency tasked to recover his family’s ill-gotten wealth, Malacañang announced on Monday, April 22.
Sadang replaces lawyer John Agbayani, the last Duterte administration appointee in the PCGG.
He is the fifth person placed by Marcos in the PCGG, after commissioners Marco Bautista, Angelo Vergel de Dios, Rogelio Quevedo, and Elihu Ybañez.
Sadang retired from the appellate court in August 2017. In February 2023, he joined a five-man panel tasked to screen hundreds of police who submitted courtesy resignations as part of the internal cleansing project under the Marcos administration.
The PCGG was formed shortly after the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution ousted Marcos’ father, dictator Ferdinand Marcos, and forced his family into exile in Hawaii.
The agency, attached to the Department of Justice, is mandated to recover the wealth stolen by the Marcos family and the patriarch’s cronies from government coffers during his 21-year rule.
The government has already recovered P174 billion in ill-gotten wealth, but is going after P125 billion more.
There have been calls to abolish the PCGG, especially during the administration of Marcos Jr.’s predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, but those proposals languished in Congress.
There are refiled bills in the House of Representatives seeking to get rid of the PCGG under the current administration, but these proposals have not been taken up at the committee level.
The Marcos administration has given the agency a combined budget of P326 million in the past two years. – Rappler.com
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Rappler Recap: PH, US troops flex ability to work together in ‘most ambitious’ Balikatan
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Bea Cupin
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22/04/2024 16:18
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Philippines Exercise Director Major General Marvin Licudine and US Exercise Director Lieutenant General William Jurney unveil the Balikatan flag during the opening ceremony of the annual Philippines-U.S. joint military exercises or Balikatan, at Camp Aguinaldo on April 22, 2024.
REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – The 2024 iteration of the yearly joint military drills will see 11,000 American soldiers and 5,000 Filipino troops in Batanes, Palawan, Zambales, and Ilocos Norte.
Officials says it’ll be the “best Balikatan ever” with higher ambitions and more complicated operations. For the first time ever, the Philippine Coast Guard will be part of the yearly drills, for a multilateral maritime exercise off the coast of Palawan, in the West Philippine Sea.
Rappler reporter Bea Cupin previews what will be happening in the comings weeks, and why it matters as tensions in the South China Sea heat up. – Rappler.com
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Iloilo declares state of calamity amid drought
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Herbie G
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22/04/2024 14:24
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SCARCITY. A resident fetches whatever water he can get from a well in Iloilo.
Arnold Almacen/Iloilo City Mayor's Office
BACOLOD, Philippines – Iloilo City was placed under a state of calamity due to drought brought about by the El Niño phenomenon.
The city council, in a special session on Monday morning, April 22, approved the recommendation of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and Mayor Jerry Treñas to place the entire city under a state of calamity due to a water supply crisis and rising temperatures.
The declaration of a state of calamity, said Treñas, will allow the city government to utilize its quick response fund (QRF) to address water scarcity and provide aid to those affected by the drought.
He said the city government would buy more potable water from suppliers South Balibago Resources Incorporated and Metro Pacific Iloilo Water to be rationed to at least 23,000 people from 25 barangays in the city affected by protable water supply scarcity.
He said 17% of the city’s population has already been affected by the dry weather condition and scorching heat.
The CDRRMC has recommended the use od P12.5 million for the emergency procurement of potable water.
Meanwhile, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Region 6 reported that more areas in Western Visayas have also been declared under a state of calamity due to the weather conditions.
Adding to the previous list that included Sara in Iloilo, Kabankalan City, and San Enrique in Negros Occidental, and the whole of Antique province are now the towns of Buenavista and San Lorenzo in Guimaras, and Estancia in Iloilo.
Antique registered at least P213 million in losses in agri-fishery and even livelihood sectors.
Aside from Kabankalan, which is the hardest-hit local government in the province, incurring more or less P40 million in agricultural losses due to El Niño, only 11 out of 32 local governments Negros Occidental reported severe impacts in their respective localities.
These include Cauayan, Hinoba-an, Ilog, Murcia, Hinigaran, Moises Padilla, Isabela Valladolid, Binalbagan, Himamaylan City, and Sipalay City.
OCD-VI Director Raul Fernandez said a state of calamity may be declared if at least 15% of a locality’s population has been affected, 30% of livelihood has been impacted.
He said the declaration may be made if agri-fishery and crucial infrastructures or lifeline facilities are damaged, and if there is a notable disruption in essential services in food supply chains, electricity, water, transportation, communication, and health access.
The extent of the degradation of environmental and natural resources is also one of the bases. –Rappler.com
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Hontiveros: What’s taking PNP so long to revoke Quiboloy’s gun licenses?
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Jodesz Gavilan
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22/04/2024 16:08
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PREACHER. Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Apollo Quiboloy in an undated photo in Davao City.
Sourced photo
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Risa Hontiveros on Monday, April 22, said the Philippine National Police (PNP) should stop making excuses and revoke the firearm licenses issued to fugitive preacher Apollo Quiboloy as he faces criminal cases in the Philippines and abroad.
In a statement, Hontiveros said it is strange how slow the PNP is in taking action despite multiple arrest warrants already out against Quiboloy over allegations of abuse inside the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
“Kung talagang kasangga namin sila sa pagpapanagot sa mga pambabastos ni Quiboloy sa ating mga institusyon, dapat ginagawa nila ang lahat para mahuli siya, at isang mahalagang paraan ang pagbawi ng mga armas, lalo na ng isang pugante,” the senator said.
“Baka kaya ang lakas ng loob magtago ni Quiboloy dahil sa mga armas at baril na pumoprotekta sa kanya,” she added.
(If the PNP is our ally in holding Quiboloy accountable for disrespecting our institutions, they should do everything to capture him, and one key way to do it is to revoke his firearms, especially since he is considered a fugitive. Maybe he has the gall to hide because of the guns that protect him.)
A Rappler investigation found that the doomsday preacher has at least 19 firearms with an estimated value of about P2.3 million ($41,000). Licenses of least 13 of these are set to expire in April 2033, indicating that they were granted in 2023. This means that he benefited from Republic Act No. 11766, signed by his friend, then-president Rodrigo Duterte, which extended the validity of a license from four to 10 years.
But the PNP in early April said that Quiboloy still cannot be considered “armed and dangerous” because there are no indications of prior violence.
Quiboloy is the subject of arrest warrants issued by courts in Davao City and Pasig City, aside from a pending Senate arrest order after he failed to attend hearings into allegations against him and his church.
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation, meanwhile, placed Quiboloy in its most-wanted list in early 2022 for sex trafficking of children and promotional money laundering, among others. An FBI poster indicates that Quiboloy allegedly forced his followers to “solicit donations for a bogus charity, donations that actually were used to finance church operations and the lavish lifestyle of its leaders.”
“Sa dami at bigat ng pending cases ni Quiboloy, siguro naman puwede nang bawiin ang mga armas niya,” Hontiveros said. “Sa kasong human trafficking pa lang, non-bailable at lifetime imprisonment na ang parusa, kaya ano pa hinihintay ng PNP?”
(With the number and gravity of Quiboloy’s pending cases, they can already revoke his firearms’ licenses. What is the PNP waiting for when the cases include human trafficking, which is non-bailable and can lead to lifetime imprisonment if he is convicted?)
Quiboloy on April 6 said he will not be caught alive, and that he will only respond to the allegations if the US does not intervene. He also accused the Marcos administration of conspiring with the Americans.
“Ako po ay hindi nagtatago sa kasong ito dahil ako po ay may kasalanan. Hindi po,” he said. “Ako ay umiiwas dahil pinoprotektahan ko ang aking sarili.”
(I am not hiding from this case because I am guilty. No. I am avoiding it because I am protecting myself.)
Duterte said he does not want to be caught in the legal issues faced by his friend Quiboloy. The former president, however, admitted that he remains in touch with the fugitive pastor. – Rappler.com
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Deaf community builds sign language corpus for climate change vocabulary
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Iya Gozum
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22/04/2024 15:32
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Carolyn Dagani presents Project SIGND in a side event during the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Photo from Oscar M. Lopez Center
Oscar M. Lopez Center
MANILA, Philippines – For Carolyn Dagani, a member of the deaf community, she first started to understand climate change through disasters. The climate crisis is first a lived experience. Now they are trying to assimilate that experience into sign language.
“Many deaf people know about disasters,” Dagani told Rappler through her interpreter. “But when it comes to climate change, we only have little knowledge about that.”
Dagani, 53, served as president of the Philippine Federation of the Deaf (PFD) from 2015 to 2023. Her leadership saw the passage of Republic Act No. 11106 or the Filipino Sign Language (FSL) Act, making FSL the official language in all transactions relating to the deaf.
Dagani is now part of the the initiative Project SIGND (Climate Resilience of the Deaf: Signs for Inclusive Governance and Development), led by science foundation Oscar M. Lopez Center, making a corpus of sign languages for climate change vocabulary.
Merriam-Webster defines corpus as “a collection of recorded utterances used as a basis for the descriptive analysis of a language.”
Dagani’s Project SIGND in collaboration with OMLC is building a collection of recorded videos of members of the deaf community making the signs for climate change terms. It would keep record how the deaf perceive and communicate the crisis.
Their initiative took them across the country, interviewing the deaf, recording and then later analyzing videos. The breadth of human experience on climate change impacts reflect on the many variations of sign language for a single word.
For example, across 17 provinces and various interviews, they found 96 sign language variations for the word ‘rain.’
Corpus building started in 2022. What is rain? What is heat? These are basic questions that come with several answers from the deaf community. OMLC’s work is to collect these signs. They expect to release their work early next year.
“You cannot communicate climate change without knowing the words for it,” said Therese Guiao in a forum on Monday, April 22. Guiao is the operations director of environmental consultancy firm Parabukas.
Guiao said this is the first initiative of its kind in the Philippines, a huge project they hope would produce climate change champions from the deaf community.
During an interview with reporters, Dagani quoted a favorite saying. “The hearing should work with the deaf, not for the deaf.”
Forming a corpus of climate change could help them participate in summits, conferences, where climate policies for the vulnerable and people with disabilities are being discussed.
Dagani shared her experience when she attended the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. She said she had the chance to present Project SIGND in the Philippine pavilion.
The experience in Dubai “developed a deeper desire” inside her to raise climate change awareness in the Philippines. But she cannot help but notice that, in a summit where climate issues are supposed to be at the frontlines, it lacked interpreters for deaf people like her.
In an arena like COP28, where hearing people understand each other through climate-speak or jargon, the space for deaf community could shrink.
“The whole project [means] leaving no one behind,” Rodel Lasco, executive director of the OMLC, told reporters on Monday. “Part of inclusivity is to make sure the most vulnerable of our people is capacitated and really ready for global warming.”
Dagani said she is hopeful that Project SIGND continues, especially now that the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) committed to the project.
“Without this we will not be able to learn. And deaf people are being set aside and we lag behind in information,” said Dagani.
– Rappler.com
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Marcos puts ex-CA justice in charge of PCGG; no more Duterte appointees left
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Dwight de Leon
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22/04/2024 16:35
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MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named retired Court of Appeals (CA) justice Melchor Sadang as the new chairperson of the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG), the agency tasked to recover his family’s ill-gotten wealth, Malacañang announced on Monday, April 22.
Sadang replaces lawyer John Agbayani, the last Duterte administration appointee in the PCGG.
He is the fifth person placed by Marcos in the PCGG, after commissioners Marco Bautista, Angelo Vergel de Dios, Rogelio Quevedo, and Elihu Ybañez.
Sadang retired from the appellate court in August 2017. In February 2023, he joined a five-man panel tasked to screen hundreds of police who submitted courtesy resignations as part of the internal cleansing project under the Marcos administration.
The PCGG was formed shortly after the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution ousted Marcos’ father, dictator Ferdinand Marcos, and forced his family into exile in Hawaii.
The agency, attached to the Department of Justice, is mandated to recover the wealth stolen by the Marcos family and the patriarch’s cronies from government coffers during his 21-year rule.
The government has already recovered P174 billion in ill-gotten wealth, but is going after P125 billion more.
There have been calls to abolish the PCGG, especially during the administration of Marcos Jr.’s predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, but those proposals languished in Congress.
There are refiled bills in the House of Representatives seeking to get rid of the PCGG under the current administration, but these proposals have not been taken up at the committee level.
The Marcos administration has given the agency a combined budget of P326 million in the past two years. – Rappler.com
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Rappler Recap: PH, US troops flex ability to work together in ‘most ambitious’ Balikatan
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Bea Cupin
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22/04/2024 16:18
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Philippines Exercise Director Major General Marvin Licudine and US Exercise Director Lieutenant General William Jurney unveil the Balikatan flag during the opening ceremony of the annual Philippines-U.S. joint military exercises or Balikatan, at Camp Aguinaldo on April 22, 2024.
REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – The 2024 iteration of the yearly joint military drills will see 11,000 American soldiers and 5,000 Filipino troops in Batanes, Palawan, Zambales, and Ilocos Norte.
Officials says it’ll be the “best Balikatan ever” with higher ambitions and more complicated operations. For the first time ever, the Philippine Coast Guard will be part of the yearly drills, for a multilateral maritime exercise off the coast of Palawan, in the West Philippine Sea.
Rappler reporter Bea Cupin previews what will be happening in the comings weeks, and why it matters as tensions in the South China Sea heat up. – Rappler.com
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Hontiveros: What’s taking PNP so long to revoke Quiboloy’s gun licenses?
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Jodesz Gavilan
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22/04/2024 16:08
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PREACHER. Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Apollo Quiboloy in an undated photo in Davao City.
Sourced photo
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Risa Hontiveros on Monday, April 22, said the Philippine National Police (PNP) should stop making excuses and revoke the firearm licenses issued to fugitive preacher Apollo Quiboloy as he faces criminal cases in the Philippines and abroad.
In a statement, Hontiveros said it is strange how slow the PNP is in taking action despite multiple arrest warrants already out against Quiboloy over allegations of abuse inside the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
“Kung talagang kasangga namin sila sa pagpapanagot sa mga pambabastos ni Quiboloy sa ating mga institusyon, dapat ginagawa nila ang lahat para mahuli siya, at isang mahalagang paraan ang pagbawi ng mga armas, lalo na ng isang pugante,” the senator said.
“Baka kaya ang lakas ng loob magtago ni Quiboloy dahil sa mga armas at baril na pumoprotekta sa kanya,” she added.
(If the PNP is our ally in holding Quiboloy accountable for disrespecting our institutions, they should do everything to capture him, and one key way to do it is to revoke his firearms, especially since he is considered a fugitive. Maybe he has the gall to hide because of the guns that protect him.)
A Rappler investigation found that the doomsday preacher has at least 19 firearms with an estimated value of about P2.3 million ($41,000). Licenses of least 13 of these are set to expire in April 2033, indicating that they were granted in 2023. This means that he benefited from Republic Act No. 11766, signed by his friend, then-president Rodrigo Duterte, which extended the validity of a license from four to 10 years.
But the PNP in early April said that Quiboloy still cannot be considered “armed and dangerous” because there are no indications of prior violence.
Quiboloy is the subject of arrest warrants issued by courts in Davao City and Pasig City, aside from a pending Senate arrest order after he failed to attend hearings into allegations against him and his church.
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation, meanwhile, placed Quiboloy in its most-wanted list in early 2022 for sex trafficking of children and promotional money laundering, among others. An FBI poster indicates that Quiboloy allegedly forced his followers to “solicit donations for a bogus charity, donations that actually were used to finance church operations and the lavish lifestyle of its leaders.”
“Sa dami at bigat ng pending cases ni Quiboloy, siguro naman puwede nang bawiin ang mga armas niya,” Hontiveros said. “Sa kasong human trafficking pa lang, non-bailable at lifetime imprisonment na ang parusa, kaya ano pa hinihintay ng PNP?”
(With the number and gravity of Quiboloy’s pending cases, they can already revoke his firearms’ licenses. What is the PNP waiting for when the cases include human trafficking, which is non-bailable and can lead to lifetime imprisonment if he is convicted?)
Quiboloy on April 6 said he will not be caught alive, and that he will only respond to the allegations if the US does not intervene. He also accused the Marcos administration of conspiring with the Americans.
“Ako po ay hindi nagtatago sa kasong ito dahil ako po ay may kasalanan. Hindi po,” he said. “Ako ay umiiwas dahil pinoprotektahan ko ang aking sarili.”
(I am not hiding from this case because I am guilty. No. I am avoiding it because I am protecting myself.)
Duterte said he does not want to be caught in the legal issues faced by his friend Quiboloy. The former president, however, admitted that he remains in touch with the fugitive pastor. – Rappler.com
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LIST: Agreements signed by Marcos, Tamim during Qatar emir’s state visit
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Dwight de Leon
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22/04/2024 12:48
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STATE VISIT. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomes Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to the Malacañang on April 22, 2023.
KJ ROSALES/PPA POOL
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed nine agreements with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani during their meeting in Malacañang on Monday, April 22.
The Emir arrived in Manila on Sunday, April 21, for his two-day state visit.
The deals are as follows:
Qatar is among the top five leading destinations of overseas Filipino workers, according to a Philippine Statistics Authority report released in October 2023.
Malacañang said the Middle East country is second home to 242,609 Filipinos, and remittances to the Philippines from Qatar totaled $895 million in 2022. – Rappler.com
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La Niña may happen in 2024. Here are the flood-risk areas in Metro Manila.
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Chay Hofilena
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22/04/2024 13:36
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MARIKINA FLOODING. In this file photo, Marikina Disaster Response team members and residents monitor the water level marker at the Marikina Riverbanks, after it rose to second alarm due to the continuous monsoon rains as Typhoon Egay exits the country, on July 27, 2023.
Jire Carreon/Rappler
The Philippines can expect more storms in the latter half of this year due to La Niña, according to state weather forecasters. For several areas in Metro Manila, a heavy downpour means there will be floods.
In the Philippines’ densest region, analysis of government data showed that barely one in 100 evacuation facilities are permanent shelters. At least 60 in every 100 of Metro Manila’s “evacuation centers” are schools and basketball courts.
Rappler mapped the evacuation centers in the capital region and looked at the facilities’ and people’s exposure to floods. In our months-long investigation, we found that one-fifth of Metro Manila’s land area are high-risk flood zones. Several evacuation centers are built in these areas and there is not enough space for the surrounding community.
According to a disaster resilience expert, the Philippines has made significant strides since strong typhoons battered the country in recent decades. But Metro Manila still has a long way to go.
In the past three decades, nearly 107,000 Filipinos in Metro Manila have been affected by typhoons each year. Among cities in the metro, Marikina City has always been the hardest hit, where nine in 100,000 Metro Manila residents have died from typhoons since 2003.
Flooding is a fact of life in Marikina City. Essentially a catch basin, it lies in the Marikina Valley, bound by the Sierra Madre mountain range to the east and the hills of Quezon City to the west. The Marikina River cuts through the western portion of the city.
The Torres family lived near the Marikina River for as long as they can remember. Arlene, 33, and Reizan, 31, grew up in houses apart from each other when they were young. When they got married, Reizan moved into his wife’s house.
