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Investors await fresh catalysts

MANILA, Philippines  -The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) lingered below the 6,900 level as investors waited for further market catalysts while regional markets were mixed. The PSEi slipped 1.45 percent, or 30.82 points, to 6,860.67 while the broader All Shares Index was down 0.48 percent, or 17.4 points, to 3,583.09. READ: Asian shares mixed after Wall Street edges back from recent highs A total of 577.04 million shares valued at P5.66 billion changed hands while foreigners were net buyers to the tune of P77.08 million, data from the stock exchange showed. Meanwhile, most PSE subsectors slumped, led by mining and oil (1.92 percent), property (-1.28 percent), financials (-1.16 percent) and holding firms (-0.49 percent). Services and industrial added 1.12 percent and 0.05 percent, respectively. BDO Unibank, the most actively traded stock, shed 3.81 percent to P143.80 per share. It earlier reported a 2023 profit of P73.4 billion—the highest ever by the bank and by a Philippine corporation to date. INQ Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Curated business news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Miguel R. Camus

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 02:02:00 PST

https://business.inquirer.net/447628/investors-await-fresh-catalysts

Inquirer

Negros Occidental bans entry of pigs, pork products from areas with ASF

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO INQUIRER FILE PHOTO BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has issued an executive order that bans the entry into Negros Occidental all pigs, boar semen and pork products from areas with reported cases of African swine fever (ASF). The order is meant to protect and enable the hog industry in the province to recover. The directive was released on Monday, February 26. It prohibits the identified items from Bacolod city, Negros Oriental, Luzon, Mindanao, Eastern Visayas, Panay Island, Guimaras Island, Cebu province, Camotes Island and Bantayan Island. The entry of the same commodities is also banned if they come from countries affected by ASF, as declared by Department of Agriculture (DA). Exempted from the order are processed pork products that are fully cooked. Samples are hams, sausages, hotdogs, canned goods, pork chicharon and pork-based seasonings. The exempted items must be sourced from meat establishments with Certificates of Compliance to the ASF Public-Private Audit. According to National Meat Inspection Service, ASF is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs, warthogs and boars. It causes pigs to have high fever and lose their appetite, and results in hemorrhages in skin and internal organs. Pigs die in a span of two to 10 days upon affliction. There is no known vaccine against ASF yet. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Health officials reiterated ASF does not pose any threats to humans and that other pork products from infected areas are safe to eat. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Carla Gomez

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:24:38 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911301/negros-occidental-bans-entry-of-pigs-pork-products-from-areas-with-asf

Inquirer

Ayala Land’s Cresendo: North’s gateway to growth comes to life

Written by: Amy R. Remo Excitement builds for this emerging estate in the north as it unveiled new developments that will, this early, cement its position as a premier destination for contemporary urban living. Cresendo, Ayala Land’s expansive 290-hectare masterplanned estate in Tarlac, is cementing its position as a premier destination for contemporary urban living Cresendo, Ayala Land’s expansive 290-hectare masterplanned estate in Tarlac, is rapidly gaining momentum as it continues to attract strong interest from businesses and investors amid the ongoing turnover of its commercial and industrial lots, the debut of its inaugural locator, the successful hosting of various community events, and the introduction of fresh offerings. Each milestone reached came with the promise of potential, foretelling a vibrant future for those who will soon be part of this burgeoning estate. Significant milestones Last year, in particular, saw several significant milestones being achieved in Cresendo. For one, AyalaLand Estates completed the fully sold out 32-ha Cresendo Industrial Park, enabling it to commence the turnover of lots to locators as early as June. Hosting light to medium industrial locators, this park is expected to generate about 2,000 jobs at full build. Phase 1 of the 47-ha Cresendo Downtown, the community’s commercial core, was completed in December last year. This prompted turnover of lots to commercial investors. AyalaLand Estates brought to life its shophouse concept with the completion of Cresendo’s shophouse model unit. Ayala Land is skillfully integrating the traditional shophouse, considered a heritage architectural icon in Southeast Asian cities, in Cresendo. Given the flexibility in use, strong investment potential, and community integration, shophouses are cost-efficient, and offer a practical approach to the live and work concept. It highlights business inclusivity as it allows smaller industries to be part of the Cresendo development. These commercial and shophouse lots have drawn such strong interest that AyalaLand Estates offered in September fresh inventory under Phase 3, valued at P4.4 billion. Retail, amenity selections Complementing Cresendo’s shophouse lot offering are 2,000 sqm of leasable retail spaces for various uses such as offices, dormitory, and the “one-stop-shop” of the city government of Tarlac. Already completed are the flower farm and the 2-ha multipurpose ground that now serves as a civic space within the estate. In December, Cresendo saw the opening of its first locator, McDonald’s, with its flagship “Green and Good” store. Its design integrates environment-friendly building features, systems and practices. Cresendo will have an operational MerryMart, a full-sized supermarket carrying a full line of grocery, pharmacy, personal care and other essential products By the second quarter this year, Cresendo will have an operational MerryMart, a full-sized supermarket carrying a full line of grocery, pharmacy, personal care and other essential products. Soon, more businesses are set to find a home in Cresendo, all poised to provide fresh retail and dining concepts in Tarlac while generating jobs and helping accelerate growth in the city. The opening of pioneer locators has spurred strong interest in retail. AyalaLand Estates is currently negotiating with other potential locators including national players. For the coming school year 2024-2025, Don Bosco, one of the country’s premier educational institutions, will start accepting 800 senior high school students who will occupy the first school building completed within this estate. Nurturing community bonds As Cresendo continues to take shape, AyalaLand Estates is also hosting an array of community gatherings and diverse activities that can cultivate social ties and strengthen community bonds. Don Bosco and MerryMart Grocery are set to start operations this year Last month, Cresendo hosted TakboJuan, a fun run event for the Don Bosco and Salesian Community, which gathered about 2,500 students, parents, faculty and Salesians. A Christian Mass, zumba, a tree planting activity, as well as the blessing of Don Bosco’s Senior High School building also took place. Ayala Land is skillfully integrating the traditional shophouse in Cresendo This 2024, AyalaLand Estates will be holding even more onground events catering to diverse hobbies, interests and passions. The public can thus look forward to an outdoor movie night, a football meet, concerts, trade fairs, a banchetto or food bazaar, a car meet and even a Flores de Mayo. Come Christmastime, Cresendo will have a Belenismo and Simbang Gabi. To further support this growth, Ayala Land has commenced planning of the transport terminal in Cresendo to ensure ease of access and connectivity. Indeed, all these developments underscore the many exciting prospects on the horizon, signaling a tremendous potential fueled by businesses and investors who have embraced the vision of such a promising estate that is Cresendo. ADVT. Curated business news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Philippine Daily Inquirer

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 06:00:16 PST

https://business.inquirer.net/447569/ayala-lands-cresendo-norths-gateway-to-growth-comes-to-life

Inquirer

Eumir Marcial slated to fight Thai amid Olympic preparations

Filipino boxer Eumir Marcial during the 2023 Asian Games send off ceremony. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net Filipino boxer Eumir Marcial during the 2023 Asian Games send off ceremony. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net Eumir Marcial gets to show off his flair and power in front of fellow Filipinos before turning his focus on the 2024 Olympics in Paris. On Tuesday, MP Promotions confirmed Marcial’s upcoming brawl with Thailand’s Thoedsak Sinam on March 23 at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila. “Just like the rest of Filipinos around the country, I’m very excited to spearhead a fight for Eumir here in the Philippines, so everybody will get a chance to see him before the Paris Olympics,” said Manny Pacquiao. The owner of MP Promotions and former eight-division world champion spearheaded the effort in making the fight a reality as Marcial aims to finally seize the gold medal in what could possibly be his last Olympics. The 28-year-old slugger from Zamboanga City claimed a bronze medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as a middleweight. Since his weight class has been scrubbed off the Paris program, Marcial will be wearing his gloves as a light heavyweight. MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons said the fight will set the tone for Marcial heading to the Olympics set in July. “Everybody wants to see their fellow [Filipino] Eumir, a big boxer fighting for them for free. This fight will serve as a good fitting send-off heading to his Olympic campaign. Everybody will be there too,” said Gibbons. “This is for the people.” According to Gibbons, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chair Richard Bachmann, PSC Commissioners Walter Torres, Fritz Gaston, Olivia “Bong” Coo and Edward Hayco and PSC executive director Paulo Tatad have been invited to witness the fight. “We are so thankful to these people for making this fight possible and for helping not only Marcial, but also the rest of the other Filipino athletes to achieve their dreams,” said Gibbons. “The POC and the PSC salute to them for helping the athletes like Eumir.” Marcial is deep in training with sparring sessions in Las Vegas under coach Kay Koroma, who molded several amateur boxers who saw action in the Olympics since the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Games. Sinam is sporting a 23-13 record with 19 knockouts while Marcial remains undefeated after four fights, two of them by knockouts. After the fight, Marcial will return to the US to continue preparing for Paris. “He has a great time training and sparring in the US with coach Kay. We have to remember that we’re not going to send him to war just yet, but to showcase his skills for the people,” said Gibbons. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Marcial clinched his ticket to the French capital after claiming a silver medal in the light heavy division at the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games last year. INQ Subscribe to our sports news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

