MEMBERS of the House of Representatives and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will distribute rice and financial aid to at least 2.5
million poor Filipinos within the next two weeks under the “Malaya Rice Project."
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez announced the project Thursday night, noting that the rice distribution
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HANGZHOU—
Heroes were born and history was made as the Philippines ended a six-decade wait to be crowned kings of Asian basketball once again.
Choosing to fight against great odds, Gilas Pilipinas methodically cut Jordan down to size in a 70-60 victory to rule the 19th Asian Games men’s basketball competition at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center here Friday night.
Achieved against a roaring Chinese crowd who decided to root against the Filipinos for beating their team in the semifinals, the victory gave the Philippines its first basketball gold in the Games in 61 years, last accomplished by a Caloy Loyzaga-powered national team in 1962 in Jakarta.
After scoring a scrambling, comefrom-behind win against host China in
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PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday urged the public to report groups or individuals engaged in smuggling and hoarding of agricultural products to the authorities, which he had blamed for the rising prices of the vital commodities.
"No matter how big the syndicate is, just like the one we seized in a pier in Zamboanga last month, it is no match to our collective power in combating smugglers," Mr. Marcos said in his speech during the distribution of smuggled rice in Capiz.
"If you have information
THE country's oil firms may roll back pump prices by as much as P3.20 per liter next week to reflect the movement of prices in the world market.
Industry sources said gasoline may go down by P2.90 to P3.20 per liter, kerosene by P2 to P2.20, and diesel by P1.60 to P1.70 per liter based on the four-day trading of the Mean of Platts
SPEAKER Martin Romualdez on Friday said there was no quarrel between the House of Representatives and Vice President Sara Duterte, after lawmakers said they would redistribute confidential funds sought by the offices she leads to agencies that have a direct national security function.
“I think people are reading too much into it. I think it's very, very straightforward and simple. The CIF (confidential
Singapore, the pricing benchmark used by oil importers.
Department of Energy director for the Oil Industry Management Bureau
Rodela Romero confirmed the possible rollback next week across all products.
Romero attributed the price reduction to fears on high interest rates, which could reduce demand.
"Stronger dollar weakens the finances of other nations and the demand too
and the spectacular price drop in crude yesterday," he said.
On Oct. 3, 2023, the oil companies decreased prices by P2 per liter for gasoline and P0.50 per liter for kerosene, but increased diesel costs by P0.40 per liter.
These price adjustments resulted in a year-to-date net increase of P15.30 per liter for gasoline, P13.80 per liter for diesel, and P8.94 per liter for kerosene.
MALACAÑANG on Friday pledged to conduct a “thorough and impartial” investigation into the killing of union leader Jude Thaddeus Fernandez during a Sept. 29 police operation.
“We will take concrete steps to mobilize all relevant government agencies towards effectively conducting a thorough and impartialinvestigation into the matter,” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said in a statement.
The assurance came as Bersamin of-
From A1 the semifinals, the Filipinos didn’t need to play catch up this time against the Jordanians, who beat them to a pulp in the preliminaries, 87-62.
Instead, Gilas patiently set up plays, crashed the boards and ran the break to set the tone of the game in the first period, 17-12.
They lost control in the second, 31-29, before the steadying presenceof Justin Brownlee, Chris Newsome’s deft play-
From A1 against those involved in these transactions, don't be afraid to report them," he added.
President Marcos said his administration has been coordinating with lawmakers regarding imposing stiffer penalties on agricultural and economic sabotage.
He earlier certified as urgent the proposed legislation defining agricultural economic sabotage and imposing more severe penalties for violators.
In the same speech, Mr. Marcos directed the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Finance (DOF) to hasten the release of benefits and assistance for local farmers.
More than 10,000 rice farmers from the province of Capiz would receive financial aid through the Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) program this year, he said.
The rice farmers are part of the identified 2.3 million small rice farmer beneficiaries who are registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) as of June 30, 2023.
Each beneficiary will receive P5,000 in financial assistance sourced from the excess tariff collection from rice importations in 2022, amounting to around P12.7 billion. Beneficiaries include those in the farm cooperatives associations (FCAs), irrigators associations (IAs), agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs), small water impounding systems associations (SWISAs), and other farm groups.
From A1 and intelligence funds) topic all came up and there were a lot of discussions and debates in the House and in fact even in the Senate,” Romualdez said.
“Borrowing the words of the vice president that she could live withoutit and she would leave it to the sound discretion of the Congress forits proper disposition, under the circumstances, we felt that it wouldbest be realigned to the agencies” that deal directly with national security, he said.
Congress is reviewing the confidential funds of all civilian agenciesin the proposed 2024 national budget, and is not singling out any office, he added.
In a speech this week, Duterte, who is also Education secretary, saidanyone who opposed the P650 million in confidential funds requested by her two offices was an “enemy of the people.”
She also said the funds would be used to “ensure peace and security.”
But lawmakers noted that the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), which must guard the country’s waters against foreign intrusions, has an intelligence budget of only P10 million – or 65 times less than the confidential funds requested by the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.
"We are all for peace and security,” Romualdez said. “We are all forthat. We are in total agreement that the utilization of confidential and intelligence funds is to promote peace and security.”
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fered Malacañang’s sympathy to Fernandez’s family and affiliated labor groups and unions.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the family of Jude Thaddeus Fernandez, a veteran defender of labor rights and a dedicated trade union organizer.
making and defensive intensity against Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, and Angelo Kouame’s inside dominance put control back in the Filipinos’ hands at 51-41 entering the final period. With Jefferson leading Jordan’s final push, they threatened to within 50-56, but Kouame strung up nine points going home to keep the Filipinos on safe ground at 68-59. Kouame finished with 14 points and 11 boards.
The road to the basketball throne was never an easy one for the Filipinos.
Left with only 12 days to prepare af-
The Department of Agriculture (DA) earlier told senators it has filed cases against at least 40 alleged onion smugglers.
“We have around 20 consignees who are on deck for filing cases under Republic Act (RA) No. 10845,” said DA Assistant Secretary James Layug during the Senate Finance subcommittee hearing on the agency’s P197.84-billion proposed budget for 2024.
“Right now, we have already filed 40 cases under the Anti-Agriculture Smuggling Law, another 10 under the Food Safety Act, and one more under the violation of the meat code,” he said.
These cases are currently under resolution in various prosecutors’ offices, including those in Bataan, Manila, and Batangas, Layug added.
“We are also coordinating with the special prosecutor's office created by the DOJ specifically for handling smuggling cases,” said Layug.
In July, President Marcos ordered the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the smuggling of onions and other agricultural products following the surge in onion prices in 2022.
The DOJ, in turn, formed the AntiAgricultural Smuggling Task Force and created a special team of prosecutors primarily focused on protecting the entire agricultural sector, not just the onion industry.
Last year, the prices per kilo of onions ranged from P500 to P720 in some markets. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)
But Romualdez said they also wanted to make sure that confidential and intelligence funds are more properly used by agencies and departments “that are best suited, particularly in these aspects of deploying the proper resources and personnel for the promotion of peace and security.”
Duterte, however, drew support from Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who was chief of the national police under her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. Dela Rosa accused left-leaning organizations of opposing the vice president’s confidential funds so that communists could continue to recruit students to their cause.
“The leftists know they will be hard hit,” Dela Rosa said, because they are aware that the confidential funds will be used by the Education department to monitor recruitment of students to join the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA).
Dela Rosa then accused leftist partylist groups as being “fronts” for the CCPNPA.
"Even if you [say] I am re-tagging them, I don't care,” he said.
ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro, meanwhile, urged Duterte to give up her pursuit of confidential funds and focus instead on her mandate as Education secretary to improve the quality of education.
Castro added that Duterte, by accusing her critics of being “enemies of the state,” seemed to be insinuating that she can no longer be questioned about how
We also extend our condolences to the labor groups and unions whom he has helped,” he said.
Bersamin said the Marcos administration “stands for the creation of a fair and just society for all, and guarantees the inalienability of the people’s fundamental rights and welfare.”
“These basic freedoms must be meaningfully upheld and never curtailed by any form of violence,” he said.
Fernandez was shot dead during the serving a search warrant by agents of the Philippine National Police - Crimi-
ter many members of its FIBA World Cup team declined to suit up for the flag due to prior commitments in the Japan and Korean pro leagues, Gilas Pilipinas formed a team hastily built around Brownlee. The naturalized Filipino was himself bothered by a foot injury and was only “85 percent” of his full strength in the games, according to coach Tim Cone. But it didn’t matter. For the fifth straight game, Brownlee led the Philippines with 20 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists, as he exacted revenge on Kobe
2.5m..
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is in line with the program of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of bringing affordable, quality rice to the people, particularly those in most need.
The distribution of rice will begin in Metro Manila in partnership with the region’s 33 lawmakers and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Romualdez said. He said he asked the 33 House members to identify 10,000 indigent residents who would receive the rice assistance— including senior citizens, solo parents and persons with disability.
Each beneficiary will receive P1,000 and 15 kilos of rice worth P500 to P600, with the process taking “less than a month,” he said.
The Speaker said they would then have this replicated in other urban areas of the country.
“We would like to use a similar mechanism to buy palay from the rice growers. This is to afford better prices not just for the consumers, but also for the growers, for the farmers themselves. So we will start this program this October… within the next two weeks,” Romualdez said.
The rice distribution this month would just be the first round, he said.
“This is not a one-shot deal,” he said. “Once it is successful, and I'm confident that it will be…we'll be able to replicate this and do further succes-
she spends her funds.
“This means we can no longer ask questions in the interest of accountability and transparency,” Castro said in Filipino. “It seems she cannot move without confidential funds.”
The lawmaker said this kind of talk dismayed her.
“She really refuses to let go of the confidential funds despite her statements that she can live without it,” Castro said, speaking in a mix of English and Filipino.
She said that if the vice president is for peace and order, she does not need confidential funds because other leaders have been able to make do without them, including former vice president Leni Robredo.
“She should give up her confidential funds because it’s not the mandate of her office to do surveillance. She needs to focus on our problems in education,” Castro said.
The OVP has been the subject of intense questioning at the House over its P125 million confidential fund in 2022, which was released to the agency in December 2022.
The Commission on Audit noted that the OVP spent that amount in just 11 days.
Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co earlier said the confidential and intelligence funds sought by the OVP and DepEd are among those to be realigned to other government agencies involved in security and intelligence work.
Castro said lawmakers must monitor the proposed realignment up to the point where the budget goes to the bicameral conference committee.
“Pag-asa island is the symbol of our sovereignty and sovereign rights.
nal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) in a house in Binangonan, Rizal where the union leader was staying, according to reports cited by the militant labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU). The KMU refuted the PNP-CIDG’s claims that Fernandez fought back, causing them to fire at him “until he was killed and declared ‘dead on the spot.’”
“We deliberately refute this narrative. Fernandez is a labor organizer and he does not bear arms,” it said. Vince Lopez
Bryant clone Jefferson, who had 24 points but only on 28 percent shooting.
Part of it was the pesky defense on him by Newsome, who was cut from the final lineup of the Gilas team during last month’s World Cup.
“There were a lot of reasons that we couldn’t get it done rather than we could, but despite all that we fought through it, we really believed that we could do it,” said Newsome, who scored 14 points.
The gold was the Philippines’ fourth in these Asian Games, to go with 2 silvers and 12 bronze medals at 16th spot overall.
sive rounds of this.”
Romualdez said they would replicate the Metro Manila distribution in Metro Cebu, Davao and other large urban areas.
There are more than 250 legislative districts in the country. With an initial target of 10,000 recipients in each district, the program will benefit at least 2.5 million Filipinos in its first round.
Also on Friday, Romualdez called on all civil servants to act in unison to cushion the impact of rising prices.
"Now, more than ever, is the time for unity and teamwork. Let's roll up our sleeves, work double-time, and deliver real results for our countrymen," Romualdez said.
With the onset of harvest season, Romualdez said he believes that prices of daily necessities, especially food, will start to decrease.
"But this isn't just about waiting for harvests. This is about all of us in the government coming together to ensure our people feel relief faster," he said.
Romualdez said the government has been proactive in launching initiatives to aid those most affected by rising prices caused by global inflation.