Just like the Torreses, their home has endured tough times. Repeated flooding has stained the wall and left a musty smell inside. From blue and green walls, they have since repainted them to white.
Of all the typhoons she has lived through, Arlene said Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) in 2009 and Typhoon Ulysses (Vamco) in 2020 were the ones she could not forget.
“I remember it very well. It was on September 26, [2009],” she said. Within six hours from landfall, Ondoy brought a deluge of rain equivalent to a month’s volume in the country.
Arlene, a high school student at the time, was left stranded at her school due to Ondoy’s downpour. She said the students were asked to go home because the flood had been rising, but they were unable to leave the premises.
“It was my older sister who rushed home. The water was already so high that she had to use a boat to reach our parents. They made a hole in the roof on the second floor of our house to avoid the flood,” Arlene recalled.
“We laid our father on a table to prevent him from getting wet again,” she said. But because of runoffs from the mountains and the trash that blocked access to roads, we could not get anyone to bring him [to the hospital]. He was cold and was coughing up blood. Days later, when we finally arrived at the hospital, he was declared ‘dead on arrival.’”
Ondoy was the deadliest typhoon that Metro Manila had faced in recent decades, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) data showed. At least 464 people were killed due to the onslaught of the typhoon, and more than half of them were from Metro Manila.
For many Filipinos, Ondoy was a turning point. It exposed Metro Manila’s vulnerabilities and lack of preparedness. A year later, lawmakers passed Republic Act No. 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.
The Torreses are among millions of Filipinos who face the risk of having their homes flooded during typhoons or heavy downpours. According to government data, at least eight in 10 Manileños live in flood zones.
More than a decade since Ondoy, Arlene and Reizan still live in the same house where the latter survived the deadly typhoon.
Having lived through strong storms, the Torreses knew what they had to do when Ulysses made landfall – get all the essential items and documents, prepare for evacuation when the Marikina River reaches 15 meters above sea level, and move their appliances and furniture to the second floor.
Living near the river, Reizan had to regularly monitor the updates on the city government’s social media feeds during Ulysses. He knew that once the river’s water level rose to 15 to 16 meters, his wife and children had to evacuate to his in-laws.
So they did. Arlene and the children went to her sister’s house but Reizan was left at home to guard their belongings. Then, the flood reached the second floor. Reizan said he was fortunate that rescuers went to their area.
“When the water reached the second floor, the refrigerator was knocked over. I lost the will to guard our things. There was no use in staying. I just left,” he recalled.
Ulysses made landfall in the middle of the pandemic, in November 2020, packing maximum sustained winds of 150 kilometer per hour (kph) and gustiness of up to 205 kph as it crossed Central Luzon.
During Ulysses, the Marikina River’s water level rose to 22 meters, breaching Ondoy’s record of 21.5 meters. While Ondoy brought more rain than Ulysses, PAGASA noted that it was possible that Sierra Madre was unable to absorb them – three storms had hit the country within three weeks before Ulysses – resulting in a runoff.
According to UN OCHA [United Nations for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs],, over 40,000 houses in Marikina were partially and fully submerged under flood water. All evacuation centers were packed, leaving residents to seek temporary shelter in the homes of their families and friends.
Evacuation centers are supposed to provide refuge from disasters. However, not all evacuation centers in Metro Manila are located in safe areas. They are not enough for everyone.
Analysis of the data from government hazard portal HazardHunterPH showed that one-fifth of Metro Manila’s land area is at high or very high risk of floods.
Among cities in Metro Manila, Navotas will be the most affected when flooding hits. About two-thirds of Navotas’ land area will be submerged by floods, while half of Malabon, Marikina, and Pasig will be swamped with water.
Latest shelter data from OCD and the Department of the Interior and Local Government showed that over 1,300 evacuation centers were listed as evacuation centers in the capital region. Rappler mapped these facilities to see which of them are in high- and very high-risk flood zones.
Areas with a high risk of flooding may be under one to two meters of water for over three days, according to the environment department’s Mines and Geosciences Bureau, one of the government offices involved in the creation of HazardHunterPH. For an average Filipino, this depth is already waist- to chest-deep.
Those with a very high flood risk may face over two meters of flooding. This height is taller than the average Filipino.
According to our analysis, one in five evacuation centers in the metro are built in high-risk areas. Several of them are in Quezon City, Valenzuela, and Pasig.
Aside from the risk, the designated evacuation centers in the metro could not possibly cater to every resident.
Small cities San Juan and Navotas have the lowest evacuation center-to-population ratio in Metro Manila. San Juan has one evacuation center for every 2,200 residents, while Navotas has one for every 5,600 residents.
In the capital Manila, only two evacuation centers were in official government lists for a population of over 1.8 million people. According to OCD, the Delpan and Baseco evacuation centers can fit 3,700 people. (To be concluded) – Rappler.com
NEXT: La Niña: What ought to be done to be better prepared
*$1 = P56.60
All quotes were translated into English.
Vianca Jasmin Anglo is a data analyst pursuing a postgraduate degree in Human Development and Services. She was part of the public health, pandemic management, and response in the Philippines. Her years of experience in social development demonstrate her commitment to human well-being through data analysis.
Reporting for this story was supported by the Environmental Data Journalism Academy – a program of Internews’ Earth Journalism Network and Thibi.
METHODOLOGY
This data story examined the link between evacuation centers and flood risk in Metro Manila. We obtained the latest evacuation center data from the DILG – which appeared incomplete – and supplemented it with 2021 data from the OCD. Capacity information from these lists are incomplete, limiting our analysis to the evacuation center-to-population ratio.
Using spatial software and Google Sheets, spatial analysis was conducted to pinpoint the intersection between evacuation centers and their corresponding flood susceptibility category from HazardHunterPH. For the full description of our methodology, please read it here. Data cleaning and analysis can be accessed here. This story was a result of collaboration between the author, and the data and story mentors from Thibi, Thet Win Htut, and Aika Rey, respectively.
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‘Largest Balikatan’: What you need to know about the 2024 PH-US military exercise
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Bea Cupin
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17/04/2024 13:06
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A Filipino soldier fires a Javelin anti-tank weapon system during a live exercise as part of the annual US-Philippines joint military exercises called "Balikatan" at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija province, Philippines, April 13, 2023. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez
REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez
MANILA, Philippines – Over 16,000 soldiers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States (US) military will be converging here for the “largest” annual joint training exercise between the two treaty-allies from April 22 to May 10.
The 39th Balikatan exercises will be held across several locations in the Philippines, from the Northern Luzon Command, the Western Command, and the Southern Luzon Command’s areas of operation. The three commands, collectively, cover a wide expanse of Philippine territory and waters – from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s bailiwick in northern Luzon, the waters of the West Philippine Sea, up to the southernmost Luzon islands.
In a briefing with media on Tuesday, April 16, Balikatan 2024 executive agent Colonel Michael Logico said that the 16,000 head count does not include Australian Defense Force and French Navy personnel who will also be participating in a multilateral maritime exercise or a joint sail.
Here’s what you should know about the weeks-long exercise:
The exercise happens yearly, and is the largest among the many joint exercise activities between the Philippines and the US. The 38th iteration of the exercises in 2023, or the first under Marcos, were said to be the “largest” with over 17,000 American and Filipino troops, although Logico said only around 16,000 personnel actually participated in the weeks-long event.
Balikatan literally means “shoulder-to-shoulder.”
Any joint military exercise is focused on interoperability, or the ability of different units to work together.
It’s a way to practice and make sure that military units from different countries know how to effectively work together in case of a crisis – be it disaster response or armed conflict.
There’s also a more personal aspect to it – joint exercises like Balikatan make sure military leaders and commanders are familiar with each other on a personal level, making communication or coordination much easier during crunch time.
In a release, the US embassy in Manila said Balikatan “directly supports the US-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) by enhancing military cooperation and readiness between the two militaries.”
The MDT, signed in 1951, is a promise of both Washington DC and Manila to come to each others’ defense in the event of an armed attack. The treaty is one of three that form the two countries’ defense ties – the others being the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
During Marcos’ latest visit to Washington for the first trilateral summit between the US, Japan, and the Philippines, US President Joe Biden affirmed their commitment to the MDT. The US’ position is that the treaty “extends to both countries’ armed forces, public vessels, and aircraft — including those of its Coast Guard — anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea,” amid China’s continuing aggression in the West Philippine Sea, or part of the South China Sea including where the Philippines has sovereign rights.
According to the AFP, the exercises will cover external defense operations, cyber defense, counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and interagency capacity-building. Balikatan has three main components, according to the AFP: Command and Control Exercise (C2X), Field Training Exercise (FTX), and Humanitarian Civic Assistance (HCA).
“C2X will encompass a Staff Exercise, a Cyber Defense Exercise, and an inaugural Information Warfighter Exercise, all designed to test the ability of AFP and US forces to plan, command, and communicate effectively in simulated scenarios,” it said in a release.
FTX covers a wide range of activities such as “joint all-domain operations, including vital maritime terrain protection, air assault operations, and reconnaissance activities.”
“Cutting-edge military assets” including the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Rapid Infiltration, Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD), and various unmanned aerial systems are also part of the exercises.
Its highlight will be a Maritime Strike activity, which will feature “joint and combined fires, combined joint dynamic targeting, and multi-domain effects through the sinking of the adversary’s vessel.”
Another regular component of Balikatan is humanitarian activities, such as the construction of school buildings in Ilocos Norte and Cagayan province.
Aside from US and Philippine forces, soldiers from Australia and France will also be participating. Representatives from Brunei, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam will also be part of Balikatan as observers.
In 2024, the Balikatan includes a “Multilateral Maritime Exercise” or a joint sail between the Philippines, US, and French navies “within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.”
For the first time ever, white ships belonging to the coast guards of the Philippines and the US will also be take part in the joint sail.
Balikatan is as much about preparation as it is about flexing – of the AFP’s capabilities, as well as the Philippines’ robust ties with its treaty-ally the US and its partners.
“The reason why we do exercises is to demonstrate our combat readiness and it is also a demonstration of our comprehensive archipelagic defense concept, you do exercises for that primary reason – to maintain a high level of readiness,” said Logico.
Lieutenant General William Jurney, commander of the US Marine Corps Forces, Pacific said Balikatan is a “tangible demonstration of our shared commitment to each other.”
“It matters for regional peace, it matters for regional stability. When we increase our mutual response and defense capabilities, we strengthen our ability to promote regional security and protect our shared interests,” he said. – Rappler.com
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I am sure that Communist China and its local sycophants here will be very angry at this. This event is for the benefit of the Filipino People (even including the pro-China traitors) and the participating nations. I appreciate the approval of this event by President Marcos Jr. and the support of AFP Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr.
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Refill hubs ‘win-win’ solution for sari-sari store owners, buyers
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Iya Gozum
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22/03/2024 17:02
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Store owner, Robylin Torrelino, demonstrates how to use the refilling station in front of her small store as part of the Kuha Sa Tingi project at Barangay Salapan, San Juan.
Basilio Sepe/Greenpeace
MANILA, Philippines – Installing refill systems in small stores are a win-win solution for both owners and consumers, said a recent report from environmental organization Greenpeace Philippines.
The report, launched on Friday, March 22, gathered data from selected sari-sari stores in San Juan and Quezon City that implemented the refill system.
This system included refillables with dishwashing liquid, laundry detergent, fabric conditioner, shower gel, and multipurpose cleaner, either with a pump or faucet design.
The report said store owners can expect 15% profit increase when selling these household necessities with a refill system, while consumers can expect up to 201% increase in savings.
“This is a business model that is a win-win solution for everybody,” said Quezon City (QC) Mayor Joy Belmonte in Filipino during the report launch on Friday. “Retailers profit more, consumers can save up. But most importantly, conducting business this way does not harm the environment.”
In Quezon City, 30 sari-sari stores adopted the refill system in July 2023. After six months, 24 of the stores have been found to still continue the initiative. The Quezon City government has already expanded the campaign to 1,000 stores.
Belmonte said they are aiming to expand from 5,000 up to 6,000 stores within the year if the initial 1,000 prove successful.
>>> According to Belmonte, they are gunning for expansion from 5,000 up to 6,000 stores within the year if the initial 1,000 prove successful.
The QC mayor said the data from the initial implementation in two Metro Manila cities are proof that people are willing to adopt environment-friendly alternatives if these are affordable and convenient. Belmonte added that local government leaders are in a crucial position to jump-start the implementation of these kinds of environment-friendly initiatives at the local level.
The campaign was first launched in San Juan back in November 2022, where 10 stores, including an employee’s cooperative, implemented the refilling system.
“Hindi Filipino culture ang sachet,” said Lea Guerrero, country director of Greenpeace Philippines, on Friday. Instead, the culture is tingi or piecemeal. (Sachets are not part of the Filipino culture.)
Beside competitive prices that benefit both sellers and buyers, the refilling system can help cut down plastic packaging at least at the local levels.
According to the report, more than 50,000 sachets were displaced because of the refilling systems in San Juan and Quezon City.
More than 460 million tons of plastic are produced worldwide, according to Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The OECD said plastic production doubled in the last two decades. Plastic is used in most industries and account for 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Because it takes thousands of years before they’re disposed, they get stuck in the environment, and even make its way to humans’ guts through seafood that have ingested micro plastics.
The refill system is one way to change lifestyle and consumption behaviors of people. It is a solution that proves “we don’t have to live with plastic pollution,” said Guerrero.
They are hopeful that the pilot cities could pave way to bigger scale. Quezon City’s rollout of the refill system to 1,000 stores could avoid 1,066,666 sachets monthly, or 12,799,992 sachets annually, according to the report.
Meanwhile, with this scenario, Quezon City retailers are set to profit at least P1,800 a month and consumers can save P400 a month.
Completely eliminating the use of plastics depends heavily on producers. The refill system only addresses a part of the chain that involves small business owners and consumers.
The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) lapsed into law in 2022, amending the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. It aims to hold large product producers, accountable for the plastic waste they put out. (READ: Everything you need to know about the Philippines’ Extended Producer Responsibility law)
However, the EPR falls short of this objective, advocates said, as it focuses on collection of waste rather than reduction.
“With unregulated mass production of disposable plastics, the systematic dismantling of existing reuse models, and the glaring lack of new reuse and refill systems, the current status quo perpetrated by plastic producers has led to adverse impacts on ecosystems and health,” the report read.
Beside reuse and refill systems, environmental advocates say the government must invest in more solutions that cut the problem from the source. This includes a total ban of single-use plastics, phase down in plastic production.
“Corporations must change the way they do business and enact widespread systemic changes on what materials they rely on, as well as their product delivery systems,” the report said. – Rappler.com
(Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story suggested store owners could expect a 200% profit margin and consumers could save 150-200% with a refill system. The corrected version accurately reflects that store owners can anticipate a 15% profit increase, while consumers can save up to 201% on their usual expenses.)
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In company with legends: Lassiter climbs to 4th in all-time PBA 3-point list
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delfin.dioquino editor
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21/04/2024 23:13
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MEAN MUG. Marcio Lassiter in action for the San Miguel Beermen in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – Marcio Lassiter only used to look up to the likes of Jimmy Alapag, LA Tenorio, and James Yap.
Now, he is in the same company as them.
Lassiter continued his ascent in the all-time PBA three-pointers list as he surpassed Yap for fourth place and closed in on Tenorio for third after helping San Miguel stay unbeaten in the Philippine Cup on Sunday, April 21.
The 12-year veteran finished with 14 points built on 4 three-pointers in a 120-100 rout of NorthPort to raise his career total to 1,197 and leapfrog Yap (1,194 and counting).
Up next in the list is Tenorio, who has 1,218 triples and counting.
Alapag sits at No. 1 with 1,250 three-pointers followed by PBA icon Allan Caidic, who previously held the league record when he ended his career with 1,242 treys.
“It is a tremendous feat – just to be in the same breath as the legends before me,” said Lassiter.
“These are guys that I’ve played with, some of them. I looked up to them when I was in my rookie year coming up. Just truly blessed.”
Now 36, Lassiter is the second-oldest player in the team after Chris Ross, who is 37.
But Lassiter has remained lethal from long distance, averaging 3 three-pointers per game this conference on a league-leading 55% clip.
If he keeps this pace, Lassiter would eclipse Tenorio in no time, and it would no longer be a surprise if he also surpasses Caidic and Alapag for the top spot.
Lassiter, though, does not want to get caught up in the hoopla of chasing the record.
“I’m not really thinking about that. I’m more focused on the win. But if I can make a few, that would be great to slowly chip away and we’ll see where it goes from there,” said Lassiter.
More games mean more chances, so expect Lassiter to improve his three-point tally as the defending champion Beermen – toting a perfect 7-0 record – are expected to go on a deep playoff run. – Rappler.com
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Sara Duterte to Liza Marcos: Your feelings have nothing to do with my duties as VP
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Bonz Magsambol
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22/04/2024 11:35
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Vice President Sara Duterte's Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday, April 22, responded to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ tirades against her, saying the latter’s feelings have nothing to do with her functions as a government official.
“Bilang tao, karapatan ni Unang Ginang Liza Marcos para makaramdam ng sama ng loob at galit. Subalit ang kaniyang personal na damdamin ay walang kinalaman sa aking mandato bilang opisyal ng pamahalaan,” she said.
(As human, it’s the right of First Lady Liza Marcos to feel upset and angry. But, her personal feelings have nothing to do with my mandate as a government official.)
The Vice President posted her reply in a Facebook video three days after the First Lady’s interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna aired on Friday, April 19. In that interview, Araneta-Marcos said that Duterte now has a bone to pick with her after she “crossed the line” when she attended a protest in Davao against charter change and allegedly laughed when former president Rodrigo Duterte called President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “bangag“ (high on drugs).
“You are getting suweldo (salary) from the government, you are supposed to be the alter ego,” Araneta-Marcos said. “That’s not right. That’s entitled politics. You’re in the government. You’re the vice president. Bad shot na ‘yan sa akin (I already have a bone to pick with her), unless she says sorry. She crossed the line.”
But instead of directly responding to the First Lady’s issue, Duterte said that she and the President will talk privately about the matter, adding that they should focus on the country’s pressing problems instead.
“Dapat ay nakatutok tayo sa mga suliraning hinaharap ng ating bansa,” Duterte said. She then enumerated the country’s problems – continued rising prices of goods, looming shortage of water and power supply, illegal drugs, criminality, and insurgency. The Vice President did not mention China’s continued aggression in the West Philippine Sea as a problem. (READ: Sara Duterte on continued China bullying: No comment)
After the First Lady’s remarks against the Vice President, calls for Duterte’s resignation from the Marcos Cabinet intensified. The Vice President is currently the country’s education secretary.
– Rappler.com
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Ilocos Sur’s tobacco farmers see better days ahead with high prices, relaxed grading
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Herbie G
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22/04/2024 11:15
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PREPARE. Farmers in Salcedo, Ilocos Sur, prepare ripe tobacco leaves for curing.