June Navarro

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 04:15:00 PST

https://sports.inquirer.net/554647/marcial-slated-to-fight-thai-amid-olympic-preparations

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Fire hits Tandang Sora in Quezon City

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO INQUIRER FILE PHOTO MANILA, Philippines — Fire hit a residential area in Barangay Tandang Sora, Quezon City, on Wednesday morning. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze at Janet Extension Corner M. Aquino Street reached the 1st alarm at 11:06 a.m. A few minutes later, at 11:31 a.m., the fire was raised to 2nd alarm until it eventually reached the third alarm at 11:34 a.m. Meanwhile, Volunteer group Txtfire Philippines said the situation was declared under control at 12:09 p.m. “Fire out” was determined at 1:23 p.m. No injuries or fatalities occurred as a result of the blaze. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Zeus Legaspi

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:16:46 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911335/fire-hits-tandang-sora-in-quezon-city

Inquirer

Over 12,000 students are ineligible DepEd voucher grantees — PEAC

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 12,675 students have been found to be ineligible grantees in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) voucher program as of school year 2022 to 2023, said the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) on Wednesday. PEAC executive director Rhodora Ferrer bared the data after Senator Raffy Tulfo inquired about “ghost” beneficiaries of the DepEd’s voucher program during a Senate committee on basic education and committee on finance joint hearing. According to Ferrer, aside from the 12,675 students recorded to have had issues in DepEd’s voucher program from 2021 to 2023, 588 students also had issues in DepEd’s Educational Service Contracting (ESC). “’Yung mga eskwelahan na may issues from SY 2020-2021 to 2022-2023 so this covers three school years — sa voucher program, 12,675. Sa ESC, 588,” said Ferrer during the hearing. (The schools facing issues from the school year 2020-2021 to 2022-2023, covering three school years, amount to 12,675 in the voucher program and 588 in the ESC.) When Tulfo asked for clarification on whether Ferrer was referring to the number of students, Ferrer responded with a yes. The DepEd’s voucher program or the Senior High School Voucher Program allows the department to shoulder the costs of schooling for senior high students by providing subsidies in the form of vouchers to qualified learners in participating SHS. DepEd implemented the program in an effort to allow increased access to SHS education, especially for the marginalized. READ: DepEd opens voucher program for senior high school students But Ferrer noted that some of these cases are mere “clerical issues,” which result in schools giving back the funding to DepEd due to ineligible beneficiary students. “‘Yung ibang issues dito clerical, because this is spread over several schools. Merong mga eskwelahan na high performing,” explained Ferrer. (Some issues here are clerical, as they are spread across multiple schools. Some schools are high-performing.) Such clerical issues pertain to students being declared voucher recipients even if they did not apply for the grant. “Isa sa pinakamalaking naging concern natin is ‘yung mga ALS (Alternative Learning System) completers na nagiging voucher recipients, dahil dinedeklara silang voucher-eligible … ngunit hindi sila pumasok sa voucher application which ‘yung tamang guideline,” said Ferrer. (One of our major concerns is the ALS completers who become voucher recipients because they were declared voucher-eligible but did not participate in the voucher application as per the correct guidelines.) “In other words, kung ALS completer ka, hindi ka automatically eligible, dapat nag-apply ka. Kaso hindi sila nag-apply,” she added. (In other words, being an ALS completer doesn’t automatically make you eligible; you must apply. However, they did not apply.) However, if there were over 10 students with such instances in a specific school, Ferrer explained that it would be deemed intentional and beyond a mere clerical matter. “Kung mahigit sampu ‘yan per school (if it exceeds ten for each school), we move towards suspension,” said Ferrer. When asked by Tulfo how much has been refunded so far by the schools to the DepEd due to the said issues, Ferrer responded that P239 million of around P300 million remain unrefunded from SY 2022 to 2023. On the other hand, 32 voucher-participating schools so far are recommended for termination from the program, with DepEd and PEAC vowing to complete the refunds and investigations before the opening of classes for SY 2024 to 2025. READ: A puzzler in DepEd’s voucher program Tulfo then pointed out the sluggish progress in addressing the problem. “Kung titignan natin ang figure sa P300 million na original amount, at ang collected ay P239, medyo mabagal po ata ang collection?” said Tulfo. (If we look at the figures, with the original amount at P300 million and the collected amount at P239 million, it seems that the collection process may be somewhat slow.) “Ang gusto natin dito ay mapabilis po ‘yung pagtapos ng investigation at para [makuha] na ‘yung pera na napunta sa eskwelahan na hindi dapat,” he added. (We aim to expedite the investigation’s completion and retrieve the funds that shouldn’t have gone to schools, hastening the resolution.) For her part, Ferrer committed to accelerating the process of collecting the funds. The official said that to avoid such cases from happening again, PEAC started requiring schools to submit documents accepting their billing request for the program for DepEd to validate the list of students before releasing the program funds. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Zacarian Sarao

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:36:57 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911394/over-12000-school-have-ineligible-deped-voucher-grantees-peac

Inquirer

Drought may hit 30 areas in March due to El Niño – Pagasa

File photo of a fair warm weather File photo of a fair warm weather MANILA, Philippines — Drought may strike thirty areas nationwide by the end of March due to El Niño phenomenon, according to an official of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). During the House committee on agriculture’s hearing on Wednesday, Pagasa’s Climatology and Agrometeorology Division Officer-in-Charge Ana Liza Solis reported that 25 areas in Luzon and five in Visayas may experience drought by the end of March. Based on her presentation, drought is forecast in the following areas since they have experienced way below normal rainfall conditions over the past months (October 2023 to February 2024). Drought is experienced in areas with three consecutive months of below normal rainfall condition or greater than 60 percent reduction from average rainfall. Metro Manila is among the areas she mentioned that may have drought in Luzon, as well as Abra, Apayao, Aurora, Bataan, Benguet, Cagayan, Cavite, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, Kalinga, La Union, Laguna, Mountain Province, Nueva Ecija,  Vizcaya, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, Pangasinan, Quirino, Rizal and Zambales. In the Visayas, drought may hit Antique, Guimaras, Iloilo, Leyte, and Negros Occidentaal, Solid added. Aside from drought, she added that “dry condition,” or two consecutive months of below-average rainfall conditions, may prevail in 16 provinces and areas nationwide, while a “dry spell,” or three consecutive months below regular rainfall occurrences, is expected in 24 areas across the country. The areas and provinces that would likely experience “dry condition” and “dry spell” by the end of March are as follows: Luzon Visayas Mindanao Luzon Visayas Mindanao Solis, however, explained that this forecast may change by the end of February with more areas possibly joining the original list. According to the Department of Agriculture (DA) latest bulletin, the dry spell’s damage to the crop sector has spiked from P151.3 million to P357.4 million as of February 24. It added that the El Niño phenomenon affected 7,668 farmers inthe Ilocos, Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan), Western Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula regions. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Faith Argosino

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 21:22:31 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911702/el-nino-may-bring-potential-drought-to-30-areas-in-ph-by-end-of-march-pagasa-exec

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Marcos: Conclusion on PhilHealth contribution hike coming ‘very soon’

