TRUMP RELEASES FRESH SET OF LETTERS TO 6 TRADING PARTNERS
WASHINGTON, United States — US President Donald Trump released a fresh set of letters to trading partners Wednesday, setting out tariff rates for six countries as Washington pushes to bring about a flurry of trade deals.
The letters, addressed to leaders of the Philippines, Brunei, Algeria, Libya, Iraq and Moldova, spelled out duties ranging from 20 percent to 30 percent that would take effect on August 1.
The tariff rate on the Philippine goods coming to America was set at 20 percent — higher than the 17 percent rate announced in April.
Similar to Trump’s first batch of documents published Monday, the tariff levels were not too far from those originally threatened in April, although some partners received notably lower rates this time.
While the president in April imposed a 10 percent levy on almost all trading partners, he unveiled — and then held off on — higher rates for dozens of economies.
The deadline for those steeper levels to take effect was meant to be Wednesday, before Trump postponed it further to August 1.
Instead, countries who face the threats of elevated duties began receiving letters spelling out US tariff rates on their products.
‘FAR FROM RECIPROCAL’
Trump’s latest messages were near-identical to those published earlier in the week, and justified the tariffs as a response to trade ties that he says are “far from Reciprocal.”
They urged countries to manufacture products in the United States instead in order to avoid duties, while threatening further escalation if leaders retaliated to the levies.
For now, 20 countries have received
Trump’s letters, including key US allies Japan and South Korea, as well as Indonesia, Bangladesh and Thailand.
If counterparts changed their trade policies, Washington might consider an adjustment to its stance, Trump wrote.
EU DEAL IN ‘COMING DAYS’?
Analysts have noted that Asian countries are a major target of the documents so far.
But all eyes are on the state of negotiations with major partners who have yet to receive such communications, including the European Union.
For now, the Trump administration is under pressure to unveil more trade pacts. So far, Washington has only reached agreements with Britain and Vietnam, alongside a deal to lower titfor-tat levies with China.
Trump on Tuesday said that his government was “probably two days off” from sending the EU a letter with an updated tariff rate for the bloc.
“They’re very tough, but now they’re
being very nice to us,” he added at a cabinet meeting.
EU EYES DEAL
An EU spokesman said Wednesday that the bloc wants to strike a deal with the United States “in the coming days,” and has shown readiness to reach an agreement in principle.
EU diplomats say the European Commission, in charge of trade policy for the 27-country bloc, could continue talks until August 1.
The EU expects Trump to keep a 10 percent baseline tariff on its goods, with exemptions for critical sectors such as airplanes, spirits and cosmetics, diplomats told AFP this week.
Apart from tariffs targeting goods from different countries, Trump has also rolled out sector-specific duties on steel, aluminum and autos since returning to the White House in January.
On Tuesday, Trump said tariffs were incoming on copper and pharmaceuticals.
5 of 21 Filipinos in Houthi-hit ship in Red
Sea rescued -- DFA
MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) -- Five of the 21 Filipino seafarers manning the cargo vessel Eternity C, which sank in the Red Sea following a reported attack by Houthi rebels, have been rescued, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed Wednesday night.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose De Vega said the Liberia-flagged vessel has already sunk, and rescue operations are ongoing for the remaining crew members.
The DFA, meanwhile, has received reports of at least two fatalities but de Vega did not confirm their nationality.
“We know of two casualties. We cannot confirm four. We assume they are Filipino,” he said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency.
The vessel was carrying 22 crew members—21 Filipinos and one Russian—when it was allegedly struck by drones and rocket-propelled grenades launched by Iran-backed Houthi militants off the coast of Yemen.
READ. DMW warns shipowners: No more Filipino crew on ships crossing Red Sea Hours before the attack, the Houthis claimed they had sunk another Liberia-flagged bulk carrier, the MV Magic Seas that was manned by 22 crew members, including 17 Filipinos.
De Vega said the Filipino crew of the other vessel were all rescued and are now on their way to Jeddah.
The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier confirmed that it facilitated the response operation for the MV Magic Seas in close coordination with specialized maritime authorities, including the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and relevant international organizations.
“The swift action reflects the UAE’s steadfast commitment to the safety and security of international maritime navigation and its humanitarian solidarity with all nations in addressing the increasing challenges in strategic waterways,” it said in a statement.
Assistance assured Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, in
a virtual briefing Wednesday evening, refused to confirm the number of casualties, saying the DMW needed to talk first with the rescued seafarers.
“Na-confirm na nga ng shipowner na lumubog yung Eternity C, at sabay nito may limang tripulante na nasagip, nasa tubig sila, nakita sila ng rescue team at nasagip sila, hinahanap pa ang rest (The shipowner has confirmed that the Eternity C sank, and at the same time, five crew members were rescued. They were in the water. The rescue team found them and rescued them. They are still looking for the rest),” Cacdac said.