Sherwin De Vera/Rappler
VIGAN, Philippines – The National Federation of Tobacco Farmers Association and Cooperatives (NAFTAC) is optimistic that trading centers will maintain their current trajectory of relatively high buying prices and relaxed grading systems. Such optimism stems from the potential for these measures to substantially bolster tobacco farmers’ earnings this year.
“Napinpintas tatta ta nangina kumpara idi naglabas ken saanda unay strict ti classification, saan unay nga adu ti basisda iti grades, halos dudua, diay reject ken napintas,” said NAFTAC President Bernard Vicente said on Friday, April 19.
(The prices are better now, higher than in previous years. They also eased the classification, not too many grades; it is almost just between good and reject.)
“Saan met lang naaduan ti trabaho ti farmers ta saan unay nga strikto, kumpara idi ket adu ti mapan iti labor ta isimpam ken i-classifymo pay iti urayla,” he added.
(There was less work for farmers since trading centers were not that strict. We spent more on labor before because we had to prepare and classify carefully.)
The number of grades, exceeding the classification set by NTA, and low buying prices have been perennial issues for tobacco farmers. In recent years, trading centers have become stricter about non-tobacco-related materials mixed with leaves.
The farmer-leader from Sinait, Ilocos Sur, attributed the price increase and easing of the classification process to the high demand for tobacco, particularly from other countries. This, he said, coupled with financial support and farm subsidies from local governments, has helped offset the rise in production expenses, potentially leading to higher profits for the farmers.
“Bareng no next year ket kastoy to manen. Ket no tatta maaramidda apay nga saanda a maaramid all the time tapno iti kasta ket saanda a parparigaten dagiti farmers… Daytoy ti sapsapulenmi a sistema ti panagraduan lalo iti Virginia ta kastoy met idi saan unay nga istrikto,” Vicente said.
(I hope that next year will be the same. If they could do it now, why can’t they implement it consistently so they won’t burden the farmers anymore? This is the grading system we desire, especially in Virginia, because it was like this before, less strict.)
According to the National Tobacco Administration (NTA), buying stations purchase premium flu-cured Virginia tobacco leaves at P113 per kilogram, with field canvassers in the 1st District of Ilocos Sur offering as high as P127 a kilo.
The increase means Class AA Virginia leaves are now priced P16 to P30 higher than the P97 floor price set during the last tripartite negotiations. Also, prime air-cured Burley tobacco is expected to reach P100 a kilo, a substantial increase of P19 from its approved floor price.
“The tobacco buying price increase reflects market demand and crop quality as well as the presence of good weather and the increase of floor prices,” said NTA Administrator Belinda Sanchez.
Virginia’s buying season opened on January 15 and will last until June. Meanwhile, trading for Burley started in February and is expected to continue until July.
The farmers’ group Solidarity of Peasants Against Exploitation (Stop Exploitation) said the surging prices validate its call for P128 per kilo of assorted flu-cured Virginia leaves.
“While the elevated buying price since the start of the trading season provides welcome relief from our previous losses, its volatility remains a concern. The government should ensure fair and stable prices rather than offering token increases like this each year,” said Stop Exploitation spokesperson Julie Balangue.
“It has been over a decade since we first called for the P128 per kilo price. The value of tobacco leaves we are seeing now is long overdue and only covers a fraction of the reasonable compensation for our labor and dedication in sustaining production,” she added.
She said it remains to be seen if the buyers and NTA can sustain the price, as farmers have historically experienced price drops as the end of the season nears. –Rappler.com
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Iloilo, Bacolod mayors take sides, back First Lady amid rift with Sara Duterte
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Herbie G
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22/04/2024 9:39
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DRAWING THE LINE. Mayor Jerry Treñas of Iloilo and Bacolod Mayor Albee Benitez issue a joint statement, criticizing Vice President Sara Duterte and siding with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
Arnold Almacen/Iloilo City Mayor's Office and Jire Carreon/Rappler
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines – Two mayors of key cities in Western Visayas – one a close political ally of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and another who supported the failed 2022 presidential bid of former vice president Leni Robredo – drew the line and openly threw their support behind First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos over her souring relationship with Vice President Sara Duterte.
Mayor Jerry Treñas of Iloilo, a staunch supporter of the failed 2022 presidential bid of former vice president Leni Robredo, and Bacolod Mayor Albee Benitez, a close political ally of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., have openly thrown their support behind the First Lady amid her strained relationship with Duterte.
Their joint statement, released on Friday, April 19, expressed disappointment in what they called inappropriate actions by Duterte, who also serves in the Marcos cabinet as education secretary.
The joint statement about the escalating tension between the two high-profile figures made prominent the intricacies of Philippine politics, with alliances and loyalties often shifting amid ongoing power dynamics and personal conflicts.
The mayors empathized with Mrs. Marcos, citing her expressed dismay over Vice President Duterte’s attendance at rallies critical of President Marcos Jr., and her seemingly casual response to attacks on the administration.
They said it was improper for the Vice President, who campaigned under the same party banner as the President in 2022, to participate in such events and react with amusement to the attacks.
“We empathize with the First Lady as she expresses her disappointment that the Vice President attends rallies where the President is criticized. It seems inappropriate for a Vice President, who campaigned under the same party banner as the President, to participate in such events and react with amusement to the attacks,” read a part of the joint statement.
The rift between Mrs. Marcos and Duterte was brought to light following a recorded interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna, where Mrs. Marcos candidly expressed her hurt over the Vice President’s behavior during an anti-Marcos rally in Davao City earlier this year. The interview was posted on Taberna’s YouTube channel, Tune In Kay Ka Tunying, hours earlier.
Sara, who ran as Mrs. Marcos’s husband’s vice-presidential candidate in 2022, was seen laughing as her father, ex-president Rodrigo Duterte, referred to the President as “bangag” (high on drugs) during the rally.
Treñas and Benitez criticized Sara for not showing solidarity with the Marcos administration, especially given her position as the head of the Department of Education (DepEd). They emphasized the expectation of a level of unity within the cabinet. They said that as the education secretary, a key member of the President’s cabinet, a “certain level of solidarity is expected.”
“There are unspoken rules and lines that should not be crossed,” Treñas and Benitez stated.
Mrs. Marcos, in her interview with Taberna, expressed her unwillingness to forgive unless an apology was offered. The First Lady has notably snubbed Sara in public appearances since the incident, describing her actions as “not right” and emblematic of “entitled politics.” – Rappler.com
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Sara Duterte to Liza Marcos: Your feelings have nothing to do with my duties as VP
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Bonz Magsambol
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22/04/2024 11:35
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Vice President Sara Duterte's Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday, April 22, responded to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ tirades against her, saying the latter’s feelings have nothing to do with her functions as a government official.
“Bilang tao, karapatan ni Unang Ginang Liza Marcos para makaramdam ng sama ng loob at galit. Subalit ang kaniyang personal na damdamin ay walang kinalaman sa aking mandato bilang opisyal ng pamahalaan,” she said.
(As human, it’s the right of First Lady Liza Marcos to feel upset and angry. But, her personal feelings have nothing to do with my mandate as a government official.)
The Vice President posted her reply in a Facebook video three days after the First Lady’s interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna aired on Friday, April 19. In that interview, Araneta-Marcos said that Duterte now has a bone to pick with her after she “crossed the line” when she attended a protest in Davao against charter change and allegedly laughed when former president Rodrigo Duterte called President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “bangag“ (high on drugs).
“You are getting suweldo (salary) from the government, you are supposed to be the alter ego,” Araneta-Marcos said. “That’s not right. That’s entitled politics. You’re in the government. You’re the vice president. Bad shot na ‘yan sa akin (I already have a bone to pick with her), unless she says sorry. She crossed the line.”
But instead of directly responding to the First Lady’s issue, Duterte said that she and the President will talk privately about the matter, adding that they should focus on the country’s pressing problems instead.
“Dapat ay nakatutok tayo sa mga suliraning hinaharap ng ating bansa,” Duterte said. She then enumerated the country’s problems – continued rising prices of goods, looming shortage of water and power supply, illegal drugs, criminality, and insurgency. The Vice President did not mention China’s continued aggression in the West Philippine Sea as a problem. (READ: Sara Duterte on continued China bullying: No comment)
After the First Lady’s remarks against the Vice President, calls for Duterte’s resignation from the Marcos Cabinet intensified. The Vice President is currently the country’s education secretary.
– Rappler.com
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Philippines ‘sinking in sachets’ – brand audit
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Iya Gozum
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17/04/2024 15:39
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Maria Aurelio, 55, prepares to display plastic sachets of Unilever's Surf laundry detergent at her sundry store in Manila, Philippines. Photo taken May 31, 2022.
REUTERS/Lisa Marie David
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines is “sinking in sachets,” according to a plastic brand audit that covered four countries in Asia.
Based on the 2023 Global Break Free From Plastic Brand Audit conducted by international network Break Free From Plastic (BFFP), the Philippines contributed a third of the total sachet plastic waste collected in four Asian countries in 2023.
“The Philippines is inundated with plastic pollution in part due to the prevailing sachet economy driven primarily by corporations,” said the audit which was released on Wednesday, April 17.
From October 2023 to February 2024, volunteers collected, catalogued, and analyzed 10,801 pieces of sachets from several locations in the Philippines: Metro Manila, Dasmariñas City in Cavite, Davao City, Iloilo City, and E.B. Magalona town in Negros Occidental.
The only area in Metro Manila mentioned in the report was Malabon City.
A total of 33,647 sachets were gathered together in four countries where the Asia-Pacific audit was conducted. The others are India, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
The report, initiated by international network Break Free From Plastic (BFFP), said that 86% of the sachets were used for packaged food items, while the rest were for household and personal care items.
Buying commodities in sachets is often seen as the affordable and accessible option in lower-income communities. The Philippines uses 164 million plastic sachets every day, discarding 59.8 billion sachets per year.
To visualize this, the audit said, “This figure is enough to bury the entire Metropolitan Manila area under a foot of plastic waste.”
However, several issues arise from this dependence on plastic: health hazards, overburdened landfills, and wildlife and environmental harm. These plastic sachets have been found in protected areas, too.
“In Davao City, we have been collecting loads of waste from the Panigan-Tamugan Watershed, the drinking water source of the city, and most of this waste are plastic sachets,” said Mark Peñalver, executive director of Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability.
“If we maintain business as usual, the time will come when we will be drinking plastics too,” added Peñalver.
The top polluters in the four countries included in the audit are:
“All 10 companies are in the business of selling fast-moving consumer goods, primarily processed food and beverage manufacturing, as well as some personal care products,” the report said.
In the Philippines, the top sachet polluters are:
Common types of sachet materials collected in the audit include high density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and low density polyethylene (LDPE).
In light of this report, which complements the 2023 Global Brand Audit that BFFP released earlier this year, the group called on multinational corporations to phase out sachets, single-use packaging, and reveal data on plastic use.
They also urged companies to invest in reuse, refill, or packaging-free product delivery systems.
“Corporations are driving the plastic crisis in the Philippines, but they can help solve the problem their products create,” Greenpeace Philippines campaigner Marian Ledesma said in a statement.
“They must transition away from single-use plastic right away, starting with sachets, and begin adopting wide-scale reuse and refill models in the Philippines,” she added.
One of the biggest steps towards plastic and waste reduction in the Philippines was the passage of the Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022, or Republic Act No. 11898, which aims to hold large product producers, accountable for the plastic waste they put out.
While the law was a “meaningful step,” advocates criticized the law for “lacking ambition.”
“It only requires plastic producers to collect and recycle plastic waste without compelling them to find ways to reduce plastic production and use,” the report said. “The EPR Act lacks bans and plastic reduction targets, and this gap only allows corporations to continue their relentless plastic production.”
Meanwhile, the local governments in San Juan and Quezon City have been experimenting with a refill system in select sari-sari stores to eliminate the use of sachets.
During the launch of the report regarding the refill hubs, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized the importance of political will in finding affordable, eco-friendly options for the public.
– Rappler.com
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Carlos Yulo eases concerns over form with gold, silver in Doha World Cup
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delfin.dioquino editor
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21/04/2024 10:06
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ELITE. Carlos Yulo shines in parallel bars, one of the events where he is the strongest at.
Molly Darlington/REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – Carlos Yulo eased concerns over his form with a pair of medals in the Doha, Qatar leg of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series.
Yulo wrapped up his campaign in style as he struck gold in parallel bars and nailed silver in vault on Saturday, April 20 – results that augur well for his progress as he continues to gear up for the upcoming Paris Olympics.
Finishing second in the parallel bars qualification, Yulo saved the best for last and ruled the final with 15.2 points, edging Chinese Taipei’s Hung Yuan-Hsi (14.966) for the top prize.
Brazil’s Caio Souza bagged bronze with 14.566 points.
Top qualifier Rasuljon Abdurakhimov of Uzbekistan settled for fifth with 13.933 points as he failed to land his dismount.
Meanwhile, the vault final ended up the same way as the qualification – with Armenia’s Artur Davtyan edging Yulo for the top spot.
Davtyan, who recorded 15.116 points in the qualification, performed slightly better in the final with an average of 15.166 points to outshine Yulo.
Yulo also eclipsed his score of 14.633 points in the qualification with 15.066 in the final, but Davtyan – the Tokyo Games bronze medalist in vault – still emerged victorious.
A moment of joy: Here's Carlos Yulo 🇵🇭 showing off a masterful Ri Se Gwang vault at the #FIGWorldCup in Doha. Watch and love! #Gymnastics pic.twitter.com/V2qU7FiKVp
Individual neutral athlete Yahor Sharamkou of Belarus clinched bronze with 14.749 points.
The gold and silver medals were exactly what Yulo needed to allay concerns over his feared decline after his separation from longtime Japanese coach Munehiro Kugimiya got followed by a string of unfavorable results.
Yulo went home empty-handed from the World Artistic Gymnastics Championship in Antwerp, Belgium, in October, marking the first time he failed to win a medal after winning at least one in each of the last four editions.
He then missed the finals of vault and parallel bars in the Baku, Azerbaijan leg in March, and although he won bronze in floor exercise there, he surprisingly finished 21st out of 28 gymnasts in the same apparatus in Doha.
But Yulo quickly redeemed himself as he raised his World Cup tally to 15 medals – five golds, four silvers, and six bronzes.
The Philippines won a total of three medals in Doha, with Levi Jung-Ruivivar taking home silver in the uneven bars for her first podium finish in a World Cup.
Jung-Ruivivar also qualified for the Paris Games, where she will join Yulo and Aleah Finnegan. – Rappler.com
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Waste workers demand fair wages, treatment as they form national alliance
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Iya Gozum
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21/04/2024 9:25
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CARETAKER. Flaviano Romero beside the manual drum composting donated by the Department of Science and Technology to the materials recovery facility in Dampalit, Malabon.
Iya Gozum/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – Aloja Santos, 49, has been waking up earlier than the rest of her neighbors in Barangay Looc in Dumaguete for the past five years to collect garbage from one house to the next.
Houses should have already segregated their wastes overnight, or early in the morning, or else Santos or the other waste collectors will not get them.
Despite the discrimination they face for doing a “dirty” job, Santos knows her job is important.
“Para sa akin po napamahal ko na po yung trabaho ko,” Aloja told Rappler in an interview. “Masaya po ako nakakatulong po ako sa aming barangay, sa aming komunidad.”
(For me I have learned to love my work. I am happy that I get to help my barangay, my community.)
Waste workers – garbage collectors, waste pickers, segregators, recyclers – across the country remain mostly invisible, especially those working in the informal sectors. They receive much lesser wages. Santos, for example, said she gets P2,000 per month. Obviously, it was not enough to support five children and her seven grandkids.
Though their work exposes them to possible contaminants and hazardous substances on the daily, they do not have health benefits and insurance. Even the costs of bike maintenance fall on their shoulders, said Santos.
Santos said she hopes the national government would see them and hear their pleas. Waste workers might be invisible, but once there is no one to clean up the streets and collect waste, the consequences would be plain as day.
This is the reason why waste workers decided to form the first-ever national alliance of waste workers.
“Kasi nang nasa loob po kami ng limang taon ng pagseserbisyo namin sa barangay, parang ‘di kami napansin, ‘di kami nabigyan ng mga pangangailangan namin, mga benepisyo at saka kahit suporta man lang,” said Santos.
(Within the five years that we’ve served our barangay, it seemed like we were not noticed, we were not given our needs or benefits or any support.)
The Philippine National Waste Workers Association (PNWWA) was born on February 2024, and Santos currently serves as president. It has ten member associations from Dumaguete, Malabon, Navotas, Taguig, Siquijor, San Fernando in Pampanga, Legazpi in Albay, Calapan in Oriental Mindoro, and San Jose Sico in Batangas.
The formation of the alliance is called by groups as a “significant move for labor rights and environmental justice.”
One of the major efforts of PNWWA as early as now is a draft magna carta enumerating their rights, which they are lobbying to legislators, “marking a historic and unified call for the recognition of their rights.”
This includes their demands for a minimum wage, protection from occupational and health hazards, and inclusion in the solid waste management boards in their villages and municipalities.
Keeping waste workers’ best interests at heart can push forward the implementation of the solid waste management law, said Raphaelo Villavicencio of Mother Earth Foundation (MEF).
“If they’re given the right support by the government and concerned agencies, they would be more effective and their work would contribute to the implementation of RA 9003,” Villavicencio told Rappler in Filipino.
Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 mandates a comprehensive waste management program and the adoption of best environmental practices to reduce waste.
Waste workers are just one part of the equation towards zero waste.
To achieve zero waste, huge companies must restructure their production and distribution systems and redesign products and packaging.
The whole life cycle of a product needs to be accounted for. What kind of packaging can degrade easily? What are the distribution systems in markets and groceries that could eliminate the use of plastic? How can we create less waste?
In communities, materials recovery facilities (MRF) designed to receive, sort, process, and store compostable and recyclable materials reduce waste that end up in landfills. An MRF could show how a circular economy works on a smaller scale.
Local governments employ waste workers in MRFs. For example, Santos is now employed in the MRF of her barangay after five years as a collector.
Contrary to what people think when they hear about recovery facilities, Ranz Lebria of Mother Earth Foundation told Rappler that these spaces should be green.
“It should be a garden,” said Lebria in Filipino. “Not just a dump site for waste, but like a mini park or an ecopark.”
A materials recovery facility in Dampalit, Malabon, experiments with different types of composting. Soil, sawdust, vegetable and fruit cuttings are jammed inside pipes, pots, and pants. How fast waste decomposes depends on the type of composting employed.
Herbal and ornamental plants grow in patches beside the compost heaps. Meanwhile, the kitchen in the facility gets its fuel from the methane released from the biodigester. This is where the facility workers cook their meals throughout the day.
Flaviano Romero, 72, had been working as a caretaker in the Dampalit materials recovery facility for four years. Before that, he was a pedicab driver. He gets P3,000 a month and goes home at 7 or 8 pm at night.
Whatever way one decides to compost organic waste, the practice helps divert waste from landfills. An effective recovery facility at the local level could “decentralize” waste management and change the habits of people and a community.
“It’s hard at first because we’ve gotten used to a linear system where we collect and dump, right?” said Villavicencio in Filipino. “Unlike in a decentralized system, you not only filter waste, you can also monitor waste segregation.”
