Manila Standard - 2023 April 23 - Sunday

MORNING OF EID. Filipino Muslims gather at the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta Park to pray in unison the Salat-Al-Eid, a prayer intended for the celebration of Eid’l Fitr, ending Islam’s holy month of Ramadan on Saturday.

Danny Pata

VP Sara, Speaker wish harmony, unity, success for Muslims on Eid’l Fitr

IN HER message for Eid’l Fitr on Saturday, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio asked for prayers for “harmony, unity, and success for each one.”

“As we celebrate with our family, friends, and communities, let our hearts be filled with joy knowing that love, kindness, respect, faithfulness, and peace reign supreme in our hearts and in our lives,” Duterte said in a statement.

Also, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Saturday joined Filipino Muslims in celebrating Eid’l Fitr, saying respect for each other despite diverse religious beliefs is a potent force towards nationbuilding.

“Let us continue to pray for harmony, unity, and success for each one as we strive to grow deeper in our faith and service to others,” the Vice President said.

Duterte-Carpio hoped that the words and actions of everyone speak only of the “good and may our character reflect the ideals that Allah wants us to live out each day.”

On Friday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. encouraged the Muslim community to embody the values they learned during the month-long celebration of Ramadan.

“We extend our warmest greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters as we join them in celebrating Eid’l Fitr marking the end of Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic faith,” Romualdez said in a statement.

“May you and your families be blessed with good health, happiness, and prosperity. May peace reign over your hearts and your households and may the blessings of life be upon you and your loved ones.”

www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

The House of Representatives leader pointed out that recognition and respect for the diversity in our religious beliefs are deeply enshrined in our Constitution. Maricel V. Cruz

are deeply enshrined in our Constitution.

PH, China set more talk lines

PBBM to envoy: Taiwan, WPS statements ‘might be misinterpreted’

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said some of the pronouncements that have been made recently on various issues by the Philippines and China “and many other countries might be misinterpreted” as he welcomed visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Saturday.

Earlier in the day, the Philippines’ top diplomat expressed his concern to Qin over escalating tensions in waters around Taiwan, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

“As to the conflicts, we agreed to establish more lines of communications so that any event that occurs in the West Philippine Sea that involves China and the Philippines can immediately be resolved,” Mr. Marcos added in a statement from the Presidential Communications Office last night.

“So, we are currently working on that and are awaiting the Chinese response and we are confident that these issues would be worked out that would be mutually beneficial for both our nations,” the President added.

Mr. Marcos said it was “really useful” that he was able to speak to Qin “so we can talk directly to one another and iron things out,” adding the meeting was “very useful, very productive.”

“We were able to talk things a little bit through, make plans for the future, continue to work on growing the relationship between the Philippines and China, not only in the economic field but in the cultural and educational and other exchanges,” the President said.

Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo met Qin as the two countries seek to deepen economic ties while also managing their bitter dispute over islands in the strategic South China Sea, the DFA said in a statement after the talks.

“Secretary Manalo reaffirmed the Philippines’ adherence to the One China Policy, while at the same time expressing concern over the escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait,” DFA said.

n By MARICEL V. CRUZ

THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is expected to come up with an El Niño Alert starting next month as the likelihood of the weather phenomenon lasting from June until the first quarter of 2024 has increased.

This developed as the National Water Resources Board on Saturday told the public to begin conserving water and use it correctly amid El Niño, which is characterized by below-normal rainfall that can lead to dry spells and drought.

Meanwhile, water service interruptions will be experienced in several parts of Caloocan and Quezon City from April 24 to May 1 due to network maintenance, the

Maynilad Water Services, Inc. announced on Saturday.

“We are expecting by next month, May, we will raise the El Niño ‘Watch’ status to ‘Alert’ status,” said PAGASA Climate Impact Assessment and Application Section Climatology and Agrometeorology Division chief Marcelino Villafuerte at a news forum.

Villafuerte said an El Niño Alert status

Marcos on Earth Day: Let’s fight climate change

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged the public to participate in the global action against climate change in celebration of International Mother Earth Day.

“Our administration remains fully supportive of environmental programsand policies,” he said, noting these were in the Climate Change Commission PH Facebook account. The Department of Budget and

Management on Saturday also called on fellow government agencies to intensify climate change planning and programming, as the world observes Earth Day.

Meanwhile, the Climate Change Commission said that by “investing in our planet, we can take concrete steps toward mitigating the effects of climate change. This includes implementing sustainable practices, reducing our carbon footprint

and promoting conservation efforts.”

The social arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines(CBCP) also joined the call for the government to declare a climate emergency.

According to Fr. Antonio Labiao, Caritas Philippines executive secretary, they call on the government to take action on how to address the effects of climate change. Vince Lopez

Magnate Oscar Lopez passes away, 93

OSCAR Moreno Lopez, the patriarch of the Lopez clan that owns media giant ABS-CBN, has passed away at the age of 93.

Lopez was chairman emeritus, chairman and chief executive officer of Lopez Holdings Corporation and First Philippine Holdings Corporation, which he headed for almost 25 years before stepping down in 2010 to serve as its chairman emeritus. He also served as a director of ABS-

CBN Corporation which is part of the Lopez Group, and served as chairman of the Lopez Group Foundation, and was chairman and president of the Eugenio Lopez Foundation, which administers the Lopez Museum and Library. He is survived by eight children, including Federico “Piki” Lopez, the chairman and CEO of First Philippine Holdings, and several grandchildren.

WELCOME TO

MANILA. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomes Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang to Malacanan Palace on Saturday after the envoy met his Philippine counterpart, Enrique Manalo, who expressed Manila’s concern over tensions in the Taiwan Strait. PPA, DFA photos

The differences over the South China Sea should not prevent Manila and Beijing from seeking ways to manage the maritime rows Manalo added after meeting his Chinese counterpart at the Diamond Hotel

in Manila.

“Our leaders have agreed that our differences in the West Philippine Sea are not the sum (or) total of our relations,” Manalo said. AFP

PAGASA set to raise El Nino alert in May; save water, NWRB warns

meant there was a 70 percent chance that the dry spell phenomenon would occur within the next two months.

“When it’s already the onset of El Niño we call it ‘Advisory,” he said.

PAGASA earlier said that from a 55-percent probability, the chances for an El Niño between June and August have increased to 80 percent.

The probability of El Niño between

November and January 2024 also rose to about 87 percent. The weather bureau has said El Niño’s possible impacts in some areas of the country are drought or dry spell, but this will be felt towards the last quarter.

Villafuerte in the news forum maintained that “by July, August, and September, there is an 80 percent chance that El Niño will happen.”

Kin: Ex-DFA head del Rosario died of massive heart attack

THE late former Foreign Affairs Secretary

Albert del Rosario suffered a “massive heart attack” during a flight to San Francisco, his family confirmed Saturday as his remains arrived in Manila last night.

In a statement signed by his daughter Dr. Inge V. del Rosario, the former ambassador to the United States was en route to the US with his wife Gretchen and son-in-law on Tuesday when he “breathed his last,” as his family released more details of his passing.“

It was determined that the causes of death were cardiac insufficiency, congestive heart failure, and cardiomyopathy. He had suffered a massive heart attack. He died in the arms of his wife,” the family revealed.

“While there were valiant attempts to resuscitate him by two doctors who were passengers on the same flight, these efforts were to no avail.”

The wake will be open to the public

Albert del Rosario today (Sunday) and Monday at the Chapels of the Santuario de San Antonio in Makati, according to his family. “We ask the Filipino people to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul and for consolation in our time of grief. We are grateful for the outpouring of support for the family,” they said.

MANILA

Oscar Lopez

DICT likely to extend SIM list-up for 120 more days

AN EXTENSION of the SIM Card registration period loomed very likely as more than 40 percent of cell phone users in the country still have to comply with the list-up with only four days left in the original time frame set by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

April 26 SIM registration deadline despite calls from telcos to give their respective customers more time to register.

MIAA discloses changes in airline stations at NAIA

n By JOEL E. ZURBANO

THE Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has announced that flights of Jeju Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Thai Airways and Gulf Air will start at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on June

This is part of the MIAA’s Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalization (STAR) program to optimize the capacity of the four NAIA terminals.

The Philippine Airlines, on the other hand, will begin operating all its international flights in Terminal 1 come June 16.

Jetstar Asia, Jetstar Japan, China Southern Airlines, Scoot, and Starlux Airlines were reassigned last April 16 from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3, while PAL flights to and from Singapore, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and Phnom Penh were transferred to Terminal 1 on the same day.

“We are satisfied with how well these carriers transitioned. This is a result of our months of coordination with the airlines and ground handlers,” MIAA general manager Cesar Chiong said, adding that only two percent of the passengers were misrouted—28 in Terminal 1 and 43 in Terminal 2—while none were offloaded as a result of the changes.

To avoid problems about passengers going to the wrong terminals, the MIAA deployed free shuttles in Terminals 1 and 2.

The ground handlers, on the other hand, ensured presence of their personnel at the departure gates to assist the passengers.