“We are still getting details as to how exactly that happened and the best way to find out is ‘pag nakausap na natin yung lima na-rescue sa panayam (when we have talked with the five who were rescued).”
Cacdac said that initial reports of casualties have surfaced, however, he said that they have yet to verify this information.
He said that the best way to confirm this report is to talk directly with the five rescued crew members, noting that the survivors may provide crucial details on how the vessel sank and how they ended up in the water.
Cacdac said the five rescued seafarers are now safe but did not disclose their location for security reasons.
Meanwhile, Cacdac assured the public that the DMW are already in touch with the families of the Filipino crew members of MV Eternity C, while maintaining close coordination with the shipowner, maritime security firms, and the Philippine defense attachés on the ground.
“With regard to the families, we have engaged them and sinabi ko na rin sa families, pursuant to the directive of the President ay bibigyan sila ng tulong at hindi kami bibitaw hangga’t hindi ganap na naibibigay ang tulong na kailangan nila (I have also told the families that, pursuant to the directive of the President, they will be given assistance and we will not let up until the assistance they need is fully provided),” Cacdac said. (MNS)
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Palace urges Filipinos affected by Texas flooding to seek gov’t help MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) -- Malacañang on Wednesday advised the Filipinos affected by the severe flooding in Kerville and nearby counties in central Texas to seek government assistance.
Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Philippine Consulate General in Houston continues to monitor the situation of Filipinos in the flood-hit US state.
Castro assured the affected Filipinos of the Philippine government’s readiness to extend assistance.
“Kung meron po silang pangangailangan ay tumawag lamang sila at humingi ng tulong sa ating gobyerno. At ang pagtulong po na yan ay hindi ipagkakait sa kanila (If they have any needs, they just call and ask for help from our government. That help will not be denied to them),” Castro said in a Palace press briefing.
“Handa pong tumulong ang gobyerno at ang pamahalaan kung ano po ang pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan doon. At of course, pinagdarasal din po natin ang kalagayan ng mga naapektuhan sa Texas (The government is ready to help to provide the needs of our fellow Filipinos there. And of course, we also pray for the situation of those affected in Texas).”
To date, no Filipinos have been reported adversely affected by the flooding, Castro said, citing the consulate’s statement.
Filipinos in need of assistance may reach the consulate through (346) 256 4522 and pcghouston.atn@gmail.com.
The death toll from the catastrophic floods in central Texas caused by heavy rainfall that began on July 2 has reached 109, according to reports. (MNS)
MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) -- The number of unemployed Filipinos declined in May this year while employment rate rose to more than 90 percent, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said.
In a briefing Tuesday, National Statistician Dennis Mapa said results of the latest Labor Force Survey showed that the country’s labor force participation rate (LFPR) in May 2025 was estimated at 65.8 percent, higher than the estimated LFPR in May 2024 at 64.8 percent and in April 2025 at 63.7 percent.
Persons in the labor force are those aged 15 years and over who are either employed or unemployed.
The reported LFPR in May 2025 translates to a total of 52.32 million Filipinos aged 15 years and over who were in the labor force, the highest recorded number since April 2005.
Mapa said the number of unemployed individuals fell to 2.03 million in May from 2.11 million in May last year, and 2.06 million in April this year.
The unemployment rate was recorded at 3.9 percent, down from its rate in May 2024 and in the previous month, which were both at 4.1 percent.
Compared to other Asian countries, the Philippines’ unemployment rate is lower than that of China (5 percent) and India (5.6 percent).
The employment went up to 96.1 percent from its rate in May 2024 and in April 2025, which were both at 95.9 percent.
In terms of magnitude, the number of employed persons in May 2025 rose to 50.29 million from 48.87 million in May 2024 and 48.67 million in the previous month.
Industries with the largest increase in employment were wholesale and retail trade (+489,000), agriculture and forestry (+469,000), administrative and support service activities (+371,000), accommodation and food service activities (+365,000), and other service activities (+175,000).
The underemployment rate, meanwhile, settled at 13.1 percent, translating to 6.60 million employed individuals
JOBLESS FILIPINOS DECLINE IN MAY
who expressed the desire to have additional hours of work in their present job or to have additional job, or to have a new job with longer hours of work.
In a separate statement, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) said the Marcos administration remains committed to creating high-quality and high-paying jobs for Filipinos.
DEPDev said the highest recorded labor participation rate in May also means that more Filipinos joined the labor force.