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. answers questions in an ambush interview at Villamor Airbase in Pasay City on February 28, 2024. (Photo by JEAN MANGALUZ / INQUIRER.net) President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. answers questions in an ambush interview at Villamor Airbase in Pasay City on February 28, 2024. (Photo by JEAN MANGALUZ / INQUIRER.net) MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said that the review of the increased PhilHealth contribution is still ongoing but a conclusion is coming soon. PhilHealth contributions have increased from 4 percent to 5 percent of the employee’s monthly salary in 2024. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has asked Marcos to suspend the hike, as Philhealth had enough money to give benefits. READ: Marcos wants PhilHealth to prove bigger contributions mean more benefits “If there are any benefits, if we can justify the increase. Then we’ll do it, but if not, we won’t. It is that simple. It’s just a very straightforward cause-benefit analysis. We’re still under study, but we’ll conclude very, very soon,” Marcos said, speaking partly in Filipino, in an ambush interview before leaving for Australia. PhilHealth chief Emmanuel Ledesma previously stated that the Palace has no objections to the impending increase. READ: Palace didn’t object to hike in premium, says PhilHealth chief However, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil noted that the review for a possible suspension is ongoing. Marcos has repeatedly stated that if PhilHealth could justify its increase through its services, there is no reason to suspend it. “PhilHealth has been expanding its services and trying to reach more people, trying to engage more people,” Marcos said. READ: Herbosa: PhilHealth has enough money, premium hike delay won’t hurt Herbosa said that he saw nothing wrong with delaying the contribution hike further. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. “My position is I think PhilHealth has enough money to actually continue to give benefits. It will not be hurt by delaying the increase in premium,” Herbosa said. PhilHealth contribution hikes are meant to increase yearly from 2019 until they reach 5 percent under the Universal Health Care Law. The increases were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, but the hikes have now begun in 2024. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Jean Mangaluz

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:31:46 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911208/fwd-marcos-on-philhealth-2

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Adiong vows no repeat of Marawi siege as gov’t pursues Maute remnants

CITY IN RUINS In this photo taken on Oct. 8, 2017, soldiers patrol a section of the city center of Marawi as government forces continue to battle members of Islamic State-linked groups that laid siege to the provincial capital of Lanao del Sur. —JEOFFREY MAITEM CITY IN RUINS In this photo taken on Oct. 8, 2017, soldiers patrol a section of the city center of Marawi as government forces continue to battle members of Islamic State-linked groups that laid siege to the provincial capital of Lanao del Sur. —JEOFFREY MAITEM MANILA, Philippines — Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong has assured the public that there would be no repeat of the Marawi siege despite an incident between Maute group remnants and the military, saying that government forces and local governments are actively pursuing the terrorists. Adiong in a briefing on Tuesday explained that the support of local government units (LGUs) is crucial to law enforcement agencies and military institutions tracking down Maute Group fighters involved in the recent clash with the military. Six Scout Rangers and three alleged fighters of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group  (DI-MG) were killed in an encounter in Lanao del Norte’s Munai town last February 25, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said. READ: 6 soldiers killed in clash with terrorists in Lanao “With the support of the LGUs, we’ve seen how we were able to liberate Marawi City. And I don’t see any reason why the same problem again may pop up in the future,” Adiong, who chairs the Ad Hoc Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation and Victims Compensation, told reporters at the House complex. The lawmaker also said that the best way to deter public fear about the incident is to show that the government is in control of the situation — which happened as Brawner himself visited the area. “I saw that after what happened in Lanao del Norte, the chief-of-staff himself went there to condole bereaved families.  And then there are additional deployments in the area to secure it.  Because the military and the police, they already have an idea as to where the remnants would run towards,” Adiong said. “That’s why it’s important, based on our experience, is the engagement of our security sector with the LGUs down to the barangays.  We need to have a stronger presence there and the intelligence gathering is of prime importance.  Because if we have a good intelligence gathering and we get correct intel, resources are not wasted,” he added. Reports from the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division (1ID) stated that troops of the scout platoon of the 44th Infantry Battalion were on a military operation when they encountered DI-MG After a two-hour gunfight, the terrorists withdrew toward the direction of Lanao del Sur province.  Five soldiers were left wounded. READ: Six soldiers, three Maute fighters killed in Lanao del Norte clash The Maute Group is the same organization that laid Marawi City — a vibrant Islamic City which is the capital of Lanao del Sur — to siege.  Intense fighting between military forces and Maute members lasted for five months, but left a large-scale humanitarian crisis with over 300,000 residents displaced. READ: 4 years after siege, Marawi folk desperate to trek back home Despite the affiliation with Maute, Adiong said the recent clash between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the DI-MG might be an isolated incident. “If you go anywhere in Mindanao, all areas in Mindanao, okay naman…relatively peaceful,” he expressed.  “And there’s an ongoing military operation against the remnants. Remember, ISIS, it’s not a homegrown terrorist organization. This is an imported ideology.” Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. “That’s why we can see even if the 2017 Marawi siege is finished they are still there.  Because they’ve been, you know, I don’t know how the military is handling this but I’m pretty sure they know exactly how the funds are coming in,” he added. With reports from Barbara Gutierrez, INQUIRER.net intern Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Gabriel Pabico Lalu

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:39:01 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911147/adiong-vows-no-repeat-of-marawi-siege-as-govt-pursues-maute-remnants

Inquirer

BOC: P76-M marijuana from Thailand seized

(Bureau of Customs – Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service) (Bureau of Customs – Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service) MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) intercepted an estimated P76 million worth of  dried marijuana leaves inside “balikbayan” boxes from Thailand. “Based on the information we received, the alert order was issued against this shipment because of the suspected presence of illegal drugs. We found around 12 kilos of marijuana per balikbayan box during the inspection,” BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service Director Verne Enciso said in a statement. According to BOC, the shipment was consigned to Marcelo D. Laylo Cargo Forwarders, and was sent to an individual from Cavite. It was originally declared as consolidated balikbayan boxes/personal effects from Thailand. The boxes and the containers were examined by the assigned Customs examiner and witnessed by the CIIS, BOC’s Enforcement and Security Service, Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force, the Philippine Coast Guard, Environmental Protection and Compliance Division, Office of the District Collector, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency. Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Juvymax Uy said the BOC is now in the process of preparing supporting documents to track the individuals involved in the shipment. “We are preparing the necessary documents to start looking into these individuals. Stopping the entry of these shipments into the country is one thing, but the bigger part of the operation is making sure someone is held accountable for such activity,” Uy said. “The successful interdiction of illegal narcotics from entering our borders was possible because our officers continue to exhibit their experiences combined with the technology we now have. This operation shows our commitment to keeping illegal drugs off our communities because protecting the people is our duty,” BOC Commissioner Bien Rubio said. BOC said the consignees, senders, and recipients of the balikbayan boxes will possibly face charges for violating Section 118 (Prohibited Importation and Exportation) and Section 1400 (Misdeclaration) in relation to Section 1113 of Republic Act No. 10863 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) and other provisions of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002). (With reports from Barbara Gutierrez, INQUIRER.net intern) Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Gabriel Pabico Lalu

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 15:49:01 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911517/fwd-p76-m-worth-of-marijuana-in-balikbayan-boxes-intercepted-by-customs

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Teves on Interpol red notice, target of global manhunt — DOJ

MANILA, Philippines – Former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. is currently the target of an international manhunt following his inclusion in the red notice system of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Wednesday confirmed that Teves is already included in Interpol’s Red Notice System. An INTERPOL Red Notice is a global alert to locate and provisionally detain a person awaiting extradition or similar legal acNtion based on a valid arrest warrant from the requesting country. “With more than 190 member countries, INTERPOL ensures the broad distribution of these notices, which are also accessible to international entities like the United Nations and International Criminal Court for arresting fugitives and conducting investigations,” the Department of Justice said in a statement. Teves is accused of masterminding the killing of then Governor Roel Degamo and nine others in Pamplona, Negros Oriental, on March 4, 2023, which also resulted in numerous injuries. Teves is also facing cases related to the death of three individuals from March to June 2019 in Negros Oriental, violation of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and violations of the Law on Explosives following the discovery of high-caliber weapons and ammunition in his family’s compound. On July 26, 2023, the ATC designated Teves Jr. and his affiliated armed group as a terrorist organization, identifying both the group and its members as terrorist entities. Remulla also announced that the Department of Foreign   Affairs (DFA) had officially canceled Teves’ passport. However, the DOJ admitted that they remain uncertain when the government would be able to bring Teves back to the country. “We have to be patient. We will just have to wait. It’s difficult to give an estimate as to when…We’ll go through the process. We won’t stop working here. We will continue our work, so just give us more time,” Remulla said. Remulla said officials of the justice department and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) are now studying the possibility of sending a team to Timor Leste to implement the arrest warrant issued by a local court against Teves through Interpol’s red notice. Remulla said Teves is in Timor Leste. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Tetch Torres-Tupas

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 20:04:10 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911666/teves-on-interpol-red-notice-target-of-global-manhunt-doj