A new digital food stamp program has been introduced, granting struggling families an allowance of P3,000 monthly. This timely assistance is a lifeline for families facing food scarcity and provides extra support to pregnant and nursing mothers, Romualdez said. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)
ABS-CBN has decided not to appeal the 12-airing-day suspension meted on its popular noontime show “It’s Showtime” by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), the media giant said last night in a statement.
Earlier this month, MTRCB announced the suspension, which will begin October 14, after several viewers lodged multiple complaints about the midday variety show’s July 25 episode, where hosts allegedly acted in an indecent manner in the "Isip Bata" segment.
“After careful consideration, ABSCBN has decided not to appeal to the Office of the President the decision of the MTRCB on ‘It's Showtime’ and instead serve the 12-day suspension starting October 14,” the network said.
“We respect the authority of MTRCB, but we humbly maintain that the program did not break any pertinent law. Our heartfelt thanks to our viewers for their unwavering love and support for ‘It's Showtime,’ which will return on October 28 stronger and better than ever,” it added.
The show airs daily except Sundays, hence will not show new episodes for two weeks. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)
A REGIONAL trial court in Bulacan on Friday acquitted retired Army Major Gen. Jovito Palparan on charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention with serious physical injuries filed by farmers Raymond and Reynaldo Manalo.
The decision was handed down by the Malolos City Regional Trial Court Branch 19.
Complainant Raymond Manalo is a surviving witness-victim in the kidnapping of University of the Philippines students Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeño in 2006.
In 2018, Palparan was convicted of kidnapping and serious illegal detention for the disappearance of Cadapan and Empeño.
In a statement, National Union of Peoples' Lawyers chairperson Edre Olalia said the ruling was "simply unbelievable if not disturbingly shocking." "It is even a huge challenge to make sense of how he can be earlier convicted mainly on the basis of the testimony of the same witness survivor by one court and years later would be acquitted on the same testimony in a separate case brought by the same said witness survivor in another court," Olalia said.
Labelled as a "butcher" by activists, Palparan led the anti-communist drive called "Oplan Bantay Laya" under thenPresident Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
THE Sandiganbayan in separate resolutions has approved the plea of current Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile to file a demurer to evidence in the plunder case against him but denied the same motion filed by his former chief of staff, Jessica Lucila Reyes.
Enrile and Reyes are accused of plunder, along with Janet Lim Napoles, for supposedly amassing P172.83 million worth of kickbacks from Enrile’s Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel while he was Senate President, funneled through nonexistent nongovernment organizations created by Napoles.
“The Motion for Leave to File Demurrer to Evidence filed before the Court by accused Juan Ponce Enrile, through counsel, on September 8, 2023, is granted,” a copy of the Third Division’s Minutes dated September 18 read.
While the anti-graft court granted former Senate President Enrile’s motion and gave him 10 days to file his demurrer, it denied for lack of merit Reyes’ similar motion for leave to file demurrer to evidence, according to the Minutes of the Third Division dated September 19, 2023.
The court did not give any reason for the denial and merely gave Reyes five days to inform the court what she intended to do, giving her the option to still file a demurrer without leave of court “but subject to the legal consequence” under the Rules of Court.
The orders were signed by the justices of the Sandiganbayan Third Division—Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang, Associate Justice Bernelito Fernan, and Associate Justice Ronald Moreno. Maricel V. Cruz
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed his confidence that Western Visayas will be free from communist insurgency given the rapidly decreasing number of communist rebels in the region.
"We must keep on going and we'll wait for your invitation to come back when you declare this area insurgentfree… I think it's achievable,” Marcos said in a briefing with security officers in Camp General Macario Peralta Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz.
President Marcos said he is satisfied with the accomplishments of the Philippine Army in sustaining peace efforts and weakening the presence of communist rebels in the region.
“The name of the game in the West Philippine Sea is effective presence. It means whoever is present in the area has control," he said.
"We still have a lot of things to do, a lot of improvements to make, not just in Pag-asa Island but in the other eight features,” Brawner said.
For instance, Brawner said Pag-asa Island served as rock-solid proof of the country’s sovereignty since Filipinos occupied it under the jurisdiction and governance of the Kalayaan municipality in Palawan.
It is the farthest island from our baseline. It is outside our exclusive economic zone but it is a territory occupied by Filipinos. There are 130 soldiers and police officers deployed in Pag-asa Island,” Brawner said.
“That is why we are requesting more funding. We have to develop our islands and make them habitable for the soldiers and the community. We need to improve our facilities in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.
Before the House of Representatives approved the proposed P5.768 trillion budget for 2024 last
week, its leaders issued a statement saying they would realign confidential and intelligence funds to those agencies that needed them most, especially those on the frontline of securing the country’s exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea, which China violates with impunity.
Romualdez has committed to allocate P3 billion initially for development projects on Pag-asa, the main island in and the seat of the town of Kalayaan in Palawan.
Romualdez made the commitment following a visit to the remote town in the West Philippine Sea accompanied by some congressmen and officers of the AFP. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)
He stressed the need to ensure that the insurgent groups will no longer have the platform to finance their operations.
“I would [like to] congratulate you for the good progress that you're making. Keep the pressure going... I know that the other units are also doing it in terms of financing. But perhaps, you could put more emphasis on that,” President Marcos told the troops.
According to Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division Commander, MGen Marion Sison, the rebels are taking advantage of minority groups, especially indigenous peoples. Vince Lopez
THE Makabayan Bloc on Friday sought a congressional inquiry into the cyberattack on state-run Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) that resulted in the leak of personal records of the agency.
The bloc’s members, Reps. France Castro, Arlene Brosas, and Raoul Manuel filed House Resolution 1350 as they voiced concern over the issue.
“PhilHealth released a statement on October 2, 2023 admitting that personal information of its members was compromised. The harvesting and public release of such sensitive personal information certainly endanger the security of affected PhilHealth employees and members, as such unique information could be used to stage a number of crimes such as scams, identity theft, phishing, among others,” the lawmakers said.
In the resolution, the group said PhilHealth “must be compelled to fully explain the extent of the data breach and to put in place stronger security measures following the ransomware attack.”
Maricel V. Cruz
AS THE country celebrates in November the 5th anniversary of the enactment of Republic Act 11146 or the “Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act or First 1000 Days
Law,” experts cited anew the importance of vaccination during a child’s first 1,000 days,
This would give them optimum protection against communicable vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) during the pivotal stage of their development.
Dr. Fatima Gimenez, immunization committee chairperson of the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS), explained that the first 1,000 days of life is a “critical window of opportunity where decisions and actions during this period could cause irreversible damage to a child’s life.”
Macon Ramos-AranetaGOVERNMENT agents have seized 323 kilos of shabu worth more than P2.2 billion concealed in a beef shipment from Mexico.
The raid initiated by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service - Manila International Container Port (CIISMICP) was in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the Bureau of Customs to intensify its campaign against illegal drugs in the country. Records showed that the shipment arrived at the MICP on Feb. 24 from
Logistica Integral Aduanal Meyma and Aime Express Logistics SA DE CV, Mexico, and consigned to a certain Salesbeat Within.
The CIIS-MICP team led by Alvin Enciso conducted the operation following intelligence information that the shipment contained illegal drugs. Subsequently, the agents monitored its
declaration, processing, and movement.
Enciso said despite a considerable lapse of time, no goods declaration was filed for the shipment.
The CIIS-MICP requested a PreLodgement Control Order from the MICP District Collector, and after five days, X-ray scanning and physical examination revealed approximately 323 kilograms of shabu concealed in a laminated beef jerky.
“This operation is a coordinated response to the President’s call and a fulfilment of the agency’s mandate to protect the country’s borders and ensure the security of all ports of entry,” said
Customs Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Group Juvymax Uy.
Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio commended the Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, X-Ray Inspection Project, Philippine National Police-Drug Enforcement Group, BOC-Enforcement and Security Service, Philippine Coast Guard, and Chamber of Customs Brokers, Inc. (CCBI) for their assistance in the operation.
Just recently, the Customs bureau also seized a P3.8 billion shipment of shabu from Thailand.
THE Philippine General Hospital (PGH) has expressed grave concern over the sad state of affairs of its emergency room (ER) following report that some patients have to wait three days to as long as three weeks to be accommodated.
PGH director Gerardo Legaspi said the number of patients seeking emergency medical care exceeded the hospital’s emergency room’s capacity of 70 patients.
“Ang aming emergency room was designed only for 70 patients, Sa huli kong census na nakuha, 202 na ngayon ang nasa loob na nasa kama, 40 ang nakarespirator. Para siyang ICU na malaki (Our emergency room was designed for only 70 patients. The latest count showed 202 patients were in the ER, 40 of them on respirator. It looks like a large ICU (intensive care unit),” Legaspi said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.
He said the PGH implements an emergency severity score system to ensure that patients with the most immediate need are given priority attention.
Devotees celebrate Holy Mass at the Sagrada Familia Church in the New Gateway Mall 2 as Araneta City welcomes the enshrinement of the Mahal na Birhen ng La Naval attended by (inset) Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Rep. Franz Pumaren, and other city officials. Manny Palmero
“Kapag ikaw ay mamamatay within the hour or two hours, nandun ka sa ES 1. Kahit anong puno ng ospital ipapasok ka doon kasi kailangan ka malapatan ng resuscitation o paggamot (If you are on the edge of death, you go to ES 1. No matter if the hospital is full, they will squeeze you in to be resuscitated or revived)” he said.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and the
Members of the House of Representatives grieve the demise of our beloved colleague
HON. EDWARD S. HAGEDORN
Representative, Third District of Palawan, 19th Congress on 03 October 2023 at the age of 76.
His remains lie in state at the Skylight Convention Center Roxas Street, Puerto Princesa City.
Interment will be on Monday, 09 October 2023 at the Loyola Memorial Park, Puerto Princesa City after the 10:00 am mass at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa City.
Condolences to his beloved wife, Mrs. Maria Elena Marcelo Hagedorn and his children, Eva Christie Fatima Hagedorn-Villegas and Elroy John M. Hagedorn.
We request the pious readers to pray for the eternal repose of his soul.
‘PGH emergency room bursting at the seams’MARIAN ENSHRINEMENT.
ANTI-INSURGENCY PUSH.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visits the camp of the Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division in Jamindan, Capiz on Friday, Oct. 6, 2023 where he underscored the importance of maintaining peace and weakening the presence of communist armed groups. (Inset) The President also distributed rice to indigent families and cash assistance to six organized livelihood associations in Capiz. Alfed Frias
A CONGRESSIONAL resolution was filed expressing the profound sympathy of the House of Representatives on the passing of Palawan Rep. Edward Hagedorn.
At the same time, Rep. Eddie Villanueva of CIBAC also filed House Resolution 1348 recognizing Hagedorn’ legacy and valuable contribution to nation-building, especially in the areas of environmental protection, tourism, agriculture, peace and spiritual upliftment.
THE Ninoy Aquino International Airport and 41 other commercial airports across the country were placed under heightened security alert on Friday following bomb threats received by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.
“All 42 commercial airports of CAAP are on heightened alert as of today, October 6, following a warning received by the Air Traffic Service via email that aircraft from Manila, bound to Puerto Princesa, Mactan-Cebu, Bicol, and Davao International Airports are about to be set off by a bomb,” said CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio.
FOUR former officers of the defunct Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC) have been sentenced to up to 47 years in prison following their conviction for graft and malversation of public funds.
The case was in connection with the irregularities in the use of the Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF) or pork barrel of former Davao del Sur Rep. Marc Douglas Cagas IV.
In a decision promulgated on Friday, the Sandiganbayan’s Third Division found former TLRC deputy director general Dennis Cunanan, former group manager and legislative liaison officer Maria Rosalinda Lacsamana, former budget officer Consuelo Lilian Espiritu and former chief accountant Marivic Jover guilty of two counts of graft, simple malversation of public funds and malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents.
The anti-graft court also imposed a fine of P5.4 million each and ordered to jointly return to the government P5.4 million plus legal interest from the filing of the case.
The four were also banned from holding any public office for life. Their retirement or gratuity benefits were likewise forfeited.