“Sa Lunes, magkakaroon kami ng pagpupulong upang makuha ang mga statistics kung ilan na ang nakapagparehistro… Matingnan kung ano ang talaga ‘yung mga problema. Bakit may ilan na hindi pa rin nakakapagparehistro?” Uy said.

“Kahit mag-extend tayo, kung hindi natin ma-identify ‘yung gap… Hindi magiging effective ‘yung extension… Dapat pag-aralang mabuti, tingnan ang problema,” he said.

The DICT chief hinted at making adjustments in the registration rules to make it easier for the SIM card holders to register.

As of April 20, 2023, a total of 76,927,923 subscribers have registered their SIMs, equivalent to about 45 percent of the 168 million subscribers nationwide.

DSWD’s AICS processing back at main office

n By MARICEL V. CRUZ

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has said it was not looking at 100 percent registration.

Uy also said the telcos asserted that a huge portion of the 168 million subscribers were using “disposable” SIMs which were used temporarily.

“Ang actual estimate nila ay close to 100 million ‘yung active SIMs… Kung ‘yan ang pagbabasehan, we have about 78 million to 79 million registered SIMS. We are hitting almost 80 percent registered,” he said. He reiterated that the agency and the telcos would look at the “bigger concern” such as the lack of identification cards of the SIM card holders and poor connectivity in some areas.

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has announced that starting April 24, the Step 1 processing of its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program will be back at the agency’s main office in Batasan Hills, Quezon City.

Step 1 includes the initial screening of documentary requirements and provision of schedule to the clients for further assessment.

Currently, the process is being done at the QC-X Building of the Quezon Memorial Circle.

In a statement, the DSWD said receiving of clients at the DSWD Central Office beginning April 24 will be from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays to Fridays.

The DSWD Central advises the AICS beneficiaries to ensure that there documents are complete and up-to-date.

It can be recalled that on March 13, 2023, the DSWD Central Office set up a temporary site at the Quezon Memorial Circle while renovations were being done at the processing area.

“The renovations will provide a more conducive and safe environment for clients requesting for medical, hospitalization, burial, and transportation assistance among others,” the DSWD said.

AICS serves as a social safety net or a stop-gap mechanism to support the recovery of individuals and families from unexpected crises such as illness or death of a family member, natural and man-made disasters, and other crisis situations.

Beneficiaries of this program can avail of multiple assistance depending on their needs and assessment of the social worker, the DSWD said.

GOODNESS, GRACIOUS, GREAT BALL OF FIRE. A huge fire ball develops as US soldiers detonate an anti-personnel explosive device as part of the ongoing the United States-Philippines ‘Balikatan’ joint military exercise at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. Jam Sta. Rosa/AFP

Bill aims to curb single-use plastic products

A LEGISLATOR from Mindanao on Saturday appealed to Congress to prioritize the enactment of a measure that aims to regulate the manufacture, sale, use and importation of single-use plastics products. Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte filed House Bill (HB) 507 which he said is in keeping with his advocacy of “building a greener and more sustainable economy for the country’s future generations.”

The bill provides that regulating non-compostable single-use plastics also cover the distribution, recovery, collection, recycling and disposal of these products.

EARTH DAY AFFAIR.

Manila Water Inc. and its partners in the public and private sectors gather at the La Mesa Nature Reserve in Quezon City for their second “Lakbay Kalikasan: Hike and Bike for Nature” in observance of Earth Day on Saturday. More than 120 hikers and bikers joined the event to manifest their concerns for environmental protection.

Manny Palmero

The bill was co-authored by Benguet Rep. Eric Yap, Quezon City Rep. Ralph Tulfo and ACT-CIS party-list Reps. Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo.

“I urge my colleagues in Congress to act on this bill and similar other pending measures so that we can finally phase out single-use plastic products, which remain among the most pervasive kind of waste that pollute our land, choke our oceans and bring harm to our precious marine resources,” Duterte said.

Duterte pointed out that in Davao City, an ordinance banning single-use plastics,

Explorers find wreck of WWII ship off Luzon

and regulating their sale and distribution, has been in place since 2021. His congressional district office in Davao City also earlier launched the “Save the Earth--No To Plastics Bags” Movement.

While the House of Representatives had already approved on third and final reading a bill that would impose a P100 excise tax on every kilogram of single-use plastic bags, a measure regulating the eventual phase-out of these and other similar products, along with the proper way of recycling and disposing them has yet to be enacted, Duterte said. Maricel V. Cruz

MMDA opens to public newly built park in Brgy. Pinagsama, Taguig City

THE Taguig Eco Park is now open to the public as part of the Adopt-A-Park project of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes and Taguig City Mayor Laarni Cayetano inaugurated the Taguig Eco Park located in Barangay Pinagsama.

According to Artes, this is the 14th such facility opened by the agency in the National Capital Region. He said the MMDA will continue to contact local governments to identify open spaces that can be developed as recreational parks.

Mayor Cayetano thanked the MMDA for choosing Taguig as one of the beneficiaries of the Adopt-A-Park project.

P29.9-m youth facility breaks ground in Angeles City

n By BUTCH GUNIO

ANGELES City—A P29.9-million center for child care, rehabilitation and reformation center designed to be a one-stop shop for youth custody will soon rise in this city.

Mayor Carmelo Lazatin will lead the groundbreaking ceremony set on May 3 in Barangay Sta. Teresita for the upcoming facility dubbed “Kanlungan ng Kabataan.”

“Kanlungan ng Kabataan” will also house wards of the Bahay Pag-asa, and Sagip Batang Solvent for eventual reformation and restoration to the mainstream of society. The project will consist of four build-

ings to accommodate a training center, a classroom for the alternative learning system, a recreation area, mess halls, and dormitories.

Alongside the Kanlungan ng Kabataan is the home-for-the-aged facility of the city government.

The city will also establish a drop-in center for rescued street families and children.

Part of Lazatin’s inauguration speech last 2022 is the establishment of Kanlungan ng Kabataan which will accommodate and transform “Batang Solvent” to productive citizens.

“Our fight against illegal dangerous drugs, which includes solvent, will remain

relentless,” Lazatin has said.

According to the mayor’s chief adviser IC Calaguas, this project was first conceptualized in 2019 but delayed due to the pandemic.

“We will tap the help of the Department of Education for the alternative learning system (ALS), TESDA for the training, and of course we will have an in-house licensed therapist for the mental well-being of children,” Calaguas said. “Once in the city’s custody, children will go to school thru ALS, they will be taught skills and undergo counselling so we can reintegrate back to the community,” Calaguas said.

Conceptualized in 2021, the Adopt-APark project aims to develop under-utilized parks in each of the Metro Manila local government units by improving their usability and transforming them into functional green parks.

The project was the brainchild of former MMDA chairman and now Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr.

Under the project, the local government unit shall propose the location, design, and cost estimate, while the MMDA sets the criteria for site selection, provides funding, and implements the construction of the project.

Joel E. Zurbano

SYDNEY, Australia -- Deep-sea explorers said on Saturday they had located the wreckage of a World War II Japanese transport ship, the Montevideo Maru, which was torpedoed off the Philippines, killing more than 1,000 prisoners of war (POWs) on board, most of them Australian soldiers.

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The ship -- sunk on July 1, 1942, by a US submarine unaware it was carrying POWs -- was found at a depth of more than four kilometers (2.5 miles), said the maritime archaeology group Silentworld Foundation, which organized the mission with the Dutch deep-sea survey firm Fugro.

The sinking of the Montevideo Maru was Australia’s worst-ever maritime disaster, killing an estimated 979 Australian citizens, including at least 850 troopers.

After five years of planning, explorers began searching for the wreck on April 6 in the South China Sea, northwest of the Philippines’ main island of Luzon.

They made a positive sighting just 12 days later using high-tech equipment, including an autonomous underwater vehicle equipped with sonar.

Civilians from 13 other countries were also aboard, the foundation said, bringing the total number of prisoners killed to about 1,060.

They had been captured a few months earlier by Japanese forces in the fall of the coastal township of Rabaul in Papua New Guinea.

“At long last, the resting place of the lost souls of the Montevideo Maru has been found,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

“Among the 1,060 prisoners on board were 850 Australian service members –- their lives cut short,” he said on social media.

“We hope today’s news brings a measure of comfort to loved ones who have kept a long vigil.” AFP

EL NIÑO PRESSER. Dr. Sevillo David Jr. executive director of the National Water Resources Board discusses measures to cushion the impact of the anticipated El Niño phenomenon during a news forum in Quezon Cit., with Manila Standard columnist Butch Hilario as moderator. Robert Gines

Vowing support, allies believe Ukraine can retake more land

THE United States and NATO said Friday they were confident Ukraine could regain ground in a much-anticipated counter-offensive, as they vowed unwavering support for Kyiv at a key meeting in Germany.

At the talks hosted by the United States, representatives from around 50 nations went “through all the different capabilities, systems, supplies that the Ukrainians need”, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said.