Inquirer

Asian stocks lower after Wall Street holds steady near record highs

Currency traders work at the foreign exchange dealing room of the KEB Hana Bank headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. Asian markets were mostly lower on Wednesday after U.S. stocks held near their record levels in a quiet day of trading.(AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon) Currency traders work at the foreign exchange dealing room of the KEB Hana Bank headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. Asian markets were mostly lower on Wednesday after U.S. stocks held near their record levels in a quiet day of trading.(AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon) HONG KONG  —Asian markets were mostly lower on Wednesday after U.S. stocks held near their record levels in a quiet day of trading. U.S. futures and oil prices fell. Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 edged 0.3 percent lower to 39,173.50. Shares in Hong Kong and Shanghai sank after the territory’s financial chief announced a budget aimed at boosting tourism and the property industry. The Hang Seng in Hong Kong slipped 1.4 percent to 16,562.96, while the Shanghai Composite sank 1.9 percent to 2,957.85. China’s largest private property developer, Country Garden, said Wednesday that it is facing a liquidation petition after failing to repay a term loan facility worth 1.6 billion Hong Kong dollars ($204.5 million). The first hearing in the case is scheduled for May 17. The move comes after China Evergrande, the world’s most heavily indebted real estate developer, was ordered to undergo liquidation following a failed effort to restructure $300 billion in late January. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 was little changed at 7,660.40 after the Australian Bureau of Statistics said Wednesday the country’s inflation rate held at a two-year low in January, triggering hopes that the Reserve Bank may cut its benchmark interest rate. South Korea’s Kospi gained 1 percent to 2,652.29, while Thailand’s SET was down 0.6 percent. On Tuesday, the S&P 500 added 0.2 percent, to 5,078.18 and was just off its all-time high set last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.2 percent, to 38,972.41, and the Nasdaq composite rose 0.4 percent to 16,035.30. Macy’s climbed 3.4 percent after reporting better results for the latest quarter than feared. It also announced a sweeping reorganization as it tries to kickstart growth in revenue. READ: Macy’s mulls closing San Francisco flagship Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings steamed 19.8 percent higher for the biggest gain in the S&P 500 after saying it’s seeing healthy demand from customers. AutoZone revved 6.7 percent higher after reporting a stronger profit than expected. Much of its growth last quarter came from its stores in Mexico and Brazil. Zoom Video Communications climbed after topping analysts’ forecasts for profit last quarter. It also announced a program to buy back up to $1.5 billion of its stock, which would send cash directly to shareholders. Those winners helped offset a 1.5-percent drop for Chevron, one of the main reasons for the Dow Jones Industrial Average’s slide. The company warned that its pending takeover of Hess may be under threat. Cryptocurrency prices have also been running higher. Bitcoin rose above $57,000 before edging back below the threshold and is up by roughly a third so far this year already. READ: Bitcoin breaks $57,000 as big buyers circle New exchange-traded funds that hold bitcoin have made investing in the cryptocurrency easier, while also driving business for Coinbase and others who safeguard those ETFs’ bitcoins. Coinbase rose 2.7 percent Tuesday to bring its gain for the year so far to 14.5 percent. Earnings reporting season is winding down for the big companies in the S&P 500, and the hope is that a remarkably solid U.S. economy will help profits grow through this year. A report in Tuesday morning showed orders for long-lasting manufactured goods were weaker last month than economists expected, but they were better than forecast after ignoring airplanes and other transportation items. A separate report said that confidence among U.S. consumers unexpectedly slipped. Confidence had been on the upswing, and it’s a closely followed figure on Wall Street because spending by consumers makes up the bulk of the U.S. economy. On the upside for investors, the report also showed that expectations for inflation among U.S. consumers ticked down a bit. In other trading, U.S. benchmark crude oil lost 36 cents to $78.51 per barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Brent crude, the international standard, shed 35 cents to $82.31 per barrel. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. The U.S. dollar rose to 150.73 Japanese yen from 150.51 Japanese yen. The euro fell to $1.0821 from $1.0843. Subscribe to our business news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Associated Press

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 17:06:59 PST

https://business.inquirer.net/447798/asian-stocks-lower-after-wall-street-holds-steady-near-record-highs

Inquirer

P125 per week discount for seniors’ grocery items takes effect in March

Senior citizens wait for their turn to get their second booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine at a mall on May 20, 2022. (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ GRIG MONTEGRANDE) Senior citizens wait for their turn to get their second booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine at a mall on May 20, 2022. (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ GRIG MONTEGRANDE) MANILA, Philippines — The proposed increase in the discounts given to grocery purchases of senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) will take effect before March ends. House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez gave the timeframe in a statement on Wednesday. The Speaker has met with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) officials, including Undersecretary Carolina Sanchez. Sanchez informed the House leader that DTI is amenable to requests for additional discounts for seniors and PWDs. Currently, senior citizens and PWDs get a weekly grocery discount capped at P65. The amount is based on the computation of a 5 percent discount for the maximum allowable purchase of P1,300. Romualdez and other lawmakers have suggested that the maximum discountable amount should be increased to P2,500 for a P125 per week discount, or P500 per month. “I am delighted to welcome the imminent implementation of increased discounts for our senior citizens and PWDs,” he said. “This initiative to provide additional discounts for senior citizens and PWDs demonstrates the commitment of President Marcos to promoting inclusivity and social justice,” he added. Meanwhile, while the consultation process is still ongoing, an inter-agency circular will be issued within March. “We’re working so that the usual P65 per week discount for senior citizens and PWDs may be increased to P125,” Sanchez said. “It’s a joint issuance between the DA (Department of Agriculture), DTI and the DOE (Department of Energy).” On February 07, Romualdez said a technical working group was formed to study proposals to increase the discount hike. The move comes after concerns were brought up during a House committee hearing on ways and means. Zamboanga Sibugay 1st District Representative Wilter Palma relayed to the committee that while he and his wife were buying groceries in a mall near Fairview, Quezon City, he was surprised to learn that despite the massive cost of their purchases, the discount was capped at only P65. It was then revealed that according to the Joint DTI-DA Administrative Order No. 10-02 series of 2010, seniors can avail of  a special discount of 5 percent for their groceries, provided that the “total amount of said purchase shall not exceed the amount of P1,300 per calendar week.” Committee chairperson and Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Salceda suggested increasing the discounts. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. He said the maximum discountable amount per week of P1,300 set 20 years ago is already outdated. Salceda said the P1,300 is now worth P2,526 — and 5 percent of P2,526 is P126.31. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Gabriel Pabico Lalu

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:14:16 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911221/p125-per-week-discount-for-seniors-grocery-items-takes-effect-in-march

Inquirer

3 provinces challenge BARMM governance code

Bai Mariam Mangudadatu                          Mamintal Adiong Jr.                   Abdusakur Tan —CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Bai Mariam Mangudadatu                          Mamintal Adiong Jr.                   Abdusakur Tan —CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS COTABATO CITY—Three provincial governments in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have petitioned the Supreme Court to declare as “unconstitutional and invalid” the Bangsamoro Local Governance Code (BLGC), a landmark measure that attempts, among others, to curb political dynasties. According to a news release of the BARMM Governors’ Caucus, the provincial governments of Sulu, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Sur filed the petition on Monday, in accordance with resolutions of their respective provincial legislatures. Sulu was represented in the petition by Gov. Abdusakur Tan, Lanao del Sur by Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr., and Maguindanao del Sur by Gov. Bai Mariam Mangudadatu. Joining them were the leagues of municipal mayors, councilors and barangay governments of the three provinces, represented in the suit by each bodies’ president. READ: Opening up of BARMM to investments cheered Tan, Adiong and Mangudadatu are convenors of the BARMM Governors’ Caucus that has evolved to be a counterforce to the current political dominance of the alliance of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in the interim regional government. The MNLF and MILF have signed peace pacts with the government, in 1996 and 2014, respectively. The peace deal with the MILF led to the creation of BARMM in 2019. Their petition claims that the BLGC is riddled with provisions that violate the Constitution, the country’s Local Government Code and the Bangsamoro Organic Law, including the laws on disciplining elected officials. They argued that any provision in the BLGC that diminishes the rights and privileges of local governments under the Local Government Code and other national laws, is invalid. Adiong was cited in the news release as saying that the petition seeks “to clarify the boundaries of power of the national, regional and local governments in the region.” The BLGC is contained in the Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 49 which was passed in September last year. It was signed into law by BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim and became effective upon publication on Dec. 26, 2023. Hence, the petitioners asked the high court “for the immediate issuance of a status quo ante order, temporary restraining order and/or writ of preliminary injunction to stop the implementation of the BLGC.” Mainly, the BLGC defines the relations between the regional government and its constituent local government units, giving the Chief Minister disciplining authority over local executives. The petitioners questioned the disciplining authority of the BARMM chief minister, arguing that only the President is vested with the power of supervision over local governments. Also, the petitioners questioned the power granted to the Chief Minister to appoint holders of vacant elective positions in the local governments, arguing that such authority also rests with the Philippine President. The petitioners also took issue with the antidynasty provisions of the BLGC saying it is only the Congress that can do so. They argued that the BLGC is only “a subordinate law to the Local Government Code” hence cannot amend the latter’s provisions setting the qualifications of local elective officials. The BLGC ensures a gradual devolution of authority to ensure a deliberate transfer of power as well as technical and financial capability at the local government level, mandating the Bangsamoro government to provide support to raise the capacity of local governments to make the necessary services available to the people. To support this devolution of powers, the BLGC mandates sharing the regional government’s fiscal resources with local governments. Under the Code, constituent local government units shall receive 40 percent of the share of the Bangsamoro government in the national taxes, fees and charges collected in the Bangsamoro territorial jurisdiction. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Also, 70 percent of the share of the Bangsamoro government in revenues from exploration, development and utilization of natural resources shall be apportioned to its constituent local government units, giving premium to the host locality. INQ News that matters By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Edwin O. Fernandez