“We welcome this development in labor force participation because it indicates a healthy and competitive Philippine labor market. Generally, a larger workforce can lead to increased economic output and potentially higher GDP (gross domestic product) growth, as more people contribute to the economy,” Economy, Planning, and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.
“This also reflects growing confidence in the labor market and the impact of ongoing efforts to expand access to employment opportunities across sectors.”
Balisacan said the government continues to push for critical infrastructure flagship projects that would address gaps and attract job-generating investments.
The government also aims to enhance the efficiency of public spending and allocate limited fiscal resources to high-impact areas, including quality education, healthcare, food security, and connectivity infrastructure.
Balisacan said equipping Filipinos with in-demand skills and competencies would ensure that the country’s workforce remains agile in an increasingly competitive and dynamic labor market.
“We will leverage recently enacted policy reforms to improve upskilling and reskilling initiatives,” he said.
Balisacan said this involve stronger industry partnerships under the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act, as well as the implementation of the Expanded Ter-
tiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) and the passage of the Lifelong Learning Development Framework Bill.
“These initiatives, and more, are outlined in more detail in the Trabaho para sa Bayan Plan, which was recently launched,” he said.
Balisacan said the government is working to create an enabling environment that will attract more Global Capability Centers to the Philippines, in line with the country’s shift toward high-value information technology and business process management (ITBPM) services. To support this, efforts
will focus on strengthening workforce competencies in digitalization and generative artificial intelligence (AI).
The government is also set to release timely guidelines on the Future Workforce in an AI Workplace to help government agencies, industry players, labor groups, academic institutions, and workers integrate AI into their operations while safeguarding jobs through enhanced digital literacy and AI-related skills.
Balisacan said the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 midterm update is scheduled for release this month. (MNS)
Chinese envoy summoned over sanctions on ex-senator Tolentino
MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian to formally express the Philippine government’s concern over Beijing’s decision to sanction former senator Francis Tolentino.
This came after China barred Tolentino from entering its mainland, Hong Kong, and Macau, citing his “egregious conduct on China-related issues”, particularly the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea.
In a Palace briefing on Tuesday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro read a statement signed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, saying the Philippines took exception to China’s move.
“The DFA conveyed to the Chinese side that, while the imposition of such sanctions falls within China’s legal prerogative, the imposition of punitive measures against democratically elected officials for their official acts is inconsistent with the norms of mutual respect and dialogue that underpin relations between two equal sovereign states,” the statement read.
The Philippines, as a democratic country, upholds the principle of free speech and legislative independence, according to the DFA.
“The Department reminded the Ambassador that as a democracy, the Philippines values freedom of expression,” the agency said.
“In the Philippines’ adherence to the constitutional separation of powers among the three branches of government, it is the mandate of senators and other elected officials to inquire on matters of national and public interests.”
The DFA reiterated that the Philippines remains committed to the peaceful resolution of differences through established diplomatic channels.
“The Department remains committed to addressing differences through diplomacy and dialogue, and looks forward to continued constructive engagement with China to promote mutual understanding,” it said.
In a message to reporters, the DFA said the Chinese diplomat was summoned on July 4.
China is asserting its sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, a vast and resource-rich body of water that overlaps with the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries.
A 2016 ruling of an international arbitral tribunal voided Beijing’s sweeping claims as having no basis in international law, a decision China vehemently rejects as it continues its illegal operations in the disputed areas.
Tolentino, whose term as a senator officially ended on June 30, called the sanctions a “badge of honor”.
“No foreign power can silence me or weaken my resolve to uphold our sovereignty,” he said. (MNS)
Daniel Padilla reveals why ‘Incognito’ will be memorable to him
MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) --
With so many fans excited for his return to primetime, actor Daniel Padilla has shared how thankful he is to be cast as one of the lead stars in the hit action series Incognito. He plays the role of former scout ranger-turnedagent Andres Malvar who makes it his life mission to search for his missing brother Jun.
“Siguro natutunan ko kung gaano magmahal ng ganun kalalim sa isang tao katulad ng kapatid ko. Nakita naman natin lahat ng pinagdaanan ni Andres para mahanap niya yung utol niya. At nung nakita na niya, ganun pa yung nangyari di ba? (laughs) Pero still, hindi niya tinalikuran yung kapatid niya. Para sa akin kasi, ganun ang pagmamahal. Ano man yung naging karakter niya o pagkatao niya nung nakita ko siya eh hindi ako nawawalan ng pag-asa na puwede pa magbago. Ganun. Hindi ko kaagad tatalikuran yung mga ganung tao. So siguro, isa yun sa mga natutunan ko. Kasi ang dami kong natutunan talaga. Pero isa yun,” DJ shared during the Incognito: Final Mission finale presscon.