“I’m confident that they will now be in a position to be able to liberate even more land,” the NATO chief said. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, who hosted the Ramstein talks, also assessed that efforts by allies to bolster Kyiv “will put Ukraine’s forces in a position to continue to succeed on the battlefield”.

Japan’s military on alert, fearing Nokor

missile

TOKYO—Japan ordered its military Saturday to prepare to shoot down a North Korean ballistic missile after Pyongyang said this week it was ready to launch its first military spy satellite.

Placing the satellite into orbit would require a long-range projectile, which North Korea is banned from launching because the United Nations views such exercises as tests of ballistic missile technology.

On Saturday Japanese minister Yasukazu Hamada told the country’s Self-Defense Forces “there is a possibility of ordering destructive measures against ballistic missiles and others”, according to a statement from the ministry of defense.

Hamada instructed troops to “implement measures necessary to limit damage in the event of a ballistic missile falling”.

He ordered preparations for the deployment of destroyers equipped with SM-3 missile interceptors, as well as military units in the southern prefecture of Okinawa that can operate Patriot PAC-3 missiles.

In 2012 and 2016, North Korea tested ballistic missiles that Pyongyang called satellite launches. Both missiles flew over the Okinawa region.

Japanese media reported Saturday that the defense ministry issued the same preparation orders in 2012.

Pyongyang has not provided a launch date, with leader Kim Jong Un only saying the satellite will be sent up “at the planned date”.

On Tuesday G7 foreign ministers meeting in Japan demanded North Korea refrain from any further ballistic missile tests following a spate of launches this year.

The group of rich nations also warned Pyongyang against carrying out an expected nuclear weapons test and said there would be a “robust” response if it did not comply.

A week ago Pyongyang said it had successfully tested a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, hailing it as a breakthrough for the country’s nuclear counterattack capabilities. AFP

Fighting in Sudan enters 2nd week as truce breaks

KHARTOUM—Fighting in Sudan’s capital entered a second week Saturday as crackling gunfire shattered a temporary truce, the latest battles between forces of rival generals that have already left hundreds dead and thousands wounded. Overnight, the heavy explosions that had previously rocked the city in recent days had subsided, but on Saturday morning, bursts of gunfire resumed.

Heavy gunfire, loud explosions, and fighter jets roared in many parts of the capital by Saturday morning, according to witnesses.

Violence broke out on April 15 between forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The former allies seized power in a 2021 coup but later fell out in a bitter power struggle.

The army announced Friday that it had “agreed to a ceasefire for three days” for the Eid al-Fitr holiday that marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had called for a day earlier.

Daglo said in a statement he had “discussed the current crisis” with Guterres, and was “focused on the humanitarian truce, safe passages, and protecting humanitarian workers”. AFP

INBRIEF

Twitter drops media tags in latest changes

Moscow reacted with anger to the latest gathering in Ramstein, with the Russian foreign ministry saying the allies’ action for Ukraine “confirms their direct involvement in the conflict and participation in the planning of military operations”.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also accused NATO of trying to “absorb and drag Ukraine into the alliance”, showing Russia was right to “launch this operation” to ensure its security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had urged Western allies to send more fighter jets and long-range missiles to help repel Russian troops, making his case directly to Stoltenberg who visited Kyiv on Thursday.

Allies have so far stopped short of sending Western-made fighter jets to Ukraine, focusing on protecting Ukraine from incoming Russian rocket attacks with anti-air missiles.

Top US general Mark Milley underlined that militarily speaking, the most “cost effective, efficient” way to control the airspace at the moment is through air defense rather than fighter jets.

Modern fighter jets were still on Kyiv’s “wish list”, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov insisted after the talks.

“I am sure that we will have modern, NATO-standard... fighter jets as a part of air defense systems,” Reznikov said, acknowledging that it would take time. Battle continues

Other points of emphasis for the talks included supplying Ukraine with desperately needed ammunition and maintenance for equipment already deployed.

“This is now a battle of attrition, and a battle of attrition becomes a war of logistics,” Stoltenberg said, adding, “maybe it’s also a bit more boring but the logistics is extremely important”.

Earlier in the week, Kyiv confirmed it had received the first shipment of Patriots, seen as one of the most advanced US air defence systems.

The United States is also sending Abrams tanks to Europe for use in training Ukrainian forces. They will arrive “in the next few weeks”, said Austin.

“We are not letting up,” German Defence

Minister Boris Pistorius said.

Training of 100 Ukrainian soldiers on the German-made Leopard 1 tanks would begin on Saturday, Pistorius said, with delivery of “up to 80 units” beginning from the middle of this year.

While talks were going on in Ramstein, battles with continued to rage in the east of Ukraine.

Several Russian missiles earlier this week ripped the tiles from the roof of Karina’s home in Kostyantynivka, a city in the eastern Donetsk region, and very nearly claimed the lives of her, her son and partner.

“Everything happened unexpectedly,” the 40-year-old recounted to AFP standing ankle-deep in mud, staring at the remains of her home.

“Everything started falling apart. And my son screamed, ‘Mama, mama.’ I was blown away by the blast.

“I thought it was the end,” she added.

Kyiv last year ordered the evacuation of residents of the region last year but Karina told AFP she will remain in the Donetsk region despite the attack. AFP

US court saves abortion pill access, for now

WASHINGTON—The US Supreme Court on Friday temporarily preserved access to a widely used abortion pill, freezing rulings by lower courts that would have banned or severely restricted availability of the drug.

Two conservative justices disagreed with the decision in the most significant abortion case to reach the nine-member court since it overturned the constitutional right to the procedure 10 months ago.

In delivering a one-paragraph decision, the court did not comment on the merits of the case brought by anti-abortion groups seeking a ban on the abortion drug, mifepristone.

But their order means that mifepristone, which accounts for more than half of the abortions in the United States, will remain available while the case plays out in an appeals court.

The Justice Department of President Joe Biden had filed an emergency appeal asking the Supreme Court to block the

lower court rulings that would have banned or restricted access to mifepristone.

The case stems from a ruling by a US District Court judge in Texas, in a lawsuit brought by a coalition of anti-abortion groups, that would have banned mifepristone, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000. An appeals court blocked a ban on the abortion pill, but imposed tough restrictions on access, after which the baton was handed to the Supreme Court, where conservatives wield a 6-3 majority.

The Supreme Court decision effectively freezes the lower court rulings pending an appellate court hearing of an appeal from the Justice Department and mifepristone manufacturer Danco Laboratories.

Arguments in the Louisiana-based US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals have been scheduled for May 17 and any ruling by the appellate court is likely to eventually reach the Supreme Court.

Reacting to the Supreme Court move, Biden said the lower court decisions “would have undermined FDA’s medical judgment and put women’s health at risk.”

“Mifepristone remains available and approved for safe and effective use while we continue this fight in the courts,” Biden said in a statement. “I will continue to fight politically-driven attacks on women’s health.”

- ‘Relieved’ -

Abortion rights and civil liberties groups welcomed the Supreme Court decision but warned that the future of mifepristone remains in danger.

“We aren’t out of the woods by any means,” said Jennifer Dalven, director of the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project.

“This case, which should have been laughed out of court from the very start, will continue on,” Dalven said. “And as this baseless lawsuit shows, extremists will use every trick in the book to try to ban abortion nationwide.” AFP

Australia eases citizenship path for Kiwi neighbors

SYDNEY -- Australia announced Saturday it will make it easier for hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders to become Aussie citizens, removing a long-festering thorn in ties between the traditionally friendly rivals.

Under the new rules starting July 1, New Zealanders can apply directly for citizenship if they arrived in Australia after 2001 and have lived there for at least four years -affecting some 380,000 people according to local media.

In 2001, Australia imposed a much-contested special category visa for New Zealanders that limited their access to health and welfare and obliged them to gain permanent residency before applying for citizenship.

“We know many New Zealanders are here on a special category visa while raising families, working and building their lives in Australia. So, I am proud to offer the benefits that citizenship provides,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement. AFP

SAN FRANCISCO— Twitter has dropped “state-affiliated” and “government-funded” labels from media accounts after widespread complaints, according to a review Friday of many high-profile pages.

As Elon Musk’s platform rolls out a series of changes, it has also reportedly told businesses they must pay for blue verification ticks or “verified organization” checkmarks if they want to advertise on Twitter.

Advertisers spending at least $1,000 monthly will be spared from paying, according to a notice shared on Twitter, which is seeking to increase revenue. Getting advertisers to pay subscriptions is part of a strategy “to elevate the quality of the content on Twitter and enhance your experience,” read the message to advertisers.

Musk’s long-promised move to strip free blue ticks from many Twitter users swung into action on Thursday. Blue ticks were once a coveted symbol of authenticity, but can now be bought for $8 a month. AFP

Editor in ‘tasteless’ Schumi story axed

BERLIN—The editor of German magazine

Die Aktuelle has been sacked after using an artificial intelligence programme to generate fake quotes from seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher, the media group Funke announced.

Anne Hoffmann had stirred up a storm of controversy when on Wednesday the magazine published the interview -- the first since Schumacher suffered a serious brain injury in a 2013 skiing accident in the French Alps.