The email message sent by “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” read: “May sasabog na eroplano sa NAIA ngayon. Idadamay nila ang Cebu, Palawan, Bicol at Davao. (A plane will explode at NAIA today. Bombers will also target Cebu, Palawan, Bicol and Davao.] Please beware mipinaskongmahal77@gmail.com>”
Apolonio said airports are now implementing enhanced security measures to ensure the safety and security of passengers, airport personnel, and facilities.
Aviation police head Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky said the threat was “most likely a hoax.”
“Nothing is happening. Airport operations is continuous, it’s normal,” he said.
A memorandum issued by Gen. Ricardo Banayat, Assistant Director General II of the CAAP Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS), ordered the deployment of adequate security personnel to manage the
high volume of passengers and vehicle traffic.
“The airports will implement strict access control procedures for both personnel and vehicles, along with thorough inspections of passengers and cargo,” said Apolonio.
He said the CAAP-CSIS personnel are working with the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group and military to intensify intelligence and monitoring operations.
The CAAP official also said Airport Security Coordination meetings will be convened with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the strict implementation of security measures.
“His legacies as a long-time leader of Puerto Princesa, now known as a popular eco-tourism destination, include the designation of the Underground River by the UNESCO World Heritage Site as a New Wonder of the World, the establishment of the city bay walk, the construction of the city coliseum and the construction of the New City Hall - all ushered Puerto Princes to progress,” Villanueva said in his resolution.
“We mourn the loss of a remarkable individual who leaves behind a legacy of dedication, seflessness, love and compassion.” Maricel V. Cruz
THE Commission on Elections has set an en banc hearing on a petition seeking to block Smartmatic from the procurement of new automated election system for the 2025 elections.
Comelec chairman George Garcia said the hearing will be on Oct. 17 at 10 a.m. at the poll body’s headquarters in Manila.
Smartmatic was also directed to comment on the petition filed by former Department of Information and Communications Technology chief Eliseo Rio, Augusto Lagman, Franklin Ysaac, and Leonardo Odono.
The petitioners sought the disqualification of Smartmatic due to alleged irregularities during the general elections last year.
A POLICEMAN in Quezon City was removed from his post after a video implying he stopped traffic along Commonwealth Avenue to allow the convoy of Vice President Sara Duterte to pass weng viral.
Duterte’s office called on the Quezon City Police District to investigate the incident, adding they did not make any request to halt traffic.
“The claims in the video are not only misleading but also outright false. I strongly condemn any actions that disrupt the daily lives and well-being of our fellow citizens,” the Vice President said.
“My commitment to ensuring the welfare and convenience of the Filipino people remains unwavering,” she added.
The QCPD has since apologized for the incident, adding that the cop, identified as Master Sgt. Pantallano, “overreacted.” Vince Lopez
THE Department of Justice will need a total of 1,537 new prosecutors and prosecution attorneys to haste the resolution of complaints and court cases which, for the past six years, have totaled more than 1.1 million.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remul-
la made the disclosure on the opening of new prosecutorial posts after the DOJ and the Department of Budget and Management signed a joint circular on staffing standards for prosecution offices.
“As gate keepers of criminal justice it is vital that the country’s prosecutional services be sufficiently empowered and equipped with an adequate workforce
SENATOR Robin Padilla has filed a bill allowing Filipinos to have digital access to Shari’a courts (Islamic courts). Padilla, in filing Senate Bill 2462, sought to amend some provisions of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Act of 2009 to make Shari’a
courts more accessible to Filipinos.
“This measure also introduces provisions for the creation of a digital platform that allows the paperless filing of routine documents to and from Shari’a courts, as well as the collection of statistical data for Muslim Filipinos at the national, regional, provincial, city, and municipal levels,” Padilla said in his bill.
“To ensure that all citizens of this country are able to access an effective, efficient, and non-discriminatory legal system, the passage of this measure is earnestly sought,” he added.
Padilla said many Muslim Filipinos face difficulties in availing of Shari’a court services due to lack of funds and knowledge in submitting documents.
COTABATO CITY---Bangsamoro
Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal said he has created a special committee to look into allegations of pay-offs in the appointments of newly-hired and promoted teachers in the region’s five provinces and three cities. Iqbal, who heads the Ministry of
Basic, Higher and Technical Education of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said such accusation on social media, if proven true, violates the tenets of Islam and the principles of moral governance of the Bangsamoro.
The BARMM education chief an -
nounced the creation of the probe team when he spoke online to more than 900 newly-hired teachers and promoted principals.
He said he found it strange that stories of alleged bribery would mar a very rigid process in the selection of candidate-applicants. Nash Maulana
to pursue the investigation and prosecution of criminal behavior,” Remulla said during the signing ceremony.
“By increasing their ranks, we can fortify the justice system, expedite the resolution of cases and ensure that justice is served,” he added.
With the joint circular, Remulla said: “We expect an additional 1,173 pros-
ecutors and 364 prosecution attorneys to augment our prosecution offices throughout the country.”
Prior the signing of the joint circular, Prosecutor General Benedicto Malcontento sais the DOJ’s National Prosecution Service (NPS) is authorized to fill up only 2,771 posts for prosecutors and 250 posts for prosecution attorneys.
PEOPLE often ponder the significance of a synod.
The term ‘synod’ originates from the Greek language, signifying ‘walking together on the road.’
As Christians, disciples of our Lord, we consistently unite to discuss the Lord, absorb His teachings, and strategize on how to serve Him with unwavering devotion.
In essence, a synod represents our journey as disciples of the Lord on the path leading ultimately to heaven.
Throughout history, the Church has convened synods from its earliest days.
These gatherings often brought bishops together to discern the path the Lord intended for guiding His people.
However, synodality aims to extend this ancient practice, observed in both Eastern and Western Churches, beyond the bishops to encompass all of God’s people.
Through baptism and confirmation, every one of us is called to serve the Lord.
In the context of the synod and synodality, we are summoned to collectively contemplate how to fulfill God’s will and how the Church can expand its reach to evangelize.
The Synod proceedings are not accessible to the media or the general public.
During the initial week, delegates deliver individual contributions, and subsequently, they gather in small groups based on language.
Extraordinary General Assemblies are convened to address urgent and time-sensitive challenges confronting the church.
These extraordinary synods involve fewer participants and have occurred only three times in 1969, 1985, and 2014.
Finally, there are special assemblies tailored to specific geographic regions.
In 2019, a special assembly was scheduled to focus on the Amazon region.
The Synod of Bishops maintains its own dedicated team of personnel who assist bishops in preparing what is known as an “apostolic exhortation,” a document that the Pope may release to reflect on the discussions of the Synod.
The Synod on young people, faith, and vocational discernment represents the 15th ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.
The commencement of the Synod on Synodality at the local Church, within the diocese, is fitting.
It is within these local communities that we encounter Christ, celebrate sacraments, hear the word of God, and engage in evangelization.
This initial phase, extending into the first half of 2022, marks the beginning of a process.
The Synod on Synodality that is now happening in the Vatican embodies the Church’s pursuit of understanding how being the Church, as the Lord assembles, can evolve and adapt.
This process revolves around a commitment to consistently discern God’s will, emphasizing the primacy of listening to His word and to one another.
The phrase ‘Speak, Lord, your servant is listening,’ from the Old Testament’s Book of Samuel, captures our role in the synod on synodality.
It highlights the importance of listening to the voice of the Lord in prayer, as well as reflecting on Holy Scripture and the Church’s faith.
Moreover, it underscores the significance of listening to one another, recognizing that God speaks through each of us in diverse ways.
The term “Synod” signifies an ecclesiastical advisory council, originating from the Greek word “synodos,” which means to journey together.
During the fourth session of the Second Vatican Council, Pope Paul VI expressed his intention to establish a Synod of Bishops, allowing future Popes to gather a diverse assembly of church leaders from various global regions to address matters of significance to the entire church. There are three distinct types of Synods of Bishops.
Ordinary General Assemblies, the most prevalent category, convene every three years.
The Pope selects a specific topic, and an outline is prepared and distributed to local churches, inviting their input.
These responses form the foundation for a preparatory document created before the Synod. Who participates in the Synod? Delegates are chosen by national bishops’ conferences, members of the Roman Curia, representatives of religious orders, and occasionally lay experts and observers. The Pope also designates certain bishops to attend.
Subsequently, each diocese is tasked with gathering the insights and discussions generated during this phase and forwarding them to the Conference of Bishops of Canada.
There, these diverse perspectives, reflecting the unique challenges faced by dioceses across our country, will be synthesized and presented.
Following this, the leaders of the Canadian bishops will meet with their counterparts from the United States and the local faithful to deliberate on the collective wisdom gained.
The outcomes, including both summaries and the individual diocesan reports, has beem forwarded to the Vatican.
Here, they will become part of the reflection process during the Synod that is now.
This two-year journey of listening to the people of God is integral to shaping the future of the Church.
Ultimately, the synod and synodality are not just about internal reflection but an outward mission.
We are entrusted with the responsibility of caring for the gathered and reaching out to the scattered. Evangelization lies at the heart of the synod and synodality. We listen, pray, reflect, and then, like the earliest disciples, extend our outreach.
In the words of our Lord, ‘Go, teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and know that I am with you even at the end of the age.’
“These words instill hope and joy, reminding us of the commission we have received from the Lord and the spirit with which we engage in this momentous synod on synod.”
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themselves at a serious competitive disadvantage.
Proponents say performing repetitive tasks can become very monotonous and time-consuming, but using AI for tiresome and routine tasks can help us focus on the most important tasks in our to-do list.
THE challenge for global partnership among developed and developing nations has become urgent, with only seven years away from the timeframe 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The agenda, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.
At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which raise an urgent call for action by all countries -developed and developing -- in a global collaboration.
They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go handin-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while
With just seven years left to achieve the SDG, world leaders have renewed a call for action and delivery for sustainable development
tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.
Experts have pointed to seven major initiatives to achieve sustainability goals: Infrastructure Imperatives, Carbon Management, Green Energy, Circular Economy, Environment Conservation, Water Conservation and Energy Efficiency.
Last month, the Sustainable Development Goals Summit, under the auspices of the United Nations General Assembly, helped catalyze renewed efforts towards accelerating progress on the SDGs, serving as a vital road map out of these challenges.
INSTEAD of the Philippines removing the floating barriers installed by China’s coast guard, the Manila government should have requested the US to personally remove them.
This is normal and just.
First, it was the US that repeatedly insisted our country to align with them in their fight to isolate China in the region. According to US president Biden, the alliance between the two countries is “ironclad.”
Second, aligning with the US is to defend American interest in the South China Sea, which incidentally, will serve to reinforce its hegemonistic position consistent with Obama’s policy called “pivot to Asia.”
This means the threat from China could entice he Philippines to align closer to the US and prevent China from becoming the dominant power in Asia, and for which the US often acts arbitrarily to enforce the conduct of its relations with other sovereign states in the region.
Third, our reinforced ties with Taiwan was done at the instigation of the US, carried out gradually first by introducing the Visiting Forces Agreement leading to the revival of the US military bases in the country and countries in the region.
Fourth, the success of the US in reviving its military bases, particularly in the Philippines, was followed after former President Marcos was removed by them after a tumultuous ouster by the CIA.
Of course, the return of the bases was initially done by the son after he installed a lackey calling the reinvigorated agreement Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
When the son was elected President, he laid down the true intention of the US government for the country and for the region which was to formally reestablish the bases with the objective of isolating China from the rest of Southeast Asia.
The US did not only establish six but added four more to make it 10, all facing the South China Sea.
that treaty.
It was only after the US realized that China has become an existential threat to its own security did the US change its mind and demanded that Ayungin Shoal is part of our territorial waters.
Before the issue about China cropped up, Ayungin Shoal was never contested by the US.
In fact, before it gave up its military bases in 1991, Ayungin Shoal served as an extension of Subic Naval base where they could practice their aircraft for so-called “bombing runs.”
We
Heads of state, governments, political and thought leaders from various sectors, along with civil society, women, youth and other stakeholders, convened at the UN Headquarters in New York to raise ambition and transformative action to ensure the targets set in 2015 are met.
With just seven years left to achieve the SDG, world leaders have renewed a call for action and delivery for sustainable development, and pledged to mobilize financing, enhance national implementation and strengthen institutions to achieve the Goals by the target date of 2030, leaving no one behind.
