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Authorities raid POGO compound in Tarlac over alleged human trafficking | Mia Gonzalez | 13/03/2024 12:52 | RAID. At least 408 workers are being held for questioning by the authorities following the midnight raid in a large POGO compound in Barangay Anupul, Bamban, Tarlac, on March 13, 2024.
Joann Manabat/Rappler
TARLAC CITY, Philippines – A team led by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) on Wednesday, March 13, conducted a raid on one of the biggest offshore gaming operations compounds in Bamban, Tarlac, over alleged human trafficking and serious illegal detention.
The PAOCC and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Integrity Monitoring Enforcement Group (IMEG), Intelligence Group (IG), Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC), and the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) were armed with two search warrants against internet gaming licensed hub Zun Yuan Technology Incorporated, said PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio.
The search warrant was issued by Presiding Judge Hermenegildo Dumlao II of the Regional Trial Court Third Judicial Region Branch 81 in Malolos, Bulacan.
A total of 408 people – 234 Filipinos, 107 Chinese, 58 Vietnamese, 6 Malaysians, 2 Rwandans, and a Taiwanese – have been accounted for by authorities as of 5:30 am on Wednesday. All were working inside the Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO) compound.
Casio said the warrants stemmed from a complaint filed by a Vietnamese who escaped from the POGO compound on February 25. (A previous version of this story stated that the escape took place on February 28. This has been corrected. – Editors)
A Malaysian had also sought PAOCC’s assistance and alleged that he was being held against his will inside the POGO compound. He will be brought to the medico-legal officer as he bore signs of torture and physical abuse, Casio said.
“We were able to rescue one Malaysian…. He’s being manhandled, electrocuted,” said Casio.
Seventeen of the foreigners who had been rounded up were caught in a van during a hot pursuit operation along M.A. Roxas Highway together with the Clark Development Corporation’s Traffic Management Section of its Public Safety Division.
During the search of the POGO premises, authorities found scripts of a love scam modus, as well as Android smartphones and iPhones with possible scam transactions.
“In light of the discovery, the Anti-Cybercrime Group will apply for a cyber warrant with the assistance of the Department of Justice Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking,” said Casio. – Rappler.com
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Bohol local gov’t, DepEd held swim meet at viral Chocolate Hills resort | jsitchon0312 | 16/03/2024 11:26 | ATHLETIC MEET. As of March 14, Carmen Mayor Conchita 'Che' Toribio Delos Reyes’ face and the town’s seal could still be seen on the 'swimming meet' poster set up beside the resort’s pool.
John Sitchon/Rappler
The cart before the horse, one of our editors called it – Captain’s Peak Resort, that is.
The whole world saw how an entire government went haywire over a small resort situated at the bottom of three Chocolate Hills in Carmen town, Bohol. Many concerned citizens have pointed out how the resort had “defaced” the hills as slides and cottages were built on the protected mound’s foot.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) shocked the public even more when it announced that the resort had operated for months without an environmental compliance certificate (ECC).
On July 1, 1997, then-president Fidel V. Ramos declared the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument a protected area, designating it a National Geological Monument and a Protected Landscape for its unique geological formations. (READ: What you need to know about Chocolate Hills)
Officials at both the municipal and provincial levels were the most shocked, however, when the DENR said that a temporary closure order (TCO) was issued way back in September 2023. They only learned about the order after DENR’s announcement on Wednesday, March 13.
Almost like a chorus to a long-running ballad, the officials said, “We didn’t know about it.”
While it may seem like they’re off the hook for being blindsided by the DENR, some locals and Captain’s Peak Resort administrator Julieta Sablas told Rappler that the provincial government still held a swimming competition between February 16 and 18 even though they led a probe on it as early as August 2023.
So what’s the truth? Did the provincial government just forget about the controversy or did it just give in and say “to heck with it” for the sports event?
Let’s establish the basic facts. For one, the resort got a business permit in 2019. They didn’t have an ECC back then and at present…yet Sagbayan Mayor Restituto Suarez III still signed on the permit’s renewal.
The mayor’s executive secretary, Felito Pon, told Rappler that it happened because there was a “regular presumption” that the concerned government agencies had already reviewed all the attachments to the renewal.
This may explain the “cart without the horse” – a resort built without a completely valid permit that justifies its construction. But it won’t explain why the town’s mayor just assumed the necessary papers were okay without first checking if everything was in order. Never assume, is the rule, right?
Sablas told Rappler on Thursday, March 14, that they began development in 2019.
After reports of the resort’s access road allegedly defaced two Chocolate hills and slides were built on the hills surfaced in August 2023, the province began its investigation into the resort.
Rappler visited the site in Sagbayan town and found an access road that seemingly cuts through the foot of two hills. At the resort’s swimming pool, there are two slides set up at least seven feet at the foot of another set of hills.
“I wrote a letter to the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO)…They provided us with the same story from (officials) of Sagbayan – that they have the title, the Protected Areas Management Board (PAMB) resolution and the approval of DENR,” Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado told Rappler on Friday, March 15.
The governor added that he instructed the committee on natural resources and environmental protection, led by Bohol Provincial Board Member Jamie Villamor, to investigate further.
Villamor told Rappler on Friday afternoon that they asked for findings from the investigation but never received any copy.
“After follow-ups through phone calls, the answers were consistent that (Captain’s Peak) was still in the process of complying, still revising, and we were just waiting until what happened in the viral video,” Villamor said.
Metodio Maraguinot Jr., head of the provincial government’s education development center, revealed on Friday that the province became aware that the provincial swim meet was going to be held at the controversial resort through concerned parents in late 2023.
“The provincial meet that was done at Captain’s Peak was actually organized by the local division office, which is the division of Bohol Department of Education (DepEd). The only role that the provincial government extended is specifically for the assistance under the Special Education Fund,” Maraguinot said.
The sports event is one of the DepEd’s highlights leading up to the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) meet.
Maraguinot clarified that the provincial government gave P2 million for the event but intended the fund to be used for the venue that was supposed to be in Carmen town. He added that the town government was the recipient of the P2 million.
But why did the venue change from Carmen town to Sagbayan town?
Rappler visited the office of Carmen Mayor Conchita “Che” Toribio Delos Reyes to ask why they moved the event that was supposed to be staged in the town to Sagbayan – around 17 kilometers away from each other.
The mayor was not around but the municipal administrator, lawyer Eliezer Cagol Jr., told Rappler on Friday afternoon that they did not have any facilities for the swimming competition.
The lawyer refused to give any further information, deferring to the mayor who will release a statement on the issue at a later date.
Pon told reporters on Thursday that the conveners of the provincial meet requested Sagbayan to allow them to move their venue to Captain’s Peak.
“For humanitarian consideration, meron naman tayong ganyan so pinahintulutan natin ‘yon (we had something like that so we allowed it),” the Sagbayan mayor’s executive secretary said.
As of Thursday, the mayor’s face and the town’s seal could still be seen on the poster set up beside the resort’s pool.
Going back, DepEd still had the discretion to decide where the event would take place, but did it know about the controversy? Apparently.
Maraguinot told Rappler that the DepEd Bohol Division Office pushed through with the swimming competition at the viral resort despite efforts to relay the parents’ concerns and a proposal to hold the event instead at the Carlos P. Garcia Sports Complex in Tagbilaran City.
“In fairness to DepEd, they did have a consultation with us, we had a dialogue about it, but still their decision was to hold the swimming competition at the Captain’s Peak because apparently they have already planned, already organized, already made the necessary arrangements,” Maraguinot said.
Rappler reached out to DepEd Bohol Schools Division Superintendent Casiana Caberte for comment on the issue but we have yet to receive a reply.
With all the puzzle pieces in place, we now know that DepEd pushed through with the sports event at the controversial resort, with the cooperation of the local governments of Sagbayan and Carmen, despite the concerns raised by the province and parents.
In the end, the resort closed its doors on Thursday, not knowing when it would be able to operate again. At least 16 employees, mostly mothers supporting their children, lost their jobs overnight, and their families will have to live with that. A cart without a horse that has resulted in a painful crash.
As the Sagbayan mayor’s executive secretary put it, “Nangyari na kasi, hindi na natin mababago.” (It has already happened and we can’t change it.) – Rappler.com
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Gunning for Paris: Filipino Olympic hopefuls to watch | delfin.dioquino editor | 14/03/2024 14:34 | HEROINE. Hidilyn Diaz of the Philippines celebrates after a lift during the Tokyo Olympics weightlifting competitions.
EDGARD GARRIDO/REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines’ athlete roster for the Olympics continues to grow as the Paris Games near, all set to run from July 26 to August 11 in the capital of France.
Boxers Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas were the latest to clinch their Olympic seats, joining pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan, and boxer Eumir Marcial.
(LIST: Filipino athletes who qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics)
Here are athletes on track to reach Paris:
Asian Games medalist Bianca Pagdanganan is on pace for a second successive Olympic stint as 60 female golfers will qualify for Paris.
The top 15 in the world rankings, with a maximum of four athletes per country, will secure their berths, while the remaining spots will be given to the next highest-ranked golfers, with a maximum of two athletes per country, including those inside the top 15.
Ranked No. 119 in the world, the 26-year-old Pagdanganan sits at 36th place in the Olympic Golf Ranking released on March 11.
The 60 golfers who will see action in women’s golf will be finalized on June 25.
The Philippines’ first and only Olympic champion, weightlifting star Hidilyn Diaz eyes a fifth consecutive Games appearance.
Competing at the heavier women’s 59kg division after the 55kg category she ruled in the Tokyo Games got scrapped, Diaz is currently ranked eighth in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Olympic Qualification Ranking with a total lift of 224kg.
The 10 highest-ranked weightlifters in each of the 10 weight categories – five for men and five for women – will obtain quota places for Paris.
Diaz, 33, needs to keep her position until the final Olympic ranking is released on May 24 to extend her record as the Filipino athlete with the most Olympic appearances.
Twenty-year-old weightlifter Vanessa Sarno is ripe for a maiden Olympic stint as she occupies fifth place in the women’s 71kg division.
A former Asian champion in her weight class, Sarno lifted a total of 249kg in the IWF Grand Prix in Doha, Qatar, in December as she ranks behind China’s Liao Guifang (273kg), USA’s Olivia Reeves (262kg), Ecuador’s Angie Palacios (261kg), and Romania’s Loredana Toma (256kg).
A veteran of the national weightlifting team, John Ceniza can make his Olympic debut in Paris as long as he retains his place in the IWF Olympic Qualification Rankings.
Ceniza, 26, sits at sixth in the men’s 61kg category with a total lift of 298kg.
The youth movement in Philippine weightlifting thrives as 20-year-old Rosegie Ramos is also on target for a breakthrough Olympic appearance.
Ramos, a two-time Asian junior titlist, ranks ninth in the women’s 49kg with a total lift of 191kg.
With two Filipino gymnasts already qualified for Paris, Emma Malabuyo hopes to join the party.
Malabuyo can reach the Olympics for the first time by ranking in the top two of the women’s floor exercise at the end of FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series, which consists of four legs.
Olympic points are awarded for a corresponding finish of an eligible athlete, with the top two gymnasts from each apparatus who accumulate the highest three-meet point total advancing to Paris.
Malabuyo, 21, is ranked second in floor exercise with 69 points after earning 30 points for bagging silver in Cairo, Egypt, 14 points for placing 13th in Cottbus, Germany, and 25 points for finishing fourth in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Austria’s Charlize Moerz, who is No. 1 in floor exercise with 80 points, already clinched her Paris berth.
With one last World Cup left to play in Doha, Qatar, in April, Malabuyo aims to keep her spot against Spain’s Laura Casabuena (45 points) and Turkey’s Sevgi Kayisoglu (43 points).
Just like Malabuyo, gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar has a shot at Paris by ranking in the top two of the women’s uneven bars at the end of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series.
Going into the Doha World Cup, the 17-year-old Jung-Ruivivar is tied at fifth with Croatia’s Sara Sulekic as they both have 44 points.
New Zealand’s Georgie-Rose Brown sits on top with 50 points followed by Sweden’s Jennifer Williams (48 points), Czech Republic’s Vanesa Masova (48 points), and Sweden’s Nathalie Westlund (47 points).
Chances, though, are slim for Jung-Ruivivar considering Brown and Williams have competed in just two World Cups, meaning they can pad their leads significantly with a competent finish in Doha since only the three highest scores will be accounted for the total.
Jung-Ruivivar got 14 points for 13th place in Cairo, 12 points for 12th place in Cottbus, and 18 points for eighth place in Baku.
The prospect of a second straight Olympic stint looks promising for judoka Kiyomi Watanabe.
Based on the latest Olympic ranking by the International Judo Federation where she is ranked No. 74 in the women’s -63kg class, Watanabe is in line to nail one of the 10 continental quotas allocated for Asia across the seven weight categories for women.
Watanabe, 27, will see action in the Antalya Grand Slam in Turkey set from March 29 to 31 and in the Asian Judo Championships in Hong Kong set from April 20 to 23 to boost her Paris bid.
Also in contention for an Olympic berth, according to Philippine Judo Federation president Ali Sulit, is Keisei Nakano.
The twin brother of fellow judoka Shugen, Nakano is ranked No. 118 in the men’s -73kg division going into his next seven tournaments, including the Asian Judo Championships, before the Olympic qualification window closes in June.
Tokyo Olympian Kurt Barbosa banners the Philippine taekwondo team also composed of Arven Alcantara, Tachiana Mangin, and Baby Jessica Canabal that will take part in the World Taekwondo Asian Qualification Tournament in Tai’an, China, from March 15 to 16.
Only the top two eligible athletes from each weight category will qualify for Paris.
Barbosa (men’s -58kg) eyes a Games return after being the first Filipino to be eliminated in Tokyo, while Alcantara (men’s -68kg), Mangin (women’s -49kg), and Canabal (women’s 57kg) seek to make their Olympic debuts.
Another Tokyo Olympian, rower Cris Nievarez gets another crack at the Olympics.
Nievarez will compete in the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Continental Qualification Regatta to be held from April 19 to 21 in Chungju, South Korea, where the top five in the men’ single sculls event will catch the boat to Paris.
If he misses the cut in the continental qualifiers, Nievarez needs a daunting top-two finish in the World Rowing Final Qualification Regatta set to run from May 19 to 21 in Lucerne, Switzerland. – Rappler.com
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Haircut video of transgender student of EARIST Manila triggers LGBTQ community | Russell Ku | 15/03/2024 13:31 | HAIRCUT. A transgender second year student in Eulogio "Amang" Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology Manila cuts her hair to get enrolled for the second semester of school year 2023-2024.
Bahaghari's X video screenshot
MANILA, Philippines – Filipino LGBTQs online are bristling over a video on social media which showed a transgender woman getting a haircut inside a classroom to be able to enroll at the Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST) in Manila.
The viral video posted on Wednesday, March 13, by LGBTQ+ rights group Bahaghari showed second year entrepreneurship student Gen (not her real name) getting her hair cut to shoulder length from a fellow student inside the campus.
Gen told Rappler that EARIST enrollment personnel informed her she needed to have her hair cut to be able to enroll for the second semester. The enrollment period ends Friday, March 15.
TIGNAN: Napilitan ang ilan sa mga estudyanteng transgender ng Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST) na magpaputol ng kanilang buhok matapos harangin ng school administration ang kanilang pag-eenroll nang dahil dito #InclusiveSchoolsNOW pic.twitter.com/QZX3qdq7Yd
The video riled drag artists such as Eva Le Queen, Pura Luka Vega, and Drag Race Philippines season 2 winner Captivating Katkat; along with LGBTQ+ groups UP Babaylan and Lakapati Laguna. They joined social media users in condemning the circumstances endured by the student, saying that it was “blatant discrimination and oppression.”
EARIST president Rogelio Marmadlo addressed the controversy in a statement on Friday, saying “all students…are allowed to enroll for the second semester of school year 2023-2024…provided that those with long hair have them properly tied or fixed.”
Yung hindi mag enroll bec walang pambayad ng tuition gets pa eh. Pero yung BUHOK?! This is blatant discrimination and oppression! Walang kinalaman ang gender expression sa kakayahan mo bilang studyante so bakit? Schools are institutions to build potential. This is just plain… https://t.co/bVXoPTD0y6
We really should stop this. Ano naman ang kinalaman ng buhok sa pag-aaral? If anything, children learn better if you let them be their authentic selves. https://t.co/pRQxiRvzvJ
I experienced this when I was in HS, grabe yung trauma neto saken to the point na ayaw kona pumasok, U dont know the feeling. So sad lang dahil up until today ganito pa rin pala? Hindi naman sagabal ang buhok sa pag aaral, at hindi rin naman basehan sa haba o ikli ng buhok ang… https://t.co/UAEFpbOid9
Anong kinalaman ng haircut sa pag-aaral at pagkatuto? Malinaw na diskriminasyon ito at paglabag sa karapatan sa edukasyon! Saan sinabi sa Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Educ law na pwede harangan ang enrollment dahil sa hair policy?! Ibasura ang mga discriminatory policies! https://t.co/NCXtzt5hJQ
This is one of the reasons why our trans patients can not transition openly and safely. There's so much discrimination in our own country and by our own people, nonetheless. It's disappointing that we are going backwards with our antiquated beliefs and prejudices. ❌️🚩🔥 https://t.co/V7TgP8YXhU
Gen said it was EARIST entrepreneurship program head Jhon Saint Pasahol who told her that she would not be allowed to enroll unless she cut her hair.
“Hindi po kami natanggap kahit naka-bun po…. Inisip ko na at that time na makapagenroll talaga ako kasi ang alam ng parents ko…nag-aaral ako na walang gupit ng buhok,” Gen told Rappler.
(We weren’t allowed [to enroll] even if we wore a bun…. I thought at that time, I wanted to finally enroll because my parents know that I can study without having my hair cut.)
She added that she cut her hair as a “sacrifice” for her fellow trans students as she felt that they lost their voice in EARIST.
According to the 2021 EARIST student handbook’s code of conduct and discipline, male students should observe a barber’s haircut. Meanwhile, the only restriction for female students, was not being allowed to sport colorful highlights.
The handbook also states that students have the right to “freely express one’s gender preference to follow the norms of the Institution without due prejudice to any provisions.”
Bahaghari-EARIST president Red Riotoc and women’s representative JP Brillantes told Rappler that the issue on the need for trans women to cut their hair for enrollment has been constantly raised with the school administration.
“Paulit-ulit na kami nagpabalik-balik sa different offices, paulit-ulit kami nagpapasa ng different papers. Pero parang pinaglalaruan… [at] pinagpapasahan kami. (We have been going back and forth with different offices and submitted different papers. We feel like we are being fooled and passed around),” Brillantes added.
Representatives from the LGBTQ+ community, including Bahaghari-EARIST, also had a dialogue with EARIST president Rogelio Mamaradlo on October 9, 2023 with a demand letter drafted by the organization, with the help of Rainbow Rights Philippines.
The meeting led to a “verbal agreement” allowing transgender women to enroll for the first semester of school year 2023-2024 without any conditions.
For the second semester though the issue once again erupted this month after Bahaghari-EARIST received over 40 complaints from transgender students in the college of business and public administration, claiming that they were not allowed to enroll on March 11.
This led the organization to draft a resolution urging the school administration to allow students to wear school uniform and grow their hair according to their gender identity and expression.
Following the submission of the resolution to school administration officials, a meeting was held with LGBTQ+ representatives, EARIST’s student affairs and services office, and college deans on Tuesday, March 12.
“‘Yung iba’t ibang department, may iba’t ibang rules po sa LGBTQ+ [students]. Sa college po namin, college of business and public administration, ang required po is shoulder length and nakatali [ang buhok],” Riotoc said.
(Different departments had different rules for the LGBTQ+ students. In our college, the college of business and public administration, the requirement is that the hair should be shoulder length and tied.)
Following the meeting, the college of business and public administration agreed to allow third and fourth year transgender students to keep their long hair. However, first and second year students had to cut their hair to shoulder length.
Students in the colleges of education, criminology, tourism, have to adhere to the male haircut policies. Other students could keep their long hair, but have to adhere to other rules of their college such as tying it into a bun.
On Friday, Marmadlo said Tuesday’s meeting ended “with the agreement that the parties shall convene again to discuss the possibility of a new set of implementing rules and regulations concerning enrollment.”
“Why doon sa mga LGBTQ+, especially trans women…may kailangan shoulder length [na buhok]? Meron naman mga girls na mahahaba ‘yung buhok…. Hindi naman nakakaapekto ang buhok sa pag-aaral po,” Riotoc said.
(Why in the case of the LGBTQ+, especially trans women, the hair needs to be shoulder length? There are girls who have long hair…. Our hair doesn’t affect our studies.)
The Manila LGBTQI Protection Ordinance of 2020 prohibits the denial of admission and imposing disciplinary action higher than customary against students based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
Bahaghari and Rainbow Rights Philippines have also raised the EARIST Manila issue with the Manila city government through a letter to the office of Mayor Honey Lacuna and its gender and development office on March 8.
Meanwhile, Gabriela Representative and House assistant minority leader Arlene Brosas also slammed EARIST for its “discrminatory policies” that “violate the fundamental rights and dignity of students.”
“Dapat nang seryosohin ng Kongreso ang pagpasa sa SOGIESC Equality Bill para bigyan ng mas kongkretong proteksyon ang LGBTQ+ community mula sa karahasan tulad ng nangyayari ngayon sa EARIST at iba pang mga paaralan,” she said.
(Congress should prioritize the passage of the SOGIESC Equality Bill to provide the LGBTQ+ community more concrete protection against violence such as what happened in EARIST and other schools.) – Rappler.com
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In jail, drag artist Pura Luka Vega broke bread | Lian Buan | 15/03/2024 7:30 | DETAINED. Pura Luka Vega is seen inside the detention facility of the Manila Police District Station 3 in Sta. Cruz, Manila, on October 5, 2023, after being arrested.
Ben Nabong/Rappler
Matthew 26:26 says Jesus took bread, broke it, gave it to his disciples, which was the first thing that Amadeus Fernando Pagente (drag name: Pura Luka Vega) did in jail: to ask for bread and share it with the detainees. Ironically, it was dressing up as Jesus Christ in drag and performing the Catholic Church song, Ama Namin that got Pura behind bars.
Not that it was done on purpose. It was the least and most immediate thing Pura could do to help the other detainees. “They were asking. They were really hungry, you can see it, you can feel it,” that’s why “bumili ako ng maraming tinapay, kain tayo ng tinapay (I bought lots of bread and I said, let’s eat bread)!”
Pura has had three warrants of arrest, posted P1.2 million in bail for those warrants, all in all 11 counts across four venues over criminal charges of indecency and immorality. All because Pura performed Ama Namin in drag, which irked religious individuals, some of whom ended up taking the drag artist to court, and then to jail. The longest Pura spent behind bars was three days, before getting a release order.
“Food is the biggest problem for the inmates, to have food all the time. Because they rely on people who visit jails. It’s very scarce,” said Pura on Rappler Talk.
The Philippines’ 1987 Constitution guarantees freedom of expression. But the country’s pre-war revised penal code has a clause, Article 201, that prohibits “immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions and indecent shows.”
Pura has been charged with 11 counts of those, compounded by the Cybercrime Law – which has more severe penalties – because the complainants cite the TikTok videos as sources for the offense. There’s also Article 133 that criminalizes offending religious feelings, although an explicit element of this crime requires that the offense must be done at “a place devoted to religious worship, or during the celebration of any religious ceremony.” Pura performed Ama Namin during a drag show.
“For countless of times, as a queer person, I’ve had people use the bible as a weapon against us, and now we have laws that are used, same thing, as weapons against us,” said Pura.
In a key win last November, the Tacloban City Office of the Prosecutor dismissed one set of Article 201 complaints against Pura filed by a pastor because “taken as a whole, the performance in question has serious literary, artistic or scientific value.”
Philippine jurisprudence established only four kinds of speech that is not protected: 1.) Obscenity (thus the regulation against porn) 2.) False advertising 3.) Libelous statements and 4.) Fighting words (or words that incite to harm and danger).
In the resolution, the Tacloban prosecutor cited a 2006 Supreme Court case which says that to call something obscene, it must pass these legal tests:
The prosecutor believed that Pura’s performance had serious literary, artistic or scientific value, “in fine, the complaint must necessarily fail,” the short 3-page resolution read.
This decision does not bind any other prosecutors, and whatever court win Pura might get also would not bind any other judge. Ideally, human rights and free speech advocates would rather declare Article 201 unconstitutional. That there is now momentum to push for that, Pura said, makes the situation “less miserable.”
“If I always think about myself, then definitely I’ll think about how miserable the situation is. But I have to separate myself: what does this mean for other queer people, for expression, for people around me, what does this mean with accepting one’s differences?” said Pura.
“I’d rather go through that and really push for the unconstitutionality of all of these laws. They can use it if they had the chance, if not [against] me, then someone else in the future,” Pura added.
A post shared by My Name is…Luka (@puralukavega)
Pura has been able to pay bail, and afford all the other costs of facing 11 cases, now down to only four, because of “people who chipped in,” not least of whom are other drag queens who initiated crowdfunding efforts.
“Not everyone has access to being represented well, or getting the justice that they deserve, or just even to have a fair chance at justice or freedom,” said Pura, who is represented by lawyers who include the firm Leflegis, the team behind the win of urban poor residents who were charged by the police during the pandemic for protesting for food aid.
Philippine jails are the world’s second most crowded, next only to Congo and followed by Uganda and Cambodia, according to the world prison brief of the UK-based Institute for Crime and Justice Policy Research. Pura saw that firsthand, saying “the conditions were a little sad, it shows that not every jail or prison is equipped with certain things.”
The 3-day imprisonment experienced by Pura was “short,” although the prospect of even staying in jail overnight is too daunting for some people. “Time is relative. People don’t know this, but I have an uncle who was in prison, so I used to visit him, so it’s not something very alien to me,” Pura said.
“You have to experience a lot of difficult situations for you to get a handle of how to approach it better,” said Pura, a public health worker whose prior work in mental health policy helped in coping with the stress brought by the charges.
The charges against Pura range from accusations of disrespect and insult against religion, and even mockery of Jesus Christ by “insinuating that Jesus Christ is gay.”
Pura told the different courts that the performance was an expression of Catholic faith; the belief that Jesus Christ embodies “inclusivity, whimsy, joy, and advocacy for the oppressed.”
“I do not intend to indoctrinate people, or tell them how they should worship. Faith is very personal, the way that you express is personal, no one can take that away from you, I can’t take that away from anyone,” said Pura.
“If your faith in a divine being is really firm and strong, whatever expressions other people have should not faze you. What I did should not bother you, I think, if your faith is strong,” Pura added.
Drag is attacked around the world. In the United States, several states have passed laws to ban it, although these have been challenged before courts. In Lebanon, a bar holding a drag show was attacked by an anti-LGBT group.
“People have always used this narrative that drag influences or corrupts children. How? I don’t think it does, it is just an art form,” said Pura. Despite the legal battles, Pura won’t “trade drag for the world.”