Schumacher’s family, who have carefully guarded the 54-year-old’s privacy since the accident, said they were planning legal action.

Bianca Pohlmann, director of the Funke magazine group, apologised to the family on Saturday.

“This article was in bad taste and misleading and should never have appeared,” said Pohlmann in a statement.

“It does not meet in any way the standards of journalism that we -- and our readers -- expect of a group like Funke. AFP

Suspected jihadists hit ‘Russian camp’ in Mali

DAKAR, Senegal -- Suspected jihadists attacked a military camp in central Mali on Saturday, two local elected officials and a diplomatic source told AFP, referring to the site as a “Russian camp”.

Mali’s junta in 2022 began working with what it calls Russian military “instructors”. Opponents say these are mercenaries from the Wagner group.

“We have no toll for the moment -- the situation is still confused -- it is jihadists who targeted the airport and the Russian camp next to it”, a local elected official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Two Malian military officials also confirmed the attack had taken place in the town of Sevare, in the Mopti region.

Around 5:30 am (0530 GMT), four loud explosions could be heard, followed by automatic weapons fire, several people on the ground told AFP. Smoke was also seen near the airport.

“It is the Russian camp and their planes that have been targeted -- the camp is near the airport”, another local official told AFP.

“The jihadists have surrounded part of the airport.” AFP

SMOKE OVER SUDAN. This video grab taken from AFPTV video footage on April 19 shows an aerial view of black smoke covering the sky above the capital Khartoum. Explosions and gunfire resounded in Sudan’s capital on April 20, as fighting between the forces of two rival generals showed no signs of abating ahead of festivities marking the end of Ramadan. AFP

OPPOSITION. French President Emmanuel Macron (left) talks to France National Union of Autonomous Trade Unions general secretary for the Grand Est region Chloe Bourguignon, who opposed the country’s pension reform, in Selestat, eastern France on April 19. AFP

JUGGLING multiple roles keeps Saudiborn Filipina Kristine Pauline Rodriguez on her toes as an advisor, educator and influencer.

Rodriguez has charmed many netizens with her first blog where she chronicles her struggles and journey as a returning OFW who wants to live a better part of her life in her home country. For many followers, Rodriguez is the personification of the homogenized aspirations of many OFWS who tried to find their way in a foreign land.

“The first blog I wrote was shared by an influencer in the finance field and immediately everyone really liked it because it was about my journey. It was about an OFW nurse who wanted to find financial freedom so she can finally go home,” she said, recalling how she lost her hard-earned money investing in the stock market.

Revealing her authentic self and her stark realities in the most visceral manner, many followers have grown to love the blog and the blogger. As a nameless blogger, she called herself Celeste and with followers continue cheering her on, she eventually referred to her blog as “Rooting for Celeste”.

“I think a worthy goal is to live a life you don’t have to lie about. Especially in the social media, (where) everything is a framing of things. I want to be who I really am and be proud of it. I wrote in my most truthful manner because I was expecting that there will not be a day when I would reveal who I was. I talked about losses and my depression, of small victories and even ask if there was even point for doing what I am doing,” she said.

Eventually she revealed herself in a video to put to rest a myriad of questions and assumptions on her person. That signaled the shift of her content to more professional topics relating to finance.

Seven years as a blogger, Rodriguez has omnipresence in most forms of social media. She is popular on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube and her own website.

While her professional journey has its ups and turns, her personal life adds more color and depth to her continuing passage. Before her current advisory profession at HGR Digital Asset Group, Rodriguez co-founded ZFT—a trading education start-up, with her former beau as head of education and marketing where she also teaches trade psychology. She is the first trade psychology specialist in the Philippines. Trade psychology, Rodriguez said, remains unheard of in the Philippines. It’s more like therapy for creators geared to improve their performance—

Filipino blogger joins elite world of finance

Katherine

of bridging fear and greed, risk and gain. The discipline teaches investors how to make more rational decisions, while reining emotions from running amok.

Proof that trade psychology works was when the company was awarded the best trading group in Asia at the Vietnam Traders Fair Awards 2019, Rodriguez said, “with all other aspects taken into consideration.”

From being a military nurse in Saudi Arabia, Rodriguez jumped to the other side of the fence, answering the call of the finance world where it beckons her to pursue a career on finance as a licensed stockbroker at 2Trade Asia and educator at ZFT and eventually as lead instructor at YGG Philippines and Nas Academy’s collaboration course called Web 3 Metaversity while working as company ambassador.

As she built the foundation of ZFT for (not with) her boyfriend, she also built a digitized automated onboarding platform at YGG that briefed new members of the organization with an educational curriculum focused on Web 3 and personal development for the masses.

While people sometimes get lost in translation following the very eclectic life of Rodriguez on her blog accounts, her multiple roles continue to blend with added capacities which she finds exciting and challenging.

She left her previous role as marketing and education head at ZFT and instructor at YGG to nurse a rather hurtful break-up with her co-founder beau at ZFT. Rodriguez is now involved in crypto asset hedge fund and venture capital company HGR, while sustaining

her influencer and content maker status.

“After the break-up, I realized that my job as a stockbroker and trade psychologist for forex investors was not bad at all, but with crypto upping the stakes and changing the entire finance landscape, I knew I needed to level up. So I decided to get a job as head of information at a web 3 company. And there was where I met my current boyfriend. So it’s not really a sad ending for me. I believe we are given the right opportunity at the right time,” she said.

The experience made her improve her craft and focus her energy to continue teaching trade psychology at HGR. As nce people discovered her as a warm spirit and an easy person to communicate with, her career as a finance advisor has spiraled to accommodate numerous requests for inspirational talks as a keynote speaker, and offers for hosting and co-hosting stints flooded.

At HGR, she continues to share her knowledge in finance and personally gives advice through her brand of trade psychology.

Rodriguez was a self-made woman—a start-up co-founder, a trading psychology specialist and a social media figure—before she actually jumped into another relationship with the managing partner at HGR, a Filipino-Chinese serial entrepreneur.

“It’s funny, though. He is from a prominent family with stakes in finance, insurance, retail. And despite him coming from a traditional FilipinoChinese family, I am accepted as I am, Celeste from humble beginnings, by his

entire family,” she said. With every whirlwind in her job at HGR and her social media commitments, she still finds time for herself. A typical weekend for her is actually very simple—spending time with his boyfriend’s family, going to the gym and attending religious services in church.

Rodriguez disclosed she is an independent woman in her home country as her immediate family is always out of the country, with an elder brother working in Qatar and her widower father spending a great deal of time visiting her brother.

Her mom, the hero in her heart, passed not too long ago from leukemia. She remembered how her mother dissuaded her from becoming a journalist, a profession notorious for being best in public service but low in financial returns.

As a good daughter, she donned her white uniform and cap, but her first day on the job at the Makati Medical Center made her realize the career is not for her. While she loves being with people and nurturing them, the job profile asks for a lot—high stakes, high risks and many opportunities for emotional meltdown, which she is not prepared to deal with. This is something she overlooked while getting her nursing degree from the University of Santo Tomas.

Visa applications in PH rebound to pre-pandemic level

WORLD’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist, VFS Global, reported that visa applications from Philippines almost hit pre-pandemic levels in 2022 - about 91 percent of 2019 levels - driven by pent-up demand, opening of international borders, and eased COVID-related protocols.

“We saw a healthy demand from Philippines in 2022 with steady volumes witnessed until December. We are confident that the travel momentum will grow even further in 2023 and hence it is advisable for applicants including students, to apply for their visas in advance to avoid last-minute surprises,” said VFS Global head for Australasia Kaushik Ghosh.

Still, she persevered and found a

Still, she persevered and found a stable career as a military nurse when she went back to Saudi Arabia but the thought of becoming another person with a life totally cut off from the medical profession kept nagging her.

Othel V. Campos

Humanitarian group honors leading virtual shopping platform

CHILD-FOCUSED humanitarian organization World Vision Development Foundation, Inc. recently honored Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asian and Taiwan, for its unwavering and generous support to World Vision’s various projects for vulnerable children and communities in the Philippines through the Project Salute.

“We thank Shopee for supporting the most vulnerable children.

World Vision is truly humbled to be working alongside partners like them who are committed to improving the wellbeing not just of children, but also of their families and communities,” said World Vision executive director Rommel V. Fuerte.

Shopee’s continued commitment to provide an online venue to help fellow Filipino citizens during the pandemic by hosting donation and fund drives through the app

earned for the platform the One for Children Plaque.

The partnership between World Vision and Shopee Philippines started in 2020 through Shopee Bayanihan, Shopee’s umbrella CSR program that seeks to contribute in the development of communities through collaboration with various stakeholders. Shopee provided a platform for users to send help to different sectors affected by the pandemic, and organizations to promote their causes to raise funds.

communities

“We are honored and grateful to World Vision for this recognition and for the inspiring work they have done here in the Philippines. At Shopee, we want to be a force for good and with partners such as World Vision, we will continue to ensure that our platform and resources are able to help bring impactful changes in our communities,” said Shopee Philippines director Martin Yu.