We support the call of the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on all sectors of society to mobilize for years of action on three levels: global action to secure greater leadership, more resources and smarter solutions for the SDG, and local action embedding the needed transitions in the policies of governments as well as people action, including by youth, civil society, the media, the private sector, unions, the academe and other stakeholders.
Remember that in this case, we merely supported the interest of the US to implement what is known as “US proxy war” in the South China Sea.
We should bear in mind we are not at war with China and it is important to note it was the US that sought the return of the military bases in this country.
Their return was done through chicanery as the bases should have been terminated in 1991.
The US created an issue that tilted the focus of our attention into defending against alleged China invasion.
Moreover, the US reformatted our bases agreement, creating an underneath alliance from among its allies in Asia like Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
The most important reminder I could suggest to our people is to emphasize that in the event of war, we must ask the Americans, that it should be their soldiers that should first face the Chinese.
IT HAS been around for three score and eight years. But its presence has been making recent inroads in many offices, educational institutions and, lately, at least one television newsroom.
Artificial Intelligence or AI, the recent lexicon in print and broadcast newsrooms, coined in 1955 to introduce a new discipline of computer science, is rapidly and radically changing the various areas of our daily lives as the market for AI technologies is demanding and flourishing.
Some say these innovations give computers the ability to analyze enormous amounts of data, spot patterns, and come to educated conclusions or predictions, frequently outperforming human capacity.
They say by utilizing AI, we can solve complicated issues, improve procedures, and create new opportunities across numerous industries.
Others say it can help improve accuracy and decision-making: AI augments human intelligence with rich analytics and pattern prediction capabilities to improve the quality, effectiveness, and creativity of employee decisions. Its proponents say regardless of whether AI is considered a threat to the world, it is estimated to contribute over $15 trillion to the world economy by the year 2030.
One report states approximately $6.6 trillion of the expected GDP growth will come from productivity gains, especially in the coming years. Major contributors to this growth include the automation of routine tasks and the development of intelligent bots and tools that can perform all human-level tasks.
Most of the tech giants have been using AI as a solution to laborious tasks.
And they warn that companies that are slow to adopt these AI-based solutions will find
Now, down to the brass tacks, as we try to beat deadlines in a tension-filled newsroom, print or broadcast.
The advantages range from streamlining, saving time, eliminating biases, and automating repetitive tasks, just to name a few.
One of the most significant impacts of AI on the workplace is increased efficiency and productivity. AI-powered tools can automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks, freeing up employees to focus on more strategic and creative work.
Obviously AI has drawbacks which include job displacement, ethical concerns about bias and privacy, security risks from hacking, a lack of human-like creativity and empathy
What may be seen as the minuses for AI at this point?
Although AI has been tasked with creating everything from computer code to visual art, it lacks original thought.
The absence of empathy.
Skill loss in humans.
Possible overreliance on the technology and increased laziness in humans.
Job loss and displacement.
Some have voiced alarm over AI which has been growing, with leaders from various sectors voicing concerns about both the increasing power of AI and its role in society.
Surely, proponents would advance the benefits of AI, like 24/7 availability.
Other computer technologies operate round the clock, and companies have benefited from the high availability of such systems -- but only insomuch as humans have been available to work with them.
Jordan Rae Kelly, senior managing director and head of cybersecurity for the Americas at FTI Consulting, has said AI’s ability to make
The US has to be reminded it was that country, together with our colonizer, Spain, that signed the agreement that ceded the Philippines to the US that today represents the disputed boundary in the South China Sea.
The Philippines merely ratified that treaty including the Scarborough Shoal where three of our fishermen died as a result of the ramming by a commercial oil tanker. All modifications in that treaty including our ratification of UNCLOS came subsequent to
It was only after it realized the strategic importance of Ayungin Shoal did the US induce us to claim the area even if it was outside the 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
China’s basis for claiming many of the islets in the South China Sea is the NineDash Line demarcated by Taiwan long before Taiwan and PRC parted ways.
The departure of the US in the Philippines in 1990 was sort of gratis et amore to given by the Philippines. The Nine-Dash Line claimed by China is being disputed by the Philippines as without any legal bases.
The Permanent Arbitration Court where the case was lodged as a complaint, but China rejected the decision.
China’s rejection of the PAC’s jurisdiction is understandable. No state would submit itself to an international institution without its consent.
Besides, UNCLOS does not give a state the exclusive jurisdiction and control over an archipelago like control over South China Sea.
That would impede the freedom of navigation in the area. We should never take the stance a belligerent position in our conflict with Taiwan.
It was the Philippines that demarcated those boundaries and must respect that.
beating the newsroom deadline.
Newsroom editors can ask a reporter in the field to follow up a question to merge with other details from another run, which can be absent in the new technology. Such holds true as well in broadcast newsrooms, according to some experts, where empathy, as projected by news readers, can be very glaring.
The US is under obligation to comply in the event of a renewed Cold War.
As I said, it was the US that signed the treaty that demarcated the boundaries that separated China in the South China Sea. We should stop acting like gullible clowns or errand boys for US imperialism in this part of the world.
We should bear in mind that we are no longer fighting for our interest and security but in defense of Taiwan and arms traders made up of the US military industrial complex.
The death of three fishermen is caused by them wanting to dismantle the floating barrier installed by China by a runaway oil tanker off Bajo de Masinloc or Ayungin Shoal without them being informed of the possible consequences for their rash decision to dismantle those floating barriers.
Those fishermen acted like stooge of the US navy not knowing that the US will not come to their rescue even in situations like this.
Only thing that gave us a saving face is that the collision was between our fishing boat and ocean-going commercial tanker of which the US navy could avoid liability, though clearly, it was our fishermen that sought the accident to happen.
( rpkapunan@gmail.com )
decisions and take actions independent of human involvement in many business circumstances means the technology can work independently, ensuring continuous operations.
Unlike humans, according to these proponents, AI systems don’t get tired or become distracted.
They’re able to process infinitely more information, and consistently follow the rules to analyze data and make decisions -- all of which make them far more likely to deliver accurate results nearly all the time.
But there are also disadvantages of AI, particularly in the newsroom where well-meaning and competent editors and layout artists have the creativity and the empathy – as when they work on fonts and points as well as page designs while
We quote some experts here, that although AI can create everything from computer code to visual art, it lacks original thought, stressing “It can only know what it knows. It can’t think outside the box, no pun intended, and is limited by what it can ingest.”
AI essentially makes predictions based on algorithms and the training data it has been fed; and although machine learning algorithms help the machine learn over time, it does not have the capacity humans have for creativity, inspiration and new ways of thinking.
Chief security officer at Gigamon, maker of cybersecurity technology, Chaim Mazal has said “It’s not going to replace critical thinking; it’s just going to be another arrow in our quiver.”
Others point to the absence of empathy, in that while AI can be taught to recognize human emotions like frustration, it cannot empathize and has no ability to feel.
By Armida Salsiah AlisjahbanaUltimately, the synod and synodality are not just about internal reflection but an outward mission
should stop acting like gullible clowns or errand boys for US imperialism in this part of the world
AI can be taught to recognize human emotions like frustration, it cannot empathize and has no ability to feel
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Former president Donald Trump shared classified information about US nuclear submarines with an Australian businessman shortly after he left office, in a meeting at his Florida private members club Mar-a-Lago, US media said Thursday (Friday in Manila).
The New York Times, citing unnamed sources, identified the businessman as billionaire Anthony Pratt, who heads one of the world’s largest packaging companies.
ABC News, which first revealed the story, said Pratt later shared sensitive details about the US submarines with “scores of others, including more than a dozen foreign officials, several of his own employees, and a handful of journalists.”
Sources told the Times that Trump’s disclosures “potentially endangered
the US nuclear fleet.”
Federal prosecutors already investigating Trump for holding classified material at Mar-a-Lago after he left office, interviewed Pratt twice about the incident, the reports said.
Pratt may now be called by prosecutors to testify against Trump in his classified documents trial, which is due to start next May in Florida.
Pratt met Trump at his Palm Beach club in April 2021, and told the expresident he thought Australia should start buying its submarines from the US, ABC reported.
In response, Trump allegedly told the businessman the exact number of nuclear warheads US submarines routinely carry, and precisely how close they can get to Russian submarines without being detected, the news outlet said. AFP
GROZA, Ukraine—A Russian strike killed at least
51 people gathered for a wake in northeastern Ukraine Thursday, provoking outrage from Western leaders for what the UN warned could be a war crime.
The mourners for a fallen Ukrainian soldier had gathered at a cafe in the village of Groza, in the Kharkiv region.
People who had been in a shop in the same building were also killed in the attack on the small village, which had a population of 330 people.
A spokeswoman for the regional assembly, quoted by Ukrainian media, said it was the single deadliest attack since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022.
AFP journalists at the scene of the aftermath saw blackened and dismem-
WASHINGTON, D.C.—US President Joe Biden on Thursday (Friday in Manila) defended plans to extend the border wall with Mexico, saying he didn’t think such barriers worked but that he was bound by laws introduced under Donald Trump.
Democrat Biden pledged during his White House race with Trump in 2020 that he would abandon the Republican’s signature policy and would not build any more of the wall.
But his own Department of Homeland Security on Thursday announced the building of a new section in southern Texas to tackle an “acute and immediate need,” as migrant crossings surge. Biden, who is polling neck-and-neck with rival Trump ahead of a likely 2024 election rematch, insisted his predecessor had tied his hands on the wall-building.
“They have to use the money for what it was appropriated for. I can’t stop that,” he told reporters in the Oval Office.
He said the cash was earmarked for the border wall by the US Congress under Trump in 2019, and that lawmakers had since rejected his appeals to reassign the funds.
Asked if he thought the border wall was effective, Biden replied simply: “No.”
The new section of wall will be built in the “high illegal entry” Rio Grande Valley sector of the US-Mexico border, where there have been more than 245,000 attempted illegal entries this fiscal year.
But Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas later said the announcement had been “taken out of context.”
“The action that we took—we had no choice,” Mayorkas said during a news conference in Mexico with Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
“There is no new administration policy with respect to the border wall.”
Illegal immigration has become a major political headache for Biden, with opposition Republicans accusing him of lax border policies.
The border issue has even added to uncertainty over US aid for Ukraine, with some Republicans refusing to approve funds until Biden acts on migrants.
Meanwhile some Democrats including progressive lawmaker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the wall decision. So did conservationists after it emerged that two dozen federal environmental laws would be waived to build the extension. AFP
bered bodies spread out on the ground opposite the ruins of the cafe.
Police and soldiers loaded white body bags of unidentifiable bodies onto trucks that would take them to Kharkiv for DNA testing.
“My son was just found without a head, without arms, without legs, without anything. They recognised him from his documents,” Volodymyr Mukhovaty, 70, told AFP.
His wife and daughter-in-law were also attending the wake, he said, acknowledging he had “little hope” of
finding them alive.
“I lived with my wife for 48 years,” he said. “I will not last long alone.”
A six-year-old child was also among the victims, said Interior Minister Igor Klymenko, who added that a total of 60 people had been attending the memorial service.
The soldier, whose wake it was, had been killed a month after Russia invaded. He had been buried in the southern city of Dnipro—away from his home village, then under Russian occupation.
He was reburied in Groza on Thursday morning. His wife and son, also a soldier, were both killed in the strike, a spokesman for the regional prosecutor’s office was quoted as saying by the InterfaxUkraine news agency. Klymenko said initial evidence showed an Iskander missile had been used.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was attending a European summit in Spain, said he had no doubts that the strike had been deliberate.
“The Russian military could not fail to know where they were hitting,” he said.
“It was not a blind strike.”
Zelensky also said he had secured agreements from several countries to provide Kyiv with more air defence systems and artillery,
“Spain, Italy, France, Germany, Great Britain -- thank you!” he said.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had announced that Berlin would supply Kyiv with a new Patriot air-defence system, and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock later posted on X, formerly Twitter, that Germany would “do everything for #Ukraine to protect itself from Putin’s missile terror.” AFP
OSLO, Norway—The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded on Friday to imprisoned women’s rights campaigner Narges Mohammadi, honored for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran.
Mohammadi was honored “for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her fight to promote human rights and freedom for all,” said Berit Reiss-Andersen, the head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee in Oslo.