Villavicencio said waste workers are the backbone of this system, as they also make waste management more economical for their villages and cities. Trips of waste trucks, for example, are reduced, cutting fuel and maintenance costs.
“And then you’ll see that not all collection vehicles are motorized,” said Villavicencio. “You have bikes, side carts, push carts, which have less carbon footprint, less fuel emission. Then of course, less maintenance costs.”
The changes in their barangay were considerable since the zero waste movement was introduced to them, said Santos.
The streets are now cleaner. There are changes in habits, however minuscule. Santos herself learned a lot and changed jobs from purok leader to collector and now as a caretaker in their MRF.
Santos said she, along with other waste workers, has taught people how to properly segregate and dispose of their trash. Despite the measly income, these things have made her stay.
“‘Pag mahal mo ang trabaho mo, tatagal ka.” (If you love your job, you will stay.) – Rappler.com
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‘Overwhelming feeling’: UST rookie Angge Poyos smashes another UAAP volleyball record
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Jasmine Payo
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21/04/2024 21:02
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ROOKIE SENSATION. UST freshman Angge Poyos sustains her stellar play.
UAAP
MANILA, Philippines – UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos isn’t done smashing UAAP records.
With the elimination round not even over yet, UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos reset another UAAP women’s volleyball scoring record for a first-year player.
Poyos claimed the highest total point output for a rookie with 268 points after scoring 25 in the Golden Tigresses’ quick 25-19, 25-9, 25-17 victory against UE on Sunday, April 21.
The 5-foot-7 outside hitter eclipsed the record of former Ateneo star Faith Nisperos, who had 267 points set in Season 84 in 2022.
Poyos pulled off the feat even before the playoffs and despite missing one game and playing staggered minutes in another due to illness.
“I didn’t expect to reach that point, but I’m happy to have a record,” Poyos told Rappler after the game.
“The season’s not yet over, so I need to perform in the remaining games,” she added.
Last April 3, Poyos also set the UAAP scoring record in a single game by a rookie with 31 points against Adamson.
Already a standout even before joining UST, Poyos was pursued heavily by the Tigresses when she was in high school.
The Bohol native quickly showed her potential during the offseason, where she helped lead UST to a podium finish in the 2023 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals, as well as the Collegiate Pre-Season Championship.
It was in these tournaments where the 20-year-old was hailed as 1st and 2nd Best Outside Hitter, respectively.
Despite all the accolades, humility remains paramount for the talented hitter.
“For me, it’s an overwhelming feeling as a rookie, since I get to break records like that,” she said. “For me, I will always keep my feet firm on the ground.”
Poyos and the Golden Tigresses now look forward to playing their final elimination-round assignment against defending champion La Salle on Saturday, April 27.
But the freshman hopes to use the team’s whole week off to recuperate after suffering from a dehydration episode, which kept her out against the UP Fighting Maroons last April 10.
The young UST star was still not 100 percent during FEU’s stunning 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10 upset win three days later, where she could have added to the tally.
Poyos knows, though, that she needs to go all out on Saturday, with La Salle out for revenge after its opening-day loss to UST.
Even more important, the twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four will be up for grabs as both squads, along with NU, remain tied on top with 11-2 records.
“Of course, it’s a big motivation, since I have returned from dehydration… I’m ready against La Salle,” said Poyos. – Rappler.com
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It all started with ‘bangag’: How rift between Liza Marcos, Sara Duterte began
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Dwight de Leon
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19/04/2024 10:25
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RIFT. Vice President Sara Duterte and First Lady Liza Marcos. Photos by Eloisa Lopez and Angie de Silva/Rappler
Photos by Eloisa Lopez and Angie de Silva/Rappler; Graphics by David Castuciano/Rappler
This ongoing telenovela in Philippine politics has a new episode after First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos broke her silence to attack Vice President Sara Duterte in a revealing, no-holds-barred interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna.
“She crossed the line,” she said in the YouTube video uploaded in the wee hours of Friday, April 19.
The rift began after Sara attended a protest in Davao against charter change in January. In a rally that saw former president Rodrigo Duterte accuse his successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of drug use, the First Lady couldn’t take it anymore.
At one point during that rally, Mr. Duterte rambled onstage, saying: “Si Bongbong, bangag ‘yan (Bongbong is high on drugs).”
According to Liza, she saw the Vice President laugh at her father’s jab in one of the video feeds, a response that did not sit well with her. (It is unclear if Sara indeed laughed during that exact moment, as the professional livestream from Rodrigo Duterte’s Facebook page did not pan to the Vice President.)
“You are getting suweldo (salary) from the government, you are supposed to be the alter ego,” Liza said. “That’s not right. That’s entitled politics. You’re in the government. You’re the vice president. Bad shot na ‘yan sa akin (I already have a bone to pick with her), unless she says sorry. She crossed the line.”
“Nasaktan ako, because my husband will do everything to protect you. You ran together, ‘di ba? Sama-sama tayong babangon muli. Pupunta ka sa rally, tatawagan iyong presidente mong bangag, you’re going to laugh. Tama ba ‘yun? Even Leni Robredo never did that,” she added.
(I was hurt, because my husband will do everything to protect you. You ran together, right? Our motto was we would rise together. Then you will attend a rally where your president is being called high. Then you’re going to laugh. Is that right? Even Leni never did that.)
The tensions between the First Lady and the second-in-command are not exactly surprising, as their body gestures in the past months have indicated a rough patch in their relationship.
During the departure ceremony for Marcos’ trip to Vietnam a few days after the Davao rally, Liza and Sara were seen ignoring each other despite being seated next to each other.
The two had also ignored or declined requests for comment on the status of their relationship since January.
The alliance between the Marcos and Duterte families resulted in a landslide victory in the 2022 elections, but maintaining that “marriage of convenience” – as some analysts call it – has been everything but easy.
Sara has feuded with the President’s cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez, whose House of Representatives later denied Sara’s request for P650 million in confidential funds.
President Marcos also once said the government was studying the possibility of rejoining the International Criminal Court, which is investigating Mr. Duterte’s bloody drug war.
The former president accused Marcos of being part of a drug watch list; the incumbent chief executive fired back by saying the old man from Davao was suffering the longterm effects of continued use of fentanyl.
President Marcos has still defended Sara publicly, and shrugged off calls to remove her (she is concurrent education secretary) from his Cabinet.
When asked earlier this week about his relationship with the Duterte family, Mr. Marcos could only describe it like a Facebook status: “It’s complicated.”
– Rappler.com
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History for PH rowing as Joanie Delgaco qualifies for Paris Olympics
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delfin.dioquino editor
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21/04/2024 12:39
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PADDLE. Rower Joanie Delgaco in action for the Philippines.
PSC-POC Media Pool
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines will have its first female rower in the Olympics as the country celebrates its 100th year of participation in the Summer Games.
Joanie Delgaco booked her ticket to the Paris Games after placing fourth in the Final A of the women’s single sculls in the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Qualification Regatta in Chungju, South Korea on Sunday, April 21.
The 26-year-old Delgaco clocked 7:49.39 as she secured one of the five Paris berths up for grabs in the event.
Overall, Delgaco became the fourth Filipino rower to qualify for the Olympics after Edgardo Maerina (1988 Seoul Games), Benjamin Tolentino Jr. (2000 Sydney Games), and Cris Nievarez (2022 Tokyo Games).
“I never imagined that I’ll reach this far. Before, the stronger rowers used to get past me easily. Now, I’m able to beat them,” Delgaco told Radyo Sports Pilipinas in Filipino.
Uzbekistan’s Anna Prakaten topped the event with a time of 7:31.28 followed by Japan’s Shiho Yonekawa (7:35.93) and Iran’s Fatemeh Mojallal (7:37.07)
Vietnam’s Pham Thi Hue (7:53.08) clinched the last Olympic spot.
Delgaco advanced to the Final A by finishing second in her semifinal race with a time 8:05.87. She also placed second in the preliminary heats by recording 8:04.96.
“All of my hardships in this competition bore fruit,” said Delgaco.
She joins pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar, boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, and Aira Villegas, and weightlifters Elreen Ando, John Ceniza, and Vanessa Sarno in Paris. (LIST: Filipino athletes who qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics)
They will participate in a month-long training camp in Metz, France, before the Olympics. – Rappler.com
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It all started with ‘bangag’: How rift between Liza Marcos, Sara Duterte began
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Dwight de Leon
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19/04/2024 10:25
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RIFT. Vice President Sara Duterte and First Lady Liza Marcos. Photos by Eloisa Lopez and Angie de Silva/Rappler
Photos by Eloisa Lopez and Angie de Silva/Rappler; Graphics by David Castuciano/Rappler
This ongoing telenovela in Philippine politics has a new episode after First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos broke her silence to attack Vice President Sara Duterte in a revealing, no-holds-barred interview with broadcaster Anthony Taberna.
“She crossed the line,” she said in the YouTube video uploaded in the wee hours of Friday, April 19.
The rift began after Sara attended a protest in Davao against charter change in January. In a rally that saw former president Rodrigo Duterte accuse his successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of drug use, the First Lady couldn’t take it anymore.
At one point during that rally, Mr. Duterte rambled onstage, saying: “Si Bongbong, bangag ‘yan (Bongbong is high on drugs).”
According to Liza, she saw the Vice President laugh at her father’s jab in one of the video feeds, a response that did not sit well with her. (It is unclear if Sara indeed laughed during that exact moment, as the professional livestream from Rodrigo Duterte’s Facebook page did not pan to the Vice President.)
“You are getting suweldo (salary) from the government, you are supposed to be the alter ego,” Liza said. “That’s not right. That’s entitled politics. You’re in the government. You’re the vice president. Bad shot na ‘yan sa akin (I already have a bone to pick with her), unless she says sorry. She crossed the line.”
“Nasaktan ako, because my husband will do everything to protect you. You ran together, ‘di ba? Sama-sama tayong babangon muli. Pupunta ka sa rally, tatawagan iyong presidente mong bangag, you’re going to laugh. Tama ba ‘yun? Even Leni Robredo never did that,” she added.
(I was hurt, because my husband will do everything to protect you. You ran together, right? Our motto was we would rise together. Then you will attend a rally where your president is being called high. Then you’re going to laugh. Is that right? Even Leni never did that.)
The tensions between the First Lady and the second-in-command are not exactly surprising, as their body gestures in the past months have indicated a rough patch in their relationship.
During the departure ceremony for Marcos’ trip to Vietnam a few days after the Davao rally, Liza and Sara were seen ignoring each other despite being seated next to each other.
The two had also ignored or declined requests for comment on the status of their relationship since January.
The alliance between the Marcos and Duterte families resulted in a landslide victory in the 2022 elections, but maintaining that “marriage of convenience” – as some analysts call it – has been everything but easy.
Sara has feuded with the President’s cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez, whose House of Representatives later denied Sara’s request for P650 million in confidential funds.
President Marcos also once said the government was studying the possibility of rejoining the International Criminal Court, which is investigating Mr. Duterte’s bloody drug war.
The former president accused Marcos of being part of a drug watch list; the incumbent chief executive fired back by saying the old man from Davao was suffering the longterm effects of continued use of fentanyl.
President Marcos has still defended Sara publicly, and shrugged off calls to remove her (she is concurrent education secretary) from his Cabinet.
When asked earlier this week about his relationship with the Duterte family, Mr. Marcos could only describe it like a Facebook status: “It’s complicated.”
– Rappler.com
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Long-term plan: DLSU remains cautious despite Angel Canino resuming spiking practice
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jisaga0269
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21/04/2024 19:58
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RETURN IMMINENT. La Salle's Angel Canino (12) joins the Lady Spikers' huddle in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – Ever since UAAP women’s volleyball MVP Angel Canino suffered a freak cut accident on her spiking arm that emotionally rocked the defending champion La Salle Lady Spikers, fans have seen encouraging updates with each passing game that the sophomore sensation sat out.
First, Canino joined her teammates and uplifted their spirits despite sporting an arm sling. The sling only lasted one game, but Canino remained confined to mere non-spiking activities in pregame warmups.
The biggest improvement for the star spiker’s status eventually came on Sunday, April 21, as she resumed full spiking drills with the rest of the Lady Spikers ahead of their rivalry match with underdog Ateneo at the Araneta Coliseum.
Although Canino still did not suit up in the eventual 25-12, 25-12, 25-18 shellacking – La Salle’s 14th straight win over Ateneo – her limited appearance in practice was enough to send fans buzzing anew on when she may actually return.
Assistant coach Noel Orcullo once again remained vague about Canino’s return, but he remained positive that it is coming soon enough.
“Her recovery progress has been great. So far, she’s been undergoing therapy,” he said in Filipino, adding that there was still no plan to deploy Canino against the Blue Eagles.
“We really hope she can return soon. If not against UST, then in the semifinals.”
UAAP | WATCH:She's spiking. 👀 For the first time since accidentally cutting her right arm, UAAP MVP Angel Canino is spiking in warmups ahead of La Salle's rivalry bout with Ateneo!Canino had only been assisting in warmups without spiking until today.#UAAPSeason86 pic.twitter.com/0HPRj0zyQn
After dispatching Ateneo, La Salle has no more low-stakes games left in its schedule, as the UST Golden Tigresses await next on Saturday, April 27, with the winner seizing one of the coveted Final Four twice-to-beat berths.
Whether or not Canino finally gets the green light, Orcullo is just pleased that the Lady Spikers finally found their fire without their best scoring option and fiercest on-court leader.
“Today, they played extremely well. It was so solid despite still a few lapses in the third set, but the first two sets were what we’ve been looking for from them,” he continued. “Hopefully, this continues until this Saturday for the game against UST.”
“We just keep telling them, never forget to play within the system. To have a solid game, just stay together, follow instructions, and follow the system.” – Rappler.com
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LIST: May 2024 special non-working days in PH provinces, cities, towns
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Miriam Grace Go
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19/04/2024 14:50
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MANILA, Philippines – This is a compilation of special non-working days in various localities in the Philippines for May 2024, as proclaimed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Bookmark this page for possible additional announcements from Malacañang. – Rappler.com
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Cotabato officials want Mt. Apo trekking ban extended
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Victor Barreiro Jr.
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21/04/2024 16:21
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CLOSED. Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines.
Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ/Wikimedia Commons
GENERAL SANTOS, Philippines – Wary of grass fires due to soaring temperatures, officials in Cotabato province wanted the Mount Apo National Park (MANP) to remain off-limits to the public, far beyond its expected re-opening on April 30.
Mount Apo, the country’s tallest mountain at 2,954 meters above sea level, straddles Cotabato province in the Soccsksargen region and the province of Davao del Sur in the Davao region.
Cotabato governor Emmylou Mendoza on Friday, April 19, said their assessment shows an increased risk that wildfires may occur in the 80,864-hectare national park once trekking and camping activities are allowed amid the soaring temperatures and prolonged dry spell being experienced in the country.
Such fears were bolstered by recent bush fires in nearby villages of Gambudes in Arakan town and Binay in Magpet town, both in Cotabato. The fires destroyed nearly a hundred hectares of forest and grasslands.
In March, 2016, MANP was hit by bush fires that burned day and night for about a week, destroying more than a hundred hectares of forest. The incident prompted officials to close the park to the public for a year.
Mendoza, who also chairs the Cotabato Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), on Thursday, April 18, met with military, police and local officials to come up with measures aimed to effectively monitor the situation within and around the park, aside from strictly enforcing laws.
The governor also directed the Department of Environment of Natural Resources (DENR) in the province to check all watersheds at protected areas in the province.
She said there is a dire need to watch over and protect the park’s diverse ecosystem. MANP was established in 1936 and is considered home to the endangered Philippine eagle.
“Local government units and law enforcers must work together”. in sealing all trails and access points to the 2,954- meter high dormant volcano, she said.
There are three access trails to MANP from Cotabato province – Kidapawan City and the towns of Makilala, and Magpet. There are also access routes in Digos City and the towns of Bansalan and Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur.
The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) initially banned entry to MANP from March 20 to 30 due to the El Nino phenomenon and the risks it carries. But PAMB extended the closure until April 30 “after careful evaluation of the situation.”
Mount Apo’s PAMBI consists of representatives from the Soccsksargen and Davao regions.
An announcement posted on PAMBI’s social media said the earlier suspension of trekking and camping activities at the MANP is aimed at safeguarding the rich biodiversity of Mount Apo and ensuring the well-being of all visitors.
“We appeal to the public’s sense of responsibility to join us in this preventive measure to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of Mt. Apo,” PAMBI’s post read. – Rappler.com
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In company with legends: Lassiter climbs to 4th in all-time PBA 3-point list
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delfin.dioquino editor
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21/04/2024 23:13
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MEAN MUG. Marcio Lassiter in action for the San Miguel Beermen in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – Marcio Lassiter only used to look up to the likes of Jimmy Alapag, LA Tenorio, and James Yap.
Now, he is in the same company as them.
Lassiter continued his ascent in the all-time PBA three-pointers list as he surpassed Yap for fourth place and closed in on Tenorio for third after helping San Miguel stay unbeaten in the Philippine Cup on Sunday, April 21.
The 12-year veteran finished with 14 points built on 4 three-pointers in a 120-100 rout of NorthPort to raise his career total to 1,197 and leapfrog Yap (1,194 and counting).
Up next in the list is Tenorio, who has 1,218 triples and counting.
Alapag sits at No. 1 with 1,250 three-pointers followed by PBA icon Allan Caidic, who previously held the league record when he ended his career with 1,242 treys.
“It is a tremendous feat – just to be in the same breath as the legends before me,” said Lassiter.
“These are guys that I’ve played with, some of them. I looked up to them when I was in my rookie year coming up. Just truly blessed.”
Now 36, Lassiter is the second-oldest player in the team after Chris Ross, who is 37.
But Lassiter has remained lethal from long distance, averaging 3 three-pointers per game this conference on a league-leading 55% clip.
If he keeps this pace, Lassiter would eclipse Tenorio in no time, and it would no longer be a surprise if he also surpasses Caidic and Alapag for the top spot.
Lassiter, though, does not want to get caught up in the hoopla of chasing the record.
“I’m not really thinking about that. I’m more focused on the win. But if I can make a few, that would be great to slowly chip away and we’ll see where it goes from there,” said Lassiter.
More games mean more chances, so expect Lassiter to improve his three-point tally as the defending champion Beermen – toting a perfect 7-0 record – are expected to go on a deep playoff run. – Rappler.com
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Diplomats urge Boracay execs to offer Halal food to attract more foreign tourists
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Jodesz Gavilan
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21/04/2024 18:54
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FOR MORE TOURISTS. Diplomats joined hands with the local government unit, the Global Tourism Business Associations, and the Department of Tourism in a show of camaraderie and commitment to promote Boracay as a tourism attraction.
Jun Aguirre/Rappler
AKLAN, Philippines – A group of diplomats urged the local government of Malay in Aklan to consider offering Halal food in order to attract more foreign tourists.