Based on the report, Philippines visa application volume grew by 44 percent in 2022 compared to 2021, citing major destinations Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Netherlands, and United Another defining trend was the wider adoption of personalized service which began since the pandemic. Premium optional services such as Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) that enables travelers to book the entire visa experience at a location of their choice, almost doubled over the pre-pandemic levels VFS Global offers VAYD for 10 client governments in Philippines – Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Malta, Switzerland, and UK.

here in the Philippines. At Shopee, we want to be a force World

VFS Global head for Australasia Kaushik Ghosh.

Battery firm signs buy-back battery pact with local industries group

LEADING battery brand Motolite has partnered with the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) to help ensure used lead acid batteries (ULAB) are being disposed of and recycled properly under the “Balik Baterya” program.

Motolite and FPI signed on April 19, 2023, a memorandum of agreement to work together in the promotion and implementation of the Balik Baterya program to assist in clean up drive and recycling of used lead-acid batteries (ULABs).

“The program aims to rid the environment of hazardous chemicals from the batteries and put to good use all recyclable materials like lead, plastic

and electrolyte to create another battery with 99 to 100 percent efficiency,” said Oriental & Motolite Marketing Corporation (OMMC) marketing head Alexander M. Osias.

Under the agreement, FPI will promote the Balik Baterya program to its members and other interested organizations, as well as sell the collected ULABs from its members and partner-organizations to OMMC for recycling based on the prevailing market buying price.

“We are, thus, calling on all our members and partner-organizations to support us in this advocacy by making sure their old batteries are going

to a reputable recycler like EERI (Evergreen Environmental Resources, Inc.). This, in itself, is already a good way to show we truly care for the environment,” said FPI president Jesus Arranza. He added that Motolite and FPI, through the Balik Baterya partnership, seek to ensure used car batteries are not ending up in landfills or rivers and creeks, particularly since ULABs are considered hazardous wastes.

Motolite will collect, handle, store, transport, and recycle the ULABs through EERI accredited recycler, Evergreen Environmental Resources Inc. (EERI).

Pauline Rodriguez, entrepreneur, trade psychologist and content creator more

YoungLIFE

Mixing street culture, art, food, and drinks in one night

By Patricia Taculao

WHEN Filipinos get together for a drink, there will be a celebration with music, good food and beverages, and enjoyable company. After all, no inuman session would be complete without pulutan (bar snacks) and karaoke.

Seeing the vibrant culture of the Philippines, Alfonso Brandy brought together street culture, art, music, and drinks at Alfie Alley, held at The Pop Up Katipunan in Quezon City last April 15, 2023, Saturday, to thank its loyal customers.

Having been in the Philippines for more than 20 years to date, Alfonso Brandy has always been known for its premium ingredients and imported quality. Made from the finest grapes of Spain’s La Mancha region and aged in the largest single bodega in Jerez, Alfonso Brandy has made its way into more Filipino homes and now expanded its market, dubbed “ang tropang Alfie.”

The brand offers something for everyone, whether a light blend suitable for those who want to enjoy casual drinks or a rich, savory

option perfect for those who prefer more

potent flavors. Alfie Alley aptly highlighted the diverse choices, allowing guests to relish the brandy neat, on ice, or with mixers.

Branded as its first-ever street culturethemed outdoor event, Alfie Alley invited

tropang Alfie to feel at home while enjoying the company of their friends and good music as they sip on Alfonso Brandy. Showcased were the three Alfonso Brandy variants in their respective sari-sari-store-inspired booths, which also had their limited edition

Sales and Marketing Director of Montosco Inc. Lauren Tanganco (center) with Alfie Alley host Alex Diaz (rightmost) and street artist Dennis Bato

merchandise and games for guests to enjoy.

Over at the Alfonso Light Booth, guests happily snapped pictures at the Alfie Alley

Singleton Social Bar brings pulutan culture to the Filipinos

Photobooth with their Alfie caps and shirts.

Meanwhile, the Alfonso Zero Booth set up a thrilling Al-Flip Cup game where winners took home exciting prizes. Finally, the Alfonso Platinum Booth presented a Jenga-inspired game, Jengalfie Platinum, where one had to pick out the Alfonso Platinum block from the stack to win a special prize.

In the meantime, guests satisfied their cravings and paired their drinks well with a wide selection of bar food and meals inspired by different cuisines across the globe available at The Pop-Up.

Aside from the food and refreshments, art played a relevant role in the success of Alfie Alley. During the event, guests witnessed the unveiling of a larger-than-life street artinspired Alfonso Brandy Bottle installation and a monumental Alfie Alley mural by street artist Dennis Bato

Capping off the fun-filled event was Alfie Awitan, a string of musical performances by some of today’s biggest acts. The line-up included SSUT Hulu John Roa I Belong To The Zoo, and Urbandub

It was a memorable night that brought out the fun-loving side of Filipinos by engaging them in things they love. Fortunately, Alfie Alley will soon grace other key destinations north and south of Luzon.

Following Alfie Alley’s launch in Quezon City, the street culture-themed event will soon delight tropang Alfie again next month. Alfonso Brandy’s Alfie Alley will drop by Papa Doms Bar and Restaurant in Tagaytay on May 20, followed by a run at Daluyon Beach Resort in La Union on May 27.

ARTIST’S CORNER

FOR Trick Reyes, a 24-year-old artist from Bulacan, art is an expression of his influences and a platform for representation as it allows him to use vivid imagery and scenarios to depict a slice of his vibrant imagination.

“My art style is influenced by a lot of fairytales and media I watched growing up. I am a very nostalgic person, so I love to reference old characters I adored when I was younger. Also, as a queer artist, I want to bring more representation for us, so my

By Gabriella Andrea Tresvalles

Photos by Kyla

Victoriano

NO inuman session in the Philippines is complete without good food, especially since Filipinos often find ideal pairings between their drinks and food, also known as pulutan.

Pulutan comes from the Filipino term pulutin,” meaning “to pick up.” These foods are eaten between drinks and conversations with friends and loved ones.

Most of the famous pulutan here in our country is meat such as sisig, crispy pata, and chicharon. This Filipino pairing of meat pulutan and alcohol proves a study from Washington State University where alcohol brings out the flavor of the meat we eat while we drink.

Last Friday, April 14, The Singleton opened their five-week pop-up bar in One Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

During its media launch event, The Singleton curated a one-of-a-kind flavor experience for its opening weekend with its first-week food collaborator, Bolzico Beef, and cocktails prepared by Erwan Heusaff

Its menu comprises El Sando, Beef Salpicao, Meatball Marinara, and Beef Empanada Sampler.

First on the menu is El Sando, a sandwich made from Argentinian tenderloin, pickles, swiss cheese, jalapeno cream, and brioche toast. Beef Salpicao, one of the crowd’s favorites, is made of prime Argentinian Steak bites and garlic confit. Meanwhile, Meatball Marinara comprises prime

Argentinian Beef Mince, Homemade Marinara Sauce, Parmesan Herb Crumb, and Hawaiian Buns. Lastly, Beef Empanada Sampler is a four-sample portion of Bolzico Beef’s famous beef empanadas.

Cocktail menus include The Singleton Aoi Highball–made with hojicha, and soda water, The Singleton Narra–made with pandan juice, coconut soda with bitters, and the Singleton Yoshi–made with muddled wedges with mint and pineapple smash, simple syrup, and Cointreau.

All of these cocktails have The Singleton 12 Years Old as their whisky. One of The Singleton Social Bar’s features was its excellent food pairing combinations with cocktails. They said that the pulutan culture influences this part.

“Food pairing combinations that Filipino can enjoy. As we all know, when it comes to drinking culture in the Philippines, food will always be part of it. It’s the whole pulutan culture that we are all familiar with. It’s a great way for us to bring in the entire experience,” says Merell Beltran-Ginete Marketing Manager for Culture and Advocacy at Diageo Philippines.

Participants could also create their version of The Singleton’s signature cocktail, the Singleton Plus Two.

The Single Plus Two’s formula comprises one part Singleton whisky, one part still mixer–this can be any juice of choice, and one part sparkling mixer–it can be soda, soda water, tonic water, ginger ale, or beer. Through this activity, The Singleton aims to let the consumers experiment and take the fun to the next level.

“The Singleton Plus Two serve is something that we always try to not just showcase to other people but also teach actual consumers who buy a full bottle that it’s [very] easy for people to make their cocktails,” says Beltran-Ginete.

“You don’t have to be overwhelmed; you don’t have to be scared when you make your cocktail. Everybody can be a bartender,” she continued.

art is very reflective of my experiences being a queer person in the industry,” he said. He hopes his art will provide more representation of the queer community in the Philippines as he continues to develop his style.

“I’d like to explore and evolve and not be afraid of stepping out of my comfort zone. I just love sharing what I love with people, and my interests are ever-changing. I think that’s the beauty of our journey as artists,” he added

The Lovers. In a hidden lake, two lovers share a quiet moment together. Reminiscing how far they’ve come and how stronger they’ve grown.