Mohammadi has spent much of the past two decades in and out of jail for her campaign against the mandatory hijab for women and the death penalty.
She is the vice-president of the Defenders of Human Rights Center founded by Iranian human rights lawyer Shirin Ebadi, herself a Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2003.
“Her brave struggle has come with tremendous personal costs. Altogether, the regime has arrested her 13 times, convicted her five times, and sentenced her to a total of 31 years in prison and 154 lashes,” Reiss-Andersen said.
Last year, against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine, the prize went to a symbolic trio opposed to the war— Russian human rights group Memorial, Ukraine’s Center for Civil Liberties and jailed Belarusian rights advocate Ales Bialiatski.
The prize comes with a gold medal, a diploma and a prize sum of 11 million Swedish kronor (about $1 million).
The award will be presented at a formal ceremony in Oslo on December 10, the anniversary of the 1896 death of the prizes’ creator, Swedish inventor and philanthropist Alfred Nobel.
The Peace Prize is the only Nobel awarded in Oslo, with the other disciplines announced in Stockholm.
On Thursday, Norwegian playwright Jon Fosse, whose plays are among the most widely staged of any contemporary playwright in the world, won the Nobel Prize in Literature. AFP
BEIRUT, Lebanon—An attack Thursday on a Syrian military academy killed 112 people, a war monitor said, with state media blaming “terrorist organizations” for the drone strike in government-held Homs.
Separately, Turkish air raids in the country’s Kurdish-held northeast killed at least 11 people, according to Kurdish forces, after Ankara had threatened retaliation for a bomb attack.
In the central city of Homs, “armed ter-
rorist organizations” targeted “the graduation ceremony for officers of the military academy”, an army statement carried by official news agency SANA said.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor, reported “112 dead including 21 civilians, 11 of them women and girls.” It said at least 120 people were wounded.
Health Minister Hassan al-Ghobash told state television the “preliminary” toll was 80 dead “including six wom-
en and six children” and around 240 wounded. There was no immediate claim of responsibility.
The attack was carried out with “explosive-laden drones”, according to the military statement, vowing to “respond with full force”. The government declared three days of mourning starting Friday.
In the rebel-held Idlib region, residents reported heavy bombardment by
government forces in apparent retaliation. The Observatory said eight people had been killed and some 30 wounded.
Swathes of Idlib province are controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led by Al-Qaeda’s former Syria branch. The jihadist group has used drones to attack government-held areas in the past.
United Nations chief Antonio Guterres was “deeply concerned” over the drone attack and the retaliatory shelling, his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. AFP
GLACIAL FLOODS.
A general view shows the damaged Teesta V power plant along the Teesta River some 6 kms from Singtam in India’s Sikkim state on Thursday, a day after a flash flood triggered by a high-altitude glacial lake burst. Indian rescue teams searched for 102 people missing after a devastating flash flood triggered by a highaltitude glacial lake burst killed at least 14, officials said. AFP
BANGKOK, Thailand—Indian rescuers are searching for over 100 people missing in a flash flood caused by a glacial lake bursting its banks, a risk scientists warn is increasing with climate change. AFP explains what glacial lake outburst floods are and the risks they pose, particularly in parts of Asia:
A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) is the sudden release of water that has collected in former glacier beds.
These lakes are formed by the retreat of glaciers, a naturally occurring phenomenon that has been turbocharged by the warmer temperatures of humancaused climate change. Glacier melt is often channelled into
rivers, but ice or the build-up of debris can form what is effectively a natural dam, behind which a glacial lake builds.
If these natural dams are breached, large quantities of water can be released suddenly from the lakes, causing devastating flooding.
The natural dams holding back glacial lakes can be breached for a variety of reasons, explained Lauren Vargo, a glacier expert and scientist at the Antarctic Research Center in New Zealand. Causes include “an avalanche of snow, or a landslide causing a wave in the lake, or overfilling
PLDT Inc. said Friday it transferred 230 telecom towers to Frontier Tower Associates Philippines Inc. for P2.8 billion.
The company said the master services agreement covering the leaseback arrangement for 230 towers also became effective on Oct. 6, 2023.
“PLDT expects to transfer additional towers over the next few months as closing conditions are met,” it said.
PLDT signed a share purchase agreement in
ALTERNERGY Holdings Corp.
said Friday its board approved the re-allocation of the initial public offering (IPO) proceeds intended for its offshore wind and hydro projects to advance the development of the Tanay wind project in Rizal and Alabat wind project in Quezon.
Alternergy said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange it is reallocating the entire budget allocation of P88 million for the Lamut hydro project to the 164-megawatt Tanay and Alabat wind projects.
Alternergy said a portion of the IPO proceeds amounting to P143 million which was originally intended for the development of the offshore wind projects (P55 million) would also be reallocated and used for the development of the Tanay and Alabat onshore wind projects, which both qualified under the recent Green Energy Auction - 2 of the Department of Energy.
The intended P60 million allocation from the IPO proceeds for the Calavite and Tablas offshore wind projects was reduced to P5 million, while the P55 million was reallocated to the Tanay and Alabat projects.
It said with the reallocation approved on Oct. 5, the Tanay wind project would have a budget of P113 million and the Alabat wind project would get P100 million.
“Tanay and Alabat wind power projects are following a specific development timeline under GEA 2. Alternergy is fully intent to proceed with the activities leading to immediate construction by first quarter of 2025, and thus, the reallocation of the IPO proceeds,” Alternergy chairman Vicente Perez Jr. said.
Perez said the pre-development activities for the Lamut run-of-river hydro power project and the Calavite and Tablas offshore wind projects would continue despite the decreased allocation.
“Permitting and securing endorsements and clearances as well as conduct of initial technical studies would proceed. We are already on the ground in Lamut, Ifugao engaging the local community while we are in more detailed technical studies for the offshore wind projects. As these activities progress, additional funds will be channeled to support the work programs,” he said.
Alternergy said last week it tapped three leading investment banks as lead arrangers for a P12-billion project finance structure for the construction of two wind power projects.
“The reallocation of proceeds will be a boost for now while the project funding for construction is being finalized,” Alternergy president Gerry Magbanua said.
March this year with the subsidiary of Pinnacle Towers Pte. Ltd. for the 1,012 telecommunications towers and associated passive telecommunications infrastructure mosty located in Luzon for over P12.1 billion.
The transaction, which is expected to be completed this year, brings the total number of towers monetized via sale and leaseback transactions to over 7,500 for more than P98 billion.
“The sale and leaseback of towers are in line with the PLDT Group’s strategy to push for an asset-light balance sheet, while providing superior network quality and an even better customer experience,” PLDT said.
“It further supports the government’s program
of building a strong digital infrastructure program to allow Filipinos to access affordable and reliable internet services,” the company said.
PLDT booked a net income of P18.45 billion in the first six months of 2023, up by 10 percent from P16.78 billion in the same period last year.
Telco core income, which excludes the impact of asset sales and Voyager Innovations, reached P17.6 billion, up 3 percent from P17.11 billion a year ago.
PLDT is targeting a core income of P33.5 billion to P34 billion this year.
Revenues amounted to P104.03 billion in the first six months of the year, up 3 percent from P100.8 billion in the same period last year.
BEST CORPORATE BANK.
Security Bank Corp. is named Best Corporate Bank in the Philippines at the prestigious Asiamoney Best Bank Awards. Executive vice president and wholesale banking segment head John Cary Ong (left) and senior vice president and corporate banking head Yvonne Marcelo (center) receive the honor on behalf of Security Bank at the gala dinner held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore on Sept, 26, 2023.
PHILIPPINE stocks bounced back Friday on the back of positive employment data released by the government.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index jumped 81.35 points, or 1.32 percent, to close at 6,259.95, while the broader all-shares index advanced 30.52 points, or 0.91 percent, to finish at 3,379.77.
Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said investors brushed aside the higher-than-expected September inflation date and looked forward to developments ahead.
The Philippine Statistics Authority reported Friday that unemployment rate in the Philippines fell to a threemonth low of 4.4 percent in August from 4.8 percent in July.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong led the charge as most Asian markets posted gains Friday, shrugging off Wall Street losses ahead of key US jobs data due later in the day.
Analysts say signs of a robust American economy, such as strong labor market data this week, are bad news for equities as it gives the Federal Reserve more reason to keep monetary policy tight through to the end of the year and beyond.
US Treasury yields hit their highest levels since 2007 this week as investors fear high borrowing costs for businesses and consumers will eventually drag on the economy.
All eyes are on Friday’s monthly US employment data, which will give investors a good idea of whether recent signs of a softening in the labor market will continue.
“European markets look set to open modestly higher ahead of today’s US jobs report,” said Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK, “which, along with the September CPI report which is due next week could shift the odds significantly on whether we see another rate hike in November.” With AFP
CLEAN Vehicle Solutions Limited (CLEVA) teamed up with Bexcs Logistics Solutions Inc. to provide electric vehicles for the latter’s delivery services in the country.
Under the memorandum of understanding, CLEVA, a supplier and operator of electric tricycles (EVs), would support BEXCS in developing its lastmile delivery services in the Philippines and other countries.
The partnership is expected to enhance BEXCS’ logistics solutions and contribute to sustainable transportation practices.
BEXCS said it was seeking an initial order of 1,250 EVs in the Philippines, with delivery expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2023.
CLEVA will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the EVs and providing charging services. The charging ports will be based in BEXCS branches, ensuring convenient access to charging infrastructure.
BEXCS founder Marjorey Rubio said the partnership would also include international mobility with plans to expand its operations to China in November.
“The primary goal of this partnership is to promote sustainability and green energy for a better economy,” Rubio said.
She said the joint initiative would not only reduce carbon emissions but also contribute to cleaner air and healthier future for all.
CLEVA PH and BEXCS aim to promote the widespread use of e-trikes as a means of delivery, even in the outskirts of cities.
“Additionally, with the support of WOWLEAP, we will be able to source manpower and provide inclusivity for our PWD [person with disability] and women drivers,” Rubio said.
Darwin G. AmojelarPRIMEWATER’S AWARDS. PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp.’s leak tagging app and asset registry and performance monitoring software bag awards during the 2023 Asian Technology Excellence Awards for web technology and software in utilities held in Bangkok, Thailand. PrimeWater is among the outstanding companies from all over Asia recognized for their efficient service in improving water management through advanced leak detection and asset management within pipeline networks.
THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) said Friday they rolled out a monitoring app in 100 sites nationwide to protect online consumers.
The Consumer Application Monitoring System (CAMS) was deployed in major cities such as Makati, Bonifacio Global City, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Antipolo, Quezon City, Pasay, Manila, Cavite, Cebu, Bagiuo, Davao and in the provinces of Bulacan and Pampanga.
“The expanded capability will test the efficiency and safety of online users. This will ensure that what works in Manila must have the same efficiency of service to other parts of the country. If there will be variations we will call the attention of the app vendor to improve their
services,” CICC executive director Alexander Ramos said. DICT and -CICC partner Mozark Philippines installed and activated the CAMS network, achieving a significant milestone in protecting online consumers.
“We have completed the 100 city wide locations of our CAMS Digital Observability Platform in less than a month,” Ramos said.
The CAMS is operational in over 12 countries today serving global consumers in video streaming, banking, fintech and e-commerce.
The full installation of CAMS Observability Platform nationwide means monitoring of online applications such as delivery apps, online payment platforms, trading and business platforms and e-government apps would now be more efficient. Mozark Pte Ltd. is a leading digital company with offices in Singapore and the Philippines.
THE country’s factory output grew at a faster rate in August, lifted by the recovery of food and electronics sectors, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show.
The PSA said the volume of production index (VoPI) for manufacturing registered a year-onyear increase of 8.5 percent in August 2023, which was faster than the annual growth rate of 4.9 percent in July. In August 2022, VoPI went up 4.6 percent.
It said “the higher annual growth rate was mainly brought about by the annual increases in the same top three industry divisions that contributed to the higher annual rate of VaPI [value of producton index] during the period.”
These were the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products, whose annual decline eased to 5.2 percent from 17.0
THE country’s unemployment rate declined to a three-month low of 4.4 percent in August 2023 from 4.8 percent in July, the Philippine Statistics Authority said Friday.