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 04:40:00 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911066/3-provinces-challenge-barmm-governance-code

Inquirer

Global rich keep luxury property prices rising as Manila, Dubai soar

A general view of Dubai’s cityscape September 25, 2013. A stampede by competing apartment buyers in Dubai this week may have obscured signs that Dubai’s latest real estate boom is more restrained than the last one, which pushed the government close to default. REUTERS/Ahmed Jadallah (UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Tags: REAL ESTATE BUSINESS CITYSCAPE) A general view of Dubai’s cityscape September 25, 2013. A stampede by competing apartment buyers in Dubai this week may have obscured signs that Dubai’s latest real estate boom is more restrained than the last one, which pushed the government close to default. REUTERS/Ahmed Jadallah (UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Tags: REAL ESTATE BUSINESS CITYSCAPE) LONDON — Luxury residential property bucked the trend of falling prices in 2023 and rose 3.1%, as double-digit gains in the likes of Manila and Dubai offset falls in New York and London, Knight Frank said on Wednesday. A jump in borrowing costs, inflation and economic uncertainty hit property markets last year, causing a significant drop in transaction volumes. That helped support prices of luxury properties, along with a rise in the portfolios of the rich as stock markets rebounded, according to property agents Knight Frank. READ: OFWs seen keeping local property market hot despite steep loan rates The Philippine capital, Manila, topped the list of 100 markets Knight Frank tracks, with prices jumping 26%, followed by Dubai at 15% and the Bahamas at 15%. Luxury prices in New York and London declined 2% in 2023 and are now 8% and 17% lower than their most recent peaks respectively, Knight Frank said in its flagship The Wealth Report. “As wealth portfolios recovered in 2023, affluent buyers targeted residential property in the world’s luxury markets,” Liam Bailey, global head of research at Knight Frank, said in a statement. Kate Everett-Allen, head of international residential and country research, noted that while “the pandemic-fuelled property boom was set to end in tears as borrowing costs hit 15-year highs”, there had been “a much softer landing” for prices. READ: Navigating the future of Philippine real estate Unlike residential markets, commercial real estate is having a tougher downturn, as the working from home trend pushes up vacancy rates and high borrowing costs hit the value of office blocks. Global commercial real estate investment tumbled 46% in 2023 to $698 billion, driven by a pullback from U.S. investors, Knight Frank found. Industrial and logistics beat offices to become the most invested sector for the first time on record, winning a share of a quarter of all global investment while the office market shrunk to a 22% share from 25% in 2022, Knight Frank said. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Private real estate investors, the most active buyers in 2023, look set to increase their buying activity in 2024 as they seek to take advantage of “dislocation” in the market, the London-based agents said. Subscribe to our business news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Reuters

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:48:53 PST

https://business.inquirer.net/447722/global-rich-keep-luxury-property-prices-rising-as-manila-dubai-soar

Inquirer

No Chinese Navy ship seen in Scarborough Shoal’s territorial seas

The side of the Scarborough Shoal as seen using a drone. Mother boats are anchored at the deeper part of the shoal while small boats can go across the coral reefs to catch fish inside. FILE PHOTO BY REM ZAMORA The side of the Scarborough Shoal as seen using a drone. Mother boats are anchored at the deeper part of the shoal while small boats can go across the coral reefs to catch fish inside. FILE PHOTO BY REM ZAMORA MANILA, Philippines — No Chinese Navy ship has been spotted inside the territorial sea of Scarborough Shoal in the West Philippine Sea as of Tuesday, according to a Philippine Navy official. Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said no People’s Liberation Army-Navy ship was seen inside twelve nautical miles of the low-tide elevation also known as Bajo de Masinloc and Panatag Shoal. “As of yesterday (Tuesday), that is the latest, there are no [PLA ships inside the 12 nautical miles],” Trinidad told reporters in a phone interview. READ: Chinese aircraft spotted over Scarborough Shoal – Coast Guard Trinidad made the statement after Commodore Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, noted the presence of three PLA-Navy warships within the vicinity of the Scarborough Shoal as observed by Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’ BRP Datu Sanday when it was deployed in the area last Feb. 21. However, Tarriela pointed out that these warships have maintained a distance of “more than 20 nautical miles away.” READ: BFAR verifying Chinese fishers’ alleged cyanide use in Scarborough “What we are concerned about is if the gray ship is now inside the 12 nautical miles,” Trinidad said, referring to Scarborough Shoal’s territorial seas. While it never deployed its naval ships inside the 12 nautical miles of Scarborough Shoal, China seized control of its lagoon in 2012 following its Chinese coast guard’s standoff with Philippine vessels. China asserts ownership in almost the entire South China Sea, which includes most of the West Philippine Sea. READ: 2023: A look back at rising tension in West PH Sea In 2013, the Philippines lodged a case against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands. Manila challenged China’s nine-dash line at the time and won a favorable ruling that invalidated Beijing’s claims in July 2016. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. The landmark decision also covered Scarborough Shoal, which it declared a traditional fishing ground that should be shared among neighboring countries. Subscribe to our global news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

John Eric Mendoza

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 15:56:39 PST

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/226598/no-chinese-navy-ship-seen-in-scarborough-shoals-territorial-seas-trinidad

Inquirer

PBA: TNT slips past Rain or Shine in coach Chot Reyes’ return

TNT coach Chot Reyes in the PBA Philippine Cup. –PBA IMAGES TNT coach Chot Reyes in the PBA Philippine Cup. –PBA IMAGES ANTIPOLO CITY—TNT got a pair of clutch baskets from Calvin Oftana to bring down Rain or Shine, 108-107, in coach Chot Reyes’ return for a winning start to its PBA Philippine Cup campaign Wednesday at Ynares Center here. Oftana, who finished with 23 points and 14 rebounds, hit a go-ahead three and converted a left-handed layup inside the final two minutes as the Tropang Giga weathered the Elasto Painters’ determined stand to come away with a hard-fought victory. His five straight points gave TNT a 108-104 lead after trailing by a high of 10 in the third quarter. SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Philippine Cup RR Pogoy added 22 points and rookie Kim Aurin came off the bench for a season-high 21 for the Tropang Giga. New acquisition Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser came up with 15 points and 14 rebounds, two days after being acquired from NLEX in a three-team trade aimed at shoring up TNT’s lineup for the PBA All-Filipino tournament. TNT Tropang Giga’s Calvin Oftana in the PBA Philippine Cup. –PBA IMAGES Reyes was back in charge after handing the reins to team manager Jojo Lastimosa in the last two conferences to focus on his previous role as coach of Gilas Pilipinas. READ: PBA: Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser stoked over TNT transfer Rookie Adrian Nocum finished with 20 points but suffered from cramps during the fourth quarter and didn’t return. Santi Santillan also had 20 points and 11 rebounds for Rain or Shine. Nocum and Santillan were responsible for putting Rain or Shine up 61-51 in the third, before TNT inched its way back in the contest. TNT 108—Oftana 23, Pogoy 22, Aurin 21, Ganuelas-Rosser B. 15, Castro 14, Galinato 4, Khobuntin 4, Ganuelas-Rosser M. 3, Montalbo 2, Williams 0, Ebona 0, Reyes 0, Heruela 0, Ponferrada 0. RAIN OR SHINE 107—Nocum 20, Santillan 20, Caracut 15, Ildefonso 11, Belga 10, Datu 8, Demusis 6, Clarito 6, Mamuyac 5, Borboran 4, Norwood 2, Concepcion 0. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Quarters: 26-26, 51-52, 83-88, 108-107. Subscribe to our sports news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Jonas Terrado