“I’ve had more faith, it didn’t waiver. God has been with me, my friends, my family, and the people who supported me. I have that belief in a divine being. I don’t take it against other people who don’t have that belief, you’re free to believe whatever you want. But for me, I think – thank you, Lord.” – Rappler.com
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Hontiveros rejects Quiboloy’s reasons, pushes for arrest order | Herbie G | 15/03/2024 17:25 | RISA HONTIVEROS. Senator Risa Hontiveros chairs the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality. She answers questions from the media on March 11, 2024.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Senator Risa Hontiveros pushed for a Senate order to arrest embattled Davao-based preacher Apollo Quiboloy as he continued to reject a Senate panel’s summons to answer accusations leveled at him by his former followers.
This came as Quiboloy, through lawyer Melanio Elvis Balayan, submitted his response to a show-cause order from the Senate on Friday, March 15.
Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality, earlier cited Quiboloy in contempt for not showing up during the panel’s March 5 hearing on the alleged abuses committed by the preacher and his associates against former workers of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
Balayan told reporters that they complied with the Senate committee’s directives by submitting Quiboloy’s reasons for not appearing during the panel’s hearings.
The doomsday preacher had been given from March 13 to March 15 to respond to the show-cause order.
Quiboloy and his lawyer maintained that the ongoing Senate investigation “is not in aid of legislation but is tantamount to usurpation of judicial functions beyond the powers of the Senate.”
They also said the resolution authored by Hontiveros to direct the Senate committee to conduct an inquiry into the reported cases of large-scale human trafficking, sexual abuse, and violence involving the KOJC and Quiboloy “is brazenly incriminatory as it categorically declared the guilt” of the pastor.
Balayan said Senate Resolution No. 884, approved last December, “totally disregarded the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.”
He said Quiboloy’s refusal “is not a sign of disrespect” to the Senate, “but is purely based on the fact that the criminal accusations against him can only be legitimately settled before the competent courts.”
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier ordered prosecutors in Davao and Pasig to file cases of sexual abuse of a minor and qualified trafficking against Quiboloy.
In his previous statements, however, Quiboloy repeatedly said he did not respect Hontiveros and those who supposedly trampled on his constitutional rights.
Hontiveros rejected Quiboloy’s position, and said, “Magpakita na lang si Quiboloy. Bakit ba ang dami pa niyang drama? (Quiboloy should just show up. Why does he have to resort to so much drama?)”
She said she would formally request Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri to approve the warrant of arrest against Quiboloy.
Hontiveros also said Quiboloy’s camp had asked the Senate to tackle the matter about the show-cause order before the plenary.
“Sa totoo lang, wala nga sa rules ang show-cause order. It was a courtesy extended to Senator Robin, at the request of the SP (Zubiri). Kung wala nga sa rules ang show-cause order, much less wala sa rules na kailangan ng hearing in plenary to resolve the show-cause order,” Hontiveros said.
(Quite frankly, the show-cause order isn’t even in the rules. It was a courtesy extended to Senator Robinhood Padilla, at the request of the Senate President. If the show-cause order isn’t even in the rules, much less is there a rule requiring a plenary hearing to resolve the show-cause order.)
Padilla had objected to Hontiveros’ move to cite Quiboloy for contempt and was given, based on the Senate rules, a week to make seven other committee members join him in reversing the ruling. Only senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, and Christopher Lawrence Go signed Padilla’s objection letter.
Hontiveros said it would be a double standard for the Senate to allow Quiboloy to get away when there were cases in the past when other senators cited people for contempt and went on with committee investigations even when criminal charges were already filed against witnesses.
Zubiri, she said, even upheld the power of the Senate to hold witnesses in contempt and rejected an argument about the right against self-incrimination.
Hontiveros said, “Makukulong lang si Quiboloy sa Senado sa hindi pagdalo sa pagdinig, at hindi para sa mga mabibigat na paratang ng mga biktima laban sa kanya.”
(Quiboloy would only be detained in the Senate for non-attendance at hearings, not for the serious allegations brought against him by his accusers.) – Rappler.com
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Indeed, I agree: “Hontiveros said it would be a double standard for the Senate to allow Quiboloy to get away when there were cases in the past when other senators cited people for contempt and went on with committee investigations even when criminal charges were already filed against witnesses.” Through this case of Pastor Quiboloy, the Filipino People will know the real nature of our Senators. But with the power of the triumvirate Corruption, Repression and Disinformation, these “deceptive” senators will still win.
How does this make you feel? | Rappler | https://www.rappler.com/philippines/mindanao/hontiveros-rejects-quiboloy-reasons-pushes-arrest-order-march-15-2024/ |
Bohol provincial gov’t looking into 2 other tourist attractions built on Chocolate Hills | Jee Geronimo | 15/03/2024 16:37 | BUD AGTA. Earlier in September 2023, Bud Agta was called out by environmentalists for structures built on a Chocolate Hill in Carmen, Bohol.
John Sitchon/Rappler
BOHOL, Philippines – After the closure of Captain’s Peak Resort, the provincial government of Bohol said it would also look into other questionable structures built on Chocolate Hills, starting with Bud Agta in Carmen town.
Bohol Provincial Board Member Jamie Villamor, chairman of the committee on tourism and environmental protection, told Rappler on Friday, March 15, that Bud Agta was part of the discussions during an August 2023 inquiry into the controversial Captain’s Peak in Sagbayan town.
Bud Agta is a camping ground with wooden stairs built from the foot of a Chocolate Hill to its peak.
“We discovered that in Bud Agta, there are measurements that exceeded the allowable limit of the Protected Areas Management Board,” Villamor said
Bud Agta is the second site mentioned in Senator Nancy Binay’s proposed resolution seeking an investigation into structures built on protected areas of the Chocolate Hills.
Besides Bud Agta, concerned locals have also pointed out that the Sagbayan Peak viewing deck in Sagbayan town also had a cemented structure built on another Chocolate Hill. Villamor said that she was made aware of this through social media posts.
Villamor confirmed that the provincial government would now be looking into these structures as well.
“We requested the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to look into the Bud Agta,” the board member said, adding that they have yet to receive a copy of the results of the August 2023 investigation.
Rappler visited Sagbayan Peak on Thursday, March 14, and Friday afternoon to ask its management for comment. The staff told Rappler that the owner did not wish to give any statement on the issue.
Sagbayan Peak’s staff showed Rappler their ECC, while Bud Agta’s ECC was made visible to the public via a poster near the tourism attraction’s entrance.
Meanwhile, Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado said they would take the initiative to ensure no more resorts would build structures that deface the hills. (READ: How messy governance, paperwork allowed a resort in Chocolate Hills)
“We will correct what is the cause of this mess and for us, para hindi ito maulit (so that this won’t happen again), we are going to create an ordinance which has clearer policies and guidelines,” Aumentado said.
The governor added that they would revive the province’s review and development committee to review documents and applications of geoparks and development sites in protected areas.
“Kung ano ‘yung pagbabago diyan, dapat hindi maka-alter ng view sa original na lugar (If there would be changes made there, it should not change the original view of the place),” Aumentado said. – Rappler.com
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Chocolate Hills resort closes down | The wRap | Jaira Roxas | 15/03/2024 22:05 | Today on Rappler – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:
The controversial Captain’s Peak Resort in Sagbayan, Bohol, closes down Thursday, March 14, after its business permit is revoked. The resort went viral after netizens saw its structures were built within the protected zone of the Chocolate Hills.
Senator Risa Hontiveros pushes for a Senate order to arrest Davao-based preacher Apollo Quiboloy. This as Quiboloy continues to reject a Senate summons to answer accusations leveled at him by his former followers.
At least 29 Palestinians are killed while awaiting aid in two separate Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip Thursday, March 14. Israel’s military denies attacking aid centers, describing the reports as ‘false.’
South Korean actor O Yeong-su, who starred in the first season of the hit Netflix series ‘Squid Game,’ is convicted on charges of sexual harassment. The 79-year-old actor was charged with two counts of sexual harassment in 2017.
Social media influencer Bretman Rock is recognized by lawmakers in Hawaii for his impact on Hawaiians and Filipino-Americans. The measure congratulates him ‘on his success across all social media and commending him for his contributions to supporting the youth.’ – Rappler.com
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UP alliance stands against ‘DiliMall’ shopping center, university commercialization | Nina Liu | 15/03/2024 16:54 | PROTEST. Various sectors join a protest outside DiliMall, the new shopping center of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, on March 12, 2024.
Nina Liu/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – Six years after the University of the Philippines (UP) Shopping Center in the Diliman campus burned down, various sectors of the UP community launched an alliance against what it called the “growing commercialization” of the state university.
In a press conference on Tuesday, March 12, the multi-sectoral network UP Not For Sale urged the UP administration to prioritize the concerns of the UP community. Members of the University Student Council, Local College Councils, the Shopping Center Association, UP Academic Workers Union, UP Workers Alliance, mga manininda (vendors) organizations, other faculty, and UP residents were present at the briefing.
This came amid the current plans for the DiliMall, a three-story building that will lead to the opening of the campus doors to private businesses like franchise stores and high-end restaurants. The new structure where the old UP Shopping Center once stood before it was destroyed in a blaze on March 8, 2018 is still being completed.
Representatives of vendors, students, and faculty came together to oppose the floor plans for DiliMall, which they said heightens the state university’s commercialization, while abandoning the needs of the community’s core stakeholders.
Rappler reached out to UP Diliman Chancellor Edgardo Vistan II on Thursday, March 14, on the issues raised by these groups. As of writing, he had yet to respond.
Rappler also reached out to UP President Angelo Jimenez on March 13, but he still had not sent any response as of writing.
We will update this story once any of them or other officials air the side of the UP administration.
Edward Fernando, president of UP Shopping Center Stallholders Association (UP SCSAI), said the UP Shopping Center, built in the 1970s, was made to cater to the needs of the UP community. The establishment was a one-stop shop for students who needed access to affordable meals, quick photocopying and printing services, and even budget-friendly haircuts.
Vendors and stall owners in the Shopping Center understood their roles in the lives of UP community, thus they also strove to make sure the prices of their services and products were accessible to students, faculty, and those who lived within the university.
Samahan ng mga Manininda sa UP Campus chairperson Narry Hernandez said the high rent required of tenants in the new DiliMall makes it impossible to make the goods and services there affordable to the UP community.
Physical accessibility was also questioned, as vendors lamented the proposed floor plan that places local UP vendors in spaces for rent on the third floor of the new DiliMall. UP SCSAI vice president Hermie Laroa said this directly affects them due to logistical issues, such as difficulty in transporting their large equipment upstairs, and accessibility to students who may be pressed for time when running their errands.
As the students, faculty, and workers chanted “Serbisyo sa tao, huwag gawing negosyo!” (Service to people, don’t make it a business!”), representatives from the University Student Council (USC) held up their take on what the DiliMall floor plan should be.
The alternative floor plan shows the ground floor spaces being allocated to the original Shopping Center stallholders and spots for food stalls of local UP vendors. It also repurposes other spaces on the higher floors into spots for essential services like supplies shops and salons. Academic and recreational spaces were also allotted for students’ needs.
USC Chairperson Mary Sunshine Reyes said the “commercialization tactics” of the state university have “concrete manifestations on the ground.”
“It would mean less food services sa already mataas na presyo ng pagkain, na limited na nga sa ating mga estudyante, faculty, at staff. Mawawalang ng kabuhayang ang ibang mga campus vendors natin,” Reyes said.
(It would mean less food services, amid the already high price of food, which is already limited to our students, faculty, and staff. Our other campus vendors will also lose their livelihood.)
She also said the network requested a dialogue with the UP administration on March 21, and called on the administration to “champion the rights and well-being of the community.” – Rappler.com
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University of Maryland names journalism awards after Rappler CEO Maria Ressa | Angelo Gonzales | 15/03/2024 16:42 | Maria Ressa receives the journalism award named after her from the Philip Merrill School of Journalism, March 14, 2024
Kate DeBlasis /UMD Philip Merrill College of Journalism
MANILA, Philippines – The University of Maryland (UMD) has introduced a series of journalism awards named after Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Rappler CEO Maria Ressa, honoring courageous and groundbreaking reporting in the face of adversity.
UMD’s Philip Merrill College of Journalism hosted its first Maria Ressa Prizes on Wednesday, March 13, honoring journalists and news organizations who exhibited journalistic courage despite threats and challenges.
Ressa was given the first Courage in Journalism award, which is given to a journalist or news organization anywhere in the world who exhibits journalistic courage in the face of serious threats from government or other powerful forces.
Aside from courage in journalism, awards recognizing courage in investigative journalism, independent journalism, and student journalism were given too, which are all limited to journalists or news organizations in the US only.
ProPublica received the Maria Ressa Prize for Courage in Investigative Journalism for their coverage of the ethical lapses of US Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, including luxury trips paid for by mega-donor Harlan Crow and other billionaires.
The Kansas newspaper, Marion County Record received the Maria Ressa Prize for Courage in Local or Independent Journalism for their “perseverance and continued coverage in the face of the government overreach.” Their office and its publisher’s home were raided by the police in August 2023 amid allegations of identity theft.
The Daily Northwestern, which reported the systemic hazing culture inside the Northwestern football program, received the Maria Ressa Prize for Courage in Student Journalism.
Evan Gershkovich of the Wall Street Journal, who was detained in Russia since 2023, was honored with a special citation as well.
During her keynote speech, Ressa told the attendees and her fellow awardees, what courage means: standing up against power and money, drawing and holding the line, and doing what’s right.
She highlighted how journalists are in an existential moment now, pointing out that digital journalism could likely die due to the information crisis brought by Big Tech business models: large language models, and generative AI, among others.
She ended her speech by encouraging fellow awardees, journalism majors and professors, especially the youth, to partake in the 10-point action plan to address the information crisis, she and Dmitry Muratov conceptualized in 2022.
“And finally, the last one, and this is where I hope you will take a position. Where the Gen Z will actually take those old values forward in the age of digital, right? Journalism as an antidote to tyranny. This is the year. What are you going to do?,” said Ressa. – Rappler.com
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Pangilinan group, water district agree to meet, avert Cagayan de Oro crisis | Herbie G | 15/03/2024 12:22 | WATER. A man fetches water from a water tanker sent by city hall during a water interruption in Barangay Canitoan, Cagayan de Oro, several weeks back.
Cagayan de Oro City Information Office
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Executives of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) and Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Incorporated (COBI), a subsidiary controlled by business magnate Manny V. Pangilinan’s Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, have reached an agreement to explore a potential resolution of their ongoing dispute concerning a debt surpassing P400 million, accrued since 2021.
The Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Incorporated (COBI) clarified that a decision on whether they will discontinue the water supply has not yet been made, as it still wants to settle the issue they are facing with the government-run Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD).
Engineer Antonio Young, COWD general manager, told Rappler on Thursday, March 14, that they received a communication from COBI a day earlier, and responded that water district officials were willing to discuss the matter with the bulk water supplier on March 20.
“By that time, before their deadline, [we hope] that we could come up with an agreement,” Young said.
COBI earlier sent notices of disconnection to the COWD and warned that it would be forced to discontinue its supply of treated water to the water district unless it paid a P426-million debt.
The COWD has not acknowledged the debt, saying the amount represented an increase in rates implemented by COBI during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, despite the water district invoking a force majeure provision in their 2017 contract.
Young said the COWD, a government-owned and -controlled corporation, has no legal basis to pay COBI more than their agreed pre-pandemic rates.
He said COBI’s recent gesture and COWD’s response offered a chance for them to negotiate for the continuation of the supply of treated water to the water district. COBI supplies COWD 80,000 cubic meters daily, accounting for around half of Cagayan de Oro’s tap water.
COBI’s lawyer, Roberto Rodrigo, told a city hall committee on Wednesday, March 13, that they sent a letter to COWD, to ask for a meeting so that the two firms could come to terms.
Rodrigo also apologized before the city hall committee under the Cagayan de Oro Special Task Force for Water Supply and Distribution, for their notices to COWD that caused alarm in the city.
“We did not intend to cause fright among the people. We want to settle this amicably with the water district,” said Rodrigo, adding that they have been trying to resolve the issue for over a year already.
Councilors Edgar Cabanlas and Suzette Magtajas-Daba asked the supplier if they could extend the deadline, for starters, to two months to allow the city to prepare if COBI decided to stop supplying treated water to the COWD. Cabanlas earlier dared COBI to cut off its supply to the COWD.
Rodrigo said he would bring the request to the attention of COBI’s decision-makers. – Rappler.com
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June Mar Fajardo fit again as San Miguel begins title defense | delfin.dioquino editor | 15/03/2024 21:35 | SHOT. June Mar Fajardo in action for the San Miguel Beermen in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – June Mar Fajardo is healthy again and that is bad news for the rest of the PBA.
Back in action after being sidelined with a calf injury, the seven-time MVP keyed San Miguel to an electrifying start in the Philippine Cup as they coasted to a 109-97 win over luckless Rain or Shine on Friday, March 15.
Fajardo finished with a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds with 2 blocks despite being put under a minutes restriction, logging just 25 minutes off the bench.
“I recovered well. I got some rest,” said Fajardo in Filipino.
Fajardo sustained the injury in Game 4 of the Commissioner’s Cup finals against Magnolia in February.
Although Fajardo managed to finish the best-of-seven series to capture his 10th championship with the Beermen, he needed to sit out Gilas Pilipinas’ first-window campaign in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers later that month.
The decision to take time off basketball worked wonders for Fajardo as he got cleared by his doctor last March 8, paving the way for him to suit up for San Miguel in the first game of its title defense.
Fajardo, 34, said he no longer feels pain.
“I guess I’m healthy. I just need to bring back my conditioning. We just returned to practice. But so far, so good,” said Fajardo.
Aside from leading the Beermen to a championship sweep this season, the Cebuano giant has to stay fit if he wants to have a crack at a record-extending eighth MVP plum.
Fajardo topped the statistical points (SPs) battle at the end of the Commissioner’s Cup, amassing an average of 40.9 SPs ahead of Barangay Ginebra’s Christian Standhardinger (35.7) and teammate CJ Perez (35.4). – Rappler.com
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Regaining lethal form, Maliksi shows way for Meralco in surprise rout of Ginebra | delfin.dioquino editor | 15/03/2024 23:23 | SHOT CREATOR. Allein Maliksi in action for the Meralco Bolts in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – Allein Maliksi won’t let a couple of off nights affect his confidence.
Regaining his lethal form, Maliksi took charge for Meralco as they sent erstwhile unbeaten Barangay Ginebra crashing back to earth with a 91-73 blowout in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum on Friday, March 15.
The sweet-shooting veteran fired 25 points on a 4-of-7 clip from beyond the arc to help the Bolts get back on track after a pair of narrow losses and improve to 2-3.
It was a vastly improved performance for Maliksi after he went 6-of-20 (30%) from the field and 1-of-10 (10%) from long range in their last two games against NLEX and NorthPort, which Meralco lost by an average of just 4 points.
“I work hard and I prepare myself every day in practice. There are off nights. Sometimes, you have a good game. Just continue to enjoy the game and play the game the right way,” said Maliksi in a mix of Filipino and English.
“Today, we executed our offense and defense well. We took care of the ball. The result turned out great.”
Maliksi connived with Chris Newsome as they scored 10 and 11 points, respectively, in the first half to help the Bolts race to a commanding 46-27 lead.
The Gin Kings hardly looked like the team that won their first two games convincingly, coughing up 19 turnovers and making just a dreadful 14% (3-of-21) of their three-point attempts.
Meralco capitalized.
After the intermission, Maliksi took over as he scattered 11 points in the third quarter, giving the Bolts their biggest lead of the game at 71-40 off a personal 8-0 run capped by a booming triple.
Newsome backstopped Maliksi with 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Aaron Black finished with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists.
Cliff Hodge made his presence felt for Meralco on the defensive end, churning out 4 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals as he pestered Ginebra forward Jamie Malonzo, who committed 6 turnovers and got limited to a season-low 4 points.
Prior to the game, Malonzo averaged 24.2 points.
As excellent as his team performed, though, Bolts head coach Luigi Trillo acknowledged the absence of injured Gin Kings star Scottie Thompson (back) played a part in the rout.
“We took advantage of those opportunities in front of us,” said Trillo. “It is a bit of both. We played well and I think also we caught them a little bit off.”
Maverick Ahanmisi topscored for Ginebra with 14 points, while Christian Standhardinger and Japeth Aguilar recorded 13 points apiece.
Meralco 91 – Maliksi 25, Newsome 19, Black 12, Mendoza 8, Banchero 5, Hodge 4, Quinto 4, Pasaol 4, Almazan 3, Caram 2, Rios 2, Pascual 2, Dario 1, Torres 0.
Barangay Ginebra 73 – Ahanmisi 14, Standhardinger 13, J. Aguilar 13, David 8, Onwubere 6, Malonzo 4, Tenorio 3, Pessumal 3, Gumaru 2, R. Aguilar 2, Pringle 2, Pinto 1, Cu 0.
Quarters: 23-14, 46-27, 76-52, 91-73.
– Rappler.com
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Sabotage? ‘Faulty’ list leads to suspension of over 100 NFA employees | Jairo Bolledo | 15/03/2024 21:41 | Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – Over a hundred National Food Authority (NFA) officials and employees contested their suspension stemming from a probe by the Department of Agriculture (DA), suggesting that the complaint was hastily assembled and had factual errors.
In an order dated March 1, the Office of the Ombudsman placed 139 NFA officials and employees under preventive suspension after it found “strong evidence of guilt” for allegedly selling milled rice without the benefit of public auction or bidding and at a price grossly disadvantageous to the government.
The said order said the officials were suspended without pay until the administrative process of the case is done. The suspension will not exceed six months, the Ombudsman added.
Among the suspended officials are NFA administrator Roderico Bioco, assistant administrator for operations John Robert Hermano, along with 12 regional managers, 27 branch managers, and 98 warehouse supervisors of the NFA.
The joint investigation by the Ombudsman and the Department of Agriculture (DA) stemmed from an allegation of an NFA official.
Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. urged the officials tagged in the accusations to file a leave of absence to give way to the probe.
In a motion for reconsideration filed on Thursday, March 14, 108 of the 139 NFA staff asked the Ombudsman to reverse and set aside its March 1 order and drop them from case.
The petitioners argued in their motion that the Ombudsman committed grave errors of facts in crafting the list of suspended NFA officials and staff. The list included a person who was already dead, staff on study leave, and even personnel who already retired from NFA.
Not only that, some employees were also listed in the Ombudsman order with wrong names or designations of work.
“It cannot be argued that these defects may simply be fixed by correcting the positions, or removing the names of those not involved. These kinds of errors should not be taken lightly. If anything, there are indications that the list was done in a rushed manner without proper due diligence being conducted,” the motion for reconsideration read.
Dino de Leon, one of the petitioners’ counsels, said the Ombudsman was “unfair for civil servants who have given most of their professional lives in service to public.”
But on Friday, March 15, Ombudsman Samuel Martires said in interview with GMA’s DZBB that his office already lifted the preventive suspension of 23 house supervisors from Metro Manila, Cabanatuan, Iloilo, and Antique. Aside from the 23, Martires said they previously lifted the suspension of one NFA employee.
The Office of the Ombudsman has been largely closed off to media. But Martires, on Friday, personally talked to reporters to explain their side:
“The matrix, it was given to us. It came from the office of the Department of Agriculture secretary, which was provided to him also by the National Food Authority. Kung sinoman ang gustong sumabotahe kay Secretary Tiu Laurel, dapat imbestigahan niya ‘to, okay? Dahil siyempre nagre-rely lang ang said secretary sa data na ibibigay sa kanya,” the ombudsman said.
“Kung mayroon mang patay doon, hindi alam ni secretary ‘yon, lalo namang hindi namin alam,” he added.
(Secretary Tiu laurel should investigate whoever is trying to sabotage him. Because the said secretary only relies on the data given to him. If ever a dead person’s name was included in the list, the secretary would not be aware of it, even us.)
DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel De Mesa said on Friday that they welcome the Ombudsman’s latest decision, but noted that the DA has yet to receive the order lifting the suspension of some NFA personnel.
The NFA is mandated to maintain sufficient rice buffer stocks to be sourced solely from local farmers. The office specifically buys palay from local farmers, and then maintain the buffer stock, which will be distributed during emergencies and calamities.
The Rice Tariffication Law also made it clear that the NFA can dispose of stocks before rice quality deteriorates or becomes unsafe for consumption.
In their motion, the petitioners said the suspension of over NFA officials and personnel “poses a significant risk of operational paralysis.” They argued that the disruption of managers and supervisors’ activities could affect the communication and coordination within the office.
The issue also highlighted the power and importance of the Ombudsman. De Leon said in his statement that their pushback is not only for the affected NFA employees, “but [for] all government employees who may fall victim to the failure of due process and the capricious exercise of the Office of the Ombudsman of its powers.”
As a constitutional body, the Ombudsman is among the agents that ensure checks and balances within the government and ensures that government officials and personnel who will commit offenses shall be punished accordingly.
“The Office of the Ombudsman must also carefully wield its powers and not exercise the same in a seemingly blitzkrieg and/or shotgun manner, not caring who will be hit by their brazen moves,” De Leon added. – Rappler.com
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This is a fascinating case. Ombudsman Samuel Martires announced the lifting of the suspension of 24 NFA personnel, but the DA has yet to receive a copy of such an order. Why is this so? In addition, there are errors in the data given to the DA Secretary and the defense presented by Atty. Dino De Leon seems plausible. This case is worth following until its end because it bears the mark of the triumvirate Corruption, Repression, and Disinformation in our political system.
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FACT CHECK: Disease X is a potential disease, not an actual illness | Lorenz Pasion | 15/03/2024 19:41 | Claim: A new pandemic called Disease X is emerging and the public is urged to prepare for this serious threat.
Why we fact-checked this: The YouTube video bearing the claim was posted on February 25 by Sangkay Janjan, a channel notorious for posting dubious and erroneous claims online. As of writing, it has 149,468 views, 4,000 likes, and 1,047 comments.
The video’s title and thumbnail imply the existence of the new pandemic Disease X: “May bagong pandemic na naman? Lahat ng tao pinaghahanda na!” (Is there a new pandemic? Everyone is getting ready!)
The bottom line: Disease X is not an actual illness. It is a term used by scientists as a placeholder concept for a yet-unknown pathogen that could pose a serious threat to human health.
According to the World Health Organization, Disease X “represents the knowledge that a serious international epidemic could be caused by a pathogen currently unknown to cause human disease.”
The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health added that the purpose of labeling the placeholder concept is to “encourage proactive thinking about pathogens that could cause a pandemic,” contributing to awareness and research efforts for pandemic prevention.
Preparedness efforts: News about the hypothetical Disease X had already been reported in 2020 and 2022, along with calls to boost pandemic preparedness efforts.