Tea Party. Playing pretend wasn’t for her anymore. It was time to show the world her true self.

Urbandub keeping the party alive as the audience sang along, closing the Alfie Alley Program

Dennis Bato is the designer behind the new bottle design Alfonso Brandy’s giant bottle nd Alfie Alley graffiti wall

The colorful Alfie Alley graffiti wall embodies elements of Filipino street art

Singleton

bar

The Singleton whisky is an ideal mixer for several cocktails

Erwan Heussaff mixing a signature cocktail

Besides the drinks, guests at The Singleton Social Bar can satisfy their cravings with savory food

n By PETER ATENCIO

PUT yourself in the players’ shoes.

This became the mantra of TNT Tropang Giga coach Jojo Lastimosa in developing a great rapport with his players over the last four months and eventually laying claim to the Philippine Basketball Association Governors Cup.

These made Tropang Giga look tougher and more solid against the seasoned Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings in the final series.

“You just need to communicate to the players. The players will understand, and they will always understand,” said Lastimosa as their title conquest finally sunk in him following their 97-93 triumph in Game 6 on Friday evening at the Araneta Coliseum.

Lastimosa recalled his heydays as a player in the league, from Purefoods Hotdogs, the Pop Cola Panthers, and then to Alaska Aces who was then under Tim Cone. In college, Lastimosa earned his spurs with the Ateneo de Manila and with the University of San Jose-Recoletos in Cebu.

Lastimosa grew as a player when he won the MVP honors while playing for Mama’s Love in the first conference of the 1985 Philippine Amateur Basketball League.

And then, as a teammate of Samboy Lim with the Lhuillier Jewelers, won the championship of the PABL’s first conference the following year.

While in the PBA, Lastimosa recalled that he would get angry when he would be substituted and replaced on the floor by another player, and other tasks were done with no explanation from the coaches.

“Nag-aaway kami ni Tim(Cone) before sa finals. Daming beses kaming nagsisigawan sa labas ng locker room. That’s because there were things that I wanted to happen, kaso, hindi na-eexplain sa coach. Even in the 1998 Asian Games, we had disagreements. So, that’s why I learned from this as coach,” added Lastimosa.

PROLIFIC PAIR

Two TNT players stood out in the end, with a triple from the mighty pair

Strong bond did it for Jolas, Tropang Giga

of Mikey Williams and prolific import Rondae Hollis Jefferson’s two charities providing the needed points to keep the Gin Kings from taking their fifth Governors’ Cup plum.

Hollis-Jefferson tallied eight of his 29 points in the final period, including the final two freebies in the last 3.2 seconds off Jamie Malonzo’s foul.

The 6’6” Hollis-Jefferson’s charities connected moments after he rebounded Brownlee’s miss with four ticks left.

Williams, who eventually earned the Finals MVP honors, finished with a game-

high 38 points for the Tropang Giga, to go with a career-high nine triples, along with seven boards and three assists.

The 6’2” Williams reached a personal milestone with his treys when he knocked in a ninth three-pointer in the final 1:15, allowing TNT to overtake the Gin Kings for a 15th time.

Brownlee, who missed most of the second half in Game 6 due to a bum stomach, still led the Gin Kings with 29 points. He was looking to force a tie in the final 30.6 seconds, but Hollis-Jefferson

managed to grab a rebound off his drive, and with TNT ahead, 95-93.

The Tropang Giga, who ended the series with a 4-2, claimed their first Governors Cup crown, and after foiling the Gin Kings’ bid for a fifth one.

CHAMPIONSHIP EXPERIENCE

Lastimosa believes that his talks with some of the players proved to be the key to the Tropang Giga’s success.

“The coaches do not explain why players get pulled out. For me, it was the same way when I was playing,” added Lastimosa.

UAAP volleyball: Lady Falcons pierce Final 4

ADAMSON University clinched a Final Four spot for the first time in nine years after fending off the University of the Philippines, 25-20, 27-25, 23-25, 25-15, in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.

The Lady Falcons, who prior to this season last entered the semifinals back in UAAP Season 76 (2013-14), improved to 9-4. Knotted at 23-all in the third frame, Louie Romero committed a costly service error before Steph Bustrillo blocked Kate Santiago in the ensuing play to force a fourth set for UP.

But the Lady Falcons’ fightback in the fourth salvo was unstoppable, opening it 16-7 en route to the lopsided clincher to end the game in two hours and 15 minutes.

“Mahirap talaga yung teams na dahil

wala nang hinahabol si UP so wala ng pressure sa kanila, kami yung medyo naging complacent lalo nung third set, nung fourth nakadeliver naman okay na rin,” said Adamson assistant coach Rald Ricafort.

Sun Life Cycle PH set at Vermosa Hub

OVER a thousand riders of all genders, fitness, and skill levels pound the road today (Sunday, April 23) as the Sun Life Cycle PH gets back to the mainstream at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite. Held as part of Sun Life’s continuing effort to inspire more Filipinos to pursue a healthy, active lifestyle and at the same time strengthen family bonds, the Cycle PH features the kids (2-3 years old) 100m ride, criterium (30 mins solo ride) and criterium with parents, and the individual 30K, individual 40K and 60K corporate/team ride.

Actors Piolo Pascual and Matteo Guidecelli, two of showbiz’s most active participants in sports, having competed in various IRONMAN races, and fellow Sun Life brand ambassador Donny Pangilinan bring a lot of star power to the event as they blend with beginners and bike enthusiasts at the challenging routes at Vermosa.

A one-stop fitness destination, the sprawling Vermosa complex is equipped with training facilities designed for international sports competitions. It hosted the SEA Games in 2019 and the IronKids last year.

Sun Life Philippines launched the Cycle PH in 2016, instantly drawing a huge field while sustaining its campaign to help Filipinos live healthier lives and achieve lifetime financial security before the Covid-19 pandemic brought all

sports activities to an abrupt halt in 2020.

“It goes hand-in-hand,” said Sun Life Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer Carla Gonzalez-Chong. “Because of this advocacy, Sun Life, a long-time partner of the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc., also went into offering health and insurance products that actually help Filipinos protect their health.”

“We started first by offering health and wellness classes through our community, the Go-Well community. We sponsored fitness clubs, the SunPiology, and started doing signature events, like fun runs, fun races and we sponsored the IRONMAN and endurance runs,” added Gonzalez-Chong.

The Sun Life Cycle PH actually caps a two-week bike festival ushered in by the kids’ bike camp at BGC last week with Pangilinan as its top draw and where Sun Life donated 25 bikes to the Good Neighbors Foundation International.

The host city has also guaranteed Cycle PH’s successful staging with Imus City Mayor Alex Advincula enjoining his constituents to support the event.

“The city will continuously promote this event for the benefit it provides, especially in the physical aspect, including the youngsters,” said Advincula. “When it comes to sports, people need to stay fit –health is wealth, so we really should focus on this.”

“Sobrang happy kasi nine years, ngayon lang ulit kami nakapasok ng Final Four. Hindi kami pwedeng magstop there dahil marami pang games na pwedeng laruin,” said Lady Falcons outside hitter Lucille Almonte, who topscored with

13 kills and collected 20 digs, and 10 receptions.

Trisha Tubu added 11 points, all from attacks, while Lorene Toring also chimed in 11 points including a teamhigh three blocks.

Lady Falcon’s libero Karen Verdeflor also had a field day with 21 digs and 17 excellent receptions as they received 33 free points off UP’s errors.

Niña Ytang and Jewel Encarnacion made 15 points apiece with the former notching four blocks while the latter tallied 10 digs to her name.

Bustrillo also had 14 points for the Fighting Maroons, who suffered their ninth straight defeat at 1-11. UP will be back on Wednesday against the winless University of the East, while Adamson will cap the eliminations on April 30 against Far Eastern University, both at Filoil EcoOil Centre.

FIBA World Cup 2023 Draw principles explained

What are the Draw Seedings? The 32 teams have been placed into 8 pots, each containing four nations. The Philippines, as host of the Group and Final Phase, is placed in pot 1. All other teams are placed in their respective pot based on their position in the FIBA World Ranking Men, presented by Nike:

Seed 1 - Philippines, Spain, USA, Australia

Seed 2 - France, Serbia, Slovenia, Lithua

Seed 3 - Greece, Italy, Germany, Brazil

Seed 4 - Canada, Venezuela, Mon-

And this brought the team, and him a great championship experience. “Ginebra hadn’t lost two in a row this conference, much less lose three in a row. So that’s what we talked about before the game. That was my pregame talk. But if there’s somebody who can beat them, it’s the team that I’m with right now. And again, it’s not an easy task. A lot of teams tried to beat Tim (Cone) and (Justin) Brownlee at this stage, and they never did. I knew that we had to come up with a better game plan or at least a better game to dethrone them,” added Lastimosa.