Aside from his good working experience with Incognito director Lester Pimentel, DJ was also noticeably closer to his fellow cast members Ian Veneracion, Richard Gutierrez, Anthony Jennings, Maris Racal, Kaila Estrada, and Baron Geisler.
“Masayang gawin ito eh. Masaya gawin ito kasama itong mga ito. Kasama si direk, yung buong cast at production, yung staff namin. Masyadong masayang gawin dahil hindi siya naging madali. Kaya mas masarap yung tagumpay sa dulo eh. This cast, sobrang minahal ko itong mga taong ito. Sobra, sobra. Gagawin ko ang lahat para sa mga ito. Lahat. Kahit ano kaya ko gawin basta kasama ko itong mga ‘to,” he added.
During the presscon, DJ also shared that it was actually his action scene in the very first episode of Incognito which he considered was the most memorable for him.
“Lahat naman the scenes challenging. Siguro ang pinaka memorable siyempre yung pinakauna at yung huli. Yung first fight ko sa tren memorable sa akin yun dahil yun ang unang sabak ko. Si direk talagang pinarusahan agad
ako dun (laughs). First fight scene ko tapos ilan yung kalaban ko, sampu na (laughs). Siyempre, ang hirap nung choreo. Nakakapagod din. And yung huli kong fight scene, iba rin yun. So yun ang kailangan nilang abangan,” he shared.
The Incognito team shot their finale episodes in the former war-torn town of Marawi in Mindanao.
The Incognito star also shared his appreciation for the loyal fans of the show who have been supportive of them since the start of the series earlier.
“Gusto ko magpasalamat sa lahat ng tao na sumubaybay sa Incognito mula sa simula hanggang ngayon na magtatapos na ang aming show. Maraming, maraming salamat po sa lahat ng pagmamahal din na ipinaramdam niyo rin sa amin saan man kami pumupunta, saan niyo man kami nadadatnan tuwing nag-shu-shoot kami. Ramdam na ramdam namin ang suporta niyo, hindi lang isa sa amin kundi sa lahat sa show namin mismo. Siyempre yun ang kabayaran ng pagod naming lahat, yung ma-appreciate niyo yung mga ginagawa namin. Nababawi ang mga pagod namin at dun kami lalong ginaganahan na pagandahin pa ang aming munting show,” he said. Watch Daniel Padilla as Andres Malvar in the last thrilling episodes of Incognito, weeknights at 8:45 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, TFC, and Kapamilya Online Live (KOL) on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. Advance episodes also available on Netflix and iWantTFC. (MNS)
Anne Curtis admits first-day jitters at launch of her teleserye comeback MANILA, July 3 (Mabuhay) -- After nearly a year of filming, ABS-CBN’s much-anticipated Filipino adaptation of the hit Korean drama “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” headlined by Anne Curtis, Joshua Garcia, and Carlo Aquino is finally ready to premiere,
The star-studded cast, which also includes Agot Isidro, Bobot Mortiz, Xyriel Manabat, Rio Locsin, Enchong Dee, and Francis Magundayao, gathered for the grand press launch where emotions ran high, especially for Curtis, who marks her teleserye comeback through this project.
“To be honest, it took me a while to say yes to this project. As much as we were so excited to do it, I was also so nervous,” Curtis admitted. “Ang tagal ko nang hindi umarte so there were a lot of jitters, especially sa first day. But I was supported by amazing actors and guided by our team captain, Direk Mae [Cruz-Alviar]. Even today, sa pagbati pa lang, kitang-kita na kinakabahan ako. But you know what? I really learned from the story that it’s okay to not be okay.”
Carlo Aquino, who takes on the role of Matmat, a high-functioning individual on the autism spectrum, received high praise for his performance. Aquino shared his preparation process, saying, “Pinag-3-day immersion nila ako sa special school sa may Banawe. Sinamahan ako ni Josh. Pina-observe sa akin mga high-functioning, ‘yung hindi masyado. Tapos after that, pinag-workshop ako kay Ms. Anna Fileo. Sa tulong ni Direk Mae, binuo namin paano gumalaw.”
Veteran actress Rio Locsin was moved by Aquino’s depth and commitment. “Pag mga eksena niya, pinapanood ko talaga, lalo na pag mabibigat. Rehearsal pa lang, bumibigay na siya. Ang husay kasi, hindi nga madali. Pero kayang ibigay paulit-ulit, parang saan nanggagaling yun?”
Joshua Garcia, who plays the male lead Patrick, described his reaction after watching the trailer: “Ako, nakangiti lang ako the whole time. Natutuwa ako kasi nakita na namin yung pinaghirapan namin.”