In the Philippines, lawmakers sought the creation of the Philippine Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) to address the country’s needs to prepare for future pandemics and public health threats. According to the Department of Health (DOH), the proposed center would help prepare the country for future pandemics and public health threats. (READ: Is it time for PH to have its own Centers for Disease Control and Prevention?)
In 2022, the US CDC opened a country office in the Philippines to strengthen its cooperation with the DOH.
Fear mongering: Various false claims have been made about Disease X, which circulated following a healthcare panel discussion at the World Economic Forum’s 2024 annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland last January.
Reuters previously debunked misconceptions about Disease X as a deliberate effort from health institutions to start another pandemic. Similarly, the Associated Press, Agence France-Presse, and FactCheck.org have also published fact checks about these conspiracy theories on Disease X.
These same sentiments can be seen in Sangkay Janjan’s video, hinting that scientists were withholding information about a so-called “zombie virus.”
The “zombie virus” refers to ancient viruses frozen in the Arctic that scientists say could one day be exposed to the modern world due to global warming and increased Siberian shipping activity, according to a report by The Guardian.
Debunked: The YouTube channel that posted the claim has been repeatedly fact-checked by Rappler:
– Kyle Marcelino/Rappler.com
Kyle Marcelino is a graduate of Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program. This fact check was reviewed by a member of Rappler’s research team and a senior editor. Learn more about Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program here.
Keep us aware of suspicious Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, articles, or photos in your network by contacting us at [email protected]. You may also report dubious claims to the #FactsFirstPH tipline by messaging Rappler on Facebook or Newsbreak via Twitter direct message. You may also report through our Viber fact check chatbot. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time.
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Haircut video of transgender student of EARIST Manila triggers LGBTQ community | Russell Ku | 15/03/2024 13:31 | HAIRCUT. A transgender second year student in Eulogio "Amang" Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology Manila cuts her hair to get enrolled for the second semester of school year 2023-2024.
Bahaghari's X video screenshot
MANILA, Philippines – Filipino LGBTQs online are bristling over a video on social media which showed a transgender woman getting a haircut inside a classroom to be able to enroll at the Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST) in Manila.
The viral video posted on Wednesday, March 13, by LGBTQ+ rights group Bahaghari showed second year entrepreneurship student Gen (not her real name) getting her hair cut to shoulder length from a fellow student inside the campus.
Gen told Rappler that EARIST enrollment personnel informed her she needed to have her hair cut to be able to enroll for the second semester. The enrollment period ends Friday, March 15.
TIGNAN: Napilitan ang ilan sa mga estudyanteng transgender ng Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST) na magpaputol ng kanilang buhok matapos harangin ng school administration ang kanilang pag-eenroll nang dahil dito #InclusiveSchoolsNOW pic.twitter.com/QZX3qdq7Yd
The video riled drag artists such as Eva Le Queen, Pura Luka Vega, and Drag Race Philippines season 2 winner Captivating Katkat; along with LGBTQ+ groups UP Babaylan and Lakapati Laguna. They joined social media users in condemning the circumstances endured by the student, saying that it was “blatant discrimination and oppression.”
EARIST president Rogelio Marmadlo addressed the controversy in a statement on Friday, saying “all students…are allowed to enroll for the second semester of school year 2023-2024…provided that those with long hair have them properly tied or fixed.”
Yung hindi mag enroll bec walang pambayad ng tuition gets pa eh. Pero yung BUHOK?! This is blatant discrimination and oppression! Walang kinalaman ang gender expression sa kakayahan mo bilang studyante so bakit? Schools are institutions to build potential. This is just plain… https://t.co/bVXoPTD0y6
We really should stop this. Ano naman ang kinalaman ng buhok sa pag-aaral? If anything, children learn better if you let them be their authentic selves. https://t.co/pRQxiRvzvJ
I experienced this when I was in HS, grabe yung trauma neto saken to the point na ayaw kona pumasok, U dont know the feeling. So sad lang dahil up until today ganito pa rin pala? Hindi naman sagabal ang buhok sa pag aaral, at hindi rin naman basehan sa haba o ikli ng buhok ang… https://t.co/UAEFpbOid9
Anong kinalaman ng haircut sa pag-aaral at pagkatuto? Malinaw na diskriminasyon ito at paglabag sa karapatan sa edukasyon! Saan sinabi sa Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Educ law na pwede harangan ang enrollment dahil sa hair policy?! Ibasura ang mga discriminatory policies! https://t.co/NCXtzt5hJQ
This is one of the reasons why our trans patients can not transition openly and safely. There's so much discrimination in our own country and by our own people, nonetheless. It's disappointing that we are going backwards with our antiquated beliefs and prejudices. ❌️🚩🔥 https://t.co/V7TgP8YXhU
Gen said it was EARIST entrepreneurship program head Jhon Saint Pasahol who told her that she would not be allowed to enroll unless she cut her hair.
“Hindi po kami natanggap kahit naka-bun po…. Inisip ko na at that time na makapagenroll talaga ako kasi ang alam ng parents ko…nag-aaral ako na walang gupit ng buhok,” Gen told Rappler.
(We weren’t allowed [to enroll] even if we wore a bun…. I thought at that time, I wanted to finally enroll because my parents know that I can study without having my hair cut.)
She added that she cut her hair as a “sacrifice” for her fellow trans students as she felt that they lost their voice in EARIST.
According to the 2021 EARIST student handbook’s code of conduct and discipline, male students should observe a barber’s haircut. Meanwhile, the only restriction for female students, was not being allowed to sport colorful highlights.
The handbook also states that students have the right to “freely express one’s gender preference to follow the norms of the Institution without due prejudice to any provisions.”
Bahaghari-EARIST president Red Riotoc and women’s representative JP Brillantes told Rappler that the issue on the need for trans women to cut their hair for enrollment has been constantly raised with the school administration.
“Paulit-ulit na kami nagpabalik-balik sa different offices, paulit-ulit kami nagpapasa ng different papers. Pero parang pinaglalaruan… [at] pinagpapasahan kami. (We have been going back and forth with different offices and submitted different papers. We feel like we are being fooled and passed around),” Brillantes added.
Representatives from the LGBTQ+ community, including Bahaghari-EARIST, also had a dialogue with EARIST president Rogelio Mamaradlo on October 9, 2023 with a demand letter drafted by the organization, with the help of Rainbow Rights Philippines.
The meeting led to a “verbal agreement” allowing transgender women to enroll for the first semester of school year 2023-2024 without any conditions.
For the second semester though the issue once again erupted this month after Bahaghari-EARIST received over 40 complaints from transgender students in the college of business and public administration, claiming that they were not allowed to enroll on March 11.
This led the organization to draft a resolution urging the school administration to allow students to wear school uniform and grow their hair according to their gender identity and expression.
Following the submission of the resolution to school administration officials, a meeting was held with LGBTQ+ representatives, EARIST’s student affairs and services office, and college deans on Tuesday, March 12.
“‘Yung iba’t ibang department, may iba’t ibang rules po sa LGBTQ+ [students]. Sa college po namin, college of business and public administration, ang required po is shoulder length and nakatali [ang buhok],” Riotoc said.
(Different departments had different rules for the LGBTQ+ students. In our college, the college of business and public administration, the requirement is that the hair should be shoulder length and tied.)
Following the meeting, the college of business and public administration agreed to allow third and fourth year transgender students to keep their long hair. However, first and second year students had to cut their hair to shoulder length.
Students in the colleges of education, criminology, tourism, have to adhere to the male haircut policies. Other students could keep their long hair, but have to adhere to other rules of their college such as tying it into a bun.
On Friday, Marmadlo said Tuesday’s meeting ended “with the agreement that the parties shall convene again to discuss the possibility of a new set of implementing rules and regulations concerning enrollment.”
“Why doon sa mga LGBTQ+, especially trans women…may kailangan shoulder length [na buhok]? Meron naman mga girls na mahahaba ‘yung buhok…. Hindi naman nakakaapekto ang buhok sa pag-aaral po,” Riotoc said.
(Why in the case of the LGBTQ+, especially trans women, the hair needs to be shoulder length? There are girls who have long hair…. Our hair doesn’t affect our studies.)
The Manila LGBTQI Protection Ordinance of 2020 prohibits the denial of admission and imposing disciplinary action higher than customary against students based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
Bahaghari and Rainbow Rights Philippines have also raised the EARIST Manila issue with the Manila city government through a letter to the office of Mayor Honey Lacuna and its gender and development office on March 8.
Meanwhile, Gabriela Representative and House assistant minority leader Arlene Brosas also slammed EARIST for its “discrminatory policies” that “violate the fundamental rights and dignity of students.”
“Dapat nang seryosohin ng Kongreso ang pagpasa sa SOGIESC Equality Bill para bigyan ng mas kongkretong proteksyon ang LGBTQ+ community mula sa karahasan tulad ng nangyayari ngayon sa EARIST at iba pang mga paaralan,” she said.
(Congress should prioritize the passage of the SOGIESC Equality Bill to provide the LGBTQ+ community more concrete protection against violence such as what happened in EARIST and other schools.) – Rappler.com
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Hontiveros rejects Quiboloy’s reasons, pushes for arrest order | Herbie G | 15/03/2024 17:25 | RISA HONTIVEROS. Senator Risa Hontiveros chairs the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality. She answers questions from the media on March 11, 2024.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Senator Risa Hontiveros pushed for a Senate order to arrest embattled Davao-based preacher Apollo Quiboloy as he continued to reject a Senate panel’s summons to answer accusations leveled at him by his former followers.
This came as Quiboloy, through lawyer Melanio Elvis Balayan, submitted his response to a show-cause order from the Senate on Friday, March 15.
Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality, earlier cited Quiboloy in contempt for not showing up during the panel’s March 5 hearing on the alleged abuses committed by the preacher and his associates against former workers of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
Balayan told reporters that they complied with the Senate committee’s directives by submitting Quiboloy’s reasons for not appearing during the panel’s hearings.
The doomsday preacher had been given from March 13 to March 15 to respond to the show-cause order.
Quiboloy and his lawyer maintained that the ongoing Senate investigation “is not in aid of legislation but is tantamount to usurpation of judicial functions beyond the powers of the Senate.”
They also said the resolution authored by Hontiveros to direct the Senate committee to conduct an inquiry into the reported cases of large-scale human trafficking, sexual abuse, and violence involving the KOJC and Quiboloy “is brazenly incriminatory as it categorically declared the guilt” of the pastor.
Balayan said Senate Resolution No. 884, approved last December, “totally disregarded the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.”
He said Quiboloy’s refusal “is not a sign of disrespect” to the Senate, “but is purely based on the fact that the criminal accusations against him can only be legitimately settled before the competent courts.”
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier ordered prosecutors in Davao and Pasig to file cases of sexual abuse of a minor and qualified trafficking against Quiboloy.
In his previous statements, however, Quiboloy repeatedly said he did not respect Hontiveros and those who supposedly trampled on his constitutional rights.
Hontiveros rejected Quiboloy’s position, and said, “Magpakita na lang si Quiboloy. Bakit ba ang dami pa niyang drama? (Quiboloy should just show up. Why does he have to resort to so much drama?)”
She said she would formally request Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri to approve the warrant of arrest against Quiboloy.
Hontiveros also said Quiboloy’s camp had asked the Senate to tackle the matter about the show-cause order before the plenary.
“Sa totoo lang, wala nga sa rules ang show-cause order. It was a courtesy extended to Senator Robin, at the request of the SP (Zubiri). Kung wala nga sa rules ang show-cause order, much less wala sa rules na kailangan ng hearing in plenary to resolve the show-cause order,” Hontiveros said.
(Quite frankly, the show-cause order isn’t even in the rules. It was a courtesy extended to Senator Robinhood Padilla, at the request of the Senate President. If the show-cause order isn’t even in the rules, much less is there a rule requiring a plenary hearing to resolve the show-cause order.)
Padilla had objected to Hontiveros’ move to cite Quiboloy for contempt and was given, based on the Senate rules, a week to make seven other committee members join him in reversing the ruling. Only senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, and Christopher Lawrence Go signed Padilla’s objection letter.
Hontiveros said it would be a double standard for the Senate to allow Quiboloy to get away when there were cases in the past when other senators cited people for contempt and went on with committee investigations even when criminal charges were already filed against witnesses.
Zubiri, she said, even upheld the power of the Senate to hold witnesses in contempt and rejected an argument about the right against self-incrimination.
Hontiveros said, “Makukulong lang si Quiboloy sa Senado sa hindi pagdalo sa pagdinig, at hindi para sa mga mabibigat na paratang ng mga biktima laban sa kanya.”
(Quiboloy would only be detained in the Senate for non-attendance at hearings, not for the serious allegations brought against him by his accusers.) – Rappler.com
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Indeed, I agree: “Hontiveros said it would be a double standard for the Senate to allow Quiboloy to get away when there were cases in the past when other senators cited people for contempt and went on with committee investigations even when criminal charges were already filed against witnesses.” Through this case of Pastor Quiboloy, the Filipino People will know the real nature of our Senators. But with the power of the triumvirate Corruption, Repression and Disinformation, these “deceptive” senators will still win.
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West Visayas university admissions test questions leaked, director confirms | Herbie G | 15/03/2024 13:41 | EXAM TAKERS. Students troop to the state-run West Visayas State University in Iloilo to take the college admission exams on March 10, 2024.
West Visayas State University FB page
BACOLOD, Philippines – A ranking official of the state-run West Visayas State University (WVSU) in Iloilo City confirmed on Thursday, March 15, that questions in its recent college admission test were leaked.
The exams were held at the university’s main campus in Lapaz District, Iloilo, on March 10, with 11,600 takers.
However, Dr. Hazel Villa, WVSU director for public affairs and communications, said a panel of investigators has yet to recommend what actions to take after it validated allegations about a leakage.
“Most likely, there will be a final decision next week,” Villa said.
Villa said university officials strongly condemned the cheating, and warned that those responsible for the leakage would suffer the consequences of what they did.
“The public is requested to wait for the findings anytime next week, as well as options to ensure a fair approach to the cheating issue,” Villa said.
WVSU’s official student publication, Forum-Dimensions, also published Villa’s confirmation of the leakage on Thursday night.
Dr. Joselito Villaruz, WVSU president, was cautious in his pronouncement. He said, “The official statement will come from the Office of the President because that’s only the time they confirm that there is really a leak in the conduct of WVSU CAT. As far as I know, I haven’t received the document. I would like to deny those allegations or statement coming from anyone. The committee is an independent body and they cannot issue statements without a full investigation report.”
The test leak was first brought to the public’s attention by a Facebook user, CJ Gania Barnezo Arellano, on Wednesday, March 13, when he posted screenshots of his conversation with his younger sister, one among the thousands of WVSU CAT takers last Sunday.
Their exchanges showed his sister alleging that several examinees had access to the questionnaires before the exams. These questionnaires were purportedly identical to those distributed during the actual exams.
The post quickly spread, prompting the WVSU to initiate an investigation into the matter.
Iloilo historian and WVSU alumnus Nereo Lujan was appalled, and urged the university to void the results of the March exams and hold another one.
“The confirmation of a leakage in the recent WVSU College Admission Test is alarming and unacceptable. Only through a fresh start that the trust of both students and the community be restored in the admissions process,” he said.
Another WVSU alumnus, Emil Marañon III, posted on his FB page, “With this confirmation, the only way to reinstate the credibility and integrity of WVSU’s admission process is to redo the whole thing, back to zero for everyone.”
“I simply do not buy the excuse that there are still subsequent tests or assessments that still need to be done. A poisoned process – one that is tainted by fraud from the very start – is beyond cure. As an alumnus, I hope that the administration acts decisively and swiftly, ensuring that whatever course they take should be fair to all exam takers,” Marañon added. – Rappler.com
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Bohol provincial gov’t looking into 2 other tourist attractions built on Chocolate Hills | Jee Geronimo | 15/03/2024 16:37 | BUD AGTA. Earlier in September 2023, Bud Agta was called out by environmentalists for structures built on a Chocolate Hill in Carmen, Bohol.
John Sitchon/Rappler
BOHOL, Philippines – After the closure of Captain’s Peak Resort, the provincial government of Bohol said it would also look into other questionable structures built on Chocolate Hills, starting with Bud Agta in Carmen town.
Bohol Provincial Board Member Jamie Villamor, chairman of the committee on tourism and environmental protection, told Rappler on Friday, March 15, that Bud Agta was part of the discussions during an August 2023 inquiry into the controversial Captain’s Peak in Sagbayan town.
Bud Agta is a camping ground with wooden stairs built from the foot of a Chocolate Hill to its peak.
“We discovered that in Bud Agta, there are measurements that exceeded the allowable limit of the Protected Areas Management Board,” Villamor said
Bud Agta is the second site mentioned in Senator Nancy Binay’s proposed resolution seeking an investigation into structures built on protected areas of the Chocolate Hills.
Besides Bud Agta, concerned locals have also pointed out that the Sagbayan Peak viewing deck in Sagbayan town also had a cemented structure built on another Chocolate Hill. Villamor said that she was made aware of this through social media posts.
Villamor confirmed that the provincial government would now be looking into these structures as well.
“We requested the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to look into the Bud Agta,” the board member said, adding that they have yet to receive a copy of the results of the August 2023 investigation.
Rappler visited Sagbayan Peak on Thursday, March 14, and Friday afternoon to ask its management for comment. The staff told Rappler that the owner did not wish to give any statement on the issue.
Sagbayan Peak’s staff showed Rappler their ECC, while Bud Agta’s ECC was made visible to the public via a poster near the tourism attraction’s entrance.
Meanwhile, Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado said they would take the initiative to ensure no more resorts would build structures that deface the hills. (READ: How messy governance, paperwork allowed a resort in Chocolate Hills)
“We will correct what is the cause of this mess and for us, para hindi ito maulit (so that this won’t happen again), we are going to create an ordinance which has clearer policies and guidelines,” Aumentado said.
The governor added that they would revive the province’s review and development committee to review documents and applications of geoparks and development sites in protected areas.
“Kung ano ‘yung pagbabago diyan, dapat hindi maka-alter ng view sa original na lugar (If there would be changes made there, it should not change the original view of the place),” Aumentado said. – Rappler.com
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UP alliance stands against ‘DiliMall’ shopping center, university commercialization | Nina Liu | 15/03/2024 16:54 | PROTEST. Various sectors join a protest outside DiliMall, the new shopping center of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, on March 12, 2024.
Nina Liu/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – Six years after the University of the Philippines (UP) Shopping Center in the Diliman campus burned down, various sectors of the UP community launched an alliance against what it called the “growing commercialization” of the state university.
In a press conference on Tuesday, March 12, the multi-sectoral network UP Not For Sale urged the UP administration to prioritize the concerns of the UP community. Members of the University Student Council, Local College Councils, the Shopping Center Association, UP Academic Workers Union, UP Workers Alliance, mga manininda (vendors) organizations, other faculty, and UP residents were present at the briefing.
This came amid the current plans for the DiliMall, a three-story building that will lead to the opening of the campus doors to private businesses like franchise stores and high-end restaurants. The new structure where the old UP Shopping Center once stood before it was destroyed in a blaze on March 8, 2018 is still being completed.
Representatives of vendors, students, and faculty came together to oppose the floor plans for DiliMall, which they said heightens the state university’s commercialization, while abandoning the needs of the community’s core stakeholders.
Rappler reached out to UP Diliman Chancellor Edgardo Vistan II on Thursday, March 14, on the issues raised by these groups. As of writing, he had yet to respond.
Rappler also reached out to UP President Angelo Jimenez on March 13, but he still had not sent any response as of writing.
We will update this story once any of them or other officials air the side of the UP administration.
Edward Fernando, president of UP Shopping Center Stallholders Association (UP SCSAI), said the UP Shopping Center, built in the 1970s, was made to cater to the needs of the UP community. The establishment was a one-stop shop for students who needed access to affordable meals, quick photocopying and printing services, and even budget-friendly haircuts.
Vendors and stall owners in the Shopping Center understood their roles in the lives of UP community, thus they also strove to make sure the prices of their services and products were accessible to students, faculty, and those who lived within the university.
Samahan ng mga Manininda sa UP Campus chairperson Narry Hernandez said the high rent required of tenants in the new DiliMall makes it impossible to make the goods and services there affordable to the UP community.
Physical accessibility was also questioned, as vendors lamented the proposed floor plan that places local UP vendors in spaces for rent on the third floor of the new DiliMall. UP SCSAI vice president Hermie Laroa said this directly affects them due to logistical issues, such as difficulty in transporting their large equipment upstairs, and accessibility to students who may be pressed for time when running their errands.
As the students, faculty, and workers chanted “Serbisyo sa tao, huwag gawing negosyo!” (Service to people, don’t make it a business!”), representatives from the University Student Council (USC) held up their take on what the DiliMall floor plan should be.
The alternative floor plan shows the ground floor spaces being allocated to the original Shopping Center stallholders and spots for food stalls of local UP vendors. It also repurposes other spaces on the higher floors into spots for essential services like supplies shops and salons. Academic and recreational spaces were also allotted for students’ needs.
USC Chairperson Mary Sunshine Reyes said the “commercialization tactics” of the state university have “concrete manifestations on the ground.”
“It would mean less food services sa already mataas na presyo ng pagkain, na limited na nga sa ating mga estudyante, faculty, at staff. Mawawalang ng kabuhayang ang ibang mga campus vendors natin,” Reyes said.
(It would mean less food services, amid the already high price of food, which is already limited to our students, faculty, and staff. Our other campus vendors will also lose their livelihood.)
She also said the network requested a dialogue with the UP administration on March 21, and called on the administration to “champion the rights and well-being of the community.” – Rappler.com
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[WATCH] Dahas Project, the team that continues to count drug war victims | Jairo Bolledo | 15/03/2024 15:10 | MANILA, Philippines – Former president Rodrigo Duterte left an indelible mark in the country’s human rights history for the wrong reasons. Under his war on drugs led by the Philippine National Police, close to 30,000 people were killed, according to human rights groups, if vigilante killings were to be included.
Even when he stepped down from power in 2022, the killings continue to persist. To sustain a record of these killings, the University of the Philippines’ Third World Studies Center continued its Dahas Project. Under this project, a small team scours various sources and records drug-related killings.
This initiative is essential as it ensures that the killings will not go unnoticed and unrecorded. – Rappler.com
Reporter/ writer: Jairo BolledoResearcher/ writer: Jodesz GavilanProduction specialist: Ulysis PontanaresVideo editor: Jaene ZaplanProducer: Jaira RoxasSupervising producer: Beth Frondoso
Special thanks to UP Third World Studies Center, Joel Ariate Jr., Marion Abilene Navarro, and Nixcharl Noriega.
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Atin Ito plans another try at civilian mission to West Philippine Sea | Bea Cupin | 15/03/2024 14:10 | ATIN ITO. Volunteers of the Atin Ito coalition, which organized the Christmas convoy to the West Philippine Sea to honor Filipino frontliners in the area, organize the supplies were supposed to bring on December 9, 2023.
Akbayan
MANILA, Philippines – The coalition that tried to lead a civilian mission to features in the West Philippine Sea in late 2023 is going at it again, this time planning a mission to Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc which may include international observers.
Atin Ito – composed of Akbayan Party, the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM), Pambansang Kilusan ng mga Samahang Magsasaka (PAKISAMA), Center for Agrarian Reform for Empowerment and Transformation (CARET), Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Samahan sa Kanayunan (PKSK), Akbayan Youth, and the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP) – made the announcement on Thursday, March 14.
“We are still in the process of coordinating with relevant authorities and stakeholders, but initially, Bajo de Masinloc has been identified as a potential destination,” said Akbayan president Rafaela David, also a co-convenor of Atin Ito.
Bajo de Masinloc is a high-tide elevation that’s considered the traditional fishing ground of Filipino, Chinese, Taiwanese, and Vietnamese fisherfolk. The CCG routinely places barriers to block the opening of the shoal, preventing fisherfolk – particularly, Filipinos – from entering its traditionally bountiful and safe waters.
Philippine government missions to Bajo de Masinloc are usually meant to delivery supplies – food and gas, especially – to fisherfolk who stay in the open sea for weeks at a time.
Atin Ito’s first mission to the West Philippine Sea in December 2023 was meant to deliver supplies to various Philippine Coast Guard and military outposts in those waters. Supplies were eventually delivered, after a smaller vessels with mostly supplies on board squeaked past Chinese vessels patrolling the area.
“While our primary objectives remain unchanged – to deliver essential supplies to our fisherfolk in the area and normalize civilian navigation in the West Philippine Sea – this prospective next mission is unique in that it will possibly include a delegation of international observers to witness, monitor, and report on the ongoing harassment suffered by Filipinos from trespassing Chinese vessels,” added David.
The first mission was dramatic even before it left land for the West Philippine Sea. Security officials had initially resisted the plan, only to express its support for it later once they agreed that the civilian convoy would only pass by the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War II that was run aground on purpose in 1999 and now serves as a military outpost in Ayungin Shoal.
Ayungin Shoal and Bajo de Masinloc are just over 100 nautical miles off the Philippine mainland. Ayungin is over 100 nautical miles from Palawan, while Bajo de Masinloc is over 100 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales. Both are flashpoints of tensions between the Philippines and China, which claims practically all of the South China Sea as its territory, in defiance of international law and a 2016 arbitral ruling.
Tensions in the West Philippine Sea were already high in December 2023. They have gotten worse since.
In early March 2024, CCG ships used two water cannons against a Navy-contracted ship, shattering the civilian boat’s wind shield. Water cannons and collision have become far-too-common occurrences whenever China tries to block, harass, or deter Philippine vessels. – Rappler.com
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Mindanao scholar launches ‘Presidents and Pests, Cosmopolitans and Communists’ | Vixey Marie | 15/03/2024 12:36 | The following is a press release from Ateneo de Manila University Press.
The UP Lipunang Pangkasaysayan (UP LIKAS) celebrates its 36th anniversary since its establishment in 1971 during Martial Law and its reestablishment in 1988. It is an organization for individuals who have a deep passion for and commitment to the study of history. Its current members and alumni continue to uphold its mission to diligently criticize historical study within and outside the university, for the betterment of Philippine society.
The theme for this celebration is Muhon: Paglikha at Pagpapanday ng Kasaysayan sa Makabagong Panahon. When translated into English, muhon means landmark – a space that symbolizes transitions and changes across time – to cross from one era of the past to a newer and brighter future full of possibilities. UP Likas recognizes that approaches to the study of history must keep up with the societal changes brought about by the ever-evolving age of information and technology. This necessitates providing an inclusive space for various voices to join and be heard in historical discourse.
For this celebration, a renowned alumni and historian Dr. Patricio “Jojo” Abinales will be giving a lecture on chosen chapters of his book, Presidents and Pests, Cosmopolitans and Communists (2023), published by the Ateneo de Manila University Press. The book brings together essays that place marginal events, pests, politicians, and the country’s backwater at the center of national politics. It does so through methodologies learned from idiosyncratic mentors who valued the analytical power of negative comparisons, jocose asides, and wry academic humor.