Most discussions were presented during the Boracay Diplomatic and Business Forum held at the Belmont Hotel-Boracay on Friday, April 19. Among the diplomats who came was Megawati DatoPaduka Haji Manan of Brunei, Agus Widjojo of Indonesia, Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia, Lai Thai Binh of Vietnam, Imtiaz Ahmad Kazi of Pakistan, Sadre Alam of India, and Wallace Minn-Gan Chow of Taiwan.
Halal food is any food deemed permissible under Islamic law, as defined in the Quran.
Department of Trade and Industry data indicate that there is a $3.3 global market for Halal food.
The Global Tourism Business Associations organized the business forum in cooperation with the Department of Tourism, the Aklan provincial government, and the Malay LGU.
Widjojo of Indonesia told the Rappler in an interview that Halal food is not just meant to be safe to eat by Islams but also of Christians as well.
“It can be eaten practically by anybody and is safe,” he said.
Western Visayas Tourism Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez said that they will coordinate with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to provide Halal food orientation to restaurants on the resort island. For several years, the DOST has been conducting food safety training for several restaurants in Boracay.
Malaysia’s Castelino, meanwhile, said that while they support the call to offer Halal food, he would like to improve airports, especially for Boracay.
In 2014, Air Asia introduced the Kuala Lumpur-Kalibo International Airport and vice versa. However, this was suspended at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when travel was mostly restricted.
“I will ask AirAsia what the current status is now and the possibility of its resumption,” he said.
Indian ambassador Alam said that India has the potential to attract tourists from abroad. He said that there is a lot of potential for Indian tourists to go to Boracay, but he hopes the Philippine government will waive the visa requirements.
“Our Indian nationals are eager to travel to the Philippines but many of them are having difficulty going to the country because of the needed visa,” he said.
Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista said that he welcomes the development as he hopes that this would attract more foreign tourists to come to Boracay.
According to the Malay Tourism Office, at least 630,648 tourists visited Boracay from January 1 to April 15 in 2024. The Malay LGU targets 2.3 million tourists this year 2024.
The top ten foreign tourists come from:
The Travel + Leisure website recently named Boracay as the 13th Best White Beach in the world. – Rappler.com
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Long-term plan: DLSU remains cautious despite Angel Canino resuming spiking practice
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jisaga0269
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21/04/2024 19:58
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RETURN IMMINENT. La Salle's Angel Canino (12) joins the Lady Spikers' huddle in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – Ever since UAAP women’s volleyball MVP Angel Canino suffered a freak cut accident on her spiking arm that emotionally rocked the defending champion La Salle Lady Spikers, fans have seen encouraging updates with each passing game that the sophomore sensation sat out.
First, Canino joined her teammates and uplifted their spirits despite sporting an arm sling. The sling only lasted one game, but Canino remained confined to mere non-spiking activities in pregame warmups.
The biggest improvement for the star spiker’s status eventually came on Sunday, April 21, as she resumed full spiking drills with the rest of the Lady Spikers ahead of their rivalry match with underdog Ateneo at the Araneta Coliseum.
Although Canino still did not suit up in the eventual 25-12, 25-12, 25-18 shellacking – La Salle’s 14th straight win over Ateneo – her limited appearance in practice was enough to send fans buzzing anew on when she may actually return.
Assistant coach Noel Orcullo once again remained vague about Canino’s return, but he remained positive that it is coming soon enough.
“Her recovery progress has been great. So far, she’s been undergoing therapy,” he said in Filipino, adding that there was still no plan to deploy Canino against the Blue Eagles.
“We really hope she can return soon. If not against UST, then in the semifinals.”
UAAP | WATCH:She's spiking. 👀 For the first time since accidentally cutting her right arm, UAAP MVP Angel Canino is spiking in warmups ahead of La Salle's rivalry bout with Ateneo!Canino had only been assisting in warmups without spiking until today.#UAAPSeason86 pic.twitter.com/0HPRj0zyQn
After dispatching Ateneo, La Salle has no more low-stakes games left in its schedule, as the UST Golden Tigresses await next on Saturday, April 27, with the winner seizing one of the coveted Final Four twice-to-beat berths.
Whether or not Canino finally gets the green light, Orcullo is just pleased that the Lady Spikers finally found their fire without their best scoring option and fiercest on-court leader.
“Today, they played extremely well. It was so solid despite still a few lapses in the third set, but the first two sets were what we’ve been looking for from them,” he continued. “Hopefully, this continues until this Saturday for the game against UST.”
“We just keep telling them, never forget to play within the system. To have a solid game, just stay together, follow instructions, and follow the system.” – Rappler.com
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‘Overwhelming feeling’: UST rookie Angge Poyos smashes another UAAP volleyball record
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Jasmine Payo
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21/04/2024 21:02
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ROOKIE SENSATION. UST freshman Angge Poyos sustains her stellar play.
UAAP
MANILA, Philippines – UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos isn’t done smashing UAAP records.
With the elimination round not even over yet, UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos reset another UAAP women’s volleyball scoring record for a first-year player.
Poyos claimed the highest total point output for a rookie with 268 points after scoring 25 in the Golden Tigresses’ quick 25-19, 25-9, 25-17 victory against UE on Sunday, April 21.
The 5-foot-7 outside hitter eclipsed the record of former Ateneo star Faith Nisperos, who had 267 points set in Season 84 in 2022.
Poyos pulled off the feat even before the playoffs and despite missing one game and playing staggered minutes in another due to illness.
“I didn’t expect to reach that point, but I’m happy to have a record,” Poyos told Rappler after the game.
“The season’s not yet over, so I need to perform in the remaining games,” she added.
Last April 3, Poyos also set the UAAP scoring record in a single game by a rookie with 31 points against Adamson.
Already a standout even before joining UST, Poyos was pursued heavily by the Tigresses when she was in high school.
The Bohol native quickly showed her potential during the offseason, where she helped lead UST to a podium finish in the 2023 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals, as well as the Collegiate Pre-Season Championship.
It was in these tournaments where the 20-year-old was hailed as 1st and 2nd Best Outside Hitter, respectively.
Despite all the accolades, humility remains paramount for the talented hitter.
“For me, it’s an overwhelming feeling as a rookie, since I get to break records like that,” she said. “For me, I will always keep my feet firm on the ground.”
Poyos and the Golden Tigresses now look forward to playing their final elimination-round assignment against defending champion La Salle on Saturday, April 27.
But the freshman hopes to use the team’s whole week off to recuperate after suffering from a dehydration episode, which kept her out against the UP Fighting Maroons last April 10.
The young UST star was still not 100 percent during FEU’s stunning 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10 upset win three days later, where she could have added to the tally.
Poyos knows, though, that she needs to go all out on Saturday, with La Salle out for revenge after its opening-day loss to UST.
Even more important, the twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four will be up for grabs as both squads, along with NU, remain tied on top with 11-2 records.
“Of course, it’s a big motivation, since I have returned from dehydration… I’m ready against La Salle,” said Poyos. – Rappler.com
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‘We did not lose hope’: No-quit Converge snaps 12-game skid for 1st win of the year
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delfin.dioquino editor
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21/04/2024 19:00
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GUNNER. Bryan Santos in action for the Converge FiberXers in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – It took five long months, but Converge is finally back on the winning track.
Hammering away despite their string of losses, the FiberXers broke through in the PBA Philippine Cup after a 104-99 win over Meralco at the PhilSports Arena on Sunday, April 21.
Converge leaned on rookie Bryan Santos in a pivotal third-quarter turnaround as it notched its first victory since it beat Terrafirma in December for its only other win of the season.
“We did not lose hope,” said FiberXers head coach Aldin Ayo. “When the losses were piling up, the more that we are motivated.”
Scoreless in the first two quarters, Santos took over in the second half and finished with a season-high 22 points built on a 7-of-10 clip from beyond the arc as Converge snapped a 12-game skid dating back to last conference.
The FiberXers trailed 42-53 at the half before Santos erupted for 16 points in the third quarter to help his side pull level at 77-77 going into the final salvo.
Santos nailed his seventh and final three-pointer with under three minutes left for a 100-97 edge – a lead that Converge protected thanks to key buckets by fellow rookies Schonny Winston and JL delos Santos.
Winston knocked down a pair of free throws to restore a three-point lead after Bolts star Chris Newsome made it 99-100, while Delos Santos sank a tough jumper inside the final 15 seconds for the dagger.
“They’re playing their roles. They’re trying to support each other. Our players never showed that they were demoralized,” said Ayo. “We’re looking for reasons to enjoy this game and just have fun.”
Alec Stockton backstopped Santos with 20 points and 4 rebounds before he fouled out in the middle of the fourth quarter, while Justin Arana supplied 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists.
Winston and Delos Santos added 14 and 10 points, respectively.
Although the FiberXers already crashed out of playoff contention after dropping their first eight games of the conference, Ayo said the team still aims to compete.
“We’re excited for that first win. We want to exit this conference on a high note,” said Ayo.
Newsome scored a season-high 25 points on top of 5 assists and 3 rebounds, but his numbers went down the drain as Meralco absorbed a second straight defeat and fell to 3-5.
Chris Banchero and Aaron Black chimed in 20 and 19 points in the loss.
Converge 104 – Santos 22, Stockton 20, Arana 18, Winston 14, Delos Santos 10, Caralipio 9, Maagdenberg 4, Melecio 4, Nieto 2, Fleming 1, Fornilos 0.
Meralco 99 – Newsome 25, Banchero 20, Black 19, Hodge 10, Quinto 9, Caram 6, Bates 5, Pasaol 5, Rios 0, Pascual 0, Maliski 0, Torres 0.
Quarters: 23-25, 42-53, 77-77, 104-99.
– Rappler.com
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‘Overwhelming feeling’: UST rookie Angge Poyos smashes another UAAP volleyball record
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Jasmine Payo
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21/04/2024 21:02
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ROOKIE SENSATION. UST freshman Angge Poyos sustains her stellar play.
UAAP
MANILA, Philippines – UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos isn’t done smashing UAAP records.
With the elimination round not even over yet, UST rookie sensation Angge Poyos reset another UAAP women’s volleyball scoring record for a first-year player.
Poyos claimed the highest total point output for a rookie with 268 points after scoring 25 in the Golden Tigresses’ quick 25-19, 25-9, 25-17 victory against UE on Sunday, April 21.
The 5-foot-7 outside hitter eclipsed the record of former Ateneo star Faith Nisperos, who had 267 points set in Season 84 in 2022.
Poyos pulled off the feat even before the playoffs and despite missing one game and playing staggered minutes in another due to illness.
“I didn’t expect to reach that point, but I’m happy to have a record,” Poyos told Rappler after the game.
“The season’s not yet over, so I need to perform in the remaining games,” she added.
Last April 3, Poyos also set the UAAP scoring record in a single game by a rookie with 31 points against Adamson.
Already a standout even before joining UST, Poyos was pursued heavily by the Tigresses when she was in high school.
The Bohol native quickly showed her potential during the offseason, where she helped lead UST to a podium finish in the 2023 Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals, as well as the Collegiate Pre-Season Championship.
It was in these tournaments where the 20-year-old was hailed as 1st and 2nd Best Outside Hitter, respectively.
Despite all the accolades, humility remains paramount for the talented hitter.
“For me, it’s an overwhelming feeling as a rookie, since I get to break records like that,” she said. “For me, I will always keep my feet firm on the ground.”
Poyos and the Golden Tigresses now look forward to playing their final elimination-round assignment against defending champion La Salle on Saturday, April 27.
But the freshman hopes to use the team’s whole week off to recuperate after suffering from a dehydration episode, which kept her out against the UP Fighting Maroons last April 10.
The young UST star was still not 100 percent during FEU’s stunning 19-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-10 upset win three days later, where she could have added to the tally.
Poyos knows, though, that she needs to go all out on Saturday, with La Salle out for revenge after its opening-day loss to UST.
Even more important, the twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four will be up for grabs as both squads, along with NU, remain tied on top with 11-2 records.
“Of course, it’s a big motivation, since I have returned from dehydration… I’m ready against La Salle,” said Poyos. – Rappler.com
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Kal Peralta was the radical change she wished to see in the world
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Jairo Bolledo
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21/04/2024 16:05
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MANILA, Philippines – If you peek at Kaliska Dominica “Kal” Peralta’s face, a wide smile partnered with two deep dimples are the first things you will notice. People close to her knew that hiding behind this endearing face were qualities that made Kal a model activist of her generation: hardworking, easy-going, and resourceful.
Regrettably, the world had to say goodbye to Kal’s delightful presence. Her life was cut short at 33 when military forces killed her in Bukidnon.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Eastern Mindanao Command claimed Peralta was killed in an encounter between rebel forces and the Philippine Army on April 11. However, several groups said Peralta was unarmed when she was slain.
In a statement, Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) chief information officer Marco Valbuena said Peralta, also known as “Ka Rekka,” was unarmed when she was taken by law enforcers on April 10. Valbuena said Peralta was brought to another part of Bukidnon, where she was allegedly shot and killed.
The CCP official added that local witnesses said there was no gun battle, contrary to the “encounter” claims of the military.
“The killing of Ka Rekka after she was accosted is clearly unlawful and constitutes a gross violation of international humanitarian law. We support calls for an independent investigation into the killing of Ka Rekka. A postmortem examination of her remains will hopefully reveal more information,” Valbuena added.
Gabriela Women’s Party also said Peralta’s death certificate contradicted the military’s claim of “encounter” because the so-called operation happened on April 11, while Peralta’s death was on April 10, as indicated in the certificate. Gabriela added there were marks of torture and abuse on Peralta’s body.
To pay tribute, Peralta’s family, friends, colleagues, and other activists gathered at Cine Adarna in University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman on Saturday, April 20. They held a program to honor the slain activist and call for justice in light of her untimely death.
Peralta entered UP Diliman to study film under the College of Mass Communication (CMC). She headed the League of Filipino Students in UP Diliman and STAND-UP CMC, according to the Philippine Collegian. She also loved playing softball as a varsity athlete in her university days.
For her friends, Peralta was a selfless person who was ready to lend her hand at all times. Rochelle Porras is two years older than Peralta, but according to her, it was the late activist who helped her survive college.
As a broadcast communication student, Porras said she struggled with lack of equipment for her school requirements. But Peralta, without hesitation, lent her camera and laptop from time to time to Porras. A simple gesture for some, but for Porras, it was one of her greatest memories with her late friend.
“So in a way, hindi rin talaga ako papasa ng college, makakatapos, kung hindi ako gano’n ding tinunulungan ni Kal (So in a way, I would not pass college, finish it, if Kal did not help me in that way).”
Sarah Torres first met Peralta when she was applying for a school organization, where Peralta was a senior member at the time. Time passed by and the two became closer. As Torres got to know her dear friend, she said she met a person who was very loving and expressed love in different forms. If you knew Peralta, Sarah said you will meet a person who was both strong-willed and soft-hearted.
Peralta was also generous in sharing her mind and principles to others.
“[LGBTQIA+] and religion ‘yong dalawang bagay na siya ‘yong una kong nakausap nang masinsinan about it. Kaya noon pa man, formative years ko sa college, malaki na ‘yong impact niya sa akin (LGBTQIA+ and religion where the first two things we talked deeply about. So even then, during my formative years in college, she had a big impact on my life),” Torres told Rappler.
Porras said the funny story behind her friend’s interest in LFS was because she had a crush on one of the speakers in an event organized by the group. But despite her simple reason for wanting to join the anti-imperialist organization, Peralta later established herself in the organization as one of its prized members, and then later as a leader.
In fact, there was time when the membership of their LFS chapter dwindled down to a handful, giving birth to their inside joke “League of Five Students.” But Peralta and her colleagues persevered and revived the organization.
Peralta’s father, a teacher, is progressive. In fact, he took part in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution that toppled down Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship. Her father’s deep social awareness could be among the factors why Peralta was progressive herself. This was evident in Peralta’s awareness of societal gaps even at a young age, Porras said.
The organizations she joined, LFS included, also played vital roles in shaping Peralta as a progressive student leader. But Porras said her friend was her own person too, who was committed to understand and address the problems of society.
As a student, Peralta always wanted to study about concrete conditions of society: why there are marginalized and vulnerable sectors, and what makes them marginalized and vulnerable. Porras said her friend was always eager to know the importance of fighting against imperialist ideals.
For her friends, Peralta was the embodiment of the prominent line, “a woman’s place is in the revolution.”
Every time she led mobilizations, Porras said her friend made sure she brought all her principles and calls for real change with her. This leadership and passion to bring change transcended the corners of UP Diliman; Peralta immersed herself within the community.
She actively advocated for the rights of Lumads, who are being pushed away from their ancestral lands. The CPP also remembered Peralta as someone who “[dedicated] her life to serving the oppressed and exploited masses.”
“Pagmamahal…sa bayan. ‘Yon pala talaga ‘yong ibig sabihin ng radikal. So kung may maikili [akong] mensahe sa kabataan, maging radikal tayo magmahal, ‘wag tayong matakot na magsilbi sa pinakaaping sektor ng lipunan. Ito siguro ‘yong ibig sabihin ng pagiging iskolar ng bayan,” Porras said.
(Love for country. This is what being radical means. So if I have a short message for the youth, let’s love radically, and be not afraid to serve the most oppressed sector of the society. This is I think what people’s scholar means.) – Rappler.com
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https://www.rappler.com/philippines/kal-peralta-radical-change-wished-see-world/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1PH1J02txBWwWjexB7RUKq3VvKlarbtt95ACrvl4-Wy7ATrHM6I_oGTBI_aem_xdIYdwbxZJ0ijpT2n25eIw
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1
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Kal Peralta was the radical change she wished to see in the world
|
Jairo Bolledo
|
21/04/2024 16:05
|
MANILA, Philippines – If you peek at Kaliska Dominica “Kal” Peralta’s face, a wide smile partnered with two deep dimples are the first things you will notice. People close to her knew that hiding behind this endearing face were qualities that made Kal a model activist of her generation: hardworking, easy-going, and resourceful.
Regrettably, the world had to say goodbye to Kal’s delightful presence. Her life was cut short at 33 when military forces killed her in Bukidnon.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Eastern Mindanao Command claimed Peralta was killed in an encounter between rebel forces and the Philippine Army on April 11. However, several groups said Peralta was unarmed when she was slain.
In a statement, Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) chief information officer Marco Valbuena said Peralta, also known as “Ka Rekka,” was unarmed when she was taken by law enforcers on April 10. Valbuena said Peralta was brought to another part of Bukidnon, where she was allegedly shot and killed.
The CCP official added that local witnesses said there was no gun battle, contrary to the “encounter” claims of the military.
“The killing of Ka Rekka after she was accosted is clearly unlawful and constitutes a gross violation of international humanitarian law. We support calls for an independent investigation into the killing of Ka Rekka. A postmortem examination of her remains will hopefully reveal more information,” Valbuena added.
Gabriela Women’s Party also said Peralta’s death certificate contradicted the military’s claim of “encounter” because the so-called operation happened on April 11, while Peralta’s death was on April 10, as indicated in the certificate. Gabriela added there were marks of torture and abuse on Peralta’s body.