Curtis echoed the emotional rollercoaster of seeing the finished product.
“The anticipation… we were filming for almost a year. So the moment I hit play, andun ‘yung kaba, ‘yung excitement. It was really a whirlwind of emotions. But when it ended, I was left with a smile.” Aquino chimed in with his own excitement: “Mayabang! Siyempre proud! Gawa namin ‘yun eh, tapos ganoon kaganda!” he said, laughing. “Hindi basta-basta ‘yung napanood natin na trailer. Sobrang ganda. Pinakita ko agad sa misis ko napanood niya na pala! Nagulat ako nun kasi hindi ko alam magda-drop na pala ng full trailer.”
As a localized adaptation, “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” promises a fresh take while retaining the soul of the original Korean series.
“We have added some new characters to make it our own,” Curtis revealed. “It’s a universal story a healing story. It’s a beautiful feeling of love. At the end of the day, every Filipino whether family or friends will be able to relate.”
Enchong Dee, also returning to teleserye after a hiatus, shared his gratitude for being part of the project. “I am very, very lucky to do this show... I always say this to a lot of people I’m so lucky ‘coz I got to see how professional and how brilliant Anne Curtis is. Direk Mae, it’s a reunion also for us, she’s the one who created Kaloy of ‘Magkaribal.’ And it’s always been a dream of mine to work with Joshua and Carlo.”
“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” premieres July 18 on Netflix, July 19 on iWantTFC, and July 21 on Kapamilya Channel, Jeepney TV, and TV5 at 8:45 p.m. (MNS)
Senior couples may be in the winter of their lives, but the heat of the summer could still be lingering inside them, many thinking intimacy is no longer possible. Medical facts of today will hopefully change their archaic mindset. Scientifically speaking, relatively healthy seniors (in spite of their high blood, pressure, diabetes, etc.) could still enjoy a satisfying active sex life, albeit not a s often. It is a matter of mindset, not age, according to a special health report from Harvard Medical School.
To forgo the intimacy in the winter of your journey, especially today, when various aids are available, is to miss the wonderful summer warmth of love and life itself.
Energy drink and cancer
The popularity of energy drinks, especially among young people, is quite alarming. Deaths have been reported following consumption of energy drinks, which contains high dose of caffeine and taurine, an amino acid which researchers has now linked to leukemia, a form of cancer that affects the blood, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center.
The report by The Hill says “research has indicated that taurine, a common ingredient in energy drinks, like Red Bull, can have both beneficial and detrimental effects in the context of cancer. While taurine can enhance the survival and function of immune cells like CD8 T cells, it can also fuel cancer cell growth and promote tumor progression. This dual role is largely dependent on the cancer type, the
SEX AMONG SENIORS
specific cellular context, and the levels of taurine available.”
Cardiologist suicide Suicide among cardiologists in the United States is alarming. One in 6 cardiologists had suicidal ideation, the highest rate (17 percent) among all specialties, among ages 65-69. Among cardiologists, 14 percent had suicidal thoughts and 2 percent had attempted to kill themselves. Sixty two percent of them were males and 36 percent females. Factors cited were stress from medical practice and corporate employer pressure to produce more profits by seeing more patients, in an understaffed situation, basically over worked, fatigue, and burnt-out.
Physicians are basically “ordered” to see more patients daily, beyond what is good care. Today’s corporate practice of medicine is mainly focused on financial profits and sacrifices quality of care.
Marijuana Warning
A study on the devastating effect of cannabis (marijuana) use on the cardiovascular system and the mechanism involved reveals “associations with oxidative stress, tissue injury, cell death. It’s also proatherogenic (induces hardening of the arteries), profibrotic (scar-forming), and pro-inflammatory. And it results in this vasodilation/vasoconstriction in the sympathetic nervous system that could also put additional stress on the cardiovascular system.” It is mind-boggling why our legislators would even approve recreational marijuana. While its medical use is scientifically justified, adding cannabis to
Benito J. Aquino, CFEA
Former IRS Agent Richmond, VA and Las Vegas, NV Districts
Adjunct professor, UNLV Accounting Dept. and Old Dominion University
the damaging substances we already have (tobacco, alcohol, etc.) for recreational purposes is insanity. The only thing this “recreates” are addiction, illnesses, misery, and death, especially for our youth.
TAVR: Lifesaver
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) or Implantation (TAVI), conceptualized by HR Anderson (Danish) in the 1980s, was first performed on human patients by French cardiologist Alain Cribier, MD, FACC, in Rouen, France on April 16, 2002.
I have given lectures on TAVR in Manila, Cebu, and in various cities in the United States. I entitled my talk “TAVR: Hope for the Otherwise Hopeless.”