This book launch is titled, Ang Daga, ang Kontrabandista, ang Komunist si Digong: Notes on Mindanao’s Social History, which will be accompanied by a lecture that centers on those who have been widely ignored in Philippine historiography. Through his research, Dr. Abinales suggests a new way of writing Mindanao’s history from the perspective of those pushed to the margins of national history. He will present the problems and questions that those who study history must contend with as they write about history in these modern times. The event will also feature messages from distinguished members of the UP faculty who will share their expertise and experiences with researching Philippine history.
Ang Daga, ang Kontrabandista, ang Komunist si Digong: Notes on Mindanao’s Social History will be on March 22, from 2 pm to 4 pm, at *PH400 Palma Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman.
The book, Presidents and Pests, Cosmopolitans and Communists, will be available for purchase at a special 15% discount at the event. – Rappler.com
* The venue may be subject to change.
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High-flyers club: Rondina gushes on being Brownlee’s volleyball idol after PVL visit | jisaga0269 | 14/03/2024 21:54 | HIGH FLYER CLUB. Choco Mucho spiker Sisi Rondina and Gilas Pilipinas forward Justin Brownlee in game action
PVL Images/FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – High-flyers collided in a rare interaction as Gilas Pilipinas superstar Justin Brownlee paid a visit at the PhilSports Arena to watch Premier Volleyball League (PVL) MVP Sisi Rondina and the Choco Mucho Flying Titans on Thursday, March 14.
Brownlee, also Barangay Ginebra’s resident import in the PBA, surely picked a great day to watch his self-confessed volleyball idol, as an in-form Rondina erupted for 23 points in a stunning 25-18, 25-20, 25-21 rout of the once-unbeaten Cignal HD Spikers.
After the game, Brownlee even waited specifically to meet his idol, and the two briefly exchanged pleasantries and posed for photos before Rondina headed to the postgame press conference.
“I don’t really have a favorite team, but I do have a favorite player, Sisi Rondina,” said Brownlee. “I haven’t really got a chance to see her play in a while so I think, just coming to see her play, it would be nice.”
PVL | LOOK:Stars all around!Gilas and Ginebra superstar Justin Brownlee meets his volleyball idol, MVP Sisi Rondina, and Choco Mucho coach Dante Alinsunurin after the Flying Titans' dominant sweep of Cignal.Brownlee said he's been watching Rondina since 2018-19.#PVL2024 pic.twitter.com/G0tfsA5Ku8
“Man, she’s amazing. The explosiveness, the ball placement, you know, it seemed like every time she spikes it, she can get a point,” continued Brownlee, who had been watching Rondina since her Petron days around 2018. “This match she was being dominant, so it’s very exciting to see that.”
The Choco Mucho ace returned the praise in kind, saying it’s an honor to be the Philippine basketball icon’s favorite player.
“Knowing him as one of the players here in the Philippines whom young ones look up to, I’m just grateful,” she said in Filipino.
“It boosts my confidence and it feels nice because he’s also my idol. He also jumps really high with his dunks and other acrobatic moves.”
Rondina and Brownlee, both in the prime of their sporting careers, are certainly players worthy of emulation for every kid dreaming to make it big in either volleyball, basketball, or just sports in general.
With both superstars carrying great attitudes and even better skills, Philippine sports couldn’t be luckier to have them flying the flag today and in the near future. – Rappler.com
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[DOCUMENTARY] Biking 120 kilometers in Metro Manila | Iya Gozum | 9/3/2024 20:01 | MANILA, Philippines – Commuting in Metro Manila is a daily struggle.
Since the pandemic, more people have turned to biking to get around. As a response, the government put up bike lanes across the metro. To find out how bike-friendly Metro Manila is, Rappler rode a loop of 120 kilometers around the capital in January for a documentary. Riding 100 kilometers or more is part of the bucket list of many bikers due to its sheer distance and the challenge it poses.
The loop covered Pasig, Marikina, Quezon City, Valenzuela, Malabon, Caloocan, Manila, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, and Taguig.
To assess bike-friendliness, Rappler drew up criteria evaluating the bike lanes using four factors: lane width, road conditions, obstructions, and segregation.
These are factors that affect a biker’s safety on the road, also take into account the infrastructure the government put in place, and gauge the attitude of other motorists with respect to the lane and the bike commuter.
Only portions of the major roads covered in the loop were measured in the scorecard.
But how safe is Metro Manila for bikers? Rappler’s Iya Gozum biked a 120-kilometer loop in Metro Manila to find out. – Rappler.com
Reporter/writer: Iya GozumProducer/field director: Nina LiuSupervising producer: Beth FrondosoVideo editor: JP San PedroEnvironment editor: Jee GeronimoAnimator: David CastucianoGraphic artists: Raffy de Guzman, Marian Hukom, Nico VillareteDirector of photography: Jeff DigmaSecond camera operator: Errol AlmarioAssistant cameramen: Danny Espina, Ramil Cedeno
Improving active transportation facilities and policies is part of the call of various groups to #MakeManilaLiveable. On Rappler, we have created a dedicated space for stories and reports about liveability in Philippine cities. Learn more about the movement here.
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CHR launches probe into harassment vs journalists covering Angeles demolition | jsitchon0312 | 13/03/2024 20:58 | MEDIA. The Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) condemned the violence committed against their fellow organization members Joann Manabat and Rowena Quejada during a demolition operation on Tuesday, March 12.
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CEBU, Philippines – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said on Wednesday, March 13, that it will investigate the threat and intimidation that two journalists faced while covering a demolition of houses in Angeles City, Pampanga on Tuesday, May 12.
Armed men threatened to shoot Rappler reporter Joann Manabat for taking videos of the scene, while members of the demolition team confronted K5 News FM anchor Rowena Quejada and took her belongings, according to the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP).
The regional office in Central Luzon of the CHR has dispatched a quick response team to look into the incident.
“As an independent human rights institution, the commission actively condemns all acts of violence against journalists as these negatively impact the situation of press freedom of the country and may lead the Philippine democracy towards decay,” the commission’s statement read.
“We stress the crucial role of the media in the upkeep of the information flow across all Filipinos. Any threats which may deter them from fulfilling their duty is a clear violation of the freedom of the press,” the CHR added.
The Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) – of which Manabat and Quejada are members – also decried the harassment endured by their colleagues.
The organization called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure protective measures for journalists from groups that may threaten freedom of the press.
“There is no justification to violence against media workers, nor any human being, merely performing their jobs legally and within the bounds of the law,” the CLMA said.
“In solidarity, CLMA will help ensure that the case will not be a mere addition to the statistics of the alarmingly growing cases of violence against media persons in the country. We will provide not only moral, but also legal, and other assistance as may be necessary,” the group added.
The Committee to Protect Journalists urged Philippine authorities to identify and prosecute those involved.
“Filipino authorities should leave no stone unturned in identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the harassment and shooting threat made against reporters Joann Manabat and Rowena Quejada,” said Shawn Crispin, CPJ’s Senior Southeast Asia Representative.
“This type of unchecked thuggery is precisely what makes the Philippines such a perilous place to be a reporter. It should stop under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s democratic rule,” Crispin added.
Tuesday’s incident took place at Sitio Balubad in Barangay Anunas, where some 2,000 residents have been fighting to keep their ownership of the land that is currently being claimed by Clarkhills Properties Corporation.
A violent demolition operation broke out, and the ensuing gunfire wounded at least five people.
Police said they arrested two persons carrying firearms at the demolition operation.
Quejada was initially reported missing after covering the demolition. She was found safe later the same day, with the NUJP saying a Japanese national helped her and hid her inside his home until tensions eased.
Meanwhile, the management of K5 News FM Philippines based in Bacolod City also called on authorities to conduct an investigation into the threats to media by armed during the Angeles City demolition.
“Rowena Quejada is our anchorwoman/peporter, and she was simply doing her job as a member of the fourth estate covering the demolition of houses at Sitio Balubad, Barangay Anunas, Angeles City,” said K5 News FM Philippines’ network operations manager Eljohn Castaño in a statement.
Castaño added that “a civilian who was near the area saw that Ka-K5 Weng was being harassed by still unidentified persons as she was in the Frontline covering the demolition who hurriedly gave her support and hid her in a safe space.” – Rappler.com
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Why Marc Logan is now a Kapatid | gdecastro0289 | 14/03/2024 14:59 | Marc Logan/Facebook
MANILA, Philippines – ABS-CBN has lost another one of its news icons after its funny man Marc Logan signed, on March 8, a contract with TV5 executives that made him officially part of tycoon Manny V. Pangilinan’s Kapatid channel.
After being a Kapamilya for 28 years, Logan, 58, took an optional early retirement from the company in January 2023 but went on to become a talent on TV Patrol until last week of February this year.
After retiring over a year ago, he went full-time on producing a travel show, Tribu Katuga (Kain Tulog Gala). Its videos were uploaded on social media, primarily on Logan’s YouTube and Facebook accounts.
It’s a big loss for ABS-CBN. Logan’s Mga Kuwento ni Marc Logan, which often took up fun viral topics, was a popular segment on the Kapamilya’s flagship news show, TV Patrol. It often aired at the end of the news program so that viewers would stay tuned to TV Patrol until 8 pm.
Logan told Rappler on Monday, March 11, that he would have wanted to stay on as a Kapamilya, but his work in ABS-CBN didn’t give him the space he needed to do other things he wanted.
“Actually, ‘yung reason ko kasi, gusto kong ma-enjoy ‘yung social media (Actually, my reason is, I really want to enjoy social media),” he said. Having a plantilla position in ABS-CBN meant he had to work full-time in the office, which limited what he wanted to do, so he chose to retire early.
Other ABS-CBN talents, such as Karen Davila, have been able to grow their social media, providing them a revenue stream on top of their talent fees from ABS-CBN.
Davila, for instance, has 1.86 million subscribers on YouTube, and some of her popular videos have recorded over 1 million views. Her interview two years ago with The Voice Kids winner Lyca Gairanod on life after winning the singing contest has 8.4 million views.
Logan will be hosting Top 5 Mga Kuwentong Marc Logan, a weekly lifestyle magazine show on TV5 which starts on April 6 or after Holy Week. It will be aired at 6:15 pm every Saturday before Frontline Weekend.
In a statement on Thursday, TV5 said Logan’s show will have three segments aside from his top 5:
“As a seasoned broadcaster and host, Marc Logan knows how to captivate viewers and keep them coming back for more. Whether he’s interviewing celebrity guests, exploring quirky news stories, or engaging in hilarious skits, viewers can expect lots of laughter and fun-filled moments in every Marc Logan signature presentation,” TV5 said.
Mga Kuwento ni Marc Logan on ABS-CBN used to be every Saturday at 6 pm. Logan said his show, which lasted three years, got a full commercial load, proof of his popularity among the masses who still watch TV. His show would also trend on X (formerly Twitter).
After retiring from ABS-CBN, Logan put up a production company, Logan’s Run Entertainment Production, where he is president and CEO. Under his deal with TV5, Logan’s Run will be the content provider, which is similar to what ABS-CBN has with TV5.
He said this setup allows him to engage in other projects, such as serving as consultant to other entities who have sought him out for his knowledge as a veteran journalist.
Logan does not rule out having a show with ABS-CBN after his contract with TV5 expires. “I was hoping na after this journey, makapag-content provider din ako kay [ABS-CBN Chief Operating Officer] Tita Cory [Vidanes], not necessarily news, kasi ninang ko siya,” he said.
(I was hoping that after this journey, I can be a content provider to Tita Cory Vidanes, not necessarily news because she’s my wedding godmother.)
Logan said he may also have a radio show on Radyo5 with another Kapamilya news icon, Gus Abelgas, who now has a weekly show, Forensics, on TV5. Abelgas’ crime documentary on ABS-CBN, SOCO, ended in 2020.
Logan thanked his fans for understanding his move to TV5, saying it should no longer be an issue since ABS-CBN is now a content provider to its former competitors.
He said he understands why many loyal Kapamilya are disappointed, but added that majority have sent their congratulations.
“They still support me kasi sabi nila, ang gusto naman namin, ‘yung pagpatawa mo,” he said. (They still support because, as they said, what we really want is how you make people laugh.) – Rappler. com
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Tim Cone wishes Justin Brownlee well ahead of Indonesian Basketball League stint | jisaga0269 | 14/03/2024 20:00 | THREE. Justin Brownlee in action for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra resident import Justin Brownlee will get a chance to stretch his legs while the PBA Philippine Cup moves along without him.
Following his triumphant return to on-court action as Gilas Pilipinas’ naturalized player in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup first qualifier window, the 35-year-old will suit up as an import in the Indonesian Basketball League (IBL) for a few months for a yet-unnamed team, as first reported by Spin.ph.
Head coach Tim Cone, Brownlee’s mentor both in Ginebra and Gilas, wishes his longtime ward nothing but good fortune while he has nowhere else to play in the Philippines.
“We’re happy for him. This gives him some extra income and helps him stay sharp and in shape,” Cone wrote in a short message.
“He’ll be back for Ginebra in the next import conference or in June for Gilas.”
Brownlee, a six-time PBA champion, will have around two months to keep his body and craft in tip-top form, as his next opportunity to practice for a Philippine team will only come in June, as Cone said, ahead of Gilas’ 2024 Olympic qualifying campaign in Riga, Latvia, from July 2 to 7.
Brownlee then gets to don the Ginebra red for the first time in more than a year sometime in the 2024-25 PBA season, around the same time as the second Asia Cup qualifier window in November. – Rappler.com
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Gunning for Paris: Filipino Olympic hopefuls to watch | delfin.dioquino editor | 14/03/2024 14:34 | HEROINE. Hidilyn Diaz of the Philippines celebrates after a lift during the Tokyo Olympics weightlifting competitions.
EDGARD GARRIDO/REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines’ athlete roster for the Olympics continues to grow as the Paris Games near, all set to run from July 26 to August 11 in the capital of France.
Boxers Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas were the latest to clinch their Olympic seats, joining pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan, and boxer Eumir Marcial.
(LIST: Filipino athletes who qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics)
Here are athletes on track to reach Paris:
Asian Games medalist Bianca Pagdanganan is on pace for a second successive Olympic stint as 60 female golfers will qualify for Paris.
The top 15 in the world rankings, with a maximum of four athletes per country, will secure their berths, while the remaining spots will be given to the next highest-ranked golfers, with a maximum of two athletes per country, including those inside the top 15.
Ranked No. 119 in the world, the 26-year-old Pagdanganan sits at 36th place in the Olympic Golf Ranking released on March 11.
The 60 golfers who will see action in women’s golf will be finalized on June 25.
The Philippines’ first and only Olympic champion, weightlifting star Hidilyn Diaz eyes a fifth consecutive Games appearance.
Competing at the heavier women’s 59kg division after the 55kg category she ruled in the Tokyo Games got scrapped, Diaz is currently ranked eighth in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Olympic Qualification Ranking with a total lift of 224kg.
The 10 highest-ranked weightlifters in each of the 10 weight categories – five for men and five for women – will obtain quota places for Paris.
Diaz, 33, needs to keep her position until the final Olympic ranking is released on May 24 to extend her record as the Filipino athlete with the most Olympic appearances.
Twenty-year-old weightlifter Vanessa Sarno is ripe for a maiden Olympic stint as she occupies fifth place in the women’s 71kg division.
A former Asian champion in her weight class, Sarno lifted a total of 249kg in the IWF Grand Prix in Doha, Qatar, in December as she ranks behind China’s Liao Guifang (273kg), USA’s Olivia Reeves (262kg), Ecuador’s Angie Palacios (261kg), and Romania’s Loredana Toma (256kg).
A veteran of the national weightlifting team, John Ceniza can make his Olympic debut in Paris as long as he retains his place in the IWF Olympic Qualification Rankings.
Ceniza, 26, sits at sixth in the men’s 61kg category with a total lift of 298kg.
The youth movement in Philippine weightlifting thrives as 20-year-old Rosegie Ramos is also on target for a breakthrough Olympic appearance.
Ramos, a two-time Asian junior titlist, ranks ninth in the women’s 49kg with a total lift of 191kg.
With two Filipino gymnasts already qualified for Paris, Emma Malabuyo hopes to join the party.
Malabuyo can reach the Olympics for the first time by ranking in the top two of the women’s floor exercise at the end of FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series, which consists of four legs.
Olympic points are awarded for a corresponding finish of an eligible athlete, with the top two gymnasts from each apparatus who accumulate the highest three-meet point total advancing to Paris.
Malabuyo, 21, is ranked second in floor exercise with 69 points after earning 30 points for bagging silver in Cairo, Egypt, 14 points for placing 13th in Cottbus, Germany, and 25 points for finishing fourth in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Austria’s Charlize Moerz, who is No. 1 in floor exercise with 80 points, already clinched her Paris berth.
With one last World Cup left to play in Doha, Qatar, in April, Malabuyo aims to keep her spot against Spain’s Laura Casabuena (45 points) and Turkey’s Sevgi Kayisoglu (43 points).
Just like Malabuyo, gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar has a shot at Paris by ranking in the top two of the women’s uneven bars at the end of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series.
Going into the Doha World Cup, the 17-year-old Jung-Ruivivar is tied at fifth with Croatia’s Sara Sulekic as they both have 44 points.
New Zealand’s Georgie-Rose Brown sits on top with 50 points followed by Sweden’s Jennifer Williams (48 points), Czech Republic’s Vanesa Masova (48 points), and Sweden’s Nathalie Westlund (47 points).
Chances, though, are slim for Jung-Ruivivar considering Brown and Williams have competed in just two World Cups, meaning they can pad their leads significantly with a competent finish in Doha since only the three highest scores will be accounted for the total.
Jung-Ruivivar got 14 points for 13th place in Cairo, 12 points for 12th place in Cottbus, and 18 points for eighth place in Baku.
The prospect of a second straight Olympic stint looks promising for judoka Kiyomi Watanabe.
Based on the latest Olympic ranking by the International Judo Federation where she is ranked No. 74 in the women’s -63kg class, Watanabe is in line to nail one of the 10 continental quotas allocated for Asia across the seven weight categories for women.
Watanabe, 27, will see action in the Antalya Grand Slam in Turkey set from March 29 to 31 and in the Asian Judo Championships in Hong Kong set from April 20 to 23 to boost her Paris bid.
Also in contention for an Olympic berth, according to Philippine Judo Federation president Ali Sulit, is Keisei Nakano.
The twin brother of fellow judoka Shugen, Nakano is ranked No. 118 in the men’s -73kg division going into his next seven tournaments, including the Asian Judo Championships, before the Olympic qualification window closes in June.
Tokyo Olympian Kurt Barbosa banners the Philippine taekwondo team also composed of Arven Alcantara, Tachiana Mangin, and Baby Jessica Canabal that will take part in the World Taekwondo Asian Qualification Tournament in Tai’an, China, from March 15 to 16.
Only the top two eligible athletes from each weight category will qualify for Paris.
Barbosa (men’s -58kg) eyes a Games return after being the first Filipino to be eliminated in Tokyo, while Alcantara (men’s -68kg), Mangin (women’s -49kg), and Canabal (women’s 57kg) seek to make their Olympic debuts.
Another Tokyo Olympian, rower Cris Nievarez gets another crack at the Olympics.
Nievarez will compete in the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Continental Qualification Regatta to be held from April 19 to 21 in Chungju, South Korea, where the top five in the men’ single sculls event will catch the boat to Paris.
If he misses the cut in the continental qualifiers, Nievarez needs a daunting top-two finish in the World Rowing Final Qualification Regatta set to run from May 19 to 21 in Lucerne, Switzerland. – Rappler.com
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Marcos says mom Imelda has recovered after battle with pneumonia | Dwight de Leon | 14/03/2024 7:28 | THIRD GEN. Matthew Manotoc assists her grandmother Imelda Marcos during the 2019 elections at the Mariano Marcos Memorial Elementary School in Batac City, Ilocos Norte.
Matthew Marcos Manotoc/Facebook
MANILA, Philippines – Former first lady Imelda Marcos’ fever has subsided, a week after she was hospitalized due to slight pneumonia, according to her son, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“She was feeling better already. She no longer has a fever,” Marcos told reporters in a mix of English and Filipino during his working visit in Germany on Wednesday, March 13.
Marcos, who last week said that his mother was already “on the path to recovery,” disclosed on Wednesday that Imelda’s doctors opted to keep her under their care until she finishes her prescribed course of antibiotics.
The widow of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. is scheduled to be discharged from the hospital on Thursday, March 14, the President added.
Imelda’s daughter, Senator Imee Marcos, first disclosed on March 5 that their 94-year-old mother was brought to a medical facility after bouts of coughs and feeling feverish.
The following day, Malacañang refuted rumors that Imelda had died.
The Marcos family matriarch – who is turning 95 in July – has had numerous health issues.
After the Sandiganbayan slapped her a graft conviction in 2018, she cited the following illnesses in her plea to post bail:
In May 2023, she underwent a successful angioplasty procedure. – Rappler.com
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Gwendolyne Fourniol says she’s ‘still in a state of confusion’ after early exit from Miss World | Ysa Abad | 14/03/2024 11:49 | Gwendolyne Fourniol's Instagram
MANILA, Philippines – Days after failing to enter the pageant’s first cut, Philippine bet Gwendolyne Fourniol took to social media to reflect on her Miss World stint.
“Like any human being, I think it is normal to admit that it is okay to be vulnerable, it is okay to be hurt, it is okay to be in shock and question myself and my capabilities,” she said on Wednesday, March 13, alongside photos of her from coronation night.
Fourniol, who was crowned Miss World Philippines in June 2022, represented the country in the 71st Miss World competition held in Mumbai, India on Saturday, March 9. She made an early exit after not securing a spot in the competition’s top 40.
Looking back on the pageant’s results, Fourniol admitted that she’s “still in a state of confusion.”
“I keep asking myself what went wrong, what I did differently or what was missed because I tried to cover all possible angles,” she said.
The French-Filipina beauty queen added that while her pageant journey hasn’t been easy, it was the thought of disappointing those who believe and support her that “breaks [her] heart.”
“The thought of disheartening the people who I am fighting for, the children of ERDA, the mother volunteers who tirelessly devote their time to the cause, really crushes my soul,” she said. ERDA stands for Educational Research and Development Assistance Foundation, a charity organization that she advocates for.
But Fourniol shared that it’s also the same people — her supporters, ERDA, her team, and her family — who continue to give her hope and a reason to push through with her advocacies.
She also opened up that “overthinking” about the results and her performance has brought her to a “standstill.” “I now rest in the thought that this is something I can learn from. I also have faith that a divine being is guiding me to a bigger yet an unknown path for now,” she said.
With this, Fourniol shared that she has realized that “there are things within [her] control that [she] gave [her] best on.”
“And there are things not within my control that I lifted up to destiny and to God. I shall soldier on…because I know I will be stronger, better, and wiser,” she concluded her post.
Fellow Filipino beauty queens such as Emmanuelle Vera, Nikki de Moura, Jenny Ramp, MJ Lastimosa, and Angelia Ong showed their support for Fourniol in the comments section.
Krystyna Pyszková of Czech Republic was named 71st Miss World. Meanwhile, Megan Young remains to be the only Filipina beauty queen to win the Miss World crown. – Rappler.com
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MTRCB junks appeal to put sex education show ‘Private Convos with Doc Rica’ back on air | Ysa Abad | 14/03/2024 15:14 | Rica Cruz's Instagram
MANILA, Philippines – The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) junked the motion for reconsideration filed by Cignal TV Inc. for its TV program Private Convos with Doc Rica, following the board’s earlier decision to ban the show from airing.
In a press release issued on Thursday, March 14, the board said it was maintaining its original position that the program “purely appeals to ‘prurient interest.’”
They also noted that its decision was a way to “protect children from inappropriate content that may be prejudicial to the promotion of quality television programs and the protection of children’s moral development.”
In January, MTRCB released a ruling prohibiting the airing of Private Convos with Doc Rica, a program that primarily features conversations about sexuality, sexual wellness, and experiences. Sex therapist Dr. Rica Cruz hosted the show, which premiered on One News in May 2023.
In their ruling, the regulatory board said that the program “appeals to ‘prurient interest’” and failed to “adhere to the MTRCB Rating Guidelines.”
They also noted that the board’s Monitoring and Inspection Unit (MIU) submitted an incident report to MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto in August 2023, which details a compilation of episodes that “featured discussions on sexual experiences and fantasies, including the use of inappropriate language.”
The board continued that the show’s September 6, 2023 episode was also flagged because it used explicit terms such as “self-masturbation, anal sex, and oral sex” during the discussion between host Doc Rica and her guest.
Aside from the observations by their MIU, MTRCB also pointed out that they received numerous complaints against the program, primarily from parents, which drove them to take necessary actions.
Representatives of the program were also asked to testify before the board’s hearing and adjudication committee and submit their position papers.
“After a thorough examination of the case, including a comprehensive analysis of the position papers submitted by the Respondents, the Board determined that the respondent Private Convos with Doc Rica television program format involved detailed discussions of guests’ sexual awakenings, leading to explicit narrations of intimate experiences, and employed language deemed unsuitable for broadcasting,” MTRCB announced.
The board indicated that they don’t agree with the respondent’s assertion that the said program is imbued with “educational and social value.”
MTRCB also were concerned by the appropriateness of the medium and the time slot of the show, noting that the program which contains “explicit discussions on sexual experiences and the use of inappropriate language” was aired during “child-viewing hours.”
Additionally, the board also assailed the program for failing to implement the necessary MTRCB rating “despite being aware that the subject matter is unsuitable for very young televiewers.”
Meanwhile, Cruz, in a post posted in February, said that the “censorship can perpetuate the shame and stigma surrounding sex.” – Rappler.com
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Marcos’ satisfaction score plunges in Mindanao | Dwight de Leon | 14/03/2024 23:55 | File photo of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Noel Pabalate/PPA Pool
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s satisfaction score suffered a double-digit drop in Mindanao – the bailiwick of his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte – but rose everywhere else, according to a survey by Social Weather Stations (SWS) in December last year.
Marcos’ net satisfaction rating was at 38 points in the last month of 2023, down from 50 points recorded in September of that same year.
The double-digit plunge logged in Mindanao was offset by a double-digit gain in Marcos’ net satisfaction in the Visayas.
The bullet points below enumerate the adjustments in Marcos’ numbers per geographic area:
Nationwide, Marcos’ net satisfaction rating was 47 points for the last quarter of 2023, a three-point increase from the third quarter. SWS classifies this number as “good.”
The December 2023 survey results showed Vice President Sara Duterte partially recovering from her previous ratings slump. SWS released the survey findings on Duterte and other top Philippine officials on Thursday, April 4.
Duterte’s total net satisfaction rating rose to +61 in December 2023, from +57 in September 2023, though still lower than her +69 net satisfaction rating in June of that year, or prior to the confidential funds mess.
During the survey period, 73% of Filipinos were satisfied while 12% were dissatisfied with Duterte’s performance.
SWS said the December 2023 numbers showed that net satisfaction with Duterte’s performance was “higher in rural areas at excellent +70 than in urban areas at very good +53.”