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 22:23:27 PST

https://sports.inquirer.net/554926/pba-tnt-slips-past-rain-or-shine-in-coach-chot-reyes-return

Inquirer

China expresses concern over PH activities in West Philippine Sea

EYE IN THE SKY Two FA-50PH aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (first two from left) fly alongsideUS fighter jets in a joint patrol over the West Philippine Sea on Nov. 21, as seen from anotherUS military aircraft. Philippine and US navy ships are also taking part in the patrol.—PHOTO FROM 5TH FIGHTERWING AND 353RD SPECIAL OPERATIONS WING/US AIR FORCE EYE IN THE SKY Two FA-50PH aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (first two from left) fly alongsideUS fighter jets in a joint patrol over the West Philippine Sea on Nov. 21, as seen from anotherUS military aircraft. Philippine and US navy ships are also taking part in the patrol.—PHOTO FROM 5TH FIGHTERWING AND 353RD SPECIAL OPERATIONS WING/US AIR FORCE MANILA, Philippines — Following President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s remark about the “worrisome” presence of Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea, China in return expressed “grave concern” over the Philippines’ “activities” in the disputed waters. “China’s position on the South China Sea is consistent and clear,” said China Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning in a press conference on Wednesday after she was asked what her comment was on Marcos’ remark about Chinese vessels in Philippine waters. Marcos earlier noted the “changing situation” in the West Philippine Sea, emphasizing that Filipino fishers should be allowed to fish in their traditional fishing grounds which belong in the maritime territory of the Philippines. “We express grave concern over the Philippines’ recent activities in the South China Sea that infringe on China’s sovereignty and will continue to take necessary measures to firmly safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and keep the South China Sea peaceful and stable,” she added. Mao did not categorically state what “recent activities” are being conducted by the Philippines against China. To note, China’s sweeping claim over most of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, has long been dismissed by an arbitral tribunal in a landmark ruling. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. For comprehensive coverage, in-depth analysis, visit our special page for West Philippine Sea updates. Stay informed with articles, videos, and expert opinions. Subscribe to our global news By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Charie Abarca

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 23:21:16 PST

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/226618/china-expresses-concern-over-ph-activities-in-west-philippine-sea

Inquirer

Ex-president Duterte says he never called Marcos a drug addict

Former President Rodrigo Duterte (left) and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (INQUIRER FILE PHOTOS) Former President Rodrigo Duterte (left) and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (INQUIRER FILE PHOTOS) MANILA, Philippines — Former president Rodrigo Duterte denied calling his successor, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. a drug addict. “Wala akong sinabi na ganoon, even if you kill me a thousand times, wala akong sinabing ganoon,” said Duterte in a press conference late Tuesday night. (I did not say that; even if you kill me a thousand times, I did not say such a thing.) “Make it ‘taking a drug,’ pero kung sabihin mong ‘addict,’ wala akong sinabing ganiyan. Patayin ako ni Marcos niyan. Maawa ka naman sa’kin, matanda na ko,” he added. (Make it ‘taking a drug,’ but if you say ‘addict,’ I did not say that. Marcos might kill me for that. Have mercy on me; I’m already old.) The former president even claimed that Marcos was on the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s (PDEA) drug watch list. The PDEA denied that Marcos was included in its watchlist, as well as Duterte’s own narco-list during his administration. Meanwhile, Marcos previously brushed off Duterte’s allegations, attributing it to his predecessor’s alleged fentanyl-use. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Zacarian Sarao

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 18:21:46 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911616/fwd-ex-pres-duterte-on-denying-he-called-marcos-an-addict

Inquirer

Marcos presses Quiboloy to face House, Senate over allegations

Apollo Quiboloy (left) and Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PHOTO: Official Facebook page of Bongbong Marcos/INQUIRER FILES) Apollo Quiboloy (left) and Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PHOTO: Official Facebook page of Bongbong Marcos/INQUIRER FILES) Updated on February 28, 2024 at 12:24 p.m. MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday urged controversial pastor Apollo Quiboloy to address the various allegations against him in Congress and Senate. In an ambush interview before his flight to Australia, Marcos urged Quiboloy that he should attend the hearings and present his side of the story. READ: Quiboloy claims slay plot in anti-US, Marcos rant “He has an opportunity in the hearings both in the House and in the Senate to say his side of the story. Kaya po sinasabi niya, ‘hindi totoo lahat ‘yan, hindi totoo’, walang nangyaring ganiyan, ‘di sabihin niya,” said Marcos in an ambush interview. (He has an opportunity in the hearings both in the House and in the Senate to say his side of the story. If he says, ‘all of that is not true, it is not true,’ nothing will happen there, then he should say it.) In the Senate, the self-proclaimed son of God faces allegations of sexual abuse from former members of his religious organization, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. In the House of Representatives, the Quiboloy-led Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) is being probed for allegedly violating its franchise by disseminating false information. Quiboloy faces summons from both chambers of Congress. Senator Risa Hontiveros subpoenaed Quiboloy after he failed to show up to multiple hearings on his alleged sexual crimes. READ: Hontiveros says Quiboloy not above the law: ‘We are waiting for you’ In the House of Representatives, lawmakers are tackling a bill revoking the franchise of Quiboloy’s SMNI due to its violations. House Speaker Martin Romualdez has also subpoenaed Quiboloy. The self-proclaimed son of God has ignored these summons. “Pag hindi siya sumipot baka ma-contempt siya, oh tapos, tuloy-tuloy. Ay, naku. Eh mas malaking gulo. Kung makapunta siya, sagutin niya lahat ng tanong, ‘di tapos na. That’s why my advice for him is to just face the questioning in the House and in the Senate,” said Marcos. (If he does not show up, he might be held in contempt. Then, it will just go on. Oh my. That is a bigger problem. If he gets to come, answer all the questions, and it is done. That’s why I advise him to face the questioning in the House and Senate.) “We’re trying to be fair here and allowing him the opportunity and fora to make his case,” said Marcos. Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, said that Quiboloy is not above the law. READ: Romualdez dismisses Quiboloy’s claim on connivance with foreigners Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. “His constitutional rights, like all witnesses, are respected. But he is not higher than the president, the Senate, and the law,” Hontiveros said Romualdez has also told Quiboloy to face the music. “We encourage Pastor Quiboloy to address his legal challenges through the proper legal channels and respect the legal processes in place,” said Romualdez. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Jean Mangaluz

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:26:31 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911187/marcos-presses-quiboloy-to-face-house-senate-over-allegations

Inquirer

Charter Day bonus for Cebu City gov’t employees ‘still pending’

JULY 16, 2023: A glimpse at the facade of the Cebu City Hall. CDN Digital photo | Brian J. Ochoa JULY 16, 2023: A glimpse at the facade of the Cebu City Hall. CDN Digital photo | Brian J. Ochoa CEBU CITY, Philippines – The Charter Day bonus for Cebu City government employees is still subject to deliberation, meaning there is no definite final date yet as to when it will be given. Councilor Noel Wenceslao, chairman of the Committee on Budget and Finance, has confirmed that Supplemental Budget 1, which includes allocations for the Palarong Pambansa and Charter Bonus, has been signed. However, he further said that they were currently awaiting its submission for deliberation during the council’s upcoming regular session on March 6. READ: Cebu City employees ‘may not’ receive Charter Day bonus on Feb 24 Wenceslao explained that the cutoff for all agenda, including proposals, is every Thursday of the week, with the agenda being addressed in the following week’s regular session, held every Wednesday. “So mao na (that is) they have to submit it tomorrow…the proposal. So once they’ve submitted it, maapil nana siya sa (It will be included in the) agenda then in next Wednesday,” Wenceslao said. Meanwhile, Mayor Michael Rama said that he had already signed the supplemental budget 1 and hoped that the Local Finance Committee (LFC) would submit the proposal to the Sangguniang Panlungsod for deliberation. “I have already signed it. The Local Finance (Committee, LFC) must have already submitted the documents to the Sangguniang Panlungsod,” he said in Ingna’ng Mayor program over Sugboanon Channel from Manila via Zoom on February 27. SB1 will encompass the necessary funds for the city’s transitional housing project, infrastructure requirements for the Palarong Pambansa in July, and other expenditures not included in the approved 2024 Budget. READ: Charter Day bonus for gov’t employees may be more than P25k Previously, Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia said the reason behind the delay of the submission of the proposal for the Charter Day bonus. He said that it was because the proposal would be submitted through a supplemental budget which would also include other expenditures apart from that of the bonus. “What I also know, it will be a supplemental budget that will also include other items not only the Charter Day. Mao bitaw nadugay na kay taas man gud ang (That is why it had taken a long time because it will take a long) process,” Garcia said. He also added that the exact amount of the bonus for the employees could not be confirmed as it had “not been tackled” yet by the council. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards. Subscribe to our regional newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

ppiquero

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:03:05 PST

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/559101/charter-day-bonus-for-cebu-city-govt-employees-still-pending