National statistician and civil registrargeneral Dennis Mapa said in an online briefing the August unemployment rate was also lower than 5.3 percent a year ago.
“In terms of magnitude, there were 2.21 million unemployed Filipinos aged
15 years and over in August 2023,”
Mapa said. It was also lower than the 2.27 million unemployed in July 2023 and 2.68 million a year earlier.
The number of employed persons aged 15 years and over in August 2023
BOARD of Investments (BOI) and Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo underscored the Philippines’ stable macro-economic fundamentals to encourage Russian companies to invest in the country.
Rodolfo emphasized the country’s robust economic growth and strategic advantages during the Philippine-Russia Business Forum Wednesday at the Makati Diamond Residences.
“The Philippines is positioned as the regional hub in Southeast Asia for smart and sustainable manufacturing and services, using market-based tools that empower the private sectors. That goal is attainable through our country’s foremost and strongest advantage which is the Filipino workforce. Russian investors stand to gain in investing in the Philippines with Filipinos as the backbone of its operations,” he said.
He said the Philippines presented
numerous investment opportunities in mineral processing, electric vehicle manufacturing, infrastructure development and pharmaceuticals.
Russian Federation Ministry of Industry and Trade deputy minister Alexey Gruzdev said Russia is committed to performing its international obligations to satisfy demand while supplying goods and services to trade partners.
Russia sees trade as a two-way collaboration that includes sharing of expertise, experience and knowledge, offering specialized training, after-sales support, maintenance services, and the establishment of service centers, he said.
The Russian deputy minister also underscored the importance of the Philippines as a priority partner for the Russia and expressed hope the PhilippinesRussia Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation (JCTEC) discussions would successfully address issues crucial to business collaboration.
increased to 48.07 million from 47.87 million in August 2022 and 44.63 million a month ago. This translated to 95.6 percent employment rate, higher than 94.7 percent in August 2022 and 95.2 percent in July 2023, respectively.
Mapa said the labor force participation rate (LFPR) reached 64.7 percent in August, lower than 66.1 percent a year ago, but higher than 60.1 percent in July 2023.
The underemployment rate also fell from 14.7 percent in August 2022 and 15.9 percent in July 2023 to 11.7 percent in August this year. This was
equivalent to 1.4 million fewer underemployed persons, particularly among those employed in the services and industry sectors.
Underemployed persons are those who have expressed the desire to have additional hours of work in their present job or to have an additional job, or to have a new job with longer hours of work.
“Total employment increased by 203,000 in the agriculture and industry sectors. Apart from the decline in underemployment, several other indicators point to an accompanying increase in the quality of employment, including
percent in July; manufacture of food products, with 0.7 percent annual increase from 3.4 percent annual decline in the previous month; and manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products, with 48.0 percent annual increment from 35.6 percent growth.
Results of the Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries (MISSI) showed that of the remaining 19 industry divisions, seven registered year-on-year increases in August while 12 posted annual declines. The highest annual drop was observed in the manufacture of furniture at 31.9 percent.
The PSA said the growth of food production was led by the doubledigit increase in the manufacture of prepared animal feeds industry group at 28.6 percent, faster than 0.4 percent in the previous month. Julito G. Rada
the increase in wage and salary, and full-time employment, and the decline in vulnerable and part-time employment,” Mapa said.
Mapa said much remained to be done as the number of middle- and high-skilled occupations decreased (-354,000), while low-skilled occupations increased (+551,000) compared to the previous year.
The National Economic and Development Authority said the Marcos administration is committed to generating high-quality and high-paying job opportunities for workers.
PLDT Inc. receives a 3-Golden Arrow Award in the 2022 ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) recognition ceremony organized by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD). Receiving the awards are (from left) PLDT executive director, senior vice president and chief legal counsel and corporate secretary Marilyn VictorioAquino, senior vice president and internal audit head Luis Reňon and vice president and corporate governance head Ma. Magdalene Tan.
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Friday it is seeking additional funds from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support more transport infrastructure projects in the Philippines.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the agency would continue to tap the ADB to open “opportunities for equitable progress and growth for business, investment, tourism and employment.”
“To achieve this program, we [must]
CHINABANK’S AWARD. China
Banking Corp. wins for the second time the Five-Golden Arrow Award—the highest recognition given by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) to publicly listed companies and insurance firms in the Philippines that excel in corporate governance. Attending the award ceremony on Sept. 28, 2023 at Okada Manila are [from left) ICD chairperson Cesar Villanueva, ICD vice chairperson and president Ma. Aurora GeotinaGarcia, Chinabank chief finance officer Patrick Cheng, Securities and Exchange Commission chairperson and chief executive Emilio Aquino and Philippine Stock Exchange chief operating officer Roel Refran.
undertake initiatives that address connectivity and efficient mobility,” Bautista said during the 3rd DOTr-ADB coordination meeting.
Data show there are nine agreements between the DOTr and ADB, which will fund transport infrastructure projects from aviation, railways and road sectors. The total agreements amount to P1.2 trillion.
Among the ADB-funded projects are North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), Metro Rail Transit Line-4, Davao Public Transport Modernization Project, EDSA Greenways Project and
the multi-sectoral Infrastructure Preparation and Innovation Facility - Output 3. The South Commuter Railway Project, part of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) network, is ADB’s largest infrastructure financing in the Asia and Pacific region.
Meanwhile, the ADB has a total of 17 upcoming and ongoing contract packages with at least P187 billion in cost estimate.
The DOTr also seeks on top of funding the ADB’s technical assistance in terms of developing an all sectors life-
cycle monitoring and evaluation framework, local tax experts (LTEs) and development of right-of-way acquisition (ROWSA) manual for ADB-financed projects.
Bautista said the ADB-funded projects would help position the Philippines as a dynamic investment hub and an emerging gateway country to Asia.
“We are optimistic that the ADB would appreciate the investment prospects in the Philippines towards boosting the country’s economic growth and addressing the social needs of Filipinos,” Bautista said.
and Ala
Eh KnitInc. said Friday they agreed to terminate their joint venture partnership to develop a logistics center and food terminal in Batangas province.
The two parties agreed to end the partnership two years after they signed a memorandum of agreement to develop and operate a logistics center and food terminal on a three-hectare property in Aplaya, Batangas City.
Greenergy did not provide the reason for the termination of the project. Ala Eh is an affiliate of listed firm Abacore Capital Holdings Inc.
Greenergy said it planned to focus on developing and expanding its core investments and projects in renewable energy and sustainable community development
The company has investments in real estate, agri-tourism, renewable energy, information technology, financial technology, biotechnology and agriculture, specifically in the cultivation, production and trading of agricultural products locally and globally.
Annie Ramirez cries tears of joy after beating her Kazakhstan foe Galina Xiaoshan at the Xiaoshan Linpu Gymnasium JJI Mat 2 on Thursday to deliver the Philippines’ second gold in the 19th Asian Games.
By Riera U. MallariHANGZHOU—Jiu-jitsu delivered the Philippines’ second gold medal from the sport in as many days, this time courtesy of Annie Ramirez’s emotional win over Galina Duvanova of Kazakhstan in the finals of the women’s 57kgs at the foe Xiaoshan Linpu Gymnasium JJI Mat 2 here on Friday.
A day after Meggie Ochoa raised the Philippines’ gold total to two in the women’s 48-kg finals, Ramirez followed suit with her own golden performance, blanking her Kazakh foe in a 2-0 victory that erased her forgettable 2018 showing in the Jakarta-Palembang Asiad.
“This is very fulfilling on my part, ito na lang wala sa mga achievements
ko. This is my second time in the Asian games, nakuha ko ang gold. From nothing in 2018 to gold,” said the 32-year-old Ramirez, the Asian 57kg champion in Bangkok earlier this year, a two-time winner in the 2017 edition in Hanoi in the 55 and Open categories and the 55-kg titlist in the Ashgabat meet.
Ramirez began her ascent to the top
with a scoreless win by advantage over Vietnam’s le Thi Thuong, before scoring a dominant 7-0 win over Singapore’s Fiona Toh. She then pulled off her most emphatic win in the tournament, a 50-0 submission triumph over UAE’s Shamsa Alameri to set up the finals’ duel with the Kazakh.
“Malaking bagay sa akin itong panalong ito, kasi nakadagdag ako sa gold natin, ilang araw din tayong nahirapan sa gold, masaya ako na makatulong sa bansa,” said Ramirez. Her gold, the Philippines’ third in the Asian Games here, was actually the second medal in the sport for the Filipinos, counting the earlier bronze of Jenna Kaila Napolis, who frustrated United Arab Emirates’ Hessa Alshamsi, 4-2, in the women’s 52-kg battle for third.
EXPECT Ernest John “EJ” Obiena to bring in new poles and additional manpower support when he prepares for the Paris Olympics in the coming months.
The 27-year-old Obiena will have all his needs addressed after support for his campaign in the coming Paris games picked up on Friday.
Alumni from Chiang Kai Shek College, the school where he attended high school, together with generous businessmen, pledged a total of P10 million to support his preparation for the quadrennial meet next year.
“Now, I can bring a little more luggage, will be able to travel with a whole team. These are the things that will help me, moving forward,” said Obiena when he dropped by at the CKSC main campus on Friday.
Financial assistance poured in for Obiena when he met businessmen and school officials.
Obiena’s visit came days after he delivered the first gold medal of the Philippines
“The warm welcome is enough for today,
continue training and prepare for the Olympics,” said Obiena, who will leave for Formia, Italy on Oct. 15. Obiena, the world no. 2 pole vaulter, grabbed the gold in the Asiad af-
ter jumping to a meet record of 5.75, which he reset to 5.9 meters, ending the country’s 29-year medal and 37year gold drought in athletics.
“We are prepared to support him for his training and participation for the Paris Olympics in 10 months’ time. We had a fund-raising for him. It’s voluntary, and anyone who would like to support him can do so, voluntarily,” said Johnson Tan, member of the CKSC board of trustees.
Members of the alumni initially pledged P5 million for Obiena, and then he got an additional P3 million in funding from the Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
Oishi snack food products’ owner Carlos Chan then offered P1 million, and so did Kuan Chou family association head Anson Tan, who then promised another P1 million.
In total, Obiena could get P13 million, with P2 million more coming for the government, and P1 million from the Philippine Olympic Committee.
THE Philippine Football Federation expressed its full support to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s intention to bid for the hosting rights of the FIFA World Cup 2034.
“As a fellow member association of the Asian Football Confederation, it gives great pride that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will take the lead in bringing the FIFA World Cup back to Asia in 2034,” the PFF said in a statement.
Saudi Arabia is also hosting the continent’s showpiece event, the AFC Asian Cup in 2027.
“As a partner in the growth of Asian football, we are supporting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its intention to bid for the FIFA World Cup 2034,” said PFF president Mariano V. Araneta.
“This is a unique opportunity for our fellow AFC MA (member association) in the Middle East to mount the beautiful’s game landmark competition.”
The FIFA World Cup 2034 provides Asia an opportunity to host the world football’s premier competition for the third time in history after the FIFA World Cup 2002 hosted by Korea Republic and Japan and FIFA World Cup 2022 hosted by Qatar.
“With the success of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year, I am confident that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will represent Asia well in its FIFA World Cup 2023 bid,” Araneta added.
THE National University Bulldogs will try to pick up the pace when they meet another strong team, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons at 1 p.m. Saturday in the 86th University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament.
Coach Jeff Napa said this after NU repulsed Far Eastern University, 71-65, for its second straight triumph.
The Bulldogs have momentum going into their game with the Fighting Maroons, a squad they consider to be tough.
“The team responded well when they rallied against FEU. But, we can’t afford to do that on Saturday against a strong team like UP,” said Napa.
The Bulldogs shared the lead with the Maroons after they upset the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles on opening day, 77-64.
The Maroons, who sustained a strong start for an 84-69 victory over University of the East, wants to stay unbeaten against NU.
And UP’s coaches believe that they can do so if the team maintains its composure in their clash with NU.
“Our advantage in this is ‘yung composure ng team namin,” said UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon.
Peter AtencioPICKLEBALL, considered as the fastest growing sport in the US and in other parts of the world the last five years, expects to pick up steam in the local sporting front with Ayala Malls at the forefront of boosting its popularity through staging of clinics and inter-mall tournaments at its mall chains.