To pay tribute, Peralta’s family, friends, colleagues, and other activists gathered at Cine Adarna in University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman on Saturday, April 20. They held a program to honor the slain activist and call for justice in light of her untimely death.
Peralta entered UP Diliman to study film under the College of Mass Communication (CMC). She headed the League of Filipino Students in UP Diliman and STAND-UP CMC, according to the Philippine Collegian. She also loved playing softball as a varsity athlete in her university days.
For her friends, Peralta was a selfless person who was ready to lend her hand at all times. Rochelle Porras is two years older than Peralta, but according to her, it was the late activist who helped her survive college.
As a broadcast communication student, Porras said she struggled with lack of equipment for her school requirements. But Peralta, without hesitation, lent her camera and laptop from time to time to Porras. A simple gesture for some, but for Porras, it was one of her greatest memories with her late friend.
“So in a way, hindi rin talaga ako papasa ng college, makakatapos, kung hindi ako gano’n ding tinunulungan ni Kal (So in a way, I would not pass college, finish it, if Kal did not help me in that way).”
Sarah Torres first met Peralta when she was applying for a school organization, where Peralta was a senior member at the time. Time passed by and the two became closer. As Torres got to know her dear friend, she said she met a person who was very loving and expressed love in different forms. If you knew Peralta, Sarah said you will meet a person who was both strong-willed and soft-hearted.
Peralta was also generous in sharing her mind and principles to others.
“[LGBTQIA+] and religion ‘yong dalawang bagay na siya ‘yong una kong nakausap nang masinsinan about it. Kaya noon pa man, formative years ko sa college, malaki na ‘yong impact niya sa akin (LGBTQIA+ and religion where the first two things we talked deeply about. So even then, during my formative years in college, she had a big impact on my life),” Torres told Rappler.
Porras said the funny story behind her friend’s interest in LFS was because she had a crush on one of the speakers in an event organized by the group. But despite her simple reason for wanting to join the anti-imperialist organization, Peralta later established herself in the organization as one of its prized members, and then later as a leader.
In fact, there was time when the membership of their LFS chapter dwindled down to a handful, giving birth to their inside joke “League of Five Students.” But Peralta and her colleagues persevered and revived the organization.
Peralta’s father, a teacher, is progressive. In fact, he took part in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution that toppled down Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship. Her father’s deep social awareness could be among the factors why Peralta was progressive herself. This was evident in Peralta’s awareness of societal gaps even at a young age, Porras said.
The organizations she joined, LFS included, also played vital roles in shaping Peralta as a progressive student leader. But Porras said her friend was her own person too, who was committed to understand and address the problems of society.
As a student, Peralta always wanted to study about concrete conditions of society: why there are marginalized and vulnerable sectors, and what makes them marginalized and vulnerable. Porras said her friend was always eager to know the importance of fighting against imperialist ideals.
For her friends, Peralta was the embodiment of the prominent line, “a woman’s place is in the revolution.”
Every time she led mobilizations, Porras said her friend made sure she brought all her principles and calls for real change with her. This leadership and passion to bring change transcended the corners of UP Diliman; Peralta immersed herself within the community.
She actively advocated for the rights of Lumads, who are being pushed away from their ancestral lands. The CPP also remembered Peralta as someone who “[dedicated] her life to serving the oppressed and exploited masses.”
“Pagmamahal…sa bayan. ‘Yon pala talaga ‘yong ibig sabihin ng radikal. So kung may maikili [akong] mensahe sa kabataan, maging radikal tayo magmahal, ‘wag tayong matakot na magsilbi sa pinakaaping sektor ng lipunan. Ito siguro ‘yong ibig sabihin ng pagiging iskolar ng bayan,” Porras said.
(Love for country. This is what being radical means. So if I have a short message for the youth, let’s love radically, and be not afraid to serve the most oppressed sector of the society. This is I think what people’s scholar means.) – Rappler.com
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Ombudsman orders filing of graft charges vs former BFAR officials over anomalous deal
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Jodesz Gavilan
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21/04/2024 18:25
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Demosthenes Escoto present during the launch of a program for fishing communities facing the West Philippine Sea on Tuesday, April 16, in Subic, Zambales.
BFAR-Central
MANILA, Philippines – The Office of the Ombudsman ordered the filing of graft charges against two former Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) officials over a P2.1-billion procurement deal related to vessel monitoring systems.
BFAR national director Demosthenes Escoto and former director and Agriculture Undersecretary for Fisheries Eduardo Gongona are facing four counts of violating sections of Republic Act 3019, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Simon Tucker of SRT Marine Systems Solutions, Ltd, is also named in the resolution.
The Office of the Ombudsman also approved a ruling in a separate administrative case that ordered Escoto’s dismissal from service over the same deal.
An April 11 resolution for indicted approved by Ombudsman Samuel Martires stated that Escoto and Gongona “while in the exercise of their official functions as chairman of the [Bids and Awards Committee], and as head of the procuring entity respectively, and in conspiracy with Tucker, clearly gave unwarranted benefit or advantage to SRT-France and SRT-UK.”
The case stems from a complaint filed by lawyer James Mier Victoriano in March 2022, alleging an anomaly in the procurement process for P2.1 billion Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) transceivers.
The VMS transceivers were purchased under the DA-BFAR’s Integrated Marine Environment Monitoring System Project Phase I, which sought to “enhance the Philippines’ capability to safeguard and monitor the country’s marine resources and to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities.” The project is funded by a €28.52-million (P1.75 billion) loan from France.
The condition, however, is that the equipment supplier must be a French company. BFAR’s BAC initially awarded the contract to SRT-France but later recalled it after discovering that it had no facility in France. The contract was eventually awarded to SRT-UK after the DA-BFAR recommended the closure of the French loan and instead sourced the funding locally. It also increased the budget to P2.099 billion.
The Ombudsman said that these show that Escoto, Gongona, and Tucker “had apparently schemed to ultimately award a contract to SRT-UK that is disadvantageous to the government.”
“The series of events that came prior to the award are circumstantial evidence proving that an irregularity had been committed and they are probably guilty thereof,” the Ombudsman said.
Meanwhile, Ombudsman investigators cleared respondents DA Assistant Secretary Hansel Didulo and SRT Marine executive Richard Hurd, stating that no evidence showed they actively participated in the anomalous deal. – Rappler.com
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Long-term plan: DLSU remains cautious despite Angel Canino resuming spiking practice
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jisaga0269
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21/04/2024 19:58
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RETURN IMMINENT. La Salle's Angel Canino (12) joins the Lady Spikers' huddle in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – Ever since UAAP women’s volleyball MVP Angel Canino suffered a freak cut accident on her spiking arm that emotionally rocked the defending champion La Salle Lady Spikers, fans have seen encouraging updates with each passing game that the sophomore sensation sat out.
First, Canino joined her teammates and uplifted their spirits despite sporting an arm sling. The sling only lasted one game, but Canino remained confined to mere non-spiking activities in pregame warmups.
The biggest improvement for the star spiker’s status eventually came on Sunday, April 21, as she resumed full spiking drills with the rest of the Lady Spikers ahead of their rivalry match with underdog Ateneo at the Araneta Coliseum.
Although Canino still did not suit up in the eventual 25-12, 25-12, 25-18 shellacking – La Salle’s 14th straight win over Ateneo – her limited appearance in practice was enough to send fans buzzing anew on when she may actually return.
Assistant coach Noel Orcullo once again remained vague about Canino’s return, but he remained positive that it is coming soon enough.
“Her recovery progress has been great. So far, she’s been undergoing therapy,” he said in Filipino, adding that there was still no plan to deploy Canino against the Blue Eagles.
“We really hope she can return soon. If not against UST, then in the semifinals.”
UAAP | WATCH:She's spiking. 👀 For the first time since accidentally cutting her right arm, UAAP MVP Angel Canino is spiking in warmups ahead of La Salle's rivalry bout with Ateneo!Canino had only been assisting in warmups without spiking until today.#UAAPSeason86 pic.twitter.com/0HPRj0zyQn
After dispatching Ateneo, La Salle has no more low-stakes games left in its schedule, as the UST Golden Tigresses await next on Saturday, April 27, with the winner seizing one of the coveted Final Four twice-to-beat berths.
Whether or not Canino finally gets the green light, Orcullo is just pleased that the Lady Spikers finally found their fire without their best scoring option and fiercest on-court leader.
“Today, they played extremely well. It was so solid despite still a few lapses in the third set, but the first two sets were what we’ve been looking for from them,” he continued. “Hopefully, this continues until this Saturday for the game against UST.”
“We just keep telling them, never forget to play within the system. To have a solid game, just stay together, follow instructions, and follow the system.” – Rappler.com
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Cotabato officials want Mt. Apo trekking ban extended
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Victor Barreiro Jr.
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21/04/2024 16:21
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CLOSED. Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines.
Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ/Wikimedia Commons
GENERAL SANTOS, Philippines – Wary of grass fires due to soaring temperatures, officials in Cotabato province wanted the Mount Apo National Park (MANP) to remain off-limits to the public, far beyond its expected re-opening on April 30.
Mount Apo, the country’s tallest mountain at 2,954 meters above sea level, straddles Cotabato province in the Soccsksargen region and the province of Davao del Sur in the Davao region.
Cotabato governor Emmylou Mendoza on Friday, April 19, said their assessment shows an increased risk that wildfires may occur in the 80,864-hectare national park once trekking and camping activities are allowed amid the soaring temperatures and prolonged dry spell being experienced in the country.
Such fears were bolstered by recent bush fires in nearby villages of Gambudes in Arakan town and Binay in Magpet town, both in Cotabato. The fires destroyed nearly a hundred hectares of forest and grasslands.
In March, 2016, MANP was hit by bush fires that burned day and night for about a week, destroying more than a hundred hectares of forest. The incident prompted officials to close the park to the public for a year.
Mendoza, who also chairs the Cotabato Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), on Thursday, April 18, met with military, police and local officials to come up with measures aimed to effectively monitor the situation within and around the park, aside from strictly enforcing laws.
The governor also directed the Department of Environment of Natural Resources (DENR) in the province to check all watersheds at protected areas in the province.
She said there is a dire need to watch over and protect the park’s diverse ecosystem. MANP was established in 1936 and is considered home to the endangered Philippine eagle.
“Local government units and law enforcers must work together”. in sealing all trails and access points to the 2,954- meter high dormant volcano, she said.
There are three access trails to MANP from Cotabato province – Kidapawan City and the towns of Makilala, and Magpet. There are also access routes in Digos City and the towns of Bansalan and Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur.
The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) initially banned entry to MANP from March 20 to 30 due to the El Nino phenomenon and the risks it carries. But PAMB extended the closure until April 30 “after careful evaluation of the situation.”
Mount Apo’s PAMBI consists of representatives from the Soccsksargen and Davao regions.
An announcement posted on PAMBI’s social media said the earlier suspension of trekking and camping activities at the MANP is aimed at safeguarding the rich biodiversity of Mount Apo and ensuring the well-being of all visitors.
“We appeal to the public’s sense of responsibility to join us in this preventive measure to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of Mt. Apo,” PAMBI’s post read. – Rappler.com
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Results, team standings: UAAP Season 86 volleyball
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Jasmine Payo
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05/05/2024 21:02
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ROARING. NU's Bella Belen (left) and Alyssa Solomon react in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball finals
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments reach a tipping point with the men’s and women’s finals!
LOOK: UAAP volleyball championship schedule
Here are the results in the men’s and women’s divisions:
MAY 15
May 11
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
– Rappler.com
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Summer of ‘Pantropiko’: The BINI craze continues
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Angelo Gonzales
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21/04/2024 13:34
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A fan shows a portrait of BINI member Stacey Sevilleja at the P-pop group's mall show in Antipolo, Saturday, April 20
All photos by Mark Cristino/Rappler
RIZAL, Philippines – In Antipolo on a Saturday afternoon, April 20, P-pop girl group BINI continued to draw the crowds.
The group officially debuted in 2021, but it was a late 2023 single that would propel their meteoric rise – “Pantropiko,” a summer anthem curiously released on a “Ber” month, which now, thanks to its success, looks no less than a stroke of genius by the group’s label Star Music.
The cheery tune actually had a slow start. Released on November 17, 2023, it wasn’t until February 11, 2024 that it would break into Spotify Charts’ Daily Top Songs for the Philippines list, landing on the 173rd spot, before eventually hitting the top spot on April 18.
But as luck would have it, pop juggernaut Taylor Swift’s latest album, The Tortured Poets Department, would come out on April 19, with 5 songs immediately taking the top 5 spots, brutally cutting short Pantropiko’s time at the top – on this one specific chart at least.
(“Blooms,” the name of the group’s fans, had been aware of Swift’s album, and online, there was at least one post campaigning to push the song to the top, aware that the immensely prolific American pop icon’s album would inevitably take over.)
More on BINI’s rise, the group’s monthly listener count on Spotify, from their 2021 debut to late 2023 had been flat, hovering in the 100,000 range, before starting to pick up on January 27, 2024 when they reached a count of 202,189, the first time they broke the 200,000 mark.
Since then, it’s been a dramatic, steep-angled rise that saw the group progressively break through milestones: 252,878 on February 3; 531,110 on February 22; 1,013,783 on March 10; and 2,088,405 on April 3.
And finally, on April 19, the group broke through the 3-million barrier, breaking the the record set by SB19 at 2,823,832 in August 2023 for the contemporary P-pop genre.
As it should, numbers hardly tell the whole story about an artist’s talent, dedication, and creativity. But for any artist in the grind, just like any creative seeing their work resonate with an audience, numbers – chart figures in the case of music artists – are certainly a moment to relish.
On TikTok, BINI’s journey is recorded. From their training days that started in 2018 as part of Star Hunt Academy – Star Magic’s Kpop-inspired “idol”-style training system – to moments handing out flyers in the street a la Kpop icons BTS, to their older mall shows that are certainly far less chaotic than their recent ones, to their candid livestreams on the platform Kumu that have made them relatable and endearing to fans, it’s all there.
Now, it’s sold-out, multiple-date concerts, and frenzied mall show crowds that the group now has to ask to calm down slightly at times.
There are candid moments as well of some members that show them being surprised and overwhelmed like the outwardly expressive Maloi Ricalde holding back tears at a BGC mall show where an estimated 8,000 fans gathered on a Sunday evening, April 14; or the more nonchalant Colet Vergara mouthing “Wow” hearing the crowd’s booming collective voice singing along with them at an event by Samsung – a brand for which they are endorsing midrange A35 5G and A55 5G phones, among several brand endorsements this year.
The clips are below.
i love her and sobrang deserve @bini_ph @bini_maloi talaga #bini #binimaloi #fyp #fypシ #fypdong #xybca #fypp #binisheena #binijhoanna #binimikha #biniaiah #binigwen #binicolet #binistacey #bini
dzurb na dzurb #bini
Laurenti Dyogi, the head of Star Magic and head of ABS-CBN TV Production and executive producer of the popular Pinoy Big Brother reality show, told Rappler in a 2021 interview: “When I saw them [BINI and fellow Star Hunt Academy trainees SHA Boys now known as BGYO] perform [on ASAP], I thought to myself: ‘Wow, sulit ‘yung hirap. And you can only say na ‘di pwede ‘di mo suportahan ang mga batang ito (All the hardships were worth it. And it’s hard not to support them). Imagine, 2 to 3 years from now, how good they will be.”
For BINI right now, fans, observers, and management will no longer have to imagine.
It’s the summer of Pantropiko, and indeed, the group’s moment in the sun.
“We will all be so proud because we’ve tested their personalities, their dedication to their work. The training process was not easy but they braved it, and they really have the talent,” Dyogi also said then.
Here are more photos at the group’s mall event at Robinsons Place Antipolo where the group was brought in by napkin brand Modess. Click on the images to enlarge.
For BINI fans, the group’s last few stops in April are a mall show in Zamboanga City on April 26, and at the Bangus Festival in Dagupan City on April 30. – Rappler.com
Editor’s note: The article originally said that BINI debuted in 2020. The correct year is 2021. This has been fixed.
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Results, team standings: UAAP Season 86 volleyball
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Jasmine Payo
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05/05/2024 21:02
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ROARING. NU's Bella Belen (left) and Alyssa Solomon react in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball finals
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments reach a tipping point with the men’s and women’s finals!
LOOK: UAAP volleyball championship schedule
Here are the results in the men’s and women’s divisions:
MAY 15
May 11
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
– Rappler.com
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Kal Peralta was the radical change she wished to see in the world
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Jairo Bolledo
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21/04/2024 16:05
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MANILA, Philippines – If you peek at Kaliska Dominica “Kal” Peralta’s face, a wide smile partnered with two deep dimples are the first things you will notice. People close to her knew that hiding behind this endearing face were qualities that made Kal a model activist of her generation: hardworking, easy-going, and resourceful.
Regrettably, the world had to say goodbye to Kal’s delightful presence. Her life was cut short at 33 when military forces killed her in Bukidnon.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Eastern Mindanao Command claimed Peralta was killed in an encounter between rebel forces and the Philippine Army on April 11. However, several groups said Peralta was unarmed when she was slain.
In a statement, Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) chief information officer Marco Valbuena said Peralta, also known as “Ka Rekka,” was unarmed when she was taken by law enforcers on April 10. Valbuena said Peralta was brought to another part of Bukidnon, where she was allegedly shot and killed.
The CCP official added that local witnesses said there was no gun battle, contrary to the “encounter” claims of the military.
“The killing of Ka Rekka after she was accosted is clearly unlawful and constitutes a gross violation of international humanitarian law. We support calls for an independent investigation into the killing of Ka Rekka. A postmortem examination of her remains will hopefully reveal more information,” Valbuena added.
Gabriela Women’s Party also said Peralta’s death certificate contradicted the military’s claim of “encounter” because the so-called operation happened on April 11, while Peralta’s death was on April 10, as indicated in the certificate. Gabriela added there were marks of torture and abuse on Peralta’s body.
To pay tribute, Peralta’s family, friends, colleagues, and other activists gathered at Cine Adarna in University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman on Saturday, April 20. They held a program to honor the slain activist and call for justice in light of her untimely death.
Peralta entered UP Diliman to study film under the College of Mass Communication (CMC). She headed the League of Filipino Students in UP Diliman and STAND-UP CMC, according to the Philippine Collegian. She also loved playing softball as a varsity athlete in her university days.
For her friends, Peralta was a selfless person who was ready to lend her hand at all times. Rochelle Porras is two years older than Peralta, but according to her, it was the late activist who helped her survive college.
As a broadcast communication student, Porras said she struggled with lack of equipment for her school requirements. But Peralta, without hesitation, lent her camera and laptop from time to time to Porras. A simple gesture for some, but for Porras, it was one of her greatest memories with her late friend.
“So in a way, hindi rin talaga ako papasa ng college, makakatapos, kung hindi ako gano’n ding tinunulungan ni Kal (So in a way, I would not pass college, finish it, if Kal did not help me in that way).”
Sarah Torres first met Peralta when she was applying for a school organization, where Peralta was a senior member at the time. Time passed by and the two became closer. As Torres got to know her dear friend, she said she met a person who was very loving and expressed love in different forms. If you knew Peralta, Sarah said you will meet a person who was both strong-willed and soft-hearted.