Inquirer

Marcos to Tesda: Fix job-skills mismatch of SHS graduates

TRAINING In this 2018 photo, students train under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s Cookery National Certificate Level II Course to hone their knowledge and skills in preparing cold meals such as canapes and an open sandwich served as an appetizer. —LYN RILLON TRAINING In this 2018 photo, students train under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s Cookery National Certificate Level II Course to hone their knowledge and skills in preparing cold meals such as canapes and an open sandwich served as an appetizer. —LYN RILLON President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday directed the country’s educational agencies to fix the current school programs to match the country’s current job demands with the skills given to senior high school (SHS) graduates. In his sectoral meeting in Malacañang, the President directed the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) to “upskill and reskill” the graduates to meet the jobs required by the country’s industries, amid recent data that only 20 percent of SHS graduates were able to land jobs. “We need the involvement of the industry as they tell us what kind of workers they need and what kind of training [our schools] need to give. This, in turn, will lead us to put additional learning tracks,” he said. The President met with officials of the education sector led by Education Secretary Sara Duterte and Tesda Administrator Suharto Mangudadatu to discuss proposals to improve the country’s technical-vocational education and training (TVET) program. READ: Senator: Tesda ‘misaligned’ programs He lamented that the government has been offering livelihood programs and skills training such as dressmaking and cosmetology, which were no longer adapted to the present times. “We truly need this assessment of the labor market and the involvement of the industry. We need to have a close linkage with the industry so that even if our graduates are not hired outright, jobs are available and are waiting for them,” he said. He likewise said that Tesda’s training programs should be better designed for students in lower-class towns. “So, we really have to study that more, we can no longer rely on that shotgun effect—no one cares who gets hit,” the President noted. Recalibrated training program Tesda responded that it was proposing to embed its training programs in the various tracks of the SHS program that would allow graduates to obtain a national certification normally required of applicants in blue-collar jobs. Following consultations with the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) and private stakeholders, Tesda said it had identified 84 training regulations that could be inserted into the existing SHS curriculum. The President then directed Tesda, DepEd, Dole and the Commission on Higher Education to form a technical working group to study Tesda’s project. At a briefing, Tesda Deputy Director General Rosanna Urdaneta cited a study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies showing that only 20 percent of SHS graduates landed jobs. “That is what we want to improve because that 20 percent who get employed even involve menial jobs, such as cleaning or clerical tasks. If one has the skills, employers will value their competency and not assign them to roles like preparing coffee or running errands,” she said. “Aside from a high school diploma, they will also get a national certificate, which will come in handy once they encounter financial difficulties in pursuing college education and [are] compelled to work,” she said. She also dismissed fears that Tesda’s proposal to embed its training in the SHS program would entail an added financial burden on parents. “This will [also] not lead to a disruption of [students’] time for studies; the real burden would be on the teacher-trainers because their skills need to be improved,” she said. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. According to Urdaneta, Tesda estimated that it would have to train 4,000 DepEd teachers for a period of 15 days for its “recalibrated” TVET program. INQ News that matters By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Melvin Gascon

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 05:20:00 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911090/president-to-tesda-fix-job-skills-mismatch-of-shs-graduates

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Iloilo City government to re-assess boarding houses after fire

Iloilo. INQUIRER FILES Iloilo. INQUIRER FILES ILOILO CITY — The Iloilo City government will reinspect boarding houses in La Paz district’s Barangay San Nicolas following a fire that hit seven boarding houses and killed two persons on Feb. 18. Mayor Jerry Treñas ordered the city government’s Boarding House Commission to check existing boarding houses in the barangay, which is close to big schools in the city such as the Western Institute of Technology, St. Therese-MTC Colleges, West Visayas State University and Iloilo Science and Technology University. “That area, San Nicolas, is mostly filled with boarding houses when you go there. In terms of voting population, [it] is small, but in terms of [the current residents], there are many people there,” Treñas said. “We’ve been ordering the closure of several boarding houses because of violations. We’re not being remiss. It’s very sad but we have to go back, and that means we have to do more,” he added. READ: 4 die, 8 injured in Cebu City fire Treñas said the licenses and business permits of boarding houses would be revoked if they found it not up to standard. Under City Regulation Ordinance No. 00-01 boarding houses must be made of strong materials and must have a fire extinguisher, fire alarm, and a dedicated fire exit, among other facility requirements. Investment Services, Business Permits and Licensing Division (ISBPLD) head Norman Tabud said that out of the seven boarding houses affected by the fire, three had no permits while two had not yet been renewed. READ: Elderly woman dead in Rizal town blaze Two people were killed the fire that engulfed one of the boarding houses without a permit. They were 21-year-old Renz David Aguilar of Concepcion town and 26-year-old Lyn Rose Sobretido of Pototan town who were staying in a boarding house owned by Rocky Gordon. Aside from the fatalities, 173 people were displaced in the fire that destroyed five houses and damaged two others. The Bureau of Fire Protection-Iloilo City estimated the damage at P2.1 million. The cause and the origin of the fire had yet to be determined. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Joey Marzan, Ruchelle Denice Demaisip

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:22:36 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911311/iloilo-city-government-to-re-assess-boarding-houses-after-fire

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DBM confirms 6.6% budget increase for health facilities enhancement in PH

INSIDE THE COVID WARD PGH / JUNE 19, 2021 Head Chaplain Father Marlito Ocon SJ and Assistant Chaplain Father Henry Ponce SJ of the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital Chapel and The Chaplaincy prepare to go inside the Covid Ward 3 to conduct sacrament of the anointing of the sick for the patients. INQUIRER PHOTO / RICHARD A. REYES INSIDE THE COVID WARD PGH / JUNE 19, 2021 Head Chaplain Father Marlito Ocon SJ and Assistant Chaplain Father Henry Ponce SJ of the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital Chapel and The Chaplaincy prepare to go inside the Covid Ward 3 to conduct sacrament of the anointing of the sick for the patients. INQUIRER PHOTO / RICHARD A. REYES MANILA, Philippines — Filipinos may expect more improvements among public health facilities nationwide as the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Wednesday confirmed an increase in the budget allocation for a program that seeks to upgrade the country’s health facilities. The DBM confirmed that P28.58 billion has been allocated for implementing the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) in this year’s General Appropriations Act – 6.6 percent higher than 2023’s figure of P26.81 billion. READ: DBM: 4Ps cash aid budget for 2024 is P106.3 billion “This is just proof that our government is really serious about improving health services in the country. As the President said in his last SONA [State of the Nation Address], we are increasing our public health facilities both in number and in capability. And so, we will ensure that this program will get a much-needed support,” DBM Chief Amenah Pangandaman said of the increased budget allocation for the program. “We understand that many Filipinos rely on public hospitals and clinics, that’s why it’s important that our health facilities are prepared and equipped to cater to the needs of our countrymen,” her statement continued in Filipino. The DBM said that the Department of Health-implemented program budget will be used for the construction, rehabilitation, and upgrade or expansion of government healthcare facilities nationwide. The department added that it will also allow the purchase of hospital equipment and medical transport vehicles. The budget department further said that the HFEP prioritizes Universal Health Care sites and far-flung or Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged areas (GIDAS). GIDAS refers to communities with marginalized populations physically and socio-economically separated from mainstream society, the Department of Social Welfare and Development said on its website. READ: DBM allots 20.9% of ICT budget for cybersecurity Meanwhile, a page on the National Economic and Development Authority’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) website said that the HFEP plays an important role in achieving the country’s health-related SDGs by providing affordable, quality, and specialized treatment to Filipinos. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Zeus Legaspi