“Compared to September 2023, both rural and urban areas had single-digit changes, with the former rising from very good +61 to excellent +70,” SWS said.
The survey results also showed Duterte earning “excellent” satisfaction ratings among the 25-to-34 age bracket and non-elementary graduates, both at +72.
Among geographical locations, net satisfaction with Duterte was highest in her bailiwick, Mindanao (+83 from +82) and remained lowest in the National Capital Region, though it increased to +46 from +39. Her net satisfaction rating also picked up in Balance Luzon, rising to +55 from +46.
The only area where she had a lower net satisfaction rating was in the Visayas falling to +60 from +67.
Public satisfaction with the performance of Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, compared with the previous survey period, remained the same at +44.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who clashed both with the Vice President and her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, over the confidential funds issue between survey periods, saw a lower net satisfaction rating of +28, from +31 in September 2023.
The net satisfaction rating of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo rose to +32 – his highest since his inclusion in the surveys as the country’s top magistrate.
A total of 1,200 adults participated in the nationwide survey conducted from December 8 to 11, 2023.
Key developments during this time and in the weeks leading up to the survey field work include the passage of a House resolution calling on the Marcos administration to cooperate with the International Criminal Court probe against former president Duterte’s war on drugs, the release from jail of Duterte’s top critic Leila de Lima, and the announcement by the Philippine government and communist rebels to restart peace talks, a move that Vice President Sara Duterte openly criticized.
The survey – which has a margin of error of ±2.8% for national percentages – was conducted a month before charter change efforts kicked into high gear, a move which the Duterte family spoke against.
It was also before Marcos and former president Duterte hurled drug accusations against each other, a clear indication that the relationship between the two families had taken a turn for the worse. – Rappler.com
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Bohol revokes Chocolate Hills resort permit | The wRap | Jaira Roxas | 14/03/2024 22:18 | Today on Rappler – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:
Sagbayan town in Bohol revokes the business permit of the controversial Captain’s Peak Resort. It went viral on social media after online users saw the structures of the resort were built within the protected zone of the Chocolate Hills.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr says his mother former first lady Imelda’s fever has subsided. Imelda’s doctors opted to keep her under their care until she finishes her prescribed course of antibiotics.
Pope Francis says he has no intention of resigning as he feels his health is good enough to allow him to carry on. He reassures about his condition, saying he would only consider quitting in case of a ‘serious physical impediment.’
The United States House of Representatives overwhelmingly passes a bill Wednesday, March 13, giving TikTok’s Chinese owner ByteDance about six months to divest its US assets or face a ban. – Rappler.com
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Marcos says mom Imelda has recovered after battle with pneumonia | Dwight de Leon | 14/03/2024 7:28 | THIRD GEN. Matthew Manotoc assists her grandmother Imelda Marcos during the 2019 elections at the Mariano Marcos Memorial Elementary School in Batac City, Ilocos Norte.
Matthew Marcos Manotoc/Facebook
MANILA, Philippines – Former first lady Imelda Marcos’ fever has subsided, a week after she was hospitalized due to slight pneumonia, according to her son, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“She was feeling better already. She no longer has a fever,” Marcos told reporters in a mix of English and Filipino during his working visit in Germany on Wednesday, March 13.
Marcos, who last week said that his mother was already “on the path to recovery,” disclosed on Wednesday that Imelda’s doctors opted to keep her under their care until she finishes her prescribed course of antibiotics.
The widow of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. is scheduled to be discharged from the hospital on Thursday, March 14, the President added.
Imelda’s daughter, Senator Imee Marcos, first disclosed on March 5 that their 94-year-old mother was brought to a medical facility after bouts of coughs and feeling feverish.
The following day, Malacañang refuted rumors that Imelda had died.
The Marcos family matriarch – who is turning 95 in July – has had numerous health issues.
After the Sandiganbayan slapped her a graft conviction in 2018, she cited the following illnesses in her plea to post bail:
In May 2023, she underwent a successful angioplasty procedure. – Rappler.com
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LIST: March 2024 special non-working days in PH provinces, cities, towns | Miriam Grace Go | 14/03/2024 19:10 | MANILA, Philippines – This is a compilation of special non-working days in various localities in the Philippines for March 2024, as proclaimed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Bookmark this page for possible additional announcements from Malacañang. – Rappler.com
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Why Muslims look for the moon: The lunar calendar, explained | Paterno Esmaquel II | 12/3/2024 18:00 | MOONSIGHTING. Muslims join a moonsighting activity at the Manila Baywalk along Roxas Boulevard, Manila, March 10, 2024, to determine the start of the fasting month of Ramadan.
On this humid Sunday afternoon, a handful of men alighted from a vehicle parked in front of a popular Filipino restaurant along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.
Our contact, an official of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), sent us a text message, “Tapat kami Aristocrat (We are in front of Aristocrat),” as he gave us the make and plate number of their vehicle so that we could easily find them.
The men, as we walked to their vehicle, were unloading a tripod and a tool that was to be the star of the evening: a telescope – Astromaster 130EQ of Celestron, which, according to its website, “provides bright, clear images of the Moon, planets, star clusters, and more for great nighttime viewing.”
It was around 4:30 pm, and the “show” was scheduled an hour and a half later. We were about to watch sunset at 6:05 pm – and to check if the new moon could already be sighted.
It was a moonsighting activity mounted by the NCMF in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday, March 10, to determine the start of the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.
From our meeting place at Rajah Sulayman Park, we crossed Roxas Boulevard so that we could station ourselves at the iconic Manila Baywalk, the perfect spot to view the postcard-worthy Manila Bay sunset.
We joined around two dozen Muslims, including NCMF staff, many of whom – in true Filipino fashion – took photos of themselves peering into the telescope. At one point, sandwiches were distributed to participants. The mood was a mix of curiosity and excitement, although subdued.
Would they see the moon that evening?
If they spot the moon, then the fasting month of Ramadan would begin the next day, Monday, March 11. If not, then Ramadan would start on Tuesday, March 12.
Moonsighting is the process by which Muslims determine the date not only of the start of Ramadan, but also their two great feasts: Eid’l Fitr, which is the end of Ramadan, and Eid’l Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice. If you ever wondered why there are no fixed dates (and no fixed holidays) for these observances, the lunar calendar of Islam provides an explanation.
But why the moon?
What are the roots of moonsighting? How is it conducted? Why is it relevant in the Muslim faith?
Islam uses a lunar calendar, which is based on phases of the moon, unlike the commonly used solar calendar, which is based on the Earth’s position relative to the Sun.
The Islamic calendar is made up of 12 months, each of which is 29 or 30 days long. Because the number of days in a month vary, the length of the year varies as well – either 354 or 355 days, shorter than the 365 days in the solar calendar.
The name of this Islamic dating system is the Hijri calendar. It begins in the year 622 AD, when the Prophet Muhammad escaped persecution in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to the city of Medina, which is around 338 kilometers away.
In contrast, the dating system now generally used around the world is called the Gregorian calendar, named after Pope Gregory XIII, who instituted this calendar in 1582 AD. The Gregorian calendar was an improvement of the Julian calendar, which was proposed by, and named after, Julius Caesar in 46 BC.
Each year in the Gregorian calendar is commonly denoted as “AD” or anno Domini (year of Our Lord), since the counting of years begins with the birth of Christ. (BC means “Before Christ,” referring to the period before the Gregorian calendar started counting years.)
Each year in the Hijri calendar is called “AH” or anno Hegirae in Latin, or “the year of the Hijrah,” since it begins with the Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad.
The 12 months of the Hijri calendar are as follows: Muharram, Safar, Rabi al-Awwal, Rabi al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhul al-Qadah, and Dhul Hijjah.
Each of these names has a meaning.
The first month of the Islamic calendar, Muharram, means “forbidden” – a time when all forms of fighting are prohibited.
The second month, Safar, means “empty” – “because pre-Islamic Arabs used to leave their homes in search of food during this month,” according to the Islamic advocacy website Amaliah. Other sources say that this name “derived from pre-Islamic Arabs conducting raids during this time on houses, leaving them ’empty.’”
Ramadan, according to Amaliah, comes ”from the root word ‘ramad,’ which means ‘burning’ in reference to the scorching heat that characterized this month.”
The context, of course, was the climate in the Middle East where Islam was born.
In a video by the Al-Rasoul Islamic Society in Canada, Islamic scholar Sayed Mohammed Baqer Al-Qazwini explained the roots of the Islamic lunar calendar.
“One reason why Islam went by the lunar calendar is that, at that time, this was the most practical calendar for the people. Why? Because if you want to go by the solar calendar, you have to have a calendar, you need to know how to read and write, you need to keep track of the days,” said Al-Qazwini.
Many people then, however, “were illiterate” and were “Bedouins living in the desert” who “did not know how to keep track” of dates on pen and paper.
“The other calendar, which is the lunar one, is more practical for most people. Because all you need to do, at the beginning of the month, is see what? See the crescent. Even if you’re not educated, even if you do not know how to read and write, you can get out there in the desert and just see the moon,” the Islamic scholar said.
“So the people who lived at that time, they just look at the moon, they know which night it is,” he said.
The second reason, according to Al-Qazwini, is that the lunar calendar “gives you diversity.” This is because the Islamic observances fall on different parts of the Gregorian calendar each year, given that the Hijri calendar follows its own timeline.
The month of Ramadan, for example, sometimes falls in the summer or in the winter, said Al-Qazwini. “That’s beautiful. That way, you get to fast in all seasons, and you can taste these events and you can experience fasting in all seasons.”
While Ramadan this year began on March 12, in fact, it was not always around this time of the year. Ten years ago, in 2014, it began on June 28. Twenty years ago, in 2004, it began on October 15.
Viewing the moon ahead of Ramadan, said Islamic scholar, is also being faithful to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
Alzad Sattar, an Islamic Studies professor from the University of the Philippines Diliman, said this was stated in the hadith or sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. “The Prophet said, ‘Before you fast in the month of Ramadan, you first have to see the moon,’” Sattar said in a mix of English and Filipino while waiting for the moonsighting activity last Sunday.
Sattar explained that if the new moon is sighted on the 29th day of the month of Sha’ban, then the month of Ramadan can begin the next day. If not, then Muslims need to complete the 30th day of the month of Sha’ban, which means beginning Ramadan two days later.
But who gets to declare that the moon was sighted? And, of all the Muslim authorities who conduct their moonsighting activities, whom should ordinary Muslims believe?
This is where it gets complicated.
Esmael Abdul, cultural affairs chief of the NCMF in Metro Manila, said any adult who is trusted and credible in the community can conduct moonsighting activities.
Even just one such person who sees the moon is enough, he said. Not even a telescope is required. “Even in the case of the Prophet Muhammad, there were no telescopes during their time,” he explained.
In the Philippines, there are two main authorities when it comes to moonsighting and other Muslim affairs.
The NCMF, created on February 18, 2010, is tasked to advise the Philippine president on Muslim affairs, and to “act as the primary government agency through which Muslim Filipinos could seek government assistance and redress.” The NCMF is led by a secretary appointed by the president.
The other authority when it comes to Muslim affairs is the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta, the Islamic advisory council of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta is led by a mufti, an Islamic legal expert.
There have been times when the NCMF and BARMM had different findings in their moonsighting activities.
While this can already be confusing, there are also Filipino Muslims who choose to look outside the Philippines – in particular, Saudi Arabia – for their sighting of the new moon. “Their view is that this is because Islam began in Saudi Arabia,” said Sattar.
This is why in Facebook comment sections, it is common to see a few Muslims arguing over which authority to believe when it comes to moonsighting. In one instance, the moon was seen in Saudi Arabia and not in the Philippines, and a believer was insistent that the Saudi declaration carried more weight. An irked Muslim replied on Facebook, “Then go live there.”
“The issue before, as they said, was that instead of moonsighting, it became ‘moonfighting.’ Because there are different views and different approaches,” said Sattar. “So to solve such kind of problem, there should be coordination.”
Abdul of NCMF-NCR said there have been efforts to streamline the results of moonsighting activities across the Philippines.
“This year, I really made a way by which the two offices (NCMF and the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta) can coodinate. Muslims shouldn’t have to choose between the two. All of them have Islamic scholars, so these two offices should really reach an agreement and act as one,” Abdul said.
Within the NCMF alone, officials have been cautious in releasing their new moon findings.
The NCMF is composed of 11 regional offices, and NCMF-NCR is only one of these.
The moonsighting activity at the Manila Baywalk last Sunday was an activity only by NCMF-NCR, and the telescope used was actually personal equipment owned by Abdul because their regional office did not have its own. According to the Celestron website, the telescope is now priced at $349.95 or roughly P19,380.
Two days before the moonsighting activity in Manila, Abdul cautioned our team against reporting the NCMF-NCR findings as the findings of the whole NCMF. We had to wait until the reports from all regional offices were consolidated, he said. Only the NCMF national office can release the conclusive findings.
During Sunday’s moonsighting activity, the coordination was immediate – and high-tech.
Shortly after sunset at 6:05 pm, we saw Abdul and his assistant chief Al-Jomer Ali looking at their smartphones, dimly illuminating their faces as the dark of night crept in.
Only three male journalists from the Rappler team, a female journalist for Indonesian TV, and a male photojournalist from a broadsheet were covering the activity for news purposes. There were no other big cameras from mainstream TV news outlets, indicating little interest, even as many Filipino Muslims held on to their seats: Will Ramadan begin on Monday or Tuesday?
“What is that?” we asked Ali, as we turned the sharper light of our camera in their direction.
Abdul and Ali were apparently on Zoom, where other regional offices gave updates on their own moonsighting activities.
“Soccsksargen, not sighted. Northern Luzon, northern Mindanao, no sighting. What else?” said Ali, as he waited for updates from other regions.
“Before Zoom and Facebook were invented, how was coordination done for moonsighting?” we asked them. Abdul answered, “Phone calls.”
That night, it was a centuries-old tradition merging with modern technology. “It is faster, it is more accurate, it is something for which Muslim communities can better prepare,” Ali said in Filipino.
Roughly two hours later, at around 8 pm, the NCMF released its announcement: the agency “has determined that no moon was observed tonight by all the NCMF regional and field offices and their moonsighting groups.”
Ramadan, then, would begin on Tuesday instead of Monday.
When asked how he felt that the moon was not sighted, Abdul said the feeling was normal. “It is really like that,” he said. “I have not seen the first moon on the 29th day of Sha’ban.”
Beyond determining another month in the Islamic lunar calendar, however, Sattar said moonsighting holds religious significance for Muslims like him.
“We see this as a good deed,” Sattar said – proof that “we are truly following the sunna of the Prophet Muhammad.”
The end of the moonsighting activity was proof of this.
A few minutes after sunset, Muslims walked to another part of the Manila Baywalk, rolled their prayer mats, faced in the direction of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, and knelt with their heads touching the ground in front of Manila Bay.
While the moon was not sighted that evening, their faith as shown through obedience was still on full display.
And their chanting, borne of a faith that spans many centuries, mixed with the sea breeze. – Rappler.com
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RUNNING LIST: President Marcos’ foreign trips in 2024 | Dwight de Leon | 22/01/2024 15:00 | TRAVEL. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos fly to Malaysia for a state visit in July 2023.
Presidential Communications Office
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has established himself as a frequent flyer, does not intend to slow down in 2024.
For this year, the Office of the President (OP) has been provided a budget of P1.4 billion for missions and state visits, as well as P1.1 billion for traveling expenses.
The amounts are a significant increase from what the OP had in its budget for traveling purposes in 2023.
Rappler tracks the countries that the President will visit in 2024.
Updated as of Apri 22, 2024
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) announced on January 24 that President Marcos will be the keynote speaker at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue, dubbed as Asia’s premier defense summit, on May 31.
As per the IISS, he will join an esteemed list of heads of state who delivered a speech at the summit in the past, such as Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Malacañang has yet to confirm Marcos’ visits to the following countries. The list is based on international gatherings usually attended by the President, invitations that Malacañang received, and other statements that Philippine officials made in the past.
President Marcos and First Lazy Liza attended the royal wedding of Prince Abdul Mateen, the 10th child of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and businesswoman Yang Mulia Dayang Anisha Rosnah Binti Adam.
Marcos flew to Vietnam for a state visit upon the invitation of his Vietnamese counterpart Vo Van Thuong.
There, Marcos reiterated the agreements between Manila and Vietnam’s coast guards, and the two nation’s “cooperation and coordination” in the South China Sea. The two countries also inked an agreement on rice trade.
Marcos was in Canberra, Australia on February 28 to 29. As a guest of the government, he addressed the Australian Parliament, zeroing in on security issues. He also witnessed the signing of agreements on maritime domain, cyberspace, and antitrust between the Philippines and Australia.
The President returned to Australia on March 3, just a few days after his state visit to the country, to take part in the special summit in Melbourne between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Australia from March 4 to 6.
President Marcos was in Berlin in March for a working visit, meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
The two countries signed agreements to strengthen cooperation on maritime issues and the upskilling of Filipino skilled workers.
After his trip to Germany, Marcos wrapped up his Central Europe tour with a state visit to the Czech Republic, where he met with President Petr Pavel, Prime Minister Petr Fiala, Senate President Miloš Vystrčil, and President of the Chamber of Deputies Markéta Pekarová Adamová.
President Marcos flew to Washington on April 10 to take part in the first-ever trilateral summit between the Philippines, the United States, and Japan on April 11. It was a meeting that ultimately zeroed in on the growing threat posed by China in the West Philippine Sea. – Rappler.com
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Armed men threaten to shoot Rappler reporter, broadcaster covering demolition in Angeles City | jsitchon0312 | 12/3/2024 21:20 | VIOLENT. During the demolition, Rappler Luzon reporter Joann Manabat reported that 5 people were injured during a scuffle between residents and armed men.
Rappler
CEBU, Philippines – Armed men threatened to shoot Rappler Luzon reporter Joann Manabat and K5 News Olongapo reporter Rowena “Weng” Quejada while covering a violent demolition in Barangay Anunas in Angeles City, Pampanga on Tuesday, March 12.
Some 2,000 residents are fighting to stay in a 73-hectare of land being claimed by Clarkhills Properties Corporation. Demolitions have happened in the area several times, with some turning into violent encounters.
Manabat said men dressed in red and white shirts barred her from entering the area and immediately called her out when they saw her taking videos of the demolition.
“Those in red shirts, from a distance, told me to stop taking videos or else babarilin ako at kukunin yung photos ko (they would shoot me and take my photos),” the reporter said.
After acknowledging the threat, the Rappler reporter left the area with the help of residents who accompanied her away from the armed men.
“I stayed at a house near Balubad Street owned by the relative of the resident I was looking for. I left as soon as it was safe to leave the area,” Manabat added.
Before this, Quejada reportedly went missing during the demolition.
Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. confirmed in a statement on Tuesday evening that armed men harassed Quejada and held her at gunpoint.
“Quejada was covering the ongoing demolition at Sitio Balubad, Barangay Anunas, Angeles City, when accosted by armed men who allegedly questioned her and took her belongings,” the statement read.
According to reports gathered by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, one of the armed men at the demolition pointed a gun at Quejada, telling her to stop taking videos.
“The man also hurled invective, calling the media demonyo (devil) for reporting about the ongoing land dispute,” the NUJP said.
UPDATE: Rowena Quejada of K5 News Olongapo FM has been found, and is now safe.Quejada was covering a violent demolition in Sitio Balubad, Brgy. Anunas, Angeles, Pampanga when she was confronted by members of the demolition team of Clarkhills Properties Corporation, – https://t.co/9hL8fSr3Bg
A Japanese national assisted Quejada by hiding her inside of his residence. She was able to leave after tensions in the area subsided.
Lazatin and members of the NUJP have condemned the threats that were made against the journalists. – Rappler.com
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A query to Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr.: “Is mere condemnation enough?” Could there be a possible collusion between Clarkhills Properties Corporation and the LGU?
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Admin case filed vs cops over unlawful arrest of director Jade Castro, others | Jairo Bolledo | 12/3/2024 21:36 | FREE. Film director Jade Castro and his friends, along with their counsels, hold a press conference a day after they were released from detention.
Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) filed an administrative case against three cops over the unlawful arrest of film director Jade Castro and three others, Castro’s lawyer confirmed.
“I got a phone call just this morning from PNP-RIAS, Regional Internal Affairs Service, that they filed, motu proprio, administrative [case] against the chief of police, the investigator, and the arresting officers,” lawyer Michael Marpuri said in a press conference on Tuesday, March 12.
A document seen by Rappler showed it was the main IAS that filed the case. The IAS is the unit mandated to probe police abuses.
Police Captain Daniel dela Cruz, Police Senior Master Sergeant Jonjon Pordan, and Police Corporal Christian Abenilla face a less grave misconduct case over the director’s unlawful arrest.
An administrative case is different from a criminal case. In these cases, the PNP determines the punishment – ranging from suspension to dismissal from service – against the police personnel or police officer who would be found guilty.
After their 40-day detention, Castro and his friends were finally released from detention on Monday, March 11. The Catanauan Regional Trial Court Branch 96 granted the four’s motion to quash, which, in effect, dismissed the charge against them. The court said it could not acquire jurisdiction over the four accused because the police “arrested them not in accordance with Section 5(b), Rule 113 of the Rules of Court.”
The court simply meant Castro and his companions’ arrest did not fall under the allowed instances where warrantless arrest is justifiable. Under the Rules of Court, a person may be arrested without a warrant if he or she is caught in the act, if there’s probable cause to believe that a crime was committed, or if the person is a fugitive.
The court found that the arresting cops had no probable cause “based on personal knowledge or even on reasonable suspicion” to proceed with their operation.
Castro – who helmed critically acclaimed films like Endo and Zombadings – and his friends were arrested without a warrant on February 1 for allegedly burning a modern jeepney in Catanauan, Quezon.
The alleged crime was committed in Catanauan, which is less than an hour away from Mulanay town, where Castro and his friends were staying for a vacation. A closed-circuit television or CCTV footage showed Castro and his friend’s car passing through a Mulanay road at around 7 pm on January 31, about the same time when the crime was being committed in Catanauan.
Mulanay town officials also said that Castro and his friends were with them when the alleged arson transpired in Catanauan.
During the press conference, human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, who was also part of Castro’s legal team, reiterated that warrantless arrests should only be done in exceptional circumstances stated by the law. But, Diokno said there are instances where warrantless arrest becomes the default option of law enforcement.
“In practice, nagiging subject siya ng pang-aabuso sa mga nahahawakan namin na kaso (it becomes a subject of abuse in cases we handle). That’s probably the number one violation that we encounter,” the human rights lawyer said.
Will Castro go after the cops who arrested them? In an interview with Rappler, Castro said they have yet to decide on the matter.
But unlike the film director, the regional PNP is already sure about its next move.
In a statement on Tuesday, PNP Calabarzon director Police Brigadier General Paul Kenneth Lucas said they will continue investigating the arson charge against the four since the court said that the charge filed against them constituted destructive arson.
“We, in the Police Regional Office CALABARZON, remain committed to ensuring justice is served and will continue our thorough investigation into the case. The ruling, in no way, undermines the dedication of the men and women of this regional office in building a strong case against the suspects. We will diligently gather appropriate evidence and work towards re-filing the case of destructive arson against the accused,” Lucas said.
In the event that the case is refiled, it would not constitute double jeopardy since their case did not reach arraignment. Arraignment is where “the judge reads the charges filed against the defendant in the complaint and the defendant chooses to plead ‘guilty,’ ‘not guilty’ or ‘no contest’ to those charges.” – Rappler.com
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This is a mysterious case due to the 40-day detention. What took the PNP that long to detain Jade Castro? How about the motivation? Why would a film director burn a modern jeepney? Even if the burning is for making a film, using Computer-Generated Imagery will do the trick, and it is the least expensive.
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5 injured in violent demolition in Angeles City | Chito de la Vega | 12/3/2024 20:42 | The bulldozer used to clear debris during the demolition of houses in Barangay Anunas in Angeles City in Pampanga on March 12, 2024.
Joann Manabat/Rappler
ANGELES CITY, Philippines – At least five persons suffered gunshot wounds when a demolition of houses in Barangay Anunas, Angeles City in Pampanga province on Tuesday, March 12, turned violent.
The residents of Barangay Anunas who sustained injuries were Bong, Ana, Raniel, Alvin, and Diego. They asked that their last names be withheld for their safety.
The five were rushed to the Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center in Angeles City, according to their companion Joy, who also asked not to be identified.
Major Vicky Tamayo, acting commander of Police Station 4 of the Angeles City Police Office confirmed that there were five persons injured and were brought to the hospital. She added that three cops were also hurt during the demolition operation.
“May nahuling dalawa na may dalang baril kanina na nagpaputok (We arrested two persons who carried and fired their guns awhile ago),” said Tamayo. She said the suspects are now under investigation.
Tamayo said the demolition team was from Clarkhills Properties Corporation.
Clarkhills is claiming 73 hectares of disputed land in Brgy. Anunas. It has been trying to implement a demolition order it obtained September 2023.
“Pag demolition, CDM. Pero syempre kailangan nila (Clarkhills) security… We are implementing maximum tolerance for the duration of the demolition,” said Tamayo. “In case of aggression, ang civil disturbance management team pwede nilang protektahan ang mga tao doon sa demolition area. (The CDM team will protect the public in the demolition area.)”
Tamayo said the demolition team from Clarkhills included its own SWAT members..
Rowena Quejada, a journalist from K5 News, Olongapo City, said she was threatened with harm during the demolition. Quejada was covering the violent demolition when she was confronted by members of the demolition team who were wearing bonnets.
Quejada said the armed men took her mobile phone, shoulder bag, and wallet containing cash.
A Japanese national who witnessed the incident helped Quejada and hid her inside his home. She stayed with the Japanese family until the tension passed.
A total of 535 families, comprising 2,000 residents, are continue to fight for their land despite their fear of losing the land they paid for and devoted to all their lives. – Rappler.com
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Does charter change stand a chance in the Senate? | Bonz Magsambol | 12/3/2024 20:00 | SESSION. Senators gather inside the plenary hall for their regular session.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
If senators were to vote on the proposed economic amendments to the 1987 Constitution today, the fresh push for charter change would fizzle out for failing to meet the required number of votes from the Senate.
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri himself considered it a “big challenge.” In the Senate, 18 votes are needed to pass Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 “proposing amendments to certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution,” which he co-authored with senators Loren Legarda and Sonny Angara.
Majority vote is needed for the bill to be submitted to a bicameral conference committee before it gets voted on in a plebiscite.
“It’s a challenge, it’s a big challenge because I think the rift between our friends at the House and our friends here at the Senate is a factor because this resulted in trust issues,” Zubiri told reporters in a mix of English and Filipino.
The Senate President is referring to the rift between the two chambers in relation to the push to amend the Constitution. The squabble started when senators signed a manifesto rejecting the House’s new push for charter change, which proposes that both chambers vote jointly on proposed amendments.