Peralta was also generous in sharing her mind and principles to others.
“[LGBTQIA+] and religion ‘yong dalawang bagay na siya ‘yong una kong nakausap nang masinsinan about it. Kaya noon pa man, formative years ko sa college, malaki na ‘yong impact niya sa akin (LGBTQIA+ and religion where the first two things we talked deeply about. So even then, during my formative years in college, she had a big impact on my life),” Torres told Rappler.
Porras said the funny story behind her friend’s interest in LFS was because she had a crush on one of the speakers in an event organized by the group. But despite her simple reason for wanting to join the anti-imperialist organization, Peralta later established herself in the organization as one of its prized members, and then later as a leader.
In fact, there was time when the membership of their LFS chapter dwindled down to a handful, giving birth to their inside joke “League of Five Students.” But Peralta and her colleagues persevered and revived the organization.
Peralta’s father, a teacher, is progressive. In fact, he took part in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution that toppled down Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship. Her father’s deep social awareness could be among the factors why Peralta was progressive herself. This was evident in Peralta’s awareness of societal gaps even at a young age, Porras said.
The organizations she joined, LFS included, also played vital roles in shaping Peralta as a progressive student leader. But Porras said her friend was her own person too, who was committed to understand and address the problems of society.
As a student, Peralta always wanted to study about concrete conditions of society: why there are marginalized and vulnerable sectors, and what makes them marginalized and vulnerable. Porras said her friend was always eager to know the importance of fighting against imperialist ideals.
For her friends, Peralta was the embodiment of the prominent line, “a woman’s place is in the revolution.”
Every time she led mobilizations, Porras said her friend made sure she brought all her principles and calls for real change with her. This leadership and passion to bring change transcended the corners of UP Diliman; Peralta immersed herself within the community.
She actively advocated for the rights of Lumads, who are being pushed away from their ancestral lands. The CPP also remembered Peralta as someone who “[dedicated] her life to serving the oppressed and exploited masses.”
“Pagmamahal…sa bayan. ‘Yon pala talaga ‘yong ibig sabihin ng radikal. So kung may maikili [akong] mensahe sa kabataan, maging radikal tayo magmahal, ‘wag tayong matakot na magsilbi sa pinakaaping sektor ng lipunan. Ito siguro ‘yong ibig sabihin ng pagiging iskolar ng bayan,” Porras said.
(Love for country. This is what being radical means. So if I have a short message for the youth, let’s love radically, and be not afraid to serve the most oppressed sector of the society. This is I think what people’s scholar means.) – Rappler.com
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History for PH rowing as Joanie Delgaco qualifies for Paris Olympics
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delfin.dioquino editor
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21/04/2024 12:39
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PADDLE. Rower Joanie Delgaco in action for the Philippines.
PSC-POC Media Pool
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines will have its first female rower in the Olympics as the country celebrates its 100th year of participation in the Summer Games.
Joanie Delgaco booked her ticket to the Paris Games after placing fourth in the Final A of the women’s single sculls in the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Qualification Regatta in Chungju, South Korea on Sunday, April 21.
The 26-year-old Delgaco clocked 7:49.39 as she secured one of the five Paris berths up for grabs in the event.
Overall, Delgaco became the fourth Filipino rower to qualify for the Olympics after Edgardo Maerina (1988 Seoul Games), Benjamin Tolentino Jr. (2000 Sydney Games), and Cris Nievarez (2022 Tokyo Games).
“I never imagined that I’ll reach this far. Before, the stronger rowers used to get past me easily. Now, I’m able to beat them,” Delgaco told Radyo Sports Pilipinas in Filipino.
Uzbekistan’s Anna Prakaten topped the event with a time of 7:31.28 followed by Japan’s Shiho Yonekawa (7:35.93) and Iran’s Fatemeh Mojallal (7:37.07)
Vietnam’s Pham Thi Hue (7:53.08) clinched the last Olympic spot.
Delgaco advanced to the Final A by finishing second in her semifinal race with a time 8:05.87. She also placed second in the preliminary heats by recording 8:04.96.
“All of my hardships in this competition bore fruit,” said Delgaco.
She joins pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar, boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, and Aira Villegas, and weightlifters Elreen Ando, John Ceniza, and Vanessa Sarno in Paris. (LIST: Filipino athletes who qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics)
They will participate in a month-long training camp in Metz, France, before the Olympics. – Rappler.com
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Emma Malabuyo falls short of Olympic spot after World Cup Series
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delfin.dioquino editor
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21/04/2024 11:30
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GYMNAST. Emma Malabuyo strikes a pose.
Emma Malabuyo Instagram page
MANILA, Philippines – Close but no cigar.
Emma Malabuyo fell short of a coveted spot in the Paris Olympics following the conclusion of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday, April 20.
The World Cup Series, which consisted of four legs, served as an Olympic qualifying event, rewarding the top two gymnasts with the highest three-meet point total in each apparatus a ticket to Paris.
Malabuyo went to Doha at second in the floor exercise rankings with 69 points, but she dropped to third as Austria’s Charlize Moerz and Spain’s Laura Casabuena clinched the Olympic berths up for grabs in the apparatus.
Already secured of a seat in Paris after the Baku, Azerbaijan leg in March, Moerz topped the rankings with 80 points, while Casabuena leapfrogged Malabuyo with 75 points thanks to her bronze medal in Doha.
Malabuyo lost control of her Olympic bid after she failed to reach the floor exercise final in Doha as her 10th-place finish in the qualification prevented her from improving her point tally.
She amassed 30 points in Cairo, Egypt, 14 points in Cottbus, Germany, and 25 points in Baku.
Although Malabuyo received 12 points in Doha, she stayed at 69 points since only the three highest scores were considered for the Olympic rankings.
Malabuyo had remained in contention for a Paris berth going into the final, but she needed the trailing Casabuena – who toted 45 points earned from two World Cup legs – to finish no higher than third among the Olympic eligible athletes.
Points for eligible gymnasts were 30 points for first, 25 points for second, and 20 points for third.
Unfortunately for Malabuyo, Casabuena got 30 points despite the fact that she placed third overall in the final as gold medalist Kaylia Nemour of Algeria and silver medalist Ruby Evans of Great Britain were excluded in the rankings.
Nemour already qualified for the Olympics through the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships last year, while Evans is from a country which has a team bound for Paris.
Malabuyo can still give the Olympics another shot, but she has to be the best eligible all-around gymnast in the Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships that will run from May 2 to 5 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Three Filipino gymnasts have qualified for Paris so far: Carlos Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar. – Rappler.com
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National Museum, Archdiocese of Cebu agree to prioritize conservation of panels
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Victor Barreiro Jr.
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21/04/2024 12:50
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CONDITION OF PANELS. NMP officials share a condition report on the pulpit panels during their meeting with the Archdiocese of Cebu.
Max Limpag
The National Museum of the Philippines and the Archdiocese of Cebu have agreed to prioritize the conservation of four pulpit panels from the heritage church of Boljoon that are now with the NMP.
NMP officials, led by Board of Trustees Chair Andoni Aboitiz, met with Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma last April 16 at the Archbishop’s Residence in Cebu City. Aboitiz said the question of ownership of the panels came up but the focus was on the conservation of the 19th century wood panels.
Aboitiz told Rappler in an interview that the meeting went “really well.” He said they presented a report on the condition of the four panels to Palma.
The report by NMP notes “checking” or formation of cracks on the religious panels. NMP said these “usually occur due to the contraction and expansion of wood as a result of fluctuations in temperature and relative humidity.”
The panels have a polychrome and gilt finish, NMP said. There is “slight to marked paint loss, lifting, tenting, and blister in all regions,” the report said. The paint layers in these areas, according to NMP, are “not stable and require intervention.”
The NMP report recommended “remedial conservation” of the panels. NMP also said it “may request for technical assistance from institutions that have expertise on technical analysis of the pigments and wood used.”
Fr. Brian Brigoli, who chairs the Cebu Archdiocesan Commission for the Cultural Heritage of the Church, said that they explained to NMP during the meeting that Archbishop Palma is precluded by church laws and regulations from giving up the archdiocese’s claim on the panels.
Aboitiz said the NMP board will meet early in May and the panels will be among the issues that would be discussed.
In an earlier interview with Rappler, NMP Director General Jeremy Barns proposed that the discussion on ownership be set aside so that the panels can be displayed at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Patrocinio de Maria Santisima in Boljoon.
The four panels were part of six that used to be installed on the heritage church’s pulpit. One panel is kept at the parish museum while one more is still unaccounted for. Installed in their place are replicas that the church ordered made. They were lost in the late 1980s. Church officials said they were stolen. The NMP said they were sold by the priest, which Barns said was a common practice in those times. – Rappler.com
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Philippines thanks G7’s support in rejecting China’s ‘baseless, expansive claims’ in disputed sea
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Bonz Magsambol
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21/04/2024 13:02
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MARITIME TENSION. A Chinese Coast Guard ship is seen blocking the direction of a Philippine Coast Guard ship conducting a resupply mission for Filipino troops stationed at a grounded warship in the South China Sea, October 4, 2023.
Adrian Portugal/Reuters
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines expressed its gratitude to the G7 foreign ministers for rejecting China’s “baseless and expansive” claims of the West Philippine Sea.
“The Philippines welcomes the G7 Foreign Ministers’ reiteration of their collective commitment to the rule of law and to the rules-based maritime order anchored on the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a April 19 statement that was made public on the DFA website on Sunday, April 21.
The DFA noted that the Philippines appreciated the G7’s reaffirmation that the “2016 Arbitral Award is a significant milestone and a useful basis for the peaceful management and resolution of differences at sea.”
The Philippines has sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. It has the exclusive right to exploit and take care of resources in those areas. But China claims practically all of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, ignoring a 2016 Arbitral Ruling that deemed that claim invalid.
“The Philippines is firmly committed to UNCLOS and the binding Arbitral Award of 2016. Respect for international law, particularly for the recognized maritime entitlements of coastal states in the South China Sea and the freedom of navigation enjoyed by the international community, is essential to ensuring global prosperity, peace and stability,” the DFA said.
It added that the country shares the G7’s vision of a “stable and secure Indo-Pacific region, and stands firm against any actions that undermine international security and stability.”
G7 is an informal grouping of seven of the world’s advanced economies, namely Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as the European Union.
The Philippines said that it was ready to cooperate with the G7 in its efforts to support economic growth in the country and the Indo-Pacific. – Rappler.com
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Results, team standings: UAAP Season 86 volleyball
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Jasmine Payo
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05/05/2024 21:02
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ROARING. NU's Bella Belen (left) and Alyssa Solomon react in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball finals
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments reach a tipping point with the men’s and women’s finals!
LOOK: UAAP volleyball championship schedule
Here are the results in the men’s and women’s divisions:
MAY 15
May 11
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
– Rappler.com
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Unstoppable Duplantis breaks pole vault world record again in Xiamen Diamond League
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Jasmine Payo
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20/04/2024 23:40
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UNRIVALED. Sweden's Armand Duplantis celebrates after setting a a new world record and winning the men's pole vault in the Diamond League in Xiamen.
Tingshu Wang/REUTERS
XIAMEN, China – Armand Duplantis put down a marker ahead of this year’s Paris Olympics as the Swede broke his own pole vault world record with a 6.24-meter effort in the first Diamond League meeting of the 2024 season on Saturday, April 20.
Duplantis bettered his previous mark of 6.23 meters set at the Eugene Diamond League finale in September, clearing the bar with ease before leaping up off the sponge mat below and racing off in celebration at his first outdoor event of the year.
It was the eighth time that Duplantis broke the world record and the 24-year-old, who was the only man to clear six meters at the Egret Stadium, said he could do even better.
“It’s definitely possible, conditions willing. I’m going to try to maximize the most out of every day,” Duplantis said.
“There’s definitely more to give. I don’t think the jumping was really perfect today even leading up to the 6.24. The 6.24 felt really nice.
“I think there’s still some way to go and still more to push and some higher heights in me for sure.”
The Olympic and two-time world outdoor champion had added a second world indoor title to his impressive resume in March, and he is set to head into his second Games in July and August as the firm favorite.
American Sam Kendricks, who was second with a best effort of 5.82m, heaped praise on the Louisiana-born Duplantis.
“He’s got God’s hand on his back,” Kendricks said. “I’ve been a champion before. ‘Mondo’ has been my vice-champion. I’ve seen him from (when he was) a 14-year-old come all the way up.
“I’m ever joyous to be second behind a world record-holder. I know he works so hard. He goes all over the place and he’s becoming the true champion we all want him to be.”
In the women’s 200m Australian Torrie Lewis enjoyed a stunning Diamond League debut, as the 19-year-old beat a strong field of American rivals that included Sha’Carri Richardson to claim gold with an effort of 22.96 from lane nine.
Richardson, winner of the 200m bronze at last year’s world championships, finished second in 22.99 ahead of her compatriots Tamara Clark, Anavia Battle and Twanisha Terry.
World champion Marileidy Paulino earlier captured the first track gold of the Diamond League season in the women’s 400m as the Dominican eased home in 50.08 seconds ahead of Natalia Kaczmarek (50.29) and Britton Wilson (51.26).
Olympic champion Jasmine Camacho-Quinn then set the pace in the women’s 100m hurdles, the Puerto Rican cruising to victory in 12.45 seconds.
“I’m real glad I got this race out of the way. I was telling my coach earlier ‘I don’t think I’m ready, I don’t know what I’m about to bring’ and then 12.45 knowing it wasn’t even a clean race from myself,” Camacho-Quinn said.
“I’m ready to go back and fix what I need to do. I’ve got things to do this year.”
Tobi Amusan of Nigeria, the world-record holder in the event, only managed fifth place in 12.58 seconds.
In the men’s 100m event Christian Coleman began his Diamond League title defence with a solid sprint of 10.13 seconds to beat fellow American Fred Kerley who came in at 10.17.
Gudaf Tsegay won the women’s 1500m in 3:50.30 – the third-fastest time ever behind Kenyan Faith Kipyegon’s world record 3:49.11 and Ethiopian Genzebe Dibaba’s 3:50.07.
“This was a big surprise because it’s my first outdoor meeting of the season,” Tsegay said.
The Diamond League resumes next week with the Shanghai meeting, which returns to the calendar this year with a change of location to the neighboring city of Suzhou due to a stadium renovation.
This year’s calendar features 15 meetings, including 10 ahead of the July 26-August 11 Olympics, with the season finale in Brussels on September 13-14. – Rappler.com
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PVL chaos: How Cignal’s win over PLDT pushed Petro Gazz, Creamline, Choco Mucho to semis
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jisaga0269
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20/04/2024 22:53
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INTERTWINING FATES. Creamline's Alyssa Valdez and Cignal's Ces Molina in action in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference
PVL Images
MANILA, Philippines – In the late stages of the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference, one wrong move can cost a team an entire tournament’s worth of wins and sacrifices, while changing the fortunes of many others waiting in the wings.
Such is the case on Saturday, April 20, as the Cignal HD Spikers – just two hours after being eliminated from the semifinal race – dragged down sister team PLDT High Speed Hitters in a thrilling four-set conquest, 24-26, 26-24, 25-17, 28-26, at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna.
With the win, Cignal not only sent PLDT on the outside of the Final Four looking in, but also sealed the semis berths of the Petro Gazz Angels, defending champion Creamline Cool Smashers, and reigning runner-up Choco Mucho Flying Titans.
Each holding identical 8-2 records, Petro Gazz, Creamline, and Choco Mucho can no longer fall past fourth place due to their high game point totals (25, 24, and 24, respectively), thus sealing their semifinal berths.
Conversely, No. 5 PLDT, now with a 7-3 record and still only 20 points after the crucial loss, can no longer go higher than fourth place. Each three-to-four-set win gives 3 points, while a five-set win gives 2.
Meanwhile, the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, the fourth team boasting an 8-2 record, only have 23 points, leaving the door open for PLDT to steal the fourth seed via superior set ratio – the second tiebreaker in the event of a game points tie.
Both Chery Tiggo and Petro Gazz clinched their 8-2 slates after respectively sweeping Galeries Tower (25-7, 25-21, 25-17) and Akari (25-17, 25-20, 25-17) immediately before the Cignal-PLDT sister team main event.
For added context, Cignal’s semifinal hopes were dashed right after Chery Tiggo joined the four-team 8-2 logjam since the HD Spikers can go no higher than 7-4 in the standings.
Should PLDT sweep its final assignment against Creamline, and massive underdog Galeries somehow sweeps its last game against Chery Tiggo, then the High Speed Hitters will force a 23-game point tie and narrowly complete the semifinal cast instead of the Crossovers through the set ratio path.
Interestingly, both games are scheduled on Thursday, April 25, at the PhilSports Arena, with the Galeries-Chery Tiggo clash serving as the double-header opener at 4 pm.
For its part, Cignal now just aims to finish strong in its failed podium return bid after scoring back-to-back bronze medals in the last two conferences of the 2023 season.
Jovelyn Gonzaga continued her resurgent run at PLDT’s expense with 16 points, backstopped by 15 and 12, respectively, from Ces Molina and Vanie Gandler.
Possible MVP candidate Savi Davison, meanwhile, went down swinging with a game-high 29 points, supported by 22 excellent digs and 16 excellent receptions from captain Kath Arado.
In the other games of the Laguna triple-header, Brooke Van Sickle led Petro Gazz past Galeries with 17 points, while Eya Laure topscored for Chery Tiggo against Akari with 14. – Rappler.com
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Negrosanon artist Tey Sevilleno says ‘art is best when started young’
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Victor Barreiro Jr.
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21/04/2024 11:12
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EXHIBITS. Negrense youth stroll around the art exhibit area of the Art Association of Bacolod-Negros at Balay Kalamay in Bacolod City.
Province of Negros Occidental
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines – The appreciation and presentation of art has evolved through the years. Everything – from vibrant canvases to mural paintings and from wall art to body piercings and tattoos – is an expression of the people’s culture and individuality.
For Tey Sevilleno, the President of the Art Association of Bacolod-Negros (AAB-Negros), “Art making and art appreciation are best started when one is still young.”
Sevilleno told Rappler on Saturday, April 20, that younger Negrense artists should dive more into their culture where their identity was embedded as it contributes to the artwork’s significance and color.
“As I say, art has become our language in our celebration and in our most challenging times. Just like every Filipino, our positivity becomes apparent whether in joy or sadness,” she said.
Thus, in an effort to inspire more creative pursuits among Negrense people and artists, AAB-Negros organized the “Artehan Arts Fest,” which takes place during the province’s annual Panaad Festival celebration.
The art festival ran from April 15-21. It featured various activities such as face painting, watercolor painting workshops, artwork exhibits, an art merchandise bazaar, an art contest, and a music jam at Balay Kalamay in Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City.
Sevilleno said that the concept of the festival came from the traditional Negrense way of market day, in which all people converge into one place to do business and exchange goods. In Hiligaynon, the convergence is called as “Tinabuanay.”