Patients with severe heart valve disease, heart failure, and other co-morbidities are usually rejected because of a very high unacceptable mortality rate. This unfortunate situation was like a death sentence because they won’t last 3-6 months without effective treatment.
With TAVR, which is a minimally invasive procedure using a percutaneous - skin puncture in the groin (femoral) artery – to insert a catheter to replace the diseased valve, instead of a major chest-cracking surgery, the patients are able to tolerate the procedure better and are discharged in a day or two. TAVR or TAVI are indeed a lifesaver. The procedure is now extended to other diseased heart valves and rapidly being used to replace heart valve surgery in many cases around the world.
The report from the recent DapaTAVI trial presented in Chicago revealed that “ for older patients at high risk for a heart failure event who are scheduled for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), dapagliflozin, a sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, reduces the risk for death and heart failure events by almost 30%.” An added boon for TAVR.
Flavan-3-ols and BP
High blood pressure, a deadly con-
tributing factor, kills at least 43,000 people in the United States every year. It is also a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
A new meta-study, which includes 145 randomized controlled researches, suggests that the “flavan-3-ols, which are a type of plant-derived compound found in cocoa, dark chocolates, tea, apples, and grapes, may be useful in managing high blood pressure.”– European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. Exercise and Alzheimer’s
There are an estimated 7.2 million Americans who have Alzheimer’s and about 55 million people around the world. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer.
Exercise helps prevents dementia, including Alzheimer’s. Studies now reveals how it helps: regular “exercise transforms two critical cell types in the brain, microglia and neurovascular astrocytes (NVA), cells that help maintain the brains blood supply and form part of the protective blood-brain barrier.”
Exercise reduces the risk for the development of diseases, including metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer.
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, distinguished educators, scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
Dingdong Dantes tapped as ambassador for ‘Panatag Pilipinas’ disaster
risk communication campaign
MANILA, July 7 (Mabuhay) -- Dingdong Dantes will serve as ambassador for the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)’s new campaign, “Panatag Pilipinas,” which is aimed at expanding the knowledge of Filipinos in responding to calamities and disasters.
The Philippines’ geographic location in the Pacific Ring of Fire makes the country particularly susceptible to various natural calamities.
To enhance public action and preparedness for these events, the OCD initiated the Risk Communication Advocacy campaign.
Initially available on online platforms, the “Panatag Pilipinas” campaign is expanding its reach significantly and will now be screened in cinemas and public spaces such as transport terminals.
“These are very important venues where we can exchange or show itong ating mga mensahe,” OCD Asec. Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV said.
“I appreciate the fact that it is now a multimedia campaign. One of the goals is also to make it accessible, to make it, of course, relatable and not intimidating,” Dingdong said.
During the program launch, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum stressed the critical role of science in hands-on disaster preparedness.
“It is with your action that makes science more powerful and practical. The greatest strength lies in knowing when and how to utilize these tools effectively,” he said.
The Department of National Defense (DND) also stressed the importance of making actions during disasters a muscle memory for safety.
“Our message remains clear and powerful: Alam ng Pinoy ang dapat gawin para maging ligtas sa panahon ng sakuna. These efforts must not only happen during times of disaster, they must begin before disaster strikes,” DND USec. Irineo Espino said. (MNS)
Sharon Cuneta proud of daughter Frankie Pangilinan’s acting in ‘EdJop’
MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) -- The Philippines’ Megastar, Sharon Cuneta, expressed how proud she is of her daughter, Frankie Pangilinan, who starred in her first-ever film, EdJop. A fundraising preview was held for the film earlier this month where the award-winning actress was able to see her daughter’s debut performance in a film.
Frankie plays the role of the young Joy Jopson–– the wife of the lead character Edgar ‘EdJop’ Jopson (portrayed by Elijah Canlas).
In a quick interview that Sharon shared on her Instagram account, she expressed how emotional she became after watching the film as it had an effect on her. She gave her praises to the lead stars of the film, Elijah and Jodi Sta. Maria for doing their best as well.
“I’m a Jodi fan and now, Elijah [as well]. You kinda know what to expect because you know the story, the history. When I came, I sat, and I watched, it still hit me when I didn’t expect it to hit so it has such an effect on me that I cried,” she shared.
In her caption, the Megastar shared how Frankie did a good job and “inherited” her acting prowess to the long list of actresses in their family tree–– from Sharon to Helen Gambao to Ciara Sotto and to her sister KC Concepcion.
Frankie was able to join the cast while she was on vacation in Manila during her college years as she studied in New York at the time of filming.