Senators want separate voting by the chambers to ensure that their voice is not diluted in the process. Zubiri said that the Senate and its 24 members cannot cast any meaningful vote against the 316 members of the House.
University of the Philippines professor and political analyst Ela Atienza said this is the primary reason why the Senate opposes charter change. “The Senate’s reluctance to back Cha-Cha initiatives is more personal because the House leadership tried to undermine the Senate by pushing for a people’s initiative earlier that will diminish the Senate’s power to vote as a separate chamber in case the two Houses vote on proposed amendments as a constituent assembly.”
Senators echo the concern of many that while proposals to amend the Constitution are focused on economic provisions, no one can stop the inclusion of proposed provisions on term limits and other political provisions. They fear that the Senate will be abolished if political amendments, such as a shift to a unicameral parliamentary form of government, will be introduced.
The Senate is currently deliberating on RBH6. Meanwhile, the House already wrapped up its version, RBH7, in just six days. The House version mirrors the Senate’s which allows foreign investments in the country’s public utilities, education, and advertising sectors.
The two differ though in one contentious line that says “each House vote separately” on the amendments.
Angara, who chairs the Senate subcommittee on amendments and revision of codes, had said that the upper chamber would likely finish their discussions by October.
Although it’s not up for voting yet, some senators already said that they are voting against RBH6.
At a press conference on Monday, March 11, Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros said they have a “fighting chance” to gather at least seven votes to “put down” RBH6. She said that she could sense that the no vote on RBH6 would not be limited to the two members of the Senate minority.
“Batay sa sense namin sa minority na hindi lamang kaming dalawa ang magno-no sa Cha-Cha. Kahit ‘yung Resolution of Both Houses 6 dito sa Senado, mula sa halos simula ng pag-uusap namin ni SP, alam na nila na no talaga ang posisyon ko kahit sa sinasabing economic only provisions amendments na nakapaloob sa RBH 6,” she said.
(Our sense in the minority is that we’re not the only ones who will say no to Cha-Cha. Even the Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 here at the Senate, ever since the start of our discussions with the Senate President, he knows my “no” position even on the economic only provisions included in the RBH6 is firm.)
In a statement on Monday, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s possible intervention in RBH6 will only “help a little.” He earlier claimed that he and eight other senators were ready to vote against RBH6.
“The credibility of the President among senators has fallen to an all-time low when it comes to the subject matter of charter change. Hence, presidential endorsement may help the proponents of Senate RBH 6 but only a little. Everything that the President says will be taken with ‘a grain of salt,'” he said.
Apart from the two-member minority bloc, Senator Cynthia Villar already expressed her opposition to RBH6, noting that “there was a chance” that seven senators, including herself, would vote “No” on the bill.
“They claim they are only after the economic provisions. But when they open up the Constitution, nobody can stop them from changing other provisions, including the political portions. That’s not good,” she said. Political observers said that Senator Cynthia would likely influence her son, Senator Mark Villar.
Meanwhile, presidential sister Senator Imee Marcos has been very vocal about her dissenting opinion on charter change. She had led a Senate inquiry into alleged bribery in the push to secure signatures to amend the charter through a supposed people’s initiative.
Before the Senate started deliberating on RBH6, Majority Leader Joel Villanueva claimed that “a lot of senators” were not interested in supporting RBH No. 6 filed by Zubiri. He was also among the senators who had traded barbs with House members in relation to charter change via people’s initiative.
Rappler reached out to Villanueva to ask whether his position on the issue has changed or not, but he has yet to reply as of posting.
In February, Senator Nancy Binay said that proposed economic amendments to the charter are “not a magic solution” as she urged her fellow lawmakers and the public to “carefully listen to all perspectives before making any decisions regarding the proposed constitutional amendments.”
“Base sa unang hearing, parang mas marami kaming naging resource persons na mas mabigat ang hindi muna napapanahon ang pagpalit ng ating Konstitusyon,” Binay said.
(Based on our first hearing, it seems that most of our resource persons are strongly against constitutional amendments at this time.)
If all these seven senators vote against RBH6, then the push for charter change will be junked. For Zubiri, forcing senators to vote “yes” to RBH6 will mean losing his Senate leadership.
“Alam mo ‘pag inutusan ko sila gawin ‘yan mawawala talaga ako as Senate president, (You know, if I force them to vote yes to charter change, I really will no longer be Senate president) I will no longer have the trust and confidence of more than 14 senators if I force a vote, force them to vote on the affirmative,” Zubiri said, referring to the 14 senators who signed a manifesto of support for his leadership amid ouster rumors.
Political analyst Cleve Arguelles said that this development from the upper chamber is a manifestation of the “nature of the Senate of being more independent of Malacañang’s wishes than its counterpart in Batasan.”
“Senators, like the President, also enjoy a national constituency, mandate, and support. I think this is very important in their ability to counterbalance the weight of the combined influence of the House and Malacañang,” Arguelles said.
But is it really about the Senate reflecting its independence from the executive branch? Or is it because the senators will be at a disadvantage in case charter change pushes through? Like other elective officials, senators are keenly aware of the consequences of supporting unpopular measures.
“They’re also presidents and vice presidents in waiting whose choices now may influence public support for them in the future,” Arguelles said.
Remember when senators railroaded the passage of Maharlika bill at the pleasure of the President? In May 2023, the Senate swiftly passed Senate Bill No. 2020, or the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023. Their vote came after an 11-hour plenary session that saw senators scrambling to pass the priority legislation of the Marcos administration. Prior to its passage, the President had already boasted about this bill during his trips abroad.
The Senate took a beating from the railroaded passage of the controversial measure. With the 2025 elections just around the corner, and with the 2028 elections not too far away, lawmakers are weighing all decisions that could affect public favor.
A survey conducted by pollster Octa Research in December 2023 and released in January 2024 found that only one in every 100 Filipinos identified charter change as an urgent national concern. The top concern of Filipinos is fighting inflation.
Another factor at play in the charter change discussion is the political influence of popular figures, such as former president Rodrigo Duterte and daughter Vice President Sara Duterte, who are both opposed to charter change. The Duterte family even held a prayer rally against the push to amend the 1987 Constitution under the Marcos administration in Davao City.
Some senators are close allies of the Dutertes, among them, senators Bong Go, Bato dela Rosa, and Francis Tolentino.
But in Philippine politics, the unexpected is a given. With the Senate seen to end deliberations on RBH6 in October, will the proponents get the needed votes? Or will more senators end up voting against charter change? – Rappler.com
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Megan Young apologizes for touching Miss Botswana’s hair at Miss World 2024 pageant | Ysa Abad | 12/3/2024 12:59 | MANILA, Philippines – Miss World 2013 Megan Young issued an apology after she drew flak for touching the hair of Miss Botswana Lesego Chombo during the Miss World 2024 coronation night, saying that she takes “full responsibility” for the “thoughtless and disrespectful act.”
Young hosted the finals night in Mumbai, India on Saturday, March 9. During the competition’s question-and-answer portion, the Filipina beauty queen fixed a tendril of Chombo’s hair before the latter went on with her pitch.
This particular incident earned the ire of African pageant fans, who deemed Young’s action as cruel, disrespectful, and culturally insensitive. Some even left comments on Young’s Instagram posts, saying that her action has “jeopardized” Chombo’s performance in the competition, with some even accusing the title holder of engaging in “witchcraft.”
While some of Young’s fans came to her defense, emphasizing that she had meant well, some netizens also took the chance to explain the cultural significance behind an African woman’s hair.
Addressing the incident, Young posted a statement on her Facebook account on Monday, March 11, sharing that she “wanted to offer a helping hand” but “failed to oversee the bigger picture.” She added that since the incident occurred, she had been “made aware that culturally, this is unacceptable.”
Young added that she sought Chombo after the incident and has since spoken and apologized privately.
She continued that it was not her intention to “invade personal space or make anyone feel uncomfortable.” She also extended her apologies to anyone who witnessed the incident and felt any “discomfort and confusion” by her actions.
“I deeply regret my actions and will strive to be more mindful and respectful in the future,” she added.
Chombo, meanwhile, also took to social media to ask her supporters to be “kinder” to Young and the winner, Krystyna Pyszková of Czech Republic. “I appreciate that you are all looking out for me, but it really doesn’t make me good when you bring other people down in my name or for my sake,” she said.
Chombo finished as part of the Top 4 along with delegates from Lebanon and Trinidad and Tobago.
Meanwhile, Philippine bet Gwendolyne Fourniol failed to enter the pageant’s Top 40. Young remains to be the only Filipina beauty queen to win the Miss World crown. – Rappler.com
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MMDA vows clearer guidelines on e-bikes, e-trikes restriction | Pia Ranada | 12/3/2024 10:10 | CONSULT. MMDA acting Chairman Don Artes holds a consultation meeting among stakeholders from LGUs, members of civil society groups, civic and police authorities, during the drafting of the implementing rules and regulation (IRR) for the MMDA regulation No. 24-022 or the regulation that prohibits e-trikes and e-bikes on national roads, at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig City, on March 11, 2024.
Jire Carreon/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said it is all set to implement its April 15 restriction on electric bicycles and electric tricycles but that it would address concerns of various transport and mobility groups in its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) about the new policy.
“Tuloy na tuloy (It will definitely push through),” said MMDA chairman Romando Artes, in a press conference on Monday, March 11, at the MMDA head office in Pasig City.
Earlier, transport and mobility groups asked for a delay in the enforcement of the restriction of e-bikes and e-trikes in national roads in Metro Manila. Move As One Coalition, composed of over 100 groups, also asked for more public consultations on guidelines for light electric vehicles and better bike lane infrastructure in the capital region given that these are shared with e-bike users.
But Artes said that rather than delay the April 15 implementation, the MMDA would just release the draft IRR to these groups “at least 15 days before” so that they can give their feedback.
The IRR, said Artes in a meeting with the transport and mobility groups before the press conference, would clear up aspects of the policy. Confusion and alarm had greeted the “ban” when it was first announced because it appeared to cover all two-wheeled e-vehicles, even those that could already reach speeds of traditional motorcycles.
The MMDA officials asked e-vehicle groups to help update their e-vehicle classifications to reflect more current technology. The IRR, said Artes, can also allow e-bikes and e-trikes to cross or U-turn on national roads in certain parts.
But discussions got more heated when the meeting turned to the gaps in bike lane infrastructure and infrastructure for e-vehicles. A recent Rappler documentary shows these glaring deficiencies in Metro Manila bike lanes.
The e-bike and e-trike restriction means the only way e-bike riders can go on national roads is if that road has a bike lane. The active transport groups said the bike lane network in Metro Manila is still sorely lacking and unsafe, despite government funds being allocated for their improvement.
“Ang tanong ng aming mga grupo at ng mga vulnerable road users, imbis po na paalisin ang gumagamit ng mga e-bike at e-trike sa mga highway na ito, na saan na po ang nararapat na imprastraktura para po ma-ensure na maging safe tayong lahat?” asked Cristina Batalla of Make It Safer Movement during the MMDA meeting.
(The question of our groups and vulnerable road users is, instead of banning e-bike and e-trike users from these highways, where is the appropriate infrastructure to ensure we are all safe?)
She pointed to the Special Provision on People Mobility in the MMDA’s own 2024 budget. A look at the document states that: “The MMDA shall promote people mobility through road sharing projects and activities as well as the use of non-motorized modes of transportation. The amount appropriated herein for the Traffic Management Program shall be used to cover the funding requirements for the promotion of people mobility.”
The Traffic Management Program was allocated over P65 million.
Artes’ initial response was to question whether that special provision was in the Department of Transportation’s budget and not the MMDA’s. But proven wrong, he said that even if that were the case, Metro Manila’s road system just couldn’t accommodate the type of bike lanes the groups wanted.
“Kahit may ganyang mandato, siguro naman kung nag-iikot ka sa Metro Manila, ‘yung situation ng kalsada natin, hindi kaya lahat na ibigay o pagbigyan ‘yung ganyang klaseng mandato. Kulang na kulang talaga yung spaces natin,” he said.
(Even if there is that mandate, if you go around Metro Manila, look at the situation of our roads, we cannot give in to that kind of mandate. We really lack space.)
Later on, he sought to give advocates of wider bike lanes a “reality check.” For one thing, he said, did they not consider that there are many car-selling establishments along EDSA?
“Hindi kami papayag dahil imaginin mo, ang daming mga tindahan ng sasakyan doon. Kung isasara namin isang lane, paano sila lalabas, so didiretso sila sa second lane? Come on,” he told the groups.
(We won’t agree to that because imagine, there are so many car stores there. If we were to block off one lane, how will the car buyers get out? They will go to the second lane? Come on.)
“We have to live in the reality of life here in Metro Manila. We cannot insist on everything we want. And we cannot please everybody here,” he added later on.
Asked by Rappler at the press conference what the longterm plan of MMDA is given that laws like the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) orders government to construct lanes for e-vehicles, Artes said they would wait until vehicular traffic abates in the metropolis.
“Siguro ‘pag efficient na at maganda na yung mass transportation natin, particularly ‘pag nabuksan na yung MRT7, yung subway, mababawasan naman po yung sasakyan, baka by that time po, lumuwag yung kalsada na ma-accommodate sila,” said the MMDA chief.
(Maybe when our mass transportation improves, when the MRT7 and subway start operations, the cars will be lessened. Maybe by that time, the roads will be less congested and we can accommodate them.) – Rappler.com
Improving transportation infrastructure and policies is part of the call of various groups to #MakeManilaLiveable. On Rappler, we have created a dedicated space for stories and reports about liveability in Philippine cities. Learn more about the movement here.
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Filmmaker Jade Castro, friends freed after arson complaint trashed | Marguerite de Leon | 11/3/2024 22:30 | DETAINED. File photo of film director Jade Castro.
Jade Castro's Facebook
MANILA, Philippines – Filmmaker Jade Castro and his peers, who were arrested without warrant on February 1 in Quezon Province over arson charges, were released from the Catanauan Bureau of Jail Management and Penology facility on Monday, March 11.
Castro and his friends – sales manager Ernesto Orcine, civil engineer Noel Mariano, and civil engineer Dominic Ramos – were freed, according to Jasper Castro, Jade’s brother, in a screenshot shared on X by human rights lawyer and legal counsel Chel Diokno.
Answered Prayer 🙏 pic.twitter.com/UVw4WdEskX
An ABS-CBN report said that Judge Julius Francis Galvez of Catanauan Regional Trial Court Branch 96 trashed the destructive arson complaints filed against the group.
“The information was quashed on the ground of lack of jurisdiction of the court on the persons of the accused due to the invalidity of their arrest. Technically, case is dismissed but without prejudice as to refiling,” Michael Marpuri, one of Castro’s lawyers, told ABS-CBN.
Castro, who helmed critically acclaimed films like Endo and Zombadings, and his friends had been accused of burning down a modern jeepney on January 31. The alleged crime was committed in Catanauan town in Quezon, less than an hour away from Mulanay town, where Castro’s group was staying for vacation.
Closed circuit television (CCTV) footage showed Castro and his friend’s car passing through a Mulanay road at around 7 pm that day, about the same time when the crime was being committed in Catanauan. Another CCTV footage showed that at around 7:25 pm of the same night, the film director was seen filming the rehearsal of a local pageant in Mulanay town plaza. Two Mulanay town officials also noted that they were with Castro and his friends when the alleged crime happened in the other town.
“Sa aking pagsusuri, walang sapat na dahilan na hulihin sina Jade (Based on my observation, there’s not enough basis to arrest Jade and his companions),” said Diokno, also one of Castro’s counsels. “They were not caught in the act of committing a crime; there was no legitimate hot pursuit operation; and they did not escape from custody.”
Castro’s case has brought renewed criticisms on how police handle warrantless arrests and hot pursuits. Human rights lawyer Sol Taule, who often responds to cases of activists arrested without a warrant, said on X that “the arrest of Direk Jade Castro and companions is a result of sloppy police work for the sake of apprehending someone.” – with reports from Jairo Bolledo/Rappler.com
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Jared Bahay, Kieffer Alas lead road to 2024 NBTC National Finals | jisaga0269 | 12/3/2024 17:56 | STILL HIS HOUSE. Sacred Heart-Ateneo guard Jared Bahay answers questions in the 2024 NBTC press conference
NBTC
MANILA, Philippines – Jared Bahay is out to redeem himself and Sacred Heart School (SHS)-Ateneo de Cebu in the upcoming 2024 NBTC National Finals at the Mall of Arena scheduled from March 18 to 24.
“(My stay in Sacred Heart) won’t conclude yet since I will play at the MOA Arena for the NBTC National Finals, I would still have a last dance,” he said.
“I am more motivated that Ateneo de Cebu has another chance of redeeming itself this year, so we’re all motivated to win this,” Bahay added.
Bahay, whose Magis Eagles team fell short to three-time defending champion Nazareth-NU Bullpups in the Division 1 semis, will be the league’s top-ranked player for the second year in a row in the NBTC 24 list.
He also bared that he has been practicing with the Ateneo Blue Eagles men’s basketball team months after going back on his well-publicized commitment with the UP Fighting Maroons.
The pint-sized point guard continued that his exit from State U was amicable, and that he has begun to build camaraderie with his future collegiate teammates courtesy of his ex-high school buddies Michael Asoro and Raffy Celis.
“It’s a different dealing since it’s coach Tab (Baldwin), one of the best coaches in the Philippines, Ateneo’s one of the best programs, I’m confident I could adjust (in the UAAP),” said Bahay.
“Coach Tab has been pushing me, building my confidence. I may be a rookie, but I haven’t been treated as such, since he has pushed me out of my comfort zone,” he continued.
Immediately behind Bahay in the NBTC 24 list is UAAP Season 86 juniors’ mythical five member Kieffer Alas of the La Salle-Zobel Junior Archers.
“It feels good. Playing here last year wasn’t really unexpected, and now I’m here again, so I’m just gonna take advantage of the opportunity,” said Alas.
“After the (FIBA Asia U16 Championships), I’ve realized that the Philippines was still far away from Australia and China, but I took that as a slap on the face so I could work even harder,” he continued.
The son of coach Louie and brother of NLEX guard Kevin, Kieffer was named to the tournament All-Star Five, with averages of 15.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.
A total of 32 teams will vie for the NBTC title, including NSNU, UAAP champion Adamson, and NCAA semifinalists San Sebastian and Mapua.
They will be joined by 16 regional teams, two wildcard entries, and seven overseas-based squads.
“We’re excited to once again be back in our original format for the National Finals and this early, we’re bracing for an action-packed week. The future of Philippine basketball is indeed before us,” said NBTC program director Eric Altamirano.
All 32 teams will on Monday, March 18, to determine their placing. Winners will head to Division 1 and losers to Division 2.
The Supreme 16 knockout phase will start on March 20, the Fantastic Eight on March 21, and Fearless Four semifinals on March 22.
The winners will then play on March 24 for the Division 1 and 2 championship game.
It will be preceded by the NBTC All-Star Game on March 23, which will led by Bahay and Alas for Team Heart and Hustle, respectively.
There will also be an NBTC coaches convention from March 21 to 23, as well as the inaugural Manila Live competitions featuring a girls tournament, plus a U19, U16, and U14 boys tournaments. – Rappler.com
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LIST: Filipino athletes who qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics | jisaga0269 | 12/3/2024 21:31 | CHAMPION. The Philippines' EJ Obiena celebrates after winning the gold medal in the men's pole vault in the 19th Asian Games.
Dylan Martinez/REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – The clock is ticking for the world’s best athletes to punch their tickets to the 2024 Paris Olympics, and so far, the Philippines is on track to once again be well-represented in the top quadrennial multi-sport showpiece.
Several Filipino standouts have already qualified to fly the flag in Paris, with many more in the wings waiting for their shot at ultimate sporting glory.
The Philippines will have a lot to prove in the 2024 Olympics after a historic 2021 run in Tokyo, where living legend Hidilyn Diaz won the country’s first-ever gold through a masterful weightlifting display.
Additionally, the 19-strong Filipino delegation also secured the nation’s biggest medal haul ever in a single Olympics, with Diaz’s gold topping a big four-medal tally, boosted by two silvers and one bronze from boxers Carlo Paalam, Nesthy Petecio, and Eumir Marcial, respectively.
Here is the updated list of athletes hoping to make more history for the Philippines in Paris, in chronological order of qualification:
First on the list is one of the Philippines’ best hopes for a 2024 Olympics medal, pole vaulting superstar EJ Obiena.
Ranked No. 2 in the world just behind reigning Olympic champion Mondo Duplantis, the 28-year-old is looking to capitalize on a monumental 2023 season highlighted by notching a new personal and Asian record 6-meter jump on June 10, 2023 and an early Paris qualification on July 3, 2023.
Looking to prove doubters wrong after a controversial split with his old coach, artistic gymnastics phenom Carlos Yulo punched his Olympic ticket on October 1, 2023, and has continuously trained to perfect his craft just in time for Paris.
At just 24 years old, the two-time world champion, six-time Asian champion, and nine-time Southeast Asian (SEA) Games champion is gunning for his first Olympic gold, particularly in his floor exercise pet event.
Prior to even stepping foot in Paris, Aleah Finnegan is already a history maker for Philippine gymnastics, as her qualification on October 3, 2023, marked the first time a Filipina gymnast qualified for the Olympics since 1964.
Only representing the Philippines for two years so far since her 2022 SEA Games debut, the 21-year-old prodigy is out to make herself a household name with a stellar Olympics debut, and perhaps, win even more hearts with her first medal.
Another familiar face in the upcoming Olympics, boxing star Eumir Marcial is up for another round (or two, or three) with the world’s best, and is looking for a better shine to his 2021 bronze medal.
Qualified for Paris on October 4, 2023, the 28-year-old veteran makes a forced jump to the men’s 80kg class after his favored 75kg division was scrapped for the 2024 Games and is now out to prove himself and the world that he can still bring his best foot forward in the ring even in uncharted territory.
One of the Philippines’ best female boxers today, 31-year-old Nesthy Petecio is right in the middle of her athletic prime, and now has a golden opportunity to improve on her historic 2021 Olympic silver with a return trip to the sport’s biggest stage.
After qualifying on March 12, 2024, Petecio returns to the women’s 57kg event in Paris, where she has a chance to make more history for Filipina boxing.
Making her Olympics debut in July, Aira Villegas joins Petecio as the other Filipina boxer who will give the Philippines a much-needed extra medal chance, this time at the women’s 50kg class after also booking her spot on March 12, 2024.
At 29 years old, the Leyte native already has significant experience under her belt to make her go toe-to-toe with other world-class sluggers and possibly snag an Olympic medal in just her first try.
Weightlifter John Ceniza looks all set for an Olympic debut after securing his Paris Games spot after a strong performance in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup men’s 61kg event in Phuket, Thailand, on April 2, 2024.
The 26-year-old rising Cebuano star stayed well inside the qualification cutoff as only the top 10 in each weight category will compete in the sport’s biggest stage.
Elreen Ando sealed her Olympic return after a solid showing in the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand on April 3, 2024 to secure her place in the women’s 59kg division of the Paris Games.
The 25-year-old Cebuana weightlifter, though, had to do it at the expense of Hidilyn Diaz – the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist – as only one weightlifter per country per weight category will advance to Paris. She bested Diaz with a total lift of 228kg in the World Cup to stay inside the top 10 qualification cutoff.
Ando, who shattered the Southeast Asian Games record last year, aims to surpass her Olympic debut performance where she finished seventh in the Tokyo Games in 2021.
Reigning Southeast Asian Games champion Vanessa Sarno secured a spot in the Paris Games on April 7, 2024, paving the way for the Philippines to have its biggest weightlifting contingent in the Olympics in nearly four decades.
The 20-year-old pride of Bohol stayed inside the top 10 of the women’s 71kg class in the IWF Olympic Qualification Ranking after an impressive stint in the World Cup where she shattered her own national record in the snatch event.
Far from the Olympic radar, Levi Jung-Ruivivar pulled off the improbable to become the Philippines’ third gymnastic bet in the Paris Games.
The Filipino-American teen, who narrowly reached the final as the last qualifier, captured a silver in the women’s uneven bars of the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Series in Doha, Qatar on April 19, 2024.
With her medal breakthrough, Jung-Ruivivar hiked her qualification points to become the country’s 10th Olympian in Paris.
Joanie Delgaco became the Philippines’ first female rower to qualify for the Olympics on April 21, 2024 after a strong performance in the women’s single sculls of the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Olympic Qualification Regatta in Chungju, South Korea.
Delgaco finished fourth in the 2,000-meter event, staying in the top five to earn her ticket to Paris.
Philippine fencing booked a return trip to the Olympic stage after three decades as Samantha Catantan topped the continental Paris Games qualifiers.
A former UAAP standout, Catantan ruled the women’s foil category in the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifier in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates on April 27, 2024 to become the first Filipino fencer to earn an Olympic spot since Walter Torres competed in the 1992 Barcelona Games.
A fourth gymnast joined the Philippines’ Olympic cast as Filipino-American Emma Malabuyo sealed her bid with a medal-winning performance in the qualifiers.
Malabuyo, a varsity member of the University of California, Los Angeles, claimed her spot in the Paris Games after bagging a bronze in the individual all-around of the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championships on May 24, 2024 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Olympic silver medalist Carlo Paalam made sure to book a return trip to the sport’s biggest stage.
Although the Cagayan de Oro boxer took a longer route after falling short in the two previous qualifiers, Paalam did so convincingly this time, winning all of his five bouts in the the men’s 57kg of the World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand to claim his Paris Games ticket on June 1, 2024.
Paalam, who had a thrilling debut run in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 before settling for silver, hiked Philippine boxing’s Olympic contingent to four.
Make that five Filipino boxers in the Paris Games.
Hergie Bacyadan made Philippine boxing the biggest contingent for the country in this year’s Olympics after earning her spot in the women’s 75kg.
A former world champion in the combat sport vovinam, Bacyadan earned a unanimous decision win over Venezuela’s Maryelis Yriza in the World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand on June 2, 2024 to book her ticket to Paris.
Earning another trip to the Olympics, golfer Bianca Pagdanganan completed the 60-women field after making the Paris Games cut-off in the world rankings released on June 25, 2024.
But the 26-year-old Pagdanganan aims for a better showing this time after finishing 43rd in the Tokyo edition in 2021.
Golfer Dottie Ardina reached the quadrennial showpiece for the first time after making the the 60-women cut-off for the Paris Games released on June 25, 2024.
The 30-year-old Ardina competed in just two LPGA events this year, but looks to rebound in Paris after a tough season.
Filipina-Japanese judoka Kiyomi Watanabe secured a second consecutive Olympic stint after clinching one of the two continental quotas reserved for Asia in the women’s -63kg category on June 25, 2024.
The 27-year-old bet targets a better showing in the Paris Olympics after a first-round exit in the Tokyo Games.
Lauren Hoffman earned her Paris Olympics spot via the world rankings in the women’s 400m hurdles on July 2, 2024.