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:24:46 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911206/fwd-dbm-on-health-program-increase

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PNP in ‘constant communication’ with main suspect in Camilon case

Beauty queen Catherine Camilon. (File photo from the Facebook account of Miss Grand Philippines) Beauty queen Catherine Camilon. (File photo from the Facebook account of Miss Grand Philippines) MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been keeping in touch with dismissed Police Maj. Allan De Castro, the primary suspect in the disappearance of beauty queen Catherine Camilon, according to Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas, chief of the Calabarzon Police Regional Office (PRO 4A). “In relation to the ongoing investigation, there is a constant communication between PNP and Major De Castro. So if we ever need to summon him, he’s just there. He is not hiding,” Lucas said in a phone interview. “Actually, he is willing to attend the Senate hearing. Unfortunately, the night before, he rushed his eight-month pregnant wife to the hospital. But he promised to attend the next one.” READ: Senate panel summons suspects in Catherine Camilon’s disappearance According to previous reports, De Castro was discharged last January 16 after being found guilty of conduct unbecoming of a police officer. The decision came as a result of a series of investigations conducted by the Calabarzon Regional Internal Affairs Service, uncovering evidence of an extramarital affair between DeCastro and Camilon. He is currently facing kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges with his driver, Jeffrey Magpantay, and two other “John Does.” De Castro was the supposed friend Camilon was about to meet when she disappeared on October 12 last year. Magpantay was one of the three men that witnesses allegedly saw transferring the beauty queen’s body from her car to another vehicle. The case was filed against them after the members of the PRO 4-A Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) recovered an abandoned car similar to the witnesses’ description in a vacant lot at the corner of Dumuclay Road and Star Tollway in Barangay Pallocan East on November 9. Police said the car, which had no license plate, was taken to Camp General Miguel C. Malvar in Batangas City for forensic examination. Results later showed that the DNA of the hair strands recovered in the red Honda CRV matched Camilon’s parents’ DNA. Meanwhile, the deputy chief of  PRO 4-A CIDG, Maj. Nilo Morallos, also revealed that Camilon might already be dead based on the accounts of their witnesses. On Tuesday, the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs began its investigation on the case, which stemmed from the proposed Senate Resolution Nos. 913 and 767, both filed by Sen. Raffy Tulfo. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. However, De Castro skipped the probe to tend to his pregnant wife. As a result, the Senate panel issued a subpoena to him and Magpantay, who, according to his legal counsel, was “sick.” Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Faith Argosino

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 14:40:35 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911477/pnp-in-constant-communication-with-main-suspect-in-camilon-disappearance

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FDA reminds drugstores of 20% senior citizen’s discount

Tablets and capsules of medicines. Contributed photo Tablets and capsules of medicines. Contributed photo MANILA, Philippines —   The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday reminded all drugstores and hospitals to grant a 20 percent discount on medicines purchased by senior citizens. In FDA advisory 2024-0429 dated February 28, the agency also reminded senior citizens or their representatives to present any of the following identification documents upon purchase of medicines: The FDA also cited Section IV.2 of Administrative Order No. 2012-0007 entitled “Guidelines on the Grant of 20% Discount to Senior Citizens on Health-Related Goods and for Other Purposes,” which defined medicines as “prescription and nonprescription/over-the-counter drugs, both generic and branded.” These include vitamin and mineral supplements medically prescribed by attending physicians and approved by the health department and the FDA for  use in diagnosis, care, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. READ: Reminder to seniors: Discounts total 32% The FDA noted that food, devices or their components, parts, and accessories are not included in the items that can be discounted. Senior citizens were likewise reminded to always bring their purchase slip booklet when buying medicines. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Luisa Cabato

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 21:13:31 PST

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1911700/fda-on-20-discount-for-senior-citizens

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Flowers for Lolas: Remembering the 1945 Rape of Manila

This is the “Memorare Manila 1945 Monument” that can be found in  Plaza de Sta. Isabel at the corner of General Luna and Anda Streets Intramuros, Manila. This is the “Memorare Manila 1945 Monument” that can be found in  Plaza de Sta. Isabel at the corner of General Luna and Anda Streets Intramuros, Manila. “The non-combatant victims of that tragic battle will remain forever in the hearts and minds of the Filipino people”. This is part of the inscription penned by  Nick Joaquin, National Artist for Literature, on the “Memorare Manila 1945 Monument” that can be found in  Plaza de Sta. Isabel at the corner of General Luna and Anda Streets Intramuros, Manila, which is a short walk from Manila Cathedral and San Augustine Church. Made by sculptor Peter de Guzman, the monument serves as a “gravestone” reminder of the dark years of Manila that commemorates the lives lost during the battle for the liberation of Manila, waged by Filipino and American forces against Imperial Japanese troops from February 3 to March 3, 1945. ALSO READ: ‘No to Cha Cha’ in UP Fair and Oblation Run The monument was unveiled on February 18, 1995 with its main feature of the figure of a hooded woman slumped on the ground in great despair for the lifeless child she cradles in her arm along with six suffering figures surrounding her. The inscription states: “This monument is erected in memory of the more than 100,000 defenseless civilians who were killed during the Battle for the Liberation of Manila between February 3 and March 3,1945. They were mainly victims of heinous acts perpetrated by the Japanese Imperial Forces and the casualties of the heavy artillery barrage by the American Forces. The Battle for Manila at the end of World War II was one of the most brutal episode in the history of Asia and the Pacific. The non-combatant victims of that tragic battle will remain forever in the hearts and minds of the Filipino people” Subjected to incessant pounding and facing certain death or capture, the beleaguered Japanese troops took out their anger and frustration on the civilians caught in the crossfire, committing multiple acts of severe brutality. The Japanese forced Filipino women and children to be used as human shields into the front lines to protect Japanese positions. Those who survived were then murdered by the Japanese. The bodies of people, even babies — beheaded, mutilated, bayoneted and shot — littered the streets, schools, public buildings, even places of worship. ALSO READ: Mythical  Chinese dragons and bakunawa Also known as the Rape of Manila, the city became one of the most devastated Allied capital cities during the entire war, alongside Berlin and Warsaw as Japanese resistance and American artillery destroyed much of Manila’s architectural and cultural heritage dating back to the city’s founding. “In a war, everybody is a loser. Nobody is a winner. But we should also look at how we used our wisdom as a people to help liberate ourselves from the Japanese and see that the triumphant Filipino can overcome even the worst tragedies,” historian Xiao Chua said. After the simple commemoration rites last February 17, 2024, a forum was held at the nearby Bahay Tsinoy Museum entitled “RECOLLECTIONS.” Survivors shared memories and experiences during wartime Manila which ”sadly, hardly anyone remembers.” Teresita Ang See of Flowers for Lolas noted that victims of atrocities under the Japanese occupation include  the Filipina comfort women. About 200,000 women from Korea, China, Burma, New Guinea, and the Philippines were held in captivity and many thousands more were raped as part of one of the largest operations of sexual violence in modern history. The girls were abducted, trafficked, or brought to the Japanese military camps. The victims spent their lives in misery, having endured physical injuries, pain and disability, as well as mental and emotional suffering. According to testimony at the Yamashita war crimes trial, the Bayview Hotel was used as a designated “rape center”. ALSO READ: Ukuleles, bamboo instruments and kudyapi reverberate in CCP Pasinaya  2024 Some 400 women and girls were rounded up from Manila’s wealthy Ermita district, and submitted to a selection board that picked out the 25 women who were considered most beautiful. They were then taken to the hotel where Japanese enlisted men and officers took turns raping them. A four-meter Lola statue, wearing a traditional Filipino dress, blindfolded, with hands clutched to her chest, was installed along Roxas Boulevard on December 8, 2017. However, the statue was dismantled on April 27, 2018 by the DPWH, allegedly for a drainage improvement project, but it was seen as a submission to protests from Japan. It was later declared missing when its artist, Jonas Roces, failed to turn over the statue during its scheduled reinstallation on August 25, 2019. The UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) released on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2023, a decision on the complaint by the Malaya Lolas, which found that the “Philippines violated the rights of victims of sexual slavery perpetrated by the Imperial Japanese Army during the Second World War by failing to provide reparation, social support and recognition commensurate with the harm suffered.” The Rape of Manila must be linked with the hashtag #neverforget. (Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, please email [email protected], or call 09175025808 or 09088665786) Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards. Subscribe to our regional newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

dsingson

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 06:30:22 PST

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/558829/flowers-for-lolas-remembering-the-1945-rape-of-manila

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