“My Kakie’s @frankiepangilinan first-ever movie which she filmed during vacations from college!!! She did very well in it and I am so so so so proud of her,” Sharon wrote. Friends and fans of the actress shared in the comment section how proud they are seeing Frankie getting into acting. Other netizens added how excited they are as well to watch the film to see the Megastar’s daughter in action.
EdJop features the life of Edgar Jopson, a Filipino activist who was killed in 1982 at the height of Martial Law. Apart from Frankie, Jodi, and Elijah, the film also stars award-winning actor Cedric Juan. (MNS)
Ria Atayde marks a decade in showbiz, reflects on career, marriage, and motherhood
MANILA, June 28 (Mabuhay) -- Actress Ria Atayde-Marudo is celebrating a decade in the entertainment industry, reflecting on her journey from her debut in 2015’s “Ningning” to embracing her new roles as a wife and first-time mom.
Ria reminisced about the culture shock she experienced during her early acting days, despite being raised in a showbiz family. Her first day on set was made even more emotional by the presence of her mother, veteran actress Sylvia Sanchez, and other family members who were there to cheer her on.
“My mom was on set and then she brought other people on set—my grandmother, and then like her friends were there too. They cried agad on my first day,” she recalled.
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in showbiz, Ria emphasized that she never felt pressured to follow in their footsteps.
“Our moms never forced us to do anything we didn’t want. And it’s the other way around. They just supported whatever we wanted to do,” she explained, adding that her aim has always been to prove her worth through her own efforts, not just her family name.
Looking back on her ten-year career, Ria discussed her commitment to body positivity and self-love, which has been influenced by her own struggles with body image in such a demanding industry.
With her younger sister Jela now embarking on her own journey in showbiz, Ria expressed her desire to protect her from the pressures she once faced.
“I wish I could protect her from the harsh realities of her industry as well. Because you know along with it comes the tendency for you to become insecure,” she said.
Now a wife to fellow actor Zanjoe Marudo and a new mom, Ria opened up about the joys and challenges that come with both roles. For her, there’s a lot of fun being married and she really enjoys and loves the idea of waking up every single day next to her “best friend” as she called it.
When it comes to motherhood, she reflected, “Now I always used to be a little bit FOMO… I’m perfectly fine at home with my baby… I feel like you don’t realize how much more you have to give until you have a child. And it just keeps you growing and growing and growing.”
She spoke honestly about the hurdles of new motherhood—from sleepless nights to the body image pressures that social media can amplify. However, feeding her child is way more important than what other people who don’t matter think.
Her biggest fear as a mom aside from losing a child, she admitted, is the thought of causing emotional harm to her child. “I’d like for him to grow up without heaviness, if that’s possible,” she said.
She also believes that the first seven years of a child is the most crucial part of it, making her think that coming back to work is not yet really her priority as of the moment.
“I feel like that’s why it’s okay for me not to go back muna to work for as long as I can or as possible. Because the first 7 years are gonna be [crucial]. And I don’t want him to grow up with hang ups or like any emotional weight or baggage,” she said.
When asked for advice for young actors and moms, Ria kept it straightforward saying, “Keep an open mind. Like that’s such a vague piece of advice. But I think that this is the time that you have to learn that everything is beyond your control.”(MNS)
MUSIC AND ITS PROFOUND MOMENTS
Filipinos have an enduring love affair with music. It is deeply ingrained in our culture and daily life, expressed most joyfully through karaoke — a national pastime in the Philippines. Whether in homes, street corners, or beachside resorts, you’ll find families and friends gathered around a karaoke machine, singing their hearts out. Remarkably, many Filipinos are naturally gifted vocalists, often impressing the world with their vocal prowess. Music brings out our confidence and sense of community — we cheer each other on, laugh through off-key notes, and celebrate the power its power. This deep musical appreciation is evident even when Filipinos attend concerts abroad, engaging emotionally and wholeheartedly with the performances. Music isn’t just entertainment for us — it’s a vital part of who we are. I attended three concerts of renowned international musical artists and sensations in the past few months:
JOSH GROBAN’S GEMS
Live at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace on May 14, 2025, it was an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. The grandeur of the venue matched the magnificence of Groban’s voice. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, there was an air of elegance and emotional intensity. His repertoire for the evening took the audience on a sentimental journey — especially when he sang “Believe,” the theme from The Polar Express, evoking a childlike wonder and sense of hope. “You Raise Me Up” brought a wave of heartfelt emotion, with many in the audience visibly moved. Groban’s rendition of “To Where You Are” was deeply poignant and resonated with the audience. . His strong yet soothing voice brought back memories, stirred feelings, and created a shared experience of beauty and nostalgia. We listened with reverence and appreciation, fully immersed in the magic of the performance. It reminded us just how powerfully music can touch the soul.