Hoffman – the Filipino-American who holds the national record in the women’s 100m hurdles – accomplished the feat by the skin of her teeth as she made the 40-entry cutoff at the 39th spot, collecting just enough points to advance.
Another hurdler made it to the Paris Olympics via the world rankings as John Cabang Tolentino qualified on July 2, 2024.
Tolentino, a Filipino residing in Spain, finished 30th out of 40 qualifiers in the men’s 110m hurdles, just a couple of months after setting the Philippine record in the same event.
Swimmer Kayla Sanchez advanced to the Olympics for the second straight edition as she qualified via universality on July 3, 2024.
Helping Canada win a silver and a bronze in the Tokyo Games, Sanchez will represent the Philippines this time a year after her citizenship switch as she is set to see action in the women’s 100m freestyle.
Like Kayla Sanchez, Jarod Hatch formalized his Olympic entry via universality on July 3, 2024.
Hatch, who won three medals in the previous Southeast Asian Games, will compete in the men’s 100m butterfly. – Rappler.com
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Does charter change stand a chance in the Senate? | Bonz Magsambol | 12/3/2024 20:00 | SESSION. Senators gather inside the plenary hall for their regular session.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
If senators were to vote on the proposed economic amendments to the 1987 Constitution today, the fresh push for charter change would fizzle out for failing to meet the required number of votes from the Senate.
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri himself considered it a “big challenge.” In the Senate, 18 votes are needed to pass Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 “proposing amendments to certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution,” which he co-authored with senators Loren Legarda and Sonny Angara.
Majority vote is needed for the bill to be submitted to a bicameral conference committee before it gets voted on in a plebiscite.
“It’s a challenge, it’s a big challenge because I think the rift between our friends at the House and our friends here at the Senate is a factor because this resulted in trust issues,” Zubiri told reporters in a mix of English and Filipino.
The Senate President is referring to the rift between the two chambers in relation to the push to amend the Constitution. The squabble started when senators signed a manifesto rejecting the House’s new push for charter change, which proposes that both chambers vote jointly on proposed amendments.
Senators want separate voting by the chambers to ensure that their voice is not diluted in the process. Zubiri said that the Senate and its 24 members cannot cast any meaningful vote against the 316 members of the House.
University of the Philippines professor and political analyst Ela Atienza said this is the primary reason why the Senate opposes charter change. “The Senate’s reluctance to back Cha-Cha initiatives is more personal because the House leadership tried to undermine the Senate by pushing for a people’s initiative earlier that will diminish the Senate’s power to vote as a separate chamber in case the two Houses vote on proposed amendments as a constituent assembly.”
Senators echo the concern of many that while proposals to amend the Constitution are focused on economic provisions, no one can stop the inclusion of proposed provisions on term limits and other political provisions. They fear that the Senate will be abolished if political amendments, such as a shift to a unicameral parliamentary form of government, will be introduced.
The Senate is currently deliberating on RBH6. Meanwhile, the House already wrapped up its version, RBH7, in just six days. The House version mirrors the Senate’s which allows foreign investments in the country’s public utilities, education, and advertising sectors.
The two differ though in one contentious line that says “each House vote separately” on the amendments.
Angara, who chairs the Senate subcommittee on amendments and revision of codes, had said that the upper chamber would likely finish their discussions by October.
Although it’s not up for voting yet, some senators already said that they are voting against RBH6.
At a press conference on Monday, March 11, Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros said they have a “fighting chance” to gather at least seven votes to “put down” RBH6. She said that she could sense that the no vote on RBH6 would not be limited to the two members of the Senate minority.
“Batay sa sense namin sa minority na hindi lamang kaming dalawa ang magno-no sa Cha-Cha. Kahit ‘yung Resolution of Both Houses 6 dito sa Senado, mula sa halos simula ng pag-uusap namin ni SP, alam na nila na no talaga ang posisyon ko kahit sa sinasabing economic only provisions amendments na nakapaloob sa RBH 6,” she said.
(Our sense in the minority is that we’re not the only ones who will say no to Cha-Cha. Even the Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 here at the Senate, ever since the start of our discussions with the Senate President, he knows my “no” position even on the economic only provisions included in the RBH6 is firm.)
In a statement on Monday, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s possible intervention in RBH6 will only “help a little.” He earlier claimed that he and eight other senators were ready to vote against RBH6.
“The credibility of the President among senators has fallen to an all-time low when it comes to the subject matter of charter change. Hence, presidential endorsement may help the proponents of Senate RBH 6 but only a little. Everything that the President says will be taken with ‘a grain of salt,'” he said.
Apart from the two-member minority bloc, Senator Cynthia Villar already expressed her opposition to RBH6, noting that “there was a chance” that seven senators, including herself, would vote “No” on the bill.
“They claim they are only after the economic provisions. But when they open up the Constitution, nobody can stop them from changing other provisions, including the political portions. That’s not good,” she said. Political observers said that Senator Cynthia would likely influence her son, Senator Mark Villar.
Meanwhile, presidential sister Senator Imee Marcos has been very vocal about her dissenting opinion on charter change. She had led a Senate inquiry into alleged bribery in the push to secure signatures to amend the charter through a supposed people’s initiative.
Before the Senate started deliberating on RBH6, Majority Leader Joel Villanueva claimed that “a lot of senators” were not interested in supporting RBH No. 6 filed by Zubiri. He was also among the senators who had traded barbs with House members in relation to charter change via people’s initiative.
Rappler reached out to Villanueva to ask whether his position on the issue has changed or not, but he has yet to reply as of posting.
In February, Senator Nancy Binay said that proposed economic amendments to the charter are “not a magic solution” as she urged her fellow lawmakers and the public to “carefully listen to all perspectives before making any decisions regarding the proposed constitutional amendments.”
“Base sa unang hearing, parang mas marami kaming naging resource persons na mas mabigat ang hindi muna napapanahon ang pagpalit ng ating Konstitusyon,” Binay said.
(Based on our first hearing, it seems that most of our resource persons are strongly against constitutional amendments at this time.)
If all these seven senators vote against RBH6, then the push for charter change will be junked. For Zubiri, forcing senators to vote “yes” to RBH6 will mean losing his Senate leadership.
“Alam mo ‘pag inutusan ko sila gawin ‘yan mawawala talaga ako as Senate president, (You know, if I force them to vote yes to charter change, I really will no longer be Senate president) I will no longer have the trust and confidence of more than 14 senators if I force a vote, force them to vote on the affirmative,” Zubiri said, referring to the 14 senators who signed a manifesto of support for his leadership amid ouster rumors.
Political analyst Cleve Arguelles said that this development from the upper chamber is a manifestation of the “nature of the Senate of being more independent of Malacañang’s wishes than its counterpart in Batasan.”
“Senators, like the President, also enjoy a national constituency, mandate, and support. I think this is very important in their ability to counterbalance the weight of the combined influence of the House and Malacañang,” Arguelles said.
But is it really about the Senate reflecting its independence from the executive branch? Or is it because the senators will be at a disadvantage in case charter change pushes through? Like other elective officials, senators are keenly aware of the consequences of supporting unpopular measures.
“They’re also presidents and vice presidents in waiting whose choices now may influence public support for them in the future,” Arguelles said.
Remember when senators railroaded the passage of Maharlika bill at the pleasure of the President? In May 2023, the Senate swiftly passed Senate Bill No. 2020, or the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023. Their vote came after an 11-hour plenary session that saw senators scrambling to pass the priority legislation of the Marcos administration. Prior to its passage, the President had already boasted about this bill during his trips abroad.
The Senate took a beating from the railroaded passage of the controversial measure. With the 2025 elections just around the corner, and with the 2028 elections not too far away, lawmakers are weighing all decisions that could affect public favor.
A survey conducted by pollster Octa Research in December 2023 and released in January 2024 found that only one in every 100 Filipinos identified charter change as an urgent national concern. The top concern of Filipinos is fighting inflation.
Another factor at play in the charter change discussion is the political influence of popular figures, such as former president Rodrigo Duterte and daughter Vice President Sara Duterte, who are both opposed to charter change. The Duterte family even held a prayer rally against the push to amend the 1987 Constitution under the Marcos administration in Davao City.
Some senators are close allies of the Dutertes, among them, senators Bong Go, Bato dela Rosa, and Francis Tolentino.
But in Philippine politics, the unexpected is a given. With the Senate seen to end deliberations on RBH6 in October, will the proponents get the needed votes? Or will more senators end up voting against charter change? – Rappler.com
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Why Muslims look for the moon: The lunar calendar, explained | Paterno Esmaquel II | 12/3/2024 18:00 | MOONSIGHTING. Muslims join a moonsighting activity at the Manila Baywalk along Roxas Boulevard, Manila, March 10, 2024, to determine the start of the fasting month of Ramadan.
On this humid Sunday afternoon, a handful of men alighted from a vehicle parked in front of a popular Filipino restaurant along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.
Our contact, an official of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), sent us a text message, “Tapat kami Aristocrat (We are in front of Aristocrat),” as he gave us the make and plate number of their vehicle so that we could easily find them.
The men, as we walked to their vehicle, were unloading a tripod and a tool that was to be the star of the evening: a telescope – Astromaster 130EQ of Celestron, which, according to its website, “provides bright, clear images of the Moon, planets, star clusters, and more for great nighttime viewing.”
It was around 4:30 pm, and the “show” was scheduled an hour and a half later. We were about to watch sunset at 6:05 pm – and to check if the new moon could already be sighted.
It was a moonsighting activity mounted by the NCMF in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday, March 10, to determine the start of the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.
From our meeting place at Rajah Sulayman Park, we crossed Roxas Boulevard so that we could station ourselves at the iconic Manila Baywalk, the perfect spot to view the postcard-worthy Manila Bay sunset.
We joined around two dozen Muslims, including NCMF staff, many of whom – in true Filipino fashion – took photos of themselves peering into the telescope. At one point, sandwiches were distributed to participants. The mood was a mix of curiosity and excitement, although subdued.
Would they see the moon that evening?
If they spot the moon, then the fasting month of Ramadan would begin the next day, Monday, March 11. If not, then Ramadan would start on Tuesday, March 12.
Moonsighting is the process by which Muslims determine the date not only of the start of Ramadan, but also their two great feasts: Eid’l Fitr, which is the end of Ramadan, and Eid’l Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice. If you ever wondered why there are no fixed dates (and no fixed holidays) for these observances, the lunar calendar of Islam provides an explanation.
But why the moon?
What are the roots of moonsighting? How is it conducted? Why is it relevant in the Muslim faith?
Islam uses a lunar calendar, which is based on phases of the moon, unlike the commonly used solar calendar, which is based on the Earth’s position relative to the Sun.
The Islamic calendar is made up of 12 months, each of which is 29 or 30 days long. Because the number of days in a month vary, the length of the year varies as well – either 354 or 355 days, shorter than the 365 days in the solar calendar.
The name of this Islamic dating system is the Hijri calendar. It begins in the year 622 AD, when the Prophet Muhammad escaped persecution in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to the city of Medina, which is around 338 kilometers away.
In contrast, the dating system now generally used around the world is called the Gregorian calendar, named after Pope Gregory XIII, who instituted this calendar in 1582 AD. The Gregorian calendar was an improvement of the Julian calendar, which was proposed by, and named after, Julius Caesar in 46 BC.
Each year in the Gregorian calendar is commonly denoted as “AD” or anno Domini (year of Our Lord), since the counting of years begins with the birth of Christ. (BC means “Before Christ,” referring to the period before the Gregorian calendar started counting years.)
Each year in the Hijri calendar is called “AH” or anno Hegirae in Latin, or “the year of the Hijrah,” since it begins with the Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad.
The 12 months of the Hijri calendar are as follows: Muharram, Safar, Rabi al-Awwal, Rabi al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhul al-Qadah, and Dhul Hijjah.
Each of these names has a meaning.
The first month of the Islamic calendar, Muharram, means “forbidden” – a time when all forms of fighting are prohibited.
The second month, Safar, means “empty” – “because pre-Islamic Arabs used to leave their homes in search of food during this month,” according to the Islamic advocacy website Amaliah. Other sources say that this name “derived from pre-Islamic Arabs conducting raids during this time on houses, leaving them ’empty.’”
Ramadan, according to Amaliah, comes ”from the root word ‘ramad,’ which means ‘burning’ in reference to the scorching heat that characterized this month.”
The context, of course, was the climate in the Middle East where Islam was born.
In a video by the Al-Rasoul Islamic Society in Canada, Islamic scholar Sayed Mohammed Baqer Al-Qazwini explained the roots of the Islamic lunar calendar.
“One reason why Islam went by the lunar calendar is that, at that time, this was the most practical calendar for the people. Why? Because if you want to go by the solar calendar, you have to have a calendar, you need to know how to read and write, you need to keep track of the days,” said Al-Qazwini.
Many people then, however, “were illiterate” and were “Bedouins living in the desert” who “did not know how to keep track” of dates on pen and paper.
“The other calendar, which is the lunar one, is more practical for most people. Because all you need to do, at the beginning of the month, is see what? See the crescent. Even if you’re not educated, even if you do not know how to read and write, you can get out there in the desert and just see the moon,” the Islamic scholar said.
“So the people who lived at that time, they just look at the moon, they know which night it is,” he said.
The second reason, according to Al-Qazwini, is that the lunar calendar “gives you diversity.” This is because the Islamic observances fall on different parts of the Gregorian calendar each year, given that the Hijri calendar follows its own timeline.
The month of Ramadan, for example, sometimes falls in the summer or in the winter, said Al-Qazwini. “That’s beautiful. That way, you get to fast in all seasons, and you can taste these events and you can experience fasting in all seasons.”
While Ramadan this year began on March 12, in fact, it was not always around this time of the year. Ten years ago, in 2014, it began on June 28. Twenty years ago, in 2004, it began on October 15.
Viewing the moon ahead of Ramadan, said Islamic scholar, is also being faithful to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
Alzad Sattar, an Islamic Studies professor from the University of the Philippines Diliman, said this was stated in the hadith or sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. “The Prophet said, ‘Before you fast in the month of Ramadan, you first have to see the moon,’” Sattar said in a mix of English and Filipino while waiting for the moonsighting activity last Sunday.
Sattar explained that if the new moon is sighted on the 29th day of the month of Sha’ban, then the month of Ramadan can begin the next day. If not, then Muslims need to complete the 30th day of the month of Sha’ban, which means beginning Ramadan two days later.
But who gets to declare that the moon was sighted? And, of all the Muslim authorities who conduct their moonsighting activities, whom should ordinary Muslims believe?
This is where it gets complicated.
Esmael Abdul, cultural affairs chief of the NCMF in Metro Manila, said any adult who is trusted and credible in the community can conduct moonsighting activities.
Even just one such person who sees the moon is enough, he said. Not even a telescope is required. “Even in the case of the Prophet Muhammad, there were no telescopes during their time,” he explained.
In the Philippines, there are two main authorities when it comes to moonsighting and other Muslim affairs.
The NCMF, created on February 18, 2010, is tasked to advise the Philippine president on Muslim affairs, and to “act as the primary government agency through which Muslim Filipinos could seek government assistance and redress.” The NCMF is led by a secretary appointed by the president.
The other authority when it comes to Muslim affairs is the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta, the Islamic advisory council of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta is led by a mufti, an Islamic legal expert.
There have been times when the NCMF and BARMM had different findings in their moonsighting activities.
While this can already be confusing, there are also Filipino Muslims who choose to look outside the Philippines – in particular, Saudi Arabia – for their sighting of the new moon. “Their view is that this is because Islam began in Saudi Arabia,” said Sattar.
This is why in Facebook comment sections, it is common to see a few Muslims arguing over which authority to believe when it comes to moonsighting. In one instance, the moon was seen in Saudi Arabia and not in the Philippines, and a believer was insistent that the Saudi declaration carried more weight. An irked Muslim replied on Facebook, “Then go live there.”
“The issue before, as they said, was that instead of moonsighting, it became ‘moonfighting.’ Because there are different views and different approaches,” said Sattar. “So to solve such kind of problem, there should be coordination.”
Abdul of NCMF-NCR said there have been efforts to streamline the results of moonsighting activities across the Philippines.
“This year, I really made a way by which the two offices (NCMF and the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta) can coodinate. Muslims shouldn’t have to choose between the two. All of them have Islamic scholars, so these two offices should really reach an agreement and act as one,” Abdul said.
Within the NCMF alone, officials have been cautious in releasing their new moon findings.
The NCMF is composed of 11 regional offices, and NCMF-NCR is only one of these.
The moonsighting activity at the Manila Baywalk last Sunday was an activity only by NCMF-NCR, and the telescope used was actually personal equipment owned by Abdul because their regional office did not have its own. According to the Celestron website, the telescope is now priced at $349.95 or roughly P19,380.
Two days before the moonsighting activity in Manila, Abdul cautioned our team against reporting the NCMF-NCR findings as the findings of the whole NCMF. We had to wait until the reports from all regional offices were consolidated, he said. Only the NCMF national office can release the conclusive findings.
During Sunday’s moonsighting activity, the coordination was immediate – and high-tech.
Shortly after sunset at 6:05 pm, we saw Abdul and his assistant chief Al-Jomer Ali looking at their smartphones, dimly illuminating their faces as the dark of night crept in.
Only three male journalists from the Rappler team, a female journalist for Indonesian TV, and a male photojournalist from a broadsheet were covering the activity for news purposes. There were no other big cameras from mainstream TV news outlets, indicating little interest, even as many Filipino Muslims held on to their seats: Will Ramadan begin on Monday or Tuesday?
“What is that?” we asked Ali, as we turned the sharper light of our camera in their direction.
Abdul and Ali were apparently on Zoom, where other regional offices gave updates on their own moonsighting activities.
“Soccsksargen, not sighted. Northern Luzon, northern Mindanao, no sighting. What else?” said Ali, as he waited for updates from other regions.
“Before Zoom and Facebook were invented, how was coordination done for moonsighting?” we asked them. Abdul answered, “Phone calls.”
That night, it was a centuries-old tradition merging with modern technology. “It is faster, it is more accurate, it is something for which Muslim communities can better prepare,” Ali said in Filipino.
Roughly two hours later, at around 8 pm, the NCMF released its announcement: the agency “has determined that no moon was observed tonight by all the NCMF regional and field offices and their moonsighting groups.”
Ramadan, then, would begin on Tuesday instead of Monday.
When asked how he felt that the moon was not sighted, Abdul said the feeling was normal. “It is really like that,” he said. “I have not seen the first moon on the 29th day of Sha’ban.”
Beyond determining another month in the Islamic lunar calendar, however, Sattar said moonsighting holds religious significance for Muslims like him.
“We see this as a good deed,” Sattar said – proof that “we are truly following the sunna of the Prophet Muhammad.”
The end of the moonsighting activity was proof of this.
A few minutes after sunset, Muslims walked to another part of the Manila Baywalk, rolled their prayer mats, faced in the direction of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, and knelt with their heads touching the ground in front of Manila Bay.
While the moon was not sighted that evening, their faith as shown through obedience was still on full display.
And their chanting, borne of a faith that spans many centuries, mixed with the sea breeze. – Rappler.com
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The Duterte dynasty: Powered by guns | Lian Buan | 11/3/2024 15:38 | The Duterte dynasty: Powered by guns
(2nd UPDATE) Former President Rodrigo Duterte and his family have a combined total of 654 firearms in their possession, according to new information obtained by Rappler
REPUBLISHED MAR 11, 2024 3:38 PM PHTFIRST PUBLISHED MAR 1, 2024 2:30 PM PHTBY Lian Buan, Jairo Bolledo, Jodesz GavilanAll illustrations by Alejandro Edoria
There are already 654 guns in the combined vault of only five members of the powerful and ruling Duterte clan, made up of mostly the handy and easy-to-use pistols and a hundred rifles, documents obtained by Rappler show. (Editor’s Note: In an earlier version of this story, we counted 477, to include only four members of the Duterte family. New information gathered allowed us to update our count.)
The patriarch, former president Rodrigo Duterte, has the most number of firearms in his collection, or 363 assorted weapons, which is five more than we earlier reported which was at the time based on records from October 2023. After our reporting, we obtained the most recent records.
His eldest, Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte has about half the size of his father’s vault, or 172 newly-licensed firearms. His youngest son, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte has 61, his son-in-law Manases Carpio has 30, and his daughter, Carpio’s wife, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte, has 28. We were unable to verify if other members of the family, including the former president’s partner and children in-law, have any firearms.
These documents are in the records of the Philippine National Police Firearms and Explosives Office (PNP-FEO), and were verified to be authentic by Rappler. These documents mean that the firearms in these records were licensed.
Former president Duterte passed a law on May 6, 2022 that extended the validity of a firearm to 10 years, when before a license was valid for only four years before it had to be renewed again. The former president benefitted from his own law because his 358 firearms were renewed afterwards, just weeks before he stepped down as president, and obtained 10-year licenses.
The new law he passed, RA 11766, also made it easier for him to obtain a permit to carry outside residence. Part of the amendments made to the old version, RA 10591, listed professions such as lawyers, businessmen, journalists, accountants, as having an assumed threat to their safety and thereby giving them an easier time applying for a permit. In the new law, Duterte added two: an elected official, both former and current such as himself, and retired and active law enforcement personnel.
His children also benefitted from this law because Sara and Sebastian are elected officials too: Sara was Davao City mayor before the 2022 elections, and Sebastian was Davao City vice mayor at the time.
In Sebastian’s vault of 66, there are 24 firearms with 10-year licenses or until 2033 or 2034. Paolo also has 24 firearms with 10-year licenses, because most of the firearms in his vault of 144 are expiring either this year, 2025, or 2026 – which means he can renew them by then and get a fresh 10-year license if he wishes. Sara has six firearms with 10-year licenses, and husband Manases has seven firearms with 10-year licenses expiring in the same period.
The most expensive guns in the vault, according to publicly available market pricing, are the pistols. Paolo’s Wilson Combat EDC X9S is worth P342,500, and Sebastian’s Les Baer 572 Hemi pistol is worth P300,000. The Kriss Vector SDP Gen II, one of which Rodrigo and Sebastian each own, is priced at P261,000.
The Philippines has an enduring problem of gun violence, notoriously committed by the private armies of powerful clans. Past attempts at cracking down, and abolishing the private armies have failed because of watered down legislations, such as not putting a ceiling on the number of guns an individual can own.
The law says an individual possessing at least 15 guns is already a gun collector, and can obtain a Type 5 license, provided she or he passes the required drug and psychological tests, plus a vault inspection.
Although the law does not impose a limit on the number of guns per person, the common gun collector follows regulations as guidance and usually keeps his or her collection to around 15, according to our industry sources. The more avid shooter can have more – for example, former tax commissioner and known gun enthusiast Kim Henares has 40.
Henares believes the law is right not to impose a limit on the number of guns one person can possess, but the former Cabinet member – and the late former president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s shooting buddy – said the regulators must be strict in the psychological test. Under FEO guidelines, the neuro-psychiatric examination and the drug test should be done by the PNP Health Service and the crime laboratory group, respectively.
“What you should regulate is making sure who holds those guns, right? Even if you allow one person to only have one gun, if he’s unstable, it’s the same thing,” said Henares in a mix of English and Filipino.
The Dutertes did not respond to Rappler’s requests for an interview or statement for this story. Separate requests were sent to the offices of Sara, Paolo, Sebastian, and Manases Carpio. We will update this story once they respond.
Rodrigo and Sara indirectly reacted to Rappler’s stories in separate statements. On March 7, the Vice President posted a video statement, saying the reporting about her guns is part of an “organized demolition job.” She said these allegations aim to tarnish her integrity and create an image that she is a “killer, corrupt, abusive, and a warlord.”
“Makikita natin ito sa pag-atake sa confidential funds, pagpapalaganap ng video sa Commonwealth traffic, paggawa ng issue sa pagtatag ng security para sa Opisina ng Bise Presidente, paglabas ng testigo na umano’y ako ay kaparte ng Davao Death Squad, sa malisyosong ulat tungkol sa aking mga baril, at ang pambabastos sa relasyon namin ng aking asawa,” the Vice President said.
(We can see this through the attack against confidential funds, the viral Commonwealth traffic video, making an issue of the creation of a security unit for the Office of the Vice President, a witness claiming that I am part of the Davao Death Squad, through a malicious report about my guns, and the disrespect for my relationship with my husband.)
On January 30 during a press conference in Davao City, Duterte took a swipe at Rappler’s earlier reporting on his gun collection and said that many of his guns were gifts when he was president, and that all of them are licensed anyway. According to Duterte, he knew that there were inquiries about his gun collection because a cop had tipped him off.
“Kinakalkal ‘yung firearms namin kung magkano, naririnig ko eh, tumawag ‘yung FEO…Lahat ng baril ko, pati maliit na baril, lisensiyado ‘yan. Kasi mahilig ako sa baril, pina-rehistro ko lahat sa Crame. Eh sila nagtanung-tanong, marami kang baril, eh putang-ina tanong mo sa Crame, regalo ‘yan,” said Duterte.
(They were looking into our firearms, how much they were, I heard because someone from the FEO called me…. All of my guns, even my small guns, are licensed. I am into guns, so I registered them all in Crame. But they were asking – you have so many guns, son of a bitch ask Crame, they are gifts.)
The PNP-FEO told Rappler in December 2023 that the rules are uniform for everyone and that a former president such as Duterte does not enjoy special privileges.
However, records bear out that each member of the Duterte clan owns Class-A light weapons, which under RA 10591 can be bought, owned, and licensed only by law enforcement personnel.
Class-A light weapons, under the law, include self-loading pistols, rifles and carbines, submachine guns, assault rifles, and light machine guns not exceeding caliber 7.62 mm which have a fully automatic mode. Their FEO records explicitly say that Rodrigo Duterre has 38 Class-A light weapons, Paolo Duterte has 24, Sara Duterte has 3, Sebastian Duterte has 1, and Manases Carpio has 1.
How are they able to license Class-A light weapons, which should have been exclusive to the military, police, and other law enforcement agencies?
It could be because the law’s exception clause applied to them. Because RA 10591 was passed only in 2013, non-law enforcement individuals (like the Dutertes) who possessed Class-A light weapons before 2013 were allowed to continue ownership of such firearms and were only required to renew their licenses. We sought clarification from the FEO on February 20 and followed up on February 28, and again on March 5, but have not yet received a response as of March 11. We will update this story once we do.
We also asked on March 8 whether the PNP will retroactively apply its recently amended internal rules to include more types of firearms in the small arms group, but we got no clear response.
Based on estimates from market retail prices, the Duterte family’s weaponry is worth a total of P24 million. Former president Duterte’s collection is worth around P5.5 million, but his sons’ vaults, although much smaller collections, have more expensive firearms.
Paolo’s collection of 172 is worth P10.2 million – more expensive than his father’s P5.5 million – based on newer documents we obtained. Based on last year’s documents, Sebastian’s collection is worth P5.4 million, Manases Carpio’s collection is worth around P2 million, and Vice President Sara Duterte’s collection is worth around P1.04 million.