“We feel it’s a unique sport that can bring lots of different types of people together and in my eyes, this fits perfectly into what we want Ayala Malls to be – a place where everybody is welcome and at home,” said Mariana Zobel de Ayala of Ayala Malls.
No less than Mariana’s father Jaime, mother Lizzy, and brother Jaime Alfonso led the launch of the event at the Greenbelt Fashion Walk in Makati City yesterday through an exhibition game in front of huge mall goers.
To further help promote and popularize the racket sport, courts will be set up at various Ayala Malls aside from the one currently placed at Market! Market! at BGC (Bonifacio Global City).
Clinics, in fact, will be conducted starting today (Saturday) with the inter-mall tournament to be held starting next month.
“This is especially exciting to us, part of why my father, mother and brother are here today (yesterday). We love the sport and it’s been a chance for us to connect and spend time together and kick back,” said Mariana. “We kind of bonded and enjoyed the sport together and I feel it could be the same for many families and communities.”
Others who graced the event launch were Philippine Pickleball Federation president Armando Tantoco and Toby Claudio of Toby’s Sports, the country’s largest sport-
ing goods retailer and one of the main supporters of Pickleball.
“We started (in 2016) when Sara Ashley, one of the top pickleball players who had migrated to the US, introduced it to us badminton players,” said Tantoco, whose federation, established four years ago, is a full member of the International Federation of Pickleball.
“If somebody like Sara can excel in the sport and she’s not even five feet tall and excels in it, why can’t we all,” said Tantoco. Claudio, for his part, said they have come out with a pickleball line that includes paddles, pickleballs, bags and other merchandise. “In my 45 years in the business, we’ve seen so many sports come and unfortunately go. I’m going out on a limb that pickleball will the next big sport,” said Claudio.
PH1 World Developers’ (PH1WD) recently launched two new projects worth almost P11 billion that are seen to disrupt the vertical and horizontal space in the greater Manila area.
“Through our newest projects, you will see what PH1 World Developers is about: disruption,” declared Gigi Alcantara, PH1WD president at the company’s media launch last week. “We will challenge industry conventions and set new standards in property development that give you extra space, extra convenience, and extra value.”
PH1WD’s parent company— engineering and infrastructure company Megawide—is undertaking the design and construction for both projects.
Energy efficiency for Filipino homes
PH1WD’s maiden entry into horizontal housing is Northscapes San Jose Del Monte (Main photo), a 337unit development in Bulacan with an estimated sales value of P1.9 billion.
With a land area of more than 46,000 sq m., Northscapes will be an energy efficient community with PH1’s exclusive green home technologies:
SolarSave solar panels, ResiShade tinted windows and Tropicool insulated walls.
“Landscapes SJDM is our foray into horizontal development,” said Eric Gregor Tan, General Manager for PH1WD Landscapes. “We want to show that a sustainable, green lifestyle is accessible to every Filipino
RESORT. Okada Manila was recently named as Asia’s Leading Casino Resort for 2023 by the prestigious World Travel Awards. The 30-hectare integrated resort in the heart of the Entertainment City in the Philippines, is a Forbes Travel Guide 5-star rated property for the 4th consecutive year (2023). The hotel, developed and operated by Tiger Resort, Leisure, and Entertainment Inc. (TRLEI) , features one of the world’s largest multicolor dancing waters, The Fountain, and the largest indoor beach club and nightclub, Cove Manila. It is also home to 993 rooms, 16 restaurants, and an expansive gaming floor. Okada Manila also announced that its Vice President of Strategic Marketing Wendy Ni (Shown in photo) , was named last week as a Hall of Honor Rising Star at the IAG Academy IR Awards for 2023. The Hall of Honor Rising Star Awards is given to three industry performers 40 years or younger, who have demonstrated consistent leadership and innovation, with great potential for more to come.
HAVE RAIL, WILL TRAVEL.
Infrastructure investments firm Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) and Malaysian rolling stock and rail services provider Hartasuma Sdn Bhd, recently unveiled its partnership aimed at driving the development of rail infrastructure in the Philippines. The agreement signed by Hartasuma’s Group Executive Director Tan Sri Ravindran Menon, and MPIC’s Chairman, President, and CEO, Manuel V. Pangilinan. “There is a lot for us to share,” said Pangilinan “Together, we intend to explore innovations that can help us build the transport infrastructure of the future.” The partnership will pave the way for diverse initiatives, including the development of rolling stock refurbishment projects in the Philippines and the exploration of cable car systems for tourism and urban transport. MPIC, through its subsidiary Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), which operates and maintains 20 stations and is expanding with the construction of 5 new stations for the Cavite Extension Project, seeks to fortify its position in the Philippine light railway system. With an active interest in future public-private partnership (PPP) opportunities in the light rail sector, MPIC aims to leverage Hartasuma’s expertise to enhance the local content and capabilities in train manufacturing.
at any market segment. And through Megawide’s engineering technologies such as precast, we can ensure higher quality, consistency, and durability in terms of construction.”
All units in Northscapes will be equipped with 2.25 KW capacity solar panels from SolarSave. Streetlights and
amenities will also be solar powered. Units will consist of the single-attached Elia, the townhouse end-unit Salana, and the middle unit townhouse called Alba. All will have two storeys with three bedrooms each, and are priced from P3 million to P8 million. In the pipeline for horizontal
PH1WD president Gigi Alcantara
development is a project located in Trece Martires, Cavite. Aside from Luzon, PH1 World Landscapes is also looking at projects in the Visayas, particularly in Cebu.
Vertical innovation
The company’s groundbreaking “extra space at no extra cost” offering continues in Modan Lofts Ortigas Hills, PH1WD’s high rise development with an estimated sales value of P8.7 billion.
Located in Taytay, Rizal, Modan has 986 residential units in a lot area of around 16,500 sq m. Units range from studio, one and two bedrooms, and are priced from P5 million to P10 million.
The “extra space” is made possible through the company’s AddLoft Technology, developed in partnership with Megawide. It was first introduced in the company’s earlier vertical project, My Enso Lofts, located in Timog, Quezon City (Shown here).
“AddLoft increases the total volume of livable space by up to 38% through a specific loft structure that maximizes the high ceilings of each unit,” explained Spike Ching, PH1WD AVP for Project Development. “It offers residents the freedom to customize their living spaces and maximize functionality in each unit based on their needs and lifestyle,” he continued.
PH1WD announced that its next vertical development will be in Pasig City.
DAMOSA Land receives back-to-back recognitions following the recently concluded PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards and Lamudi The Outlook 2023 Awards.
Damosa Land was recognized with the Best Condo Development (Mindanao) for Bridgeport Park (Shown in photo), and for the second year in a row, the Special Recognition in Sustainable Design and Construction as awarded by PropertyGuru.
They were also awarded the Best Industrial Development of the Year for Anflo Industrial Estate (AIE) by Lamudi.
“We are honored to be recognized with these awards as we showcase our sustainable and world-class developments in Mindanao while steering through economic, social, and environmental prog-
PHINMA
ress in the region,” said Damosa Land president Ricardo “Cary” Lagdameo.
The developer also received special recognitions in 8 other categories:
among them, the Bronze Award for Best Boutique Developer (Visayas and Mindanao): and Highly Commended for Best Developer (Visayas and Mindanao).
PHINMA Properties recently partnered with the City Government of Iloilo under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide affordable and accessible
housing initiatives for underprivileged citizens in urban resettlement areas.
PHINMA Properties has already forged successful partnerships with
local government units in projects such as Bistekville in Quezon City, L’Oasis Malabon in Malabon City, and Grand Strikeville in Bacoor.
At the MOU signing, PHINMA Properties–represented by President and CEO Raphael B. Felix (second from left); Chief Business Development Officer Engr. Francis Z. Villegas (second from right); Business Development Director Joni Lopez-David (rightmost); Business Development Officer Gabriel K. Tanada (standing left)–partners with the Local Government of Iloilo, led by Mayor Jerry P.Treñas (middle); Iloilo City Councilor Miguel S. Treñas (leftmost); and Legal Counsel Atty. Peter Millare (standing right).
Farmers can harvest naturallygrown rice with the help of the integrated farming system
When placed in an integrated farming system, ducks can prove to be beneficial
By Patricia Taculao
IN MANY cuisines across the globe, ducks are highly known for their tender and flavorful meat. Their eggs can become delicacies like balut, a popular street food in the Philippines.
Yet there’s more to ducks than producing eggs and meat. To some farmers, having ducks around allows them to be more sustainable in their farm operations through the rice-duck integrated farming model.
The rice-duck farming system also enables farmers to cut their expenses from commercial rice inputs, like spray chemicals, pesticides, or herbicides. The ducks serve as natural de-weeders because they munch on wild grass and help keep pests, like snails, at bay.
As a result, many farmers following the method can harvest naturally-grown rice while playing their part in environmental preservation–a win-win for all.
Rice is a staple food in the Philippines, among other countries. It sustains half of the world’s population, which explains why it’s always in demand. The duckrice integrated farming system is only one of the many agricultural approaches that have existed for over 1,000 years. Although it might still sound rare to some farmers and stakeholders, many others have already begun implementing the practice on their farms.
Yet before the system can become effective, farmers must acclimatize the ducks to their surroundings. There has to be a group of ducklings ready when the rice is planted, but they can only be released after a week.
Acclimatizing the ducks will give them a higher resistance against common illnesses they can pick up from their surroundings.
Besides preparing the ducks, farmers should also create a safe environment where the ducks can forage. Installing nets around the rice fields can keep ducks from getting out while keeping predators and larger animals from entering the premises.
THE government’s crossbreeding program has significantly boosted the population of dairy carabaos in Region 2. San Agustin, Isabela stands out as the “Crossbred Carabao Capital of the Philippines” due
to its remarkable achievements in carabao crossbreeding.
The municipality actively collaborates with the Department of AgriculturePhilippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) to train Village-Based Artificial Insemination (AI) Technicians (VBAITs), aiming to increase
Keeping the farm area clean and secure is one way farmers can ensure the safety of their crops and livestock
However, farmers may encounter some challenges in the rice-duck integrated farming system. One challenge is that ducks can damage rice seedlings if unmanaged properly. Another challenge is that ducks can carry diseases that can infect rice crops.
Fortunately, these challenges can be mitigated by following good management practices. For example, farmers can vaccinate ducks against diseases and monitor them for signs of illness.
When done correctly, rice farmers can reap the benefits of the rice-duck integrated farming system, including having another farm element to augment their income.
harnessing AI for breed improvement. Initiatives like the Carabao-based Business Improvement Network (CBIN) project and the DA-PCC’s carabao upgrading program are also expanding the carabao population in neighboring Quirino and Nueva Vizcaya through processing and marketing facilities.
The Philippine Dairy Carabao is a product of a continuous backcrossing method conducted by researchers at DAPCC at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (DA-PCC at UPLB) under the guidance of Ester Flores, National Genetic Improvement Program Coordinator and geneticist of DA-PCC.
THE “Feeling Climate Change to the Bone” webinar, cohosted by the Department of Management and Green Lab of Monash University, held last September 6, tackled the stories of hardships, hope, and resiliency of farmers and farmer groups and the power of community as they deal with the impact of climate change, in particular, food security.
Hosted by Associate Professor Jagjit Plahe from the Monash Business School, the webinar put a spotlight on the members of MASIPAG (Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura), a farmer-led network of landless agricultural workers, Indigenous Peoples, NGOs, and scientists in the Philippines. Speakers from MASIPAG generously shared a glimpse into their lives, shedding light on the devastating effects of the climate crisis and discussing how they continue to battle this global problem.
While acknowledging the many challenges, the farmerspeakers from MASIPAG agreed that the bayanihan spirit drives them to build and support a community and ensure a better future for the farming industry.
MASIPAG farmer-trainer and BAKAS (Buhi nga Aksyon para sa Kauswagan kag Pag-amlig sang Seguridad sang Mangunguma kag Mamumugon) leader Rodolfo F. Cortez Jr. said bayanihan has enabled them to create partnerships among farmers, scientists and NGOs to achieve common goals.