“ARTEHAN is a play on words. As Ilonggos, we refer to it as moving in an artsy way. The art festival was a convergence of people from different local government units of the province in the name of art, just like what we do every Panaad,” Sevilleno said.
She added, “This year’s theme for Panaad is Living the Promise. I think we Negrense artists need to bear this in mind. We are chroniclers of our times, and we continue to live each day to bring back the bounty to the island in the best way we can. Art what gives our culture and traditions identity as a people. And we, as artists, are agents of that identity.”
In April 1975, the Art Association of Bacolod-Negros was first established by a self-taught and versatile artist, Edgardo “Budot” Lizares, alongside Negrense artists Jess Ayco, Nunelucio Alvarado, Charlie Co, Larry Tronco, Ely Santiago and Rodney Martinez.
Sevilleno said that the AAB-Negros were behind the birth of the well-known MassKara festival in the 1980s, the time when the entire province was economically struggling under the administration of late dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos, Sr.
Aside from merry-making, the MassKara celebration also brings together artists to showcase their skills and craftsmanship through the crafting of different colorful masks.
“I believe every Negrense knows how to appreciate art naturally. Because as we can see in the Panaad Festival and MassKara Festival and all the festivals of the province, we can see their expression of their love of life and art through this celebration,” Sevilleno said.
With the evolution of art alongside with various festivals in the province, it would not be as exciting as it is now without the Negrosanon artists who added so much substance, spice, and color to every celebration. – Rappler.com
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LOOK: Angelica Panganiban and Gregg Homan hold second wedding in Siargao
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Ysa Abad
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21/04/2024 10:15
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MARRIED. Angelica Panganiban and Gregg Homan wed anew in Siargao.
Pat Dy's Instagram
MANILA, Philippines – Actress Angelica Panganiban celebrated her love with businessman Gregg Homan once more with a second wedding held on Saturday, April 20, in Siargao.
Their beach destination wedding came four months after they first tied the knot through an intimate ceremony in Los Angeles, California on December 31, 2023.
Photographer Pat Dy shared snaps from the wedding, including first-look photos of the bride wearing her Rosa Clara wedding gown.
Several celebrity guests that were present include Anne Curtis, Glaiza de Castro, Bela Padilla, Kim Chiu, Judy Ann Santos, Ryan Agoncillo, Maxene Magalona, and Kean Cipriano.
Panganiban and Homan first confirmed their relationship in January 2021. They announced their engagement in October 2022.
Panganiban gave birth to their daughter Amila in September 2022. – Rappler.com
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IN PHOTOS: Official portraits of Binibining Pilipinas 2024 Top 40
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Ysa Abad
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14/04/2024 11:53
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MANILA, Philippines – The search for the next Binibining Pilipinas queens is heating up!
Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) unveiled on Friday, April 12, the official portraits of its 40 delegates for the 2024 pageant. In photos taken by Owen Reyes, the aspiring beauty queens donned black shirts with the pageant’s 60th anniversary logo and their official candidate numbers.
The organization first introduced its official candidates on April 5 after their final closed-door screening. Notable names in this year’s roster include Miss Philippines Earth 2021 Top 20 finalist Zeneth Khan, Miss Tourism Philippines 2021 and Binibining Pilipinas Top 11 candidate Trisha Martinez, and Binibining Pilipinas 2021 candidate and Miss Rotary 2023 runner-up Shaira Rona.
The 40 candidates will battle it out to represent the country in the following two pageants: Miss International and Miss Globe. Reigning queens Angelica Lopez and Anna Valencia Lakrini will be crowning their successors. Lopez will be representing the Philippines in the Miss International 2024 pageant while Lakrini finished as 2nd runner-up in the Miss Globe 2023 competition.
As of writing, BPCI has yet to announce its schedule of activities.
Take a look at the official portraits of the candidates here:
– Rappler.com
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Tradisyon, Purple Patch put their spin on Filipino cuisine
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Michelle Abad
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21/04/2024 10:00
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This story is published in partnership with SoJannelleTV, a magazine show about Filipinos in North America
There are few things that connect Filipinos to their culture more than food. The month of April was declared Filipino Food Month in 2018 through Presidential Proclamation 469, giving a platform for Filipinos to celebrate their rich culinary history.
Filipino food takes on even greater significance abroad, with restaurants serving as unofficial Filipino cultural hubs. So Jannelle TV took a look at two standout Filipino restaurants in the United States – Tradisyon in New York City and Purple Patch in Washington D.C. – and how they have put their own spin on staples of Filipino cuisine.
Tradisyon, which is based in Midtown Manhattan, started out of necessity for a pair of New York-based chefs, Anton Dayrit and Bianca Vicente. The two couldn’t find any Filipino restaurants that delivered to Midtown, so they decided to start their own. They partnered with former Philippine Department of Tourism marketing coordinator Joey Chanco and settled on the idea of developing a fast casual restaurant which was accessible to other audiences while remaining faithful to the traditional flavors.
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They opened in March of 2020 – just a week before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down much of the world – but have survived thanks to the public’s love for their dishes.
“We want to do traditional Filipino food on an upscale level. We wouldn’t want super Filipino food that only Filipinos and Asians could eat, and we didn’t want to do Americanized Filipino food the Filipinos are not going to love. We wanted to be right smack in the middle where everyone can appreciate it,” Chanco told Filipino-American media pioneer Jannelle So-Perkins in an interview with So Jannelle TV, a Filipino-American lifestyle magazine show which airs US-wide on cable channels The Filipino Channel (TFC) and ANC; as well as on local Southern CA digital channel KNET 25.1; and is also available on social media platforms.
Among their most popular dishes are kare-kare, which has a thicker than usual sauce that is made from a base that includes their preferred brand of bagoong. Another crowd favorite is squid adobo, which uses squid ink sparingly so as to avoid being overwhelming.
What’s the secret to their flavorful dishes? It begins with the ingredients, of course. The chefs select the best soy sauce, fish sauce, rice, and other ingredients, even if the brand isn’t a Filipino company, to get the right taste that they’re after. Another priority is making the presentation appear more lively, using herbs and other vegetables to break out of the monotony of brown-colored dishes, while making them more healthy and nutritious as well.
“Our goal is to really brighten up that brown, unhealthy food and actually make it really appetizing to other people,” said Chanco.
When people hear the name Purple Patch, they usually assume that it has to do with the color of the ube yams or halo-halo. But Patrice Cleary, who opened up this Filipino restaurant in 2015, says the inspiration for the name comes from a British term her Australian ex-husband once told her which means a period of success and good fortune.
Cleary, who was born in Bicol to a Filipino mother and an Irish-American father, says the inspiration for her menu has always been the dishes her mother had cooked for her as a child. She adds her own spin to the dishes, making them stand out from the traditional fare.
“My direction for Purple Patch really was to just represent Filipino food in my own way. Highlight the food that I grew up on and then elevate it right but stay true to who I am at the same time. I will change directions and maneuver back and forth when I feel comfortable and not when somebody else thinks I should do it,” said Cleary, who is also the restaurant’s head chef.
Some of the most popular dishes in the restaurant include mushroom adobo, a completely vegan dish that blends oyster, trumpet, and shiitake mushrooms in coconut milk. Purple Patch also offers a miso caesar salad, which combines romaine lettuce and kale with poached shrimp, hard boiled egg yolk and parmesan with white miso dressing, and a red snapper relleno, which is comprise of red snapper fillet with panko, lump crab, tomatoes, onions, and scallions in beurre blanc sauce.
After nearly a decade running her own restaurant, Cleary has learned that there are plenty of ups and downs to overcome in order to stay the course. She advises people who are opening their own business to find mentors who will give them honest advice, and to always stay in their own lane and remain true to their mission.
“You really have to have the intestinal fortitude to know that things happen and you’ve got to find your way back,” said Cleary. “When opening up a business you can’t pretend to know everything. There isn’t a restaurant 101 book that you can grab off the shelf and it tells you if this happens and to do this. Because I think everything is happening as it goes.” – Jannelle So Productions | Rappler.com
Rappler is partnering with Jannelle So Productions Inc (JSP), founded by Filipino-American pioneer and Los Angeles-based journalist Jannelle So, to publish video and written stories from SoJannelleTV about the journeys, successes, and challenges of Filipinos living in America.
Check out So Jannelle TV daily for stories that make you pause, reflect, and appreciate who we are and what we are as a people.
Sundays, 4:30pm PT / 7:30pm ET on The Filipino Channel (TFC)Mondays, 6:00pm on KNET Channel 25.1 Southern CaliforniaReplay on Saturdays, 7:30pm PT / 10:30pm ET on ANC North AmericaAny time on YouTube.com/SoJannelleTV
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Here’s a rundown of changes to the Miss Universe Philippines pageant since 2020
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Ysa Abad
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03/03/2024 19:22
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In December 2019, Filipino pageant fans and aficionados were surprised when it was announced that the Miss Universe franchise would no longer be under the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc (BPCI) after 55 years.
BPCI, under the leadership of Stella Araneta, had led the search for the Philippines’ representative to the Miss Universe competition since 1964. During those times, it was through the annual Binibining Pilipinas pageant that the Miss Universe Philippines queen was crowned, alongside candidates to at least five more international pageants.
However, with the establishment of the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) organization came a new team that took charge in choosing the country’s representative to the prestigious international tilt.
As the pageant is set to hold its fifth edition under the Miss Universe Philippines organization this 2024, let’s look back at the notable changes that they’ve introduced in the competition since 2020:
During its 2021 edition, MUPH announced that there’ll be no height requirement for its screening process. Prior to this, the minimum height requirement for interested candidates was 5’4.
Height requirement was also removed in its succeeding editions.
It was also in 2021 when Miss Universe Philippines kicked off the competition with the Top 100 delegates – the biggest number of candidates in the pageant’s history.
These 100 delegates would undergo several online and remote challenges and then get narrowed down to the Top 75 and 50 and eventually 30 based on their performances in the challenges and votes from supporters.
Twenty-seven of the Top 30 for the 2021 edition were chosen by panelists while the three remaining delegates were the ones who garnered the highest number of fan votes. Scores of the Top 30 all went back to zero in the lead-up to the preliminaries and coronation night. Only the Top 30 delegates participated in the in-person pageant activities.
The 2021 competition remains to be the only edition where 100 delegates participated.
In 2022, the Miss Universe Philippines started with 50 delegates. According to MUPH, they’re “narrowing the field to get [them] closer to our Final 30 delegates.” Only 32 finalists from the initial 50 delegates made it to the in-person pageant activities.
Since the Miss Universe Philippines organization introduced a huge number of delegates for their pageants, they’ve been whittling down the participants through a series of online and remote challenges.
In the 2021 edition, the candidates had to participate in the headshot challenge, video introduction challenge, runway challenge, casting video challenge, and virtual interview challenge. Each candidate had to showcase their strengths in these challenges as pageant fans vote for their respective bets. Those who garnered the highest number of fan votes will also have a higher chance of advancing in the competition.
For its succeeding editions, the delegates participated in the photoshoot, swimsuit, and runway challenges. In the 2023 competition, the MUPH organization only announced the Top 5 delegates for each challenge, with the first placer only being disclosed during the finals night. The winner for each of the online challenge also secured a semifinal spot in the competition.
In lieu of the Miss Universe organization’s decision to allow moms and wives in the international competition, the local team also opened the MUPH pageant to women who are married and with children.
In its more than 70-year history, the Miss Universe organization had only allowed single women, aged between 18 and 28, who “must not have ever been married, not had a marriage annulled, nor given birth to, or parented a child” to compete.
Out of the 38 Miss Universe Philippines 2023 delegates, three were mothers.
Notably, MUPH was the first of the local pageants in the Philippines to open the competition to beauty queens of any civil status – married and with children.
Meanwhile, the recently-launched The Miss Philippines pageant followed through with the initiative, also opening their 2023 edition to mothers and wives. The Miss Philippines competition chose the country’s representatives for the Miss Supranational and Miss Charm pageants.
After opening the competition to mothers and wives, the Miss Universe organization became more inclusive as it removed the age restrictions across all of its associated pageants.
Previously, the MUO had only allowed women aged between 18 to 28 to participate in the competition. With the age limit being eliminated, even women aged 29 and above can compete in the pageant.
In the Philippines, 69-year-old fashion designer Jocelyn Cubales was one of the official candidates of the Miss Universe Philippines-Quezon City pageant.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2024 competition is also looking to be an interesting edition as it also introduced another change aside from the removal of age limit.
For the 2024 edition, the delegates for the national competition were chosen through the Accredited Partners Program, wherein only accredited partners approved by the MUPH organization selected the candidates from their respective localities through local pageants or appointments.
According to the MUPH organization, this change in the selection process will make the competition more “streamlined and efficient.” Additionally, having accredited partners select the candidates from their respective areas will also gave MUPH access to a “wider and more diverse pool of potential candidates.”
With this, the 2024 roster also includes candidates representing overseas Filipino communities for the first time. Delegates include representatives from Australia, northern and southern California, Florida, Hawaii, Miami, Sydney, the United Kingdom, Virginia, and Washington.
As the 2024 edition is still underway, pageant fans are still anticipating how these new developments will affect the competition. – Rappler.com
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As Marcos-Duterte clans clash, should Sara resign from the Cabinet?
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Bonz Magsambol
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01/02/2024 16:16
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WILL SHE RESIGN? File photo of Vice President Sara Duterte during the school opening in Cebu City in August 2023
Jacqueline Hernandez/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – It was an alliance that critics and political observers had jinxed as doomed from the start. The only questions were, when and what would happen to Vice President Sara Duterte, who is still a member of the Marcos Cabinet.
They got a partial answer on January 28. The day that Marcos launched “Bagong Pilipinas” in Manila and promised to transform the country into a new and better version, down south, Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte called for his resignation while former president Rodrigo Duterte branded the President as a “drug addict.”
The Vice President attended the Bagong Pilipinas launch but she also went to the prayer rally against charter change where her family members took turns lambasting the President she served as a Cabinet member. A day later, she released a statement defending her younger brother’s tirade against Marcos as “brotherly love,” in protest of her “despicable treatment” by people in the President’s circle. It was a sentiment that she apparently shared.
Uniteam, the marriage of political convenience that brought the Marcos-Duterte tandem to victory in the 2022 elections, crumbled on Sunday, January 28.
The word war between the Dutertes and the Marcoses has sparked calls for Sara to resign as education secretary, a job that commands 900,000 teaching staff scattered across the country.
Despite her family’s attacks against Marcos and her own sentiments of being ganged up on by administration allies, Sara has no plan, as yet, to leave DepEd. Her messaging, based on her January 29 statement, is that she would strive to endure the “attacks, black propaganda, and smear campaign” against her because she was elected by millions and that she would remain in the Cabinet for as long as she’s wanted.
In an interview on Tuesday, January 31, political analyst Cleve Arguelles said that calls for Sara to leave the DepEd did not come as a surprise, as being part of the Marcos Cabinet should mean unequivocal support for the President.
“But I think the more interesting question here is why is the President still keeping her after all that happened?” Arguelles said, adding, this means that “she still enjoys the confidence, the trust, and the support of the President.”
Marcos said as much on Tuesday, in response to questions in a media interview. He also said that his professional relationship with the Vice President is “exactly the same,” sounding like a showbiz personality trying to cover up a rocky relationship with a love team partner.
Just like any other popular tandem, they have to stick to each other despite their differences to keep their support bases intact. Mindanao remains a stronghold of the Duterte family and delivered votes for Marcos in the 2022 elections. Likewise, the Marcoses’ “Solid North” delivered votes for Sara.
Marcos got 7.2 million votes in Mindanao, while Sara obtained 3.5 million votes in the Solid North.
“They need each other,” Arguelles said. “I think this is a paradox of the Uniteam that they’re starting to dislike each other but then they also need each other. At this point, they are stuck with each other.”
Sara is undeniably more popular than Marcos. Despite their ratings plunging amid a string of issues in 2023, Sara still got a 73% approval rating while Marcos got 65%, according to a Pulse Asia survey in September 2023.
Arguelles also cited the seeming “tradition” in Philippine politics that vice presidents who break off with the president do not fare so well among voters.
“They don’t like a vice president [who] is not cooperative with the president,” he said.
This is what happened to then-vice presidents Jejomar Binay and Leni Robredo. They were initially part of the Cabinet but later resigned because of divergent views. Binay had been leading the surveys for the presidency that time but he became the subject of attacks. Meanwhile, Robredo became the casualty of online propaganda discrediting her work as vice president.
Sara would be on the losing end if she resigns from the Marcos Cabinet this early. The DepEd is a platform that can help her maintain a national profile, especially if she has ambitions for higher office. Based on DepEd data, there are 876,842 teaching personnel and 60,429 schools all over the country.
“She will stay there for as long as she could,” Arguelles said. “If you’re no longer in the Cabinet, what will you do as vice president? What power and resources will [you have]?”
The Philippines is among the countries that produced the lowest proficiency for young learners in reading, mathematics, and science, as indicated by the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 rankings. That fact, however, has not rubbed off on public perception of Sara’s work as education chief. In December, the same month the PISA rankings were released, pollster WR Numero conducted a survey which showed that 57% of Filipinos still think Sara is doing a good job at DepEd.
In her second basic education report, Sara also promised reforms in the education sector and more benefits for teachers. Arguelles said this may be a calculated move especially if she has an eye to the 2028 elections.
“It will always be helpful for her to be able to say that she delivered to the education sector,” Arguelles said.
Amid the political bickering, there are concerns that the DepEd, which has under its care millions of Filipino students and the very future of the country, would be placed at greater risk. If Sara’s attention is further distracted by her political plans, the learning crisis in the country would worsen. Her qualifications as education chief have been in question in the first place.
“It’s really one of my worries, we can look at it from the perspective that, ‘Oh this is exciting,’ ‘di ba kasi (because) we’re watching a showdown between these two powerful dynasties. Si Vice President, isang araw lang na malingat siya (If the Vice President gets distracted by even just one day), it will define the future of millions of Filipino students,” Arguelles said.
Critics have been calling for the President to appoint a DepEd secretary who has an education background.
In her January 29 statement, Sara said she will endure the attacks against her out of respect for the Filipinos who had voted her into office, evoking an image of a punching bag. This is far from the image that gained her infamy over a decade ago: that of the feisty female mayor who grabbed a sheriff by the collar and punched him repeatedly after he led the demolition of shanties in a community in Davao City.
Political analyst Arjan Aguirre said that the ongoing rift in the Uniteam coalition can be advantageous for Sara, who can play the “underdog card.”
“While staying as a Cabinet member, she can still draw sympathy from the people by appearing as the underdog and bullied personality within the coalition. She just has to look like she is being bullied by the House Speaker and other personalities and use the anti-elite or anti-oligarchy card that is consistent [with] the Duterte brand of politics,” Aguirre said.
“I think what she wants to happen here is for the President to fire or dismiss her or openly go against her. That would mean an open war is finally happening and that it would look like the Marcos faction caused it,” he added.
As the Vice President has said, the ball is in Marcos’ court. On a political stage where two popular figures are at play, whoever flinches first loses. – with a report from Patrick Cruz/Rappler.com
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