NU inches closer to back-to-back tennis plum

DEFENDING champion National University moved closer to securing back-to-back UAAP Women’s Tennis titles after defeating first-time finalist the University of the Philippines, 3-1, in Tie 1 of the best-of-three series held on Saturday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Bulldogs will attempt to win their sixth overall title in the sport and go for all the marbles in the second Finals tie scheduled to begin at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Dana Abad, who has been consistent for the titleholders, was the hero once again, securing the tie-clinching win against Renee Esteban, 6-3, 6-2, in the third singles match.

“Very tight talaga ‘yung mga laban. Doon pa lang sa first singles at sa first doubles, talagang ginapang. Ang maganda, kinapitan lang ng girls yung panalo,” commented Lady Bulldogs coach Ronald Joven.

“Dapat ituloy lang nila ‘yung laro nila para manalo ulit bukas,” he added.

Elizabeth Abarquez set the tone for NU by defeating Fighting Maroons’ Rachel Velez in the second-set tiebreak. Abarquez eventually consolidated her dominant first-set win to take the first singles match, 6-1, 7-6.

Seniors Allyssa Bornia and Alliah Ragunton had to fend off the surprise pairing of Sydney Enriquez and Jesha Cervantes in the first doubles match in the first set at 7-5 before settling their nerves and taking the huge 2-0 advantage in the tie at 6-3 for NU.

Triple National Intercollegiate champion Joshea Malazarte pulled one back for the Fighting Maroons

THE FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Draw, presented by Wanda, will take place on April 29 in Manila, Philippines, and will be carried out according to specific draw principles.

Scheduled at 7:30 PM at the Araneta Coliseum, the draw for the flagship event will see the 32 participating nations finding out how exciting their path is going to be.

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Draw Principles will be based on the FIBA World Ranking Men, presented by Nike, and on geographical principles. The Philippines and Japan, as host nations, will play at home in one of the groups hosted in their country.

The three hosts of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 have selected a preferred team based on commercial reasons. USA will play in the Philippines; Slovenia will travel to Japan and Canada will land in Indonesia.

tenegro, Puerto Rico

Seed 5 - Iran, Dominican Re-

public, Finland, New Zealand

Seed 6 - China, Latvia,

Mexico, Georgia

Seed 7 - Jordan, Japan, -

Angola, Cote d’Ivo ire

after NU’s JM Carcueva had to retire in the third set due to cramps with the set tied at two games apiece. Carcueva won the first set in a tiebreak, but Malazarte fought hard to win the second at 7-5.

non, Egypt, South

Seed 8 - LebaSudan, Cape

Sudan, Cape Verde

A better understanding of their respective roles proved to be the key to victory for coach Jojo Lastimosa and his Tropang Giga.

Adamson U is making its first appearance in the Final Four of the UAAP women’s volleyball in nine years.

Dana Abad played hero anew for the National University Lady Bulldogs

Maymay Entrata collabs with Pentagon’s Wooseok for upcoming single

FILIPINO pop star Maymay

Entrata takes her music to the next level as she teams up with Korean rapper-singer-songwriter Wooseok for her upcoming single “Autodeadma,” which will be out on digital platforms starting April 28 (Friday).

It is Maymay’s first time to collaborate with an international artist, Wooseok, who is a member of the popular South Korean multinational boy group under Cube Entertainment.

BAGUIO-BASED indie-alternative band, Dilaw, has set the 2023 Spotify record for the Philippines’ most streamed local song in 24 hours.

The group’s melodic single “Uhaw (Tayong Lahat)” even surpassed Blackpink ’s “Shut Down” and Joji’s “Glimpse of Us” number of streams within a day in the Philippines, gaining global traction in Indonesia, United States, and Australia.

The six-piece band from the north composed of the core duo of vocalist and lyricist Dilaw Obrero and guitarist Vie Viloria drummer Tobi Samson , bassist Wayne Dela Rosa, guitarist Leon Altomonte and keyboardist En Altomonte is thrilled to reach a significant achievement together.

“As musicians, all we wanted is for people to listen and relate to our music and our journey, and this record-breaking achievement is simply amazing. We are grateful to Spotify, an audio platform that enables the global discovery of our band and the repertoire of our work. This continues to motivate us to work on our craft and explore new musical possibilities,” shared Dilaw.

“Celebrating local music and building a deeper connection between artists and fans have been a top priority for us. It is incredibly encouraging to see Filipino artists continuing to rise in the local charts and break more boundaries than ever before,” said Kossy Ng, Head

Maymay and Wooseok’s exciting project, released under ABS-CBN’s Star Pop label, is about “how society will always have something to say about one’s success, so it’s best not to give them any attention.”

Earlier, the Philippine-based record label posted a teaser for the song defining its title ‘Autodeadma’ as “the act of automatically ignoring comments and criticisms.”

Prior to “Autodeadma,” Maymay released the equally empowering tracks “Amakabogera” and “Puede Ba.” The popular P-pop soloist was nominated in last year’s MTV Europe Music Awards (EMA) for Best Asia Act.

Maymay’s newest single, “Autodeadma” featuring Wooseok, will be available on music streaming platforms (https://ored.co//mamaymayftwooseok) on its release date.

‘Uhaw’ tramples Blackpink, sets Spotify record in PH

Dilaw by indie band

The band’s hit song, ‘Uhaw,’ describes the thirst for something, whether it be a person, thing, or feeling

Dilaw is a Baguio-based indie-alternative band

of Music at Spotify Asia. For the past three weeks, “Uhaw (Tayong Lahat)” has held the #1 spot on Spotify’s Top 50 Philippines chart.

Rita Ora announces release date for eagerly awaited 3rd album

INTERNATIONALLY critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Rita Ora announces her much anticipated third album You & I (out July 4 via BMG) and releases brand new single “Praising You” featuring Fatboy Slim With Rita having co-written every track on the album, You & I proves to be her most diaristic project yet. Working with executive producer Oak Felder (Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Alicia Keys, Usher), Rita has created an album conceptually threaded together to signify the different chapters of her relationship.

A high-spirited record about what it feels like to fall beautifully, instinctually in love with someone.

“This album really means a lot to me,” Rita says. “It’s like my diary of the last few years, it’s my sound and it just feels so true to me and who I am today.”

Alongside the announcement of You & I, (the follow-up to her critically acclaimed sophomore pop smash Phoenix), Rita also releases new single “Praising You” feat. Fatboy Slim – a rework of the Grammynominated, chart-topping cult anthem “Praise You,” which sampled Camille Yarbrough’s “Take Yo’ Praise” and celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

Premiered by Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1 when he interviewed Rita, “Praising You” takes the classic piano riff and feel-good chorus of the original,  introduces Rita’s version of the story - a delicious metaphor for the entrancing nature of love - and bursts into a surefire  EDM summer anthem.

“To not only get Norman’s stamp of approval, but to actually collaborate with him and pay homage to such a massive song from my childhood was truly a

Internationally renowned singersongwriter Rita Ora

surreal experience,” Rita says. “I think this record means something different  for everyone, but from my perspective, it’s about praising your loved ones and really celebrating those relationships. I’m incredibly honored that we get to breathe new life into the song and re-introduce it to a whole new generation.”

Speaking of the rework, Norman says, “From a chance meeting late one night in the Naughty Corner at Glastonbury a

friendship and collaboration grew that on paper may look unlikely. Yet here it is and it has a life of its own!”

The accompanying video, directed by Academy Award winner Taika Waititi, sees Rita audition with a group of dancers for the role of their dreams and features a cameo from Fatboy Slim. With a nod to the Spike Jonze-directed “Praise You” video, Rita leads the troupe through their haphazard routine, slowly winning over the judges in what turns into a massive Studio 54-esque number complete with glamorous outfit changes and  stellar choreography.

In an exclusive partnership with Meta, it is available to view on Facebook as a premium music video and on Instagram today and will be available on all platforms including YouTube from 28th April.

On May 9 at the Eurovision Song Contest semi-final, Rita will make her debut, globalexclusive performance of “Praising You,” alongside a show-stopping medley of some of her biggest hits. Broadcast for the first time  on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK, the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 Semi-Finals will also be available to view live in over 35 countries worldwide, with an expected audience of over 40 million.

“Praising You” follows the release of “You Only Love Me,” which has racked up 40 million global streams to date.

“You Only Love Me” was also Rita’s first  release since inking a partnership with BMG, which will see her own all her future master recordings and enjoy artistic control in a way that she hasn’t had previously.

Prior to releasing “You Only Love Me,” it was announced that Rita will join Brandy in the Disney+ original film Descendants: The Rise of Red. She’s also set to star alongside Robert De Niro and Jamie

The band’s popularity showed no signs of slowing down and eventually clinched a spot in Spotify’s Hot Hit Philippines. With a remarkable increase of more than 200 percent in followers on Spotify in the past month, it’s clear that more listeners are discovering Dilaw’s musical prowess. With their artful lyrics, dreamy sonic layers, and captivating vocals, Dilaw takes listeners on a journey to a world that is uniquely their own. Their hit song “Uhaw” describes the thirst for something, whether it be a person, thing, or feeling. As the band continues to create experiences for fans through their music, one thing is certain: Dilaw is a testament that regional talents deserve the global spotlight. “Dilaw started out as a humble duo from Baguio, armed with nothing but an undeniable talent. We discovered them and knew right away that they had the potential to be something special. Since then, Dilaw has blossomed into a full six-piece band that has the potential to touch many with its unique sound and innovative approach to music-making. Together with Spotify, we are excited to be part of this ride with them,” said Kelley Mangahas , Artists & Relations Philippines, Warner Music Group.