Alfie Palumbarit, MASIPAG National Coordinator and current MASIPAG Climate Change Resiliency program head, notes how climate change is not just a climate issue but a social justice concern. Furthermore, farmers also face injustices, like threats, intimidation, and violence.
the population of crossbred carabaos. This endeavor has yielded impressive results, with the municipal agriculture office reporting 2,854 crossbred carabaos in June 2023 in San Agustin. The success in San Agustin is a result of the local government’s commitment to
This breeding approach involves mating purebred riverine buffaloes with native swamp buffaloes (carabaos). The resulting offspring—crossbred carabaos— are bigger, meatier, and produce more milk than native carabaos, which can only provide an average of one to two liters of milk a day. San Agustin, through LGU collaboration with DA-PCC and other partners, aspires to excel in carabao upgrading and dairy enterprise development. The production of more “Philippine Dairy Carabaos” positions the Philippines among countries that have successfully bred their dairy buffalo, potentially boosting the dairy carabao population nationwide.
THE SM Foundation recently marked the graduation of farmers who completed a 14-week training program in modern agricultural methods.
The program, Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP), aims to help marginalized farmers in the Philippines improve their farming practices and economic opportunities. Moving forward with modern agriculture
The SM group held graduation ceremonies in Tanza,
Cavite, and Masinag, Antipolo, for Batches 260 and 254, respectively. The celebration commenced with harvest festivals in their demo farms and market tours with SM Markets to explore selling opportunities and award ceremonies, where they received completion and TESDA NCII certificates. During the 14-week program, farmer trainees received comprehensive training in various aspects of agriculture, including crop cultivation and management, modern planting techniques, and best practices in harvesting.
The KSK-SAP program also provided lectures on financial literacy, business development, and life principles of Henry Sy Sr. These additional components empower the farmer-beneficiaries to grow crops and become agripreneurs, contributing to the nation’s food security. It has been implemented nationwide, with launches and graduation ceremonies in various locations. Since 2007, the program has benefited over 28,000 marginalized farmers, and some graduates have become seasonal suppliers for the SM group and local markets.
SM Foundation’s KSKSAP is conducted in partnership with SM Supermalls, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and partner farm schools.
Monash University, in collaboration with MASIPAG for six years now, believes in addressing climate change and its effects. In a study conducted by Monash University and the University of Newcastle on social movement organizations in the Philippines, Professor Sarah Wright, Future Fellow in geography and development studies at the University of Newcastle, highlighted the importance of co-developing stories and analyses with the ones most affected to understand the complex issues of climate disaster better.
Reflecting on the issues discussed by Filipino farmers, Wright likewise pointed out the importance of hearing from people on the ground. She encouraged the webinar attendees to engage more deeply, listen more intently, think more openly, and act with greater solidarity in the face of these challenges toward working for long-term solutions.
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WITH the opening of TP-Link’s first physical store in the Philippines, Filipinos can now get their hands on the latest and most innovative Wi-Fi technology entering the market.
As a veteran in the global networking and connectivity solutions and services, TP-Link has consistently proven that it is a reputable leader in the industry. For 12 consecutive years, the brand has been recognized as a major player in providing a wide range of networking products, including routers, switches, Wi-Fi extenders, and access points.
As it opened its first physical store to the public last August 18 in SM North EDSA, TP-Link has launched the leading products of its Archer Air Series. Pioneering the design of ultrathin routers with the release of Archer Air R5 and the Archer Air E5, corresponding to the Air Router and Air Range Extender.
TP-Link is the first networking brand to ever launch this ultra-thin design, demonstrating the brand’s technological strength and advanced manufacturing.
The Archer Air R5 and Archer Air E5 are set to redefine the standards of aesthetics and performance in the networking industry.
The sleek and minimalist design allows them to blend effortlessly into any modern environment, providing both exceptional performance and an aesthetically pleasing addition to any space.
The Archer Air Series, boasting a thin and sleek design, houses cuttingedge Wi-Fi 6 technology.
This promises its owners higher data rates, better work efficiency with OFDMA and MU-MIMO that can seamlessly connect multiple devices, wider coverage anywhere, and higher WPA3 security that protects users from cyber threats.
TP-Link’s Archer Air R5 and E5 combine stunning aesthetics with unmatched performance.
The Archer Air R5 features builtin smart antennas to ensure users receive all-around stable Wi-Fi signals to your devices. Three antenna modes are offered to meet multiple needs, including an auto mode, horizontal mode, and vertical mode.
What’s more, both models are EasyMesh-compatible, expanding the range of your Wi-Fi and beating dead zones in your home or office space.
Aside from being aesthetically minimalist and versatile, the Archer Air series is also easy to mount to walls and other surfaces. Making it the ultimate space-saver.
The Archer Air series can blend seamlessly with home decor and enhance your natural space. Its flexible installation feature allows you to stick-and-mount it to any part of your home and offers multiple installation methods, coming with its own installation accessories.
SCAMMERS want to steal your passwords and financial data with fake websites. But where do they host them, and how to spot a fake?
Beware: hundreds of thousands of websites are fakes. They’re made to look like the sites of popular online stores, banks, and delivery services, but with just one purpose: to steal your passwords and financial data. Victims are lured to such sites by phishing emails, messenger chats, and even paid ads. But don’t despair: even if you click on a bogus link, it might still be possible to escape the scammers’ clutches without loss. As long as you spot the fake in time…
Where do phishing sites get hosted?
Sometimes scammers create a special new website and register a name for it that resembles the original (for example, netflik.com instead of netflix.com). Our separate post on fake names is worth checking out. But such sites are expensive to make and easy to block, so many cybercriminals take a different route. They hack legitimate sites of any kind,
This retail giant has recently welcomed four units of LG’s centrifugal water cooler chillers into its premises, each boasting an impressive 1,000 TR capacity.
LG’s centrifugal chillers stand out with their remarkable efficiency, characterized by an impressive .519 kilowatt per ton rating, all thanks to LG’s innovative two-stage compressor technology.
This groundbreaking innovation optimizes energy efficiency, dramatically reduces operating costs, and extends the operational range, even under low-load conditions, ensuring unwavering stability and remarkable cost-effectiveness.
Optimizing Chiller Maintenance with LG’s Total Maintenance Service
Centrifugal chillers play a pivotal role in maintaining optimal indoor climates and efficient cooling in large commercial buildings.
These technological marvels provide reliable and energy-efficient cooling solutions on a grand scale, making them essential for structures like SM Malls, one of the world’s largest shopping chains.
But what truly sets LG apart is its Total Maintenance Service (TMS).
LG’s TMS enables real-time monitoring of HVAC devices, regardless of their location, through LG’s cloud solution.
This proactive approach empowers predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and enhancing overall efficiency. With detailed reports readily accessible to facility managers and end-users, vital system performance data is just a click away, accessible through PCs or mobile devices.
Setting New Standards for Sustainability and Efficiency
For large buildings and sprawling commercial complexes, HVAC is a critical component that must prioritize
LG’s centrifugal chillers efficiency and sustainability.
Centrifugal chillers revolutionize cooling in such settings, offering reliable temperature control, energy consumption reduction, and sustainability promotion.
“SM North EDSA is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and efficiency,” says Recto Abut, SM North EDSA’s Operations Manager.
The mall, known for its LEED compliance, utilizes energy-efficient lighting and air conditioning systems to save energy and reduce carbon emissions.
The installation of LG’s centrifugal chillers was a natural fit for this green initiative.
LG was the only brand that met the demanding efficiency requirement of
.519 kilowatt per ton, making it the ideal choice.
Raymond De Villa, Chiller Service Manager, emphasizes the importance of LG’s centrifugal chillers in cooling large buildings. “LG’s centrifugal chiller is the most economical option, and TMS is the perfect solution to optimize its performance and lifespan.”
LG’s TMS comprises a Facility Maintenance System, Remote Control System, and Energy Management System, providing real-time monitoring, alerts, and periodic reports on operation and performance. It also offers advanced features such as vibration analysis, oil and bearing condition checks, tube cleaning timing prediction, and operation and load analysis.
State-of-the-Art HVAC Solutions with Efficient, Reliable and Responsive Chiller Technology Elmer Suganob, LG’s Business Development Assistant Manager, highlights the advantages of LG’s two-stage compressor technology. “Our two-stage compressor with 1000 TR capacity ensures optimal efficiency even during part-load operation, thanks to our VSD starter.”
Furthermore, all chiller parts are manufactured in LG Chiller Factory, allowing for easy and flexible selection of chiller parts, dimensions, and orientations to meet specific requirements. LG’s local service provider, Hi-M Solutek, offers fast service response, easy maintenance, and reasonable parts prices.
THE 4th Asia Pacific LPG Expo is set to make waves in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas industry as it goes to the Philippines this year. Organized by the LPG Expo and strongly supported by the Liquified Petroleum Gas Industry Association (LPGIA), the Liquified Petroleum Gas Marketers Association (LPGMA), the World LPG Association (WLPGA) and many regional associations, this highly anticipated event is the fourth instalment of the largest LPG gathering in the region.
This event will take place in Manila, Philippines on Oct. 10 and 11 at the Marriott Hotel.
A Platform for Industry Advancement
With a diverse lineup of over 30 international and local companies exhibiting, the Asia Pacific LPG Expo continues to be the cornerstone for LPG professionals and industry enthusiasts, offering an invaluable platform to connect, learn, and explore the ever-evolving world of LPG. It serves as the gateway for esteemed international and local LPG companies to showcase their industryleading practices and cutting-edge products and services.
Comprehensive Conference Programme
Beyond the expansive exhibition, the Expo hosts a dynamic conference featuring influential figures in the
LPG industry and government representatives, who will deliver insightful presentations on policy frameworks, safety standards, cutting-edge technologies, market trends, and investment prospects.
These discussions will be led by renowned industry experts and innovators, providing attendees with a competitive edge in navigating the dynamic LPG landscape.
Local stakeholders and regulators such as former Congressman Arnel Ty from the LPGMA, Madam Mercedita Pastrana from the LPGIA, Director Rino E. Abad from the Department of Energy and Director Neil P.Catajay from the Department of Trade & Industry will be on site to share and discuss in details the on the latest regulations.
Representatives from the various leading LPG Companies in the Philippines will also present to share more about the landscape of the local LPG industry.
Join the Journey
Mark your calendars for October 10 and 11, and be part of this momentous occasion at the esteemed Marriott Grand Ballroom Convention Center and attend together with the participation of thousands of delegates, both local and international, along with government representatives and distinguished LPG professionals.
Experience an event that will redefine the trajectory of the LPG industry in Asia Pacific.
Secure your spot today and embark on a journey of limitless possibilities.
then create their own subsections where they publish phishing pages. It’s very often that SMBs that fall victim to such hacks because they lack the resources to constantly update and monitor their websites. Sometimes a site hack can go unnoticed for years, which is a godsend for cybercriminals.
One of the most popular web content management systems is WordPress, and the number of hacked sites on the platform runs into the tens of thousands. However, once you know what to look for, it’s not hard to detect such sites yourself.
First sign of fakery: Mismatch between site name and address
When following a link in an email, a social media post, or an ad, it pays to take a look at the URL of the site you land on. If it’s a hacked site, the discrepancy will be staring you in the face. The name of the service the fake site pretends to be might crop up somewhere in the directory path, but the domain name will be completely different; for example: www.med-
ical-helpers24.dmn/wp-admin/js/js/Netflix/
home/login.php. You know perfectly well that Netflix lives at netflix.com, so what’s it doing on medical-helpers24? Checking the URL requires a little more effort on mobile devices because many apps open links in such a way that the site address isn’t visible or is only partially visible. In this case, click on the address bar in your browser to see the site’s full address.
Second sign of fakery: Directory path elements
When looking at the full address of a web page, pay attention to the tail of the URL after the domain name. It might be rather long, but just focus on the first parts. Hacked subsections of a site are usually hidden deep within WordPress service directories, so the address will most likely contain elements like /wpcontent/, /wp-admin/ or /wp-includes/. In our example, www.medical-helpers24. dmn/wp-admin/js/js/Netflix/home/login. php, one such element comes right after the domain name, confirming our suspicions that the site has been compromised.
SM North EDSA, a prominent member of the Philippines’ largest mall chains, is making waves in the world of cooling solutions.