AND
At 90 years old, Herb Alpert proved that age is no barrier to musical brilliance. Performing with his legendary Tijuana Brass at the Encore Theater, Alpert charmed his fans with his iconic trumpet and enduring charisma. The venue was packed with longtime admirers, all excited to relive the magic of his classic tunes. He played beloved hits like “A Taste of Honey” from his Whipped Cream album, “Love Potion #9,” and “The Lonely Bull,” stirring both nostalgia and joy. Alpert’s artistry was both technically masterful and emotionally uplifting. A particularly touching moment came when he sang “This Guy’s in Love With You,” a tender piece written by Burt Bacharach. The energy elevated when his wife, Lani Hall, joined him on stage. Her spirited performance of “O Pato” brought a vibrant Brazilian rhythm that had the audience clapping and swaying. It was a wonderful celebration of timeless music, love, and artistry.
Peter Frampton gave an intimate yet powerful performance at the Pearl Theater in the Palms Hotel and Casino on June 29, 2025. Despite being seated for much of the concert, Frampton captivated the audience with his masterful guitar work and heartfelt vocals. Switching between several guitars, he showcased his enduring talent and deep connection to music. His rendition of “Baby, I Love Your Way” instantly transported listeners to the 1970s, creating a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
“Do You Feel Like I Do” was a crowd favorite, especially with his signature talk box effects that brought cheers and applause. He also played “Shine On,” a soulful tribute to his late father that added an emotional depth to the night. Frampton’s performance was both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. For the audience, the show was another reminder of music’s ability to stir the heart and connect people across generations and cultures. Considered a universal language, music truly brings people together as a form of social cohesion, helps reminisce our past, and reminds us that life has its profound moments. Music remains an essential part of our spirit — expressive, passionate, and forever alive.
Award-winning Author / Journalist
Carlos Palanca Awardee & Professional Host/Emcee
Author website: www.marylaineviernes.com
Celebrating the 2025 Outstanding Men & Fathers with America Awards Nevada
An
Expressing gratitude to Awards America Nevada and Doc Mike Sta Juana for letting me serve as master of ceremonies for their prestigious annual events, most recently the recognition for the great men in our lives! We had the Honorable Judge Bill Henderson as keynote speaker who had his family to support him; my daughter’s godmother May-Ann and their kids Evelyn & Ralph Lee. What an inspiring day it was and reminder of the strength that our fathers, partners, husbands, brothers and sons bring us! Mabuhay po!
evening with Kris Lawrence and Nina
Congratulations to the MARIA DEL MAR SOCIETY Grand Raffle Draw...
was jampacked as NINA remains among the most beloved musical artists with soulful, sultry songs that complemented her impeccable, crystalline voice.
Congratulations to Linked Helpers as they celebrated the successful Fifth Annual CEO & Entrepreneurs Conference!
Hearty Congratulations the brilliant mind and indefatigable force behind LINKED HELPERS, Dov Schwartz, Chief Executive Officer and my dearest friend and a woman I admire, Janine Valentin, Founder and Business Strategist. They are a Las Vegas-based business solutions firm devoted to elevating entrepreneurs, professionals, and executives by linking them with elite global executive assistants. They have been making waves and dominating in their niche because it is not just about assistance but also unleashing ideas and untapped potential, understanding that Time is our canvas, where innovation, strategy, and game-changing choices await. This year was bigger and better for they feature the best and most respected names in the game such as CRAIG PECK, EVP of Acrobat Branding Group, Raymond Wilson, the SVF and CFO of Silver State Schools Credit Union, Brett Gordon, Founder of Force Multiplier & phenomenal business leader, Ami Hadad. I am thankful for the chance to serve as your master of ceremonies! To those who want to gain from the outstanding, world-class services of LINKED HELPERS, and Free up your time and get more done, visit their official website: www.linkedhelpers.com today!
The Maria Del Mar Society, a non-profit organization held a charity raffle last June 21, 2025 and the lucky winners are the following: Ardent Home health for the 500 dollar third prize, Kat Eig for the 1,000 USD 2nd prize and Wound Care on Wheels who won the 2,000 grand prize and donated it back, WOW!!! Consolation prize winners of $100 each were Angela Wilson (c/o Gigi), Jackie De Joya (c/o Doc Mike SJ), Gus David, Valley Home Health and Reliant / Victor. Thanks to all who bought tickets. Proceeds will fund various charitable works of the organization. Attendees enjoyed delicious food and delightful entertainment with live music and the FIL AM Dance Group. Thank you so much for your support! “For together we will be stronger and stronger that we are we can together make this world a better place one recipient at a time.” - Dr. Maria Tessie Beduya- Princer