SNAPSHOT Tom Holland in Boss

HUGO Boss has recently announced that actor Tom Holland wore the brand to the launch of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai, India. The 26-year-old English modeled a Boss ensemble, wearing a dark blue tuxedo, shirt, bow tie, and shoes by Boss.

In the Philippines, Boss is exclusively distributed by Stores Specialists, Inc., and is located at Greenbelt 5, Newport Mall, Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s ShangriLa, Shangri-La Plaza East Wing, and online at Trunc.ph, Rustans.com, and Zalora. Visit www. ssilife.com.ph, subscribe to our SSI LIFE YouTube Channel, and follow @ ssilifeph on Instagram and Facebook for more information.

Filipino pop star Maymay Entrata

Korean rapper-singersongwriter Wooseok

After seeing a huge listenership on

Viral Hits Philippines, Spotify amplified the band further through its editorial playlist ecosystem and featured them on Tatak Pinoy and magmuni-muni

By Nickie Wang

AS WE travel this summer, all we wanted was to have a hassle-free vacation. Most of the time, we make sure that our routes and accommodations are well-planned. We normally check the weather and plan accordingly.

Some of us even do our research on attractions or activities that we may want to experience while traveling.

And as we brace ourselves for warmer temperatures, there is no better way to counter the intense heat than a revenge travel experience to take a dip in the sandy beaches or pools and visit remarkable travel destinations with your loved ones and friends.

If you are looking for great quick getaway destinations with your family and friends, here are some of the top go-to travel spots you can easily reach after a couple of hours down the road, provided by Prestone, a proven and trusted quality brand of Auto Care fluids since 1927.

Experience breathtaking beaches, fun water activities in Batangas

With just over two hours of travel time from the National Capital Region (NCR), Batangas is one of the favorite destinations for a quick vacation. Aside from being famous for its Taal Volcano attraction, the province boasts incredible diving spots and beaches that offer different features and vibes you can enjoy this summer.

You can choose from the stunning beaches located in the municipalities of Nasugbu, Lemery, Lian, and San Juan, among others, and enjoy the various activities they offer, including kayaking, snorkeling, and many more. If you and your family or friends seek scuba diving, visit Anilao in Mabini, which is a great spot for advanced and novice divers.

Additionally, while in Batangas, be sure to try its famous delicacies, such as Loming Batangas and Kapeng Barako, and check out its other remarkable attractions, such as Fantasy World, a Disneyland-themed fairytale castle, Fortune Island that exhibits Grecian pillars, and more.

Enjoy the cool, incredible waves of La Union La Union, commonly called Elyu, is one of the famous surfing destinations in the country. Its municipality San Juan is popular for its huge waves that range up to ten feet, making it the “Surfing Capital of Northern Luzon.”

If you and your family or friends are up for the challenge of braving the monstrous waves to beat the heat of the season, plan your trip to La Union with approximately four hours of driving time from Metro Manila. Whether you are a newbie or an experienced surfer, you will surely enjoy the waves because beginners can avail themselves of surfing lessons. Other than that, La Union is rich in other tourist spots you can visit and delicious food to eat to your heart’s content.

Chill with exciting, incredible activities in Zambales

Zambales is also known for its sandy beaches, incredible coves, and historical spots, among others. However, if you and your travel companions want a unique underwater adventure this summer, this province will provide you with the experience of a lifetime, particularly Subic Bay.

In just over four hours of driving time from NCR, you can enjoy wreck diving and be in awe of various wreck sites from the Spanish-American War up to World War II. Additionally, you can try out different activities in Zambales, such as extreme water sports, hiking, cliff diving, and more.

Experience the chilly breeze of Baguio City

Dubbed the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City is a popular destination to escape the intense heat of NCR because of its cool temperature that ranges from 15° to 23° Celsius and up to 26° Celsius during the summer season. Also known as the City of Pines due to its tall pine trees in the hillsides, you and your family or friends can reach the city in just four hours of travel time from

the Metro. After that, you can enjoy its refreshing green parks, fun activities, mouthwatering delicacies, and other famous attractions without being bothered by the summer heat.

Among the spots to visit include Burnham Park, a green space at the center of Baguio City, Camp John Hay, a recreational compound packed with fun activities, and Baguio Cathedral, which is famous for its Neo-Gothic design. Ensure a safe summer balik-adventure

Meanwhile, Prestone reminds you to check your vehicle’s car parts and fluids before embarking on your summer

Hong Kong reinforces position as leading hub for world-class cocktail experiences in Asia

ASIA’S very best bartenders and drinks industry talent will gather in Hong Kong this July as the city hosts Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony, one of the region’s most authoritative and prestigious surveys of cocktail tastes and trends. For its 2023 edition, the annual awards have partnered with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to bring the event to the city for the very first time on 18 July 2023.

“We are delighted to host this year’s edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in July, one of the region’s most significant celebrations of hospitality, which further

affirms Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s foremost hub for cocktail experiences. We look forward to inspiring the region’s best bar talent with what Hong Kong has to offer.”

Dr. Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, says. Mark Sansom, Director of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Bars, says, “We are very excited to host the awards in Hong Kong this year. The city has one of the most dynamic and diverse bar scenes in Asia, and despite tight border controls in the last three years, it continues to lead with amazingly innovative bar experiences. By bringing the biggest

Baguio City is a popular destination to escape the intense heat, hence why it’s known as the ‘Summer Capital of the Philippines’

event on Asia’s bar calendar to Hong Kong, we hope to shine the spotlight back on the city’s vibrant nightlife and contribute to driving travel and tourism.”

Hong Kong is a breeding ground for cocktail-making talent and an ideal location for the exchange of ideas among industry leaders. Eight Hong Kong bars are featured in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2022. In the top three, two of which are bars proudly born and bred in Hong Kong, including Mexican-inspired bar COA in the No.1 spot, and Argo, at No.3, which serves creative cocktails using Asian-sourced ingredients.

journey for hassle-free and safe travel on the road.

“Vehicles provide more effort during long-distance driving. To avoid automobile breakdowns or mishaps in the middle of the road and guarantee that they are in good condition this summer season, owners should inspect their components and fluids, particularly BLOCBAGETS – meaning brakes, lights, oil, coolant, battery, air, gas, engine, tires, and self,” said Monique Gonzales, Marketing Manager for Southeast Asia at Clorox International Philippines, Inc. In addition, Gonzales reminds vehicle owners to practice a habit whenever they are about to take a journey, long or short, to prevent road accidents.

What makes Saudi Arabia an ideal work destination for Filipino healthcare workers?

THE Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is famous for its rich traditions and history as well as the diverse cultural experience it offers tourists. But did you know that the country is also a preferred destination for Filipino healthcare workers who want to work abroad?

According to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Saudi Arabia is among the top destinations for Filipino nurses, along with Britain, Germany, and Japan.

More Filipino nurses are expected to find work in Saudi Arabia as it ramps up investment in healthcare infrastructure, which will contribute to an increase in demand for healthcare workers in the country. There are an estimated 130,000 Filipino nurses working in Saudi Arabia and this number is expected to increase as President Marcos recently announced plans of increasing the deployment cap for Filipino nurses.

Nurses employed in Saudi Arabia through private institutions can earn a little over P27,000 to as much as P55,500 monthly, according to the POEA. On the other hand, nurses employed through a government program can earn a minimum salary of over P53,000 every month.

Medical and nursing staff do not need to worry about housing and accommodation because Saudi Arabia usually offers housing and transportation benefits. Reputable hospitals in the country also provide bonuses upon contract

completion and flight tickets home. Just like any profession in Saudi Arabia, healthcare professionals are hired on a contractual basis. A contract usually lasts 12 to 24 months, requiring between 40 to 60 hours of work per week rotated across morning and night shifts.

TrueProfile.io has been the go-to career platform for Filipino healthcare professionals looking for job opportunities abroad. Filipina nurse, Riza de Castro, is enjoying the benefits of working in Saudi Arabia after using TrueProfile. io to secure her dream job.

“I am thankful that I’m working and living here for my professional growth and development, wherein I am receiving a higher salary compared to what I would make in the Philippines,” Castro said. Thousands of Filipino healthcare professionals have used TrueProfile.io’s career toolkit to secure their dream job abroad - from the first job application to overseas relocation and professional development. Members can create a free Digital CV to get headhunted by employers in Saudi Arabia, and access international job opportunities and fast and efficient verification services.

Enjoy the benefits of working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and fulfill your dreams of working abroad with TrueProfile.io. To register for free, visit https://sso.trueprofile.io/register.

Nickie Wang Editor; Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant

The abandoned Fantasy World Castle in Batangas