When speculations spread that an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) was forthcoming, the former president said he would resist arrest and he threatened violence.
“Kapag puntahan nila ako, arestuhin nila ako dito, magkabarilan talaga ‘yan at uubusin ko ang mga putanginang ‘yan (If they come for me, if they arrest me here, there will be a shootout, I will finish all those sons of bitches),” said Duterte.
The ICC is investigating the six years of Duterte’s bloody drug war, and six years of his term as mayor and vice mayor of Davao City for the killings made by the alleged Davao Death Squad.
While the Philippine government still maintains that The Hague has lost jurisdiction over the Philippine case after Duterte withdrew membership from the Court, Prosecutor Karim Khan has successfully appealed to the ICC chamber to let him continue his investigation. The probe has reached a stage where Khan can request for summons or a warrant.
Duterte has also started pushing for a rehashed idea of a Mindanao secession, which he mentioned in a nasty public word war with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in January. Opposition leader and former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Duterte’s staunch enemy, said the PNP must cancel his gun licenses if he is threatening to secede.
“Ito ay nag-incite to sedition/secession na. Malamang na gagamitin pa ang mga baril na ‘yan laban sa gobyerno (He is already inciting to sedition/secession. It’s possible he will use those firearms against the government),” Trillanes said.
A witness against Duterte’s friend and spiritual adviser, the controversial doomsday preacher Apollo Quiboloy, said he had once witnessed Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte leave the preacher’s compound with bags of guns. The witness said this during a Senate investigation into the violations of Quiboloy and his religious group Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) which had been accused of sexual assault.
“Minsan po pumupunta doon si former president Rodrigo Duterte at former Davao mayor Sara Duterte. ‘Pag umalis na po sila sa Glory Mountain, dala na po nila ang mga bag na siya pong mga bag na nilalagyan po ng mga baril,” said the witness during a Senate hearing on February 19. (Sometimes former president Rodrigo Duterte and former Davao mayor Sara Duterte would visit. When they leave the Glory Mountain, they would carry with them bags of guns.)
Sara Duterte responded to this accusation by imputing political motivations. “Sa kasaysayan ng Pilipinas, naging kagawian na ang pag-atake at pagbato ng sari-saring isyu laban sa Bise Presidente. Marahil, sapagkat ang Bise Presidente ang tumatayong pangunahing hadlang sa mga nangangarap maging pangulo,” she said on February 21.
(In the history of the Philippines, it’s been a tradition to attack and throw issues against the vice president. Perhaps, because the Vice President is the primary obstacle to those who aspire to be president.)
Former president Duterte denied that Quiboloy gave him guns, telling journalists in Davao City on February 27 that: “Kami magtanggap ng baril kay Quiboloy? It is a very stupid proposition. Bakit naman si Pastor Quiboloy magbigay sa akin ng baril? Saan siya kukuha?” (We will get guns from Quiboloy? It is a very stupid proposition. Why would Pastor Quiboloy give me guns, where will he get them?)
INSPECTION. In 1997, then-mayor Rodrigo Duterte checks out an assault rifle after inspecting a crime scene in Davao city. Renato Lumawag/Reuters
SHOOTING RANGE. In the late 1980s, then-mayor Rodrigo Duterte inspects an assault rifle at a shooting range in Davao City. Renato Lumawag/Reuters
UZI. Former mayor Rodrigo Duterte poses with his Uzi submachine gun in the mid-1990s in the mountainous village of Carmen in the Baguio District of Davao City. Reuters
ANTI-TERRORISM. On June 28, 2018, then-president Rodrigo Duterte is seen with then-Chinese envoy Zhao Jianhua at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga. Rappler
TURNOVER. Former president Rodrigo Duterte hands over the marksman rifle from then-outgoing PNP director general Ronald dela Rosa to then-newly-installed PNP director general Oscar Albayalde during the PNP change of command ceremony on April 19, 2018. Malacañang photo
FROM CHINA. On June 28, 2018, then-president Rodrigo Duterte at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga, during the turnover by China to the Philippine government of rifles and ammunition to help combat terrorism. Rappler
– with a report from Ferdinand Zuasola/Rappler.com
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Accordingly: “The PNP-FEO told Rappler that the rules are uniform for everyone and that a former president such as Duterte does not enjoy special privileges.” Of course, the PNP-FEO can say this because the new law, RA 11766, was passed by Former President Digong Duterte to have himself as the first beneficiary. Who needs so many firearms? Are they getting them for their private armies? That new law (RA 11766) should be amended based on social justice. But who would want to amend it? It is a law that benefits only a few Filipinos yet would remain unchanged because most of our politicians and businesspersons are its primary beneficiaries – so few yet so powerful.
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Will GMA Network tap Michael V for a noon show vs Vice Ganda and TVJ? | gdecastro0289 | 8/3/2024 13:56 | ENTERTAINERS. Filipino comedians Michael V with Vice Ganda (left) and Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon in the composite photo.
Vice Ganda IG/EAT Bulaga X
The guessing game is on.
What is GMA Network Incorporated (GMA) going to air after the media conglomerate and Jalosjos-led Television and Production Exponents Incorporated (TAPE) decided to axe Tahanang Pinakamasaya (Home of the Happiest)? The decision to air movies from 12 noon to 2 pm is likely just temporary, and it doesn’t look like ex-convict Romeo Jalosjos Sr. can put up another show and pay air time fees to GMA.
Will GMA move ABS-CBN’s It’s Showtime from its free TV channel Good TV (GTV) to its flagship station GMA-7? Or will it move its pre-noon variety show TictoClock, led by ex-Kapamilyas Kim Atienza and comedienne Pokwang, to 12 noon and prolong it by an additional hour or so? Or, will it put up an entirely new noon show?
The easiest step would be to just move It’s Showtime from GTV to Channel 7 (GMA-7) because ABS-CBN’s noon show is competing quite well against TV5’s E.A.T. Bulaga. If unofficial ratings are correct, It’s Showtime now often rates slightly higher than the Kapatid channel’s noon show led by showbiz veterans Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon (TVJ).
From a financial point of view, GMA would earn from the air time fees without having to spend a peso for talent fees and production. No headaches at all.
But those familiar with how GMA’s former president/CEO and now chairman Felipe Gozon thinks say this may not be the case.
GMA is now the Philippines’ undisputed broadcast leader after the Lopez-led ABS-CBN Corporation lost its free TV and radio business in May 2020. Moving a purely-ABS-CBN produced show to replace TAPE’s Tahanang Pinakamasaya may not look good on the GMA brand.
Notwithstanding Gozon’s declaration in June 2023 that the TV war is over – which he said after signing a deal with ABS-CBN to air It’s Showtime on GTV – GMA has thus far protected its flagship Channel 7 from being, in a sense, purely Kapuso.
TV war is finally over! -Atty. Felipe Gozon, Chairman and CEO of GMA Network, Inc. #ItsShowtimeGnaG pic.twitter.com/bcjBwxjYA8
In the case of the hit teleserye (TV series) Unbreak My Heart, which was aired on Channel 7 and GTV last year, this was a co-production with ABS-CBN. GMA called it “A first in Philippine television history” and a “dream TV collab between GMA and ABS-CBN.”
Its main cast were Kapamilya stars Jodi Sta. Maria, Joshua Garcia, and Kapuso stars Richard Yap and Gabbi Garcia. Although Kapamilya movies are shown on Channel 7, the credit to ABS-CBN is only at the start and the end, and the GMA logo stays on the screen while the movie is being shown.
The more logical step, therefore, is to beef up TictoClock’s hosts, add more talents and variety show segments to compete with TV5’s E.A.T. Bulaga and ABS-CBN’s It’s Showtime. TictoClock already has the elements of a noon show: a singing competition Tanghalan ng Kampeon (Champion’s Stage) similar to It’s Showtime’s popular singing contest Tawag ng Tanghalan (Stage Call), as well as games such as a fake news segment Ulo ng mga Balita (News Headlines).
#Teaser: Pasabog na blessings ang hahakutin natin ngayong Huwebes! 😍 😍 Maki-HAPPY TIME na sa #TiktoClockGMA tuwing 11:15 AM at tunghayan ang tuloy-tuloy na BANGGAAN sa #TanghalanNgKampeonGMA! ⭐ pic.twitter.com/9w1dMUrhxX
With ABS-CBN’s talent pool decimated after losing its franchise, GMA has enough performers it can tap to support “Kuya” (Brother) Kim Atienza and Pokwang.
A post shared by @acurtisism
Kuya Kim – who incidentally is a former It’s Showtime co-host – is no comedian, and he’s certainly not in the league of It’s Showtime’s Vice Ganda and E.A.T. Bulaga’s Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon.
A post shared by JoseMarieViceral / Vice Ganda (@praybeytbenjamin)
GMA has an ace that it can tap to lead TictoClock: popular Kapuso comedian Michael V, also known as Bitoy. That would make the country’s noon show truly exciting. It would be the mother of all noon shows: Vice Ganda and the Madlang People gang versus TVJ and the Legit Dabarkads (Legitimate Friends) versus Michael V plus Kuya Kim, Pokwang, and some Kapuso comedy show Bubble Gang cast.
I can already see Bitoy’s commercial endorsers committing to place ads on TictoClock. With a stronger TictoClock, GMA can get advertising revenues from its network-produced show and get air time revenues from ABS-CBN via It’s Showtime on GTV. It also gets to protect its flagship channel, making it still truly Kapuso.
As we wait for GMA’s move, expect It’s Showtime and E.A.T. Bulaga to get slight upticks in their television ratings.
On Monday, March 11, Michael V. told GMA News online that he’s not keen on being part of a noon show again for now.
“Parang hindi pa time. There’s a reason why I left ‘Eat Bulaga’ before. I think it’s the same reason kung bakit hindi pa siguro ako sasabak,” he said after signing a new contract with his home network.
(It’s like it’s not yet time. There’s a reason why I left ‘Eat Bulaga’ before. I think it’s the same reason why I won’t be joining for now.)
Michael V. opted to drop his co-hosting of Eat Bulaga! years ago as he took on more projects for GMA and became too busy. – Rappler.com
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Why Muslims look for the moon: The lunar calendar, explained | Paterno Esmaquel II | 12/3/2024 18:00 | MOONSIGHTING. Muslims join a moonsighting activity at the Manila Baywalk along Roxas Boulevard, Manila, March 10, 2024, to determine the start of the fasting month of Ramadan.
On this humid Sunday afternoon, a handful of men alighted from a vehicle parked in front of a popular Filipino restaurant along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.
Our contact, an official of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), sent us a text message, “Tapat kami Aristocrat (We are in front of Aristocrat),” as he gave us the make and plate number of their vehicle so that we could easily find them.
The men, as we walked to their vehicle, were unloading a tripod and a tool that was to be the star of the evening: a telescope – Astromaster 130EQ of Celestron, which, according to its website, “provides bright, clear images of the Moon, planets, star clusters, and more for great nighttime viewing.”
It was around 4:30 pm, and the “show” was scheduled an hour and a half later. We were about to watch sunset at 6:05 pm – and to check if the new moon could already be sighted.
It was a moonsighting activity mounted by the NCMF in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday, March 10, to determine the start of the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.
From our meeting place at Rajah Sulayman Park, we crossed Roxas Boulevard so that we could station ourselves at the iconic Manila Baywalk, the perfect spot to view the postcard-worthy Manila Bay sunset.
We joined around two dozen Muslims, including NCMF staff, many of whom – in true Filipino fashion – took photos of themselves peering into the telescope. At one point, sandwiches were distributed to participants. The mood was a mix of curiosity and excitement, although subdued.
Would they see the moon that evening?
If they spot the moon, then the fasting month of Ramadan would begin the next day, Monday, March 11. If not, then Ramadan would start on Tuesday, March 12.
Moonsighting is the process by which Muslims determine the date not only of the start of Ramadan, but also their two great feasts: Eid’l Fitr, which is the end of Ramadan, and Eid’l Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice. If you ever wondered why there are no fixed dates (and no fixed holidays) for these observances, the lunar calendar of Islam provides an explanation.
But why the moon?
What are the roots of moonsighting? How is it conducted? Why is it relevant in the Muslim faith?
Islam uses a lunar calendar, which is based on phases of the moon, unlike the commonly used solar calendar, which is based on the Earth’s position relative to the Sun.
The Islamic calendar is made up of 12 months, each of which is 29 or 30 days long. Because the number of days in a month vary, the length of the year varies as well – either 354 or 355 days, shorter than the 365 days in the solar calendar.
The name of this Islamic dating system is the Hijri calendar. It begins in the year 622 AD, when the Prophet Muhammad escaped persecution in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to the city of Medina, which is around 338 kilometers away.
In contrast, the dating system now generally used around the world is called the Gregorian calendar, named after Pope Gregory XIII, who instituted this calendar in 1582 AD. The Gregorian calendar was an improvement of the Julian calendar, which was proposed by, and named after, Julius Caesar in 46 BC.
Each year in the Gregorian calendar is commonly denoted as “AD” or anno Domini (year of Our Lord), since the counting of years begins with the birth of Christ. (BC means “Before Christ,” referring to the period before the Gregorian calendar started counting years.)
Each year in the Hijri calendar is called “AH” or anno Hegirae in Latin, or “the year of the Hijrah,” since it begins with the Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad.
The 12 months of the Hijri calendar are as follows: Muharram, Safar, Rabi al-Awwal, Rabi al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhul al-Qadah, and Dhul Hijjah.
Each of these names has a meaning.
The first month of the Islamic calendar, Muharram, means “forbidden” – a time when all forms of fighting are prohibited.
The second month, Safar, means “empty” – “because pre-Islamic Arabs used to leave their homes in search of food during this month,” according to the Islamic advocacy website Amaliah. Other sources say that this name “derived from pre-Islamic Arabs conducting raids during this time on houses, leaving them ’empty.’”
Ramadan, according to Amaliah, comes ”from the root word ‘ramad,’ which means ‘burning’ in reference to the scorching heat that characterized this month.”
The context, of course, was the climate in the Middle East where Islam was born.
In a video by the Al-Rasoul Islamic Society in Canada, Islamic scholar Sayed Mohammed Baqer Al-Qazwini explained the roots of the Islamic lunar calendar.
“One reason why Islam went by the lunar calendar is that, at that time, this was the most practical calendar for the people. Why? Because if you want to go by the solar calendar, you have to have a calendar, you need to know how to read and write, you need to keep track of the days,” said Al-Qazwini.
Many people then, however, “were illiterate” and were “Bedouins living in the desert” who “did not know how to keep track” of dates on pen and paper.
“The other calendar, which is the lunar one, is more practical for most people. Because all you need to do, at the beginning of the month, is see what? See the crescent. Even if you’re not educated, even if you do not know how to read and write, you can get out there in the desert and just see the moon,” the Islamic scholar said.
“So the people who lived at that time, they just look at the moon, they know which night it is,” he said.
The second reason, according to Al-Qazwini, is that the lunar calendar “gives you diversity.” This is because the Islamic observances fall on different parts of the Gregorian calendar each year, given that the Hijri calendar follows its own timeline.
The month of Ramadan, for example, sometimes falls in the summer or in the winter, said Al-Qazwini. “That’s beautiful. That way, you get to fast in all seasons, and you can taste these events and you can experience fasting in all seasons.”
While Ramadan this year began on March 12, in fact, it was not always around this time of the year. Ten years ago, in 2014, it began on June 28. Twenty years ago, in 2004, it began on October 15.
Viewing the moon ahead of Ramadan, said Islamic scholar, is also being faithful to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
Alzad Sattar, an Islamic Studies professor from the University of the Philippines Diliman, said this was stated in the hadith or sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. “The Prophet said, ‘Before you fast in the month of Ramadan, you first have to see the moon,’” Sattar said in a mix of English and Filipino while waiting for the moonsighting activity last Sunday.
Sattar explained that if the new moon is sighted on the 29th day of the month of Sha’ban, then the month of Ramadan can begin the next day. If not, then Muslims need to complete the 30th day of the month of Sha’ban, which means beginning Ramadan two days later.
But who gets to declare that the moon was sighted? And, of all the Muslim authorities who conduct their moonsighting activities, whom should ordinary Muslims believe?
This is where it gets complicated.
Esmael Abdul, cultural affairs chief of the NCMF in Metro Manila, said any adult who is trusted and credible in the community can conduct moonsighting activities.
Even just one such person who sees the moon is enough, he said. Not even a telescope is required. “Even in the case of the Prophet Muhammad, there were no telescopes during their time,” he explained.
In the Philippines, there are two main authorities when it comes to moonsighting and other Muslim affairs.
The NCMF, created on February 18, 2010, is tasked to advise the Philippine president on Muslim affairs, and to “act as the primary government agency through which Muslim Filipinos could seek government assistance and redress.” The NCMF is led by a secretary appointed by the president.
The other authority when it comes to Muslim affairs is the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta, the Islamic advisory council of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta is led by a mufti, an Islamic legal expert.
There have been times when the NCMF and BARMM had different findings in their moonsighting activities.
While this can already be confusing, there are also Filipino Muslims who choose to look outside the Philippines – in particular, Saudi Arabia – for their sighting of the new moon. “Their view is that this is because Islam began in Saudi Arabia,” said Sattar.
This is why in Facebook comment sections, it is common to see a few Muslims arguing over which authority to believe when it comes to moonsighting. In one instance, the moon was seen in Saudi Arabia and not in the Philippines, and a believer was insistent that the Saudi declaration carried more weight. An irked Muslim replied on Facebook, “Then go live there.”
“The issue before, as they said, was that instead of moonsighting, it became ‘moonfighting.’ Because there are different views and different approaches,” said Sattar. “So to solve such kind of problem, there should be coordination.”
Abdul of NCMF-NCR said there have been efforts to streamline the results of moonsighting activities across the Philippines.
“This year, I really made a way by which the two offices (NCMF and the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta) can coodinate. Muslims shouldn’t have to choose between the two. All of them have Islamic scholars, so these two offices should really reach an agreement and act as one,” Abdul said.
Within the NCMF alone, officials have been cautious in releasing their new moon findings.
The NCMF is composed of 11 regional offices, and NCMF-NCR is only one of these.
The moonsighting activity at the Manila Baywalk last Sunday was an activity only by NCMF-NCR, and the telescope used was actually personal equipment owned by Abdul because their regional office did not have its own. According to the Celestron website, the telescope is now priced at $349.95 or roughly P19,380.
Two days before the moonsighting activity in Manila, Abdul cautioned our team against reporting the NCMF-NCR findings as the findings of the whole NCMF. We had to wait until the reports from all regional offices were consolidated, he said. Only the NCMF national office can release the conclusive findings.
During Sunday’s moonsighting activity, the coordination was immediate – and high-tech.
Shortly after sunset at 6:05 pm, we saw Abdul and his assistant chief Al-Jomer Ali looking at their smartphones, dimly illuminating their faces as the dark of night crept in.
Only three male journalists from the Rappler team, a female journalist for Indonesian TV, and a male photojournalist from a broadsheet were covering the activity for news purposes. There were no other big cameras from mainstream TV news outlets, indicating little interest, even as many Filipino Muslims held on to their seats: Will Ramadan begin on Monday or Tuesday?
“What is that?” we asked Ali, as we turned the sharper light of our camera in their direction.
Abdul and Ali were apparently on Zoom, where other regional offices gave updates on their own moonsighting activities.
“Soccsksargen, not sighted. Northern Luzon, northern Mindanao, no sighting. What else?” said Ali, as he waited for updates from other regions.
“Before Zoom and Facebook were invented, how was coordination done for moonsighting?” we asked them. Abdul answered, “Phone calls.”
That night, it was a centuries-old tradition merging with modern technology. “It is faster, it is more accurate, it is something for which Muslim communities can better prepare,” Ali said in Filipino.
Roughly two hours later, at around 8 pm, the NCMF released its announcement: the agency “has determined that no moon was observed tonight by all the NCMF regional and field offices and their moonsighting groups.”
Ramadan, then, would begin on Tuesday instead of Monday.
When asked how he felt that the moon was not sighted, Abdul said the feeling was normal. “It is really like that,” he said. “I have not seen the first moon on the 29th day of Sha’ban.”
Beyond determining another month in the Islamic lunar calendar, however, Sattar said moonsighting holds religious significance for Muslims like him.
“We see this as a good deed,” Sattar said – proof that “we are truly following the sunna of the Prophet Muhammad.”
The end of the moonsighting activity was proof of this.
A few minutes after sunset, Muslims walked to another part of the Manila Baywalk, rolled their prayer mats, faced in the direction of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, and knelt with their heads touching the ground in front of Manila Bay.
While the moon was not sighted that evening, their faith as shown through obedience was still on full display.
And their chanting, borne of a faith that spans many centuries, mixed with the sea breeze. – Rappler.com
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Houthis will only release 17 OFW hostages if war in Gaza ends – DFA | Michelle Abad | 12/3/2024 13:23 | SEIZED SHIP. Armed men stand on the beach as the Galaxy Leader commercial ship, seized by Yemen's Houthis in November, is anchored off the coast of Yemen, December 5, 2023.
Khaled Abdullah/Reuters
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines has been working with other governments to secure the release of the Filipino seafarers held hostage aboard the Galaxy Leader vessel, but Yemeni Houthis appear steadfast in their demand to allow this only once the war in Gaza ends, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Tuesday, March 12.
“We’re still working with friendly governments to see if they could be released, but the Houthis are consistent in their statement that it would need an end to the war in Gaza before they will release the ship or the seafarers,” Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said in a Malacañang press briefing on Tuesday.
More than 100 days since their ship was captured by the Houthis, the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remain on board in Al Hudaydah, off the coast of Yemen. They are “safe” and able to contact their families, according to De Vega.
The Filipinos are only one group of nationals that were taken hostage aboard the Galaxy Leader, along with Romanians, Bulgarians, Mexicans, and Ukrainians.
Philippine envoys are in touch with their counterparts in working together for their release but De Vega said that “there simply seems to be no solution other than what they demand.”
“At the very least, one thing we’re always in touch with the Houthis about is to ensure that they are treated well and they are able to contact their families. There was a time they could not, but now they are able to contact their families again,” he said.
De Vega wished to remind the families of the 17 seafarers that they “have not been forgotten.”
Meanwhile, recovery operations are still underway to retrieve the remains of the two OFWs that died in a Houthi attack on the True Confidence bulk carrier in the Gulf of Aden on March 6.
Eleven of the surviving Filipinos are set to arrive in Manila on Tuesday evening. Two remain hospitalized in Djibouti – one suffered severe burns, while the other needed his leg amputated. These two are set to return to the Philippines via air ambulance in the coming days, the DFA said.
While Houthi attacks occur on ships in the area “practically daily” De Vega said, this is the first time Filipino casualties were reported. Philippine authorities believe that more Filipino seafarers are refusing voyages in “war-like and high-risk” areas.
The Houthis claim to be acting in solidarity with the Palestinian people, who have faced increased assaults from Israel, particularly in besieged enclave Gaza.
The following are the war-like and high-risk areas the DFA recognizes: the Yemeni coast, southern section of the Red Sea, Gulf of Guinea, Sea of Azov, Strait of Kerch, the Black Sea, and all ports in Ukraine. – Rappler.com
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Philippines finds its place in US-China chip wars | Ralf Rivas | 12/3/2024 18:13 | CHIPS. Semiconductor chips are seen on a circuit board of a computer in this illustration picture taken February 25, 2022
Florence Lo/Reuters
MANILA, Philippines – The Biden administration is looking at the potential of its political allies like the Philippines to produce more semiconductors, as it continues to tighten knobs against China’s $190-billion chip industry.
“US companies have realized that our chip supply chain is way too concentrated in just a few countries in the world,” US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told Philippine business leaders in a forum in Makati City, on Tuesday, March 12.
Raimondo, who is in Manila for a two-day trade and investment mission, underscored that the US will lend a hand to the Philippines to double its semiconductor assembly facilities.
Electronic products are the Philippines’ top exports in terms of value, posting total earnings of $3.45 billion in January, representing 58.2% of total exports during the month.
The world relies on Taiwan, South Korea, and China for chips. Semiconductors are the backbone of modern electronics used in a wide range of devices, including transistors, diodes, integrated circuits, solar cells, and more.
“Forget about geopolitics, just at that level of concentration, you know the old adage: ‘Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.’ Why do we allow ourselves to be buying so many of our chips from one or two countries?” Raimondo said.
She added that the Philippines is on “top of the list” of countries that could develop its semiconductors industry.
Raimondo’s investment mission is “historic” and the first of its kind for the Philippines.
“The message from us is: ‘We’re all in on the Philippines’,” she said.
The Philippines is one of seven countries that the US has identified as partners to diversify its semiconductor supply chain.
Under the CHIPS and Science Act, some $52.7 billion is being used to lure chipmakers away from China, either back to the US or to allied countries, in the form of tax breaks and other incentives.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that the US legislation would result in the Philippines to churning out some 128,000 semiconductor engineers and technicians by 2028.
The US is the Philippines’ top export market.
US President Joe Biden has been making sweeping efforts to slow down China’s technological capabilities.
The US Commerce Department issued a broad set of prohibitions on exports to China of semiconductors and other tech amid military tensions and the boom of artificial intelligence.
This export ban, alongside incentives for US chip makers to relocate to countries that it deemed friendlier, has been viewed as Biden’s clear strategy of capping China’s potential in various technological developments, including surveillance and military capabilities.
Japan, along with the Netherlands, agreed to match US export controls that limit the sale of some chipmaking tools to China, and has placed restrictions on the export of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment to Beijing.
China said that the scheme “seriously violated” international economic and trade rules. – Rappler.com
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Residents lament ‘worse than ever’ river stench in Negros Occidental town | Mia Gonzalez | 12/3/2024 15:41 | BINALBAGAN RIVER. A portion of the Binalbagan River in Negros.Occidental.
Reymund Titong
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines – Residents living close to a riverbank in Purok Acacia, Barangay Marina in Binalbagan town, Negros Occidental, are complaining about the murky color and “worse than ever” stench of their river which has reportedly caused health problems among some members of their community.
Residents alleged that this is due to wastewater released by the Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Company (BISCOM), which categorically denied the claim.
Lola Cory (not her real name), 86, told Rappler on Saturday, March 9, that the river’s murky color and bad odor initially surfaced in December 2023, but at that time, the stench faded away days after.
It is not a surprise for the community to experience this, especially when the milling season starts. But the current stench had been described as “worse than ever,” she said.
“Indi kami ka ginhawa sang baho. Bisan magface mask ka, ga sungaw gyapon kay ang baho, indi ma agwanta. Kun mag labay ka sa taytay, ga panabon ka sang tualya, indi ka kaginhawa kag makita mo nga ga bukal gid ang tubig nga ka itom,” Cory told Rappler.
(The stench is making it hard for us to breathe. Even if we wear a face mask, the smell seeps in. We try to cover our noses with a towel when we cross the bridge, but the stench is too strong and you can see the murky water bubbling in the river.)
Cory said the odor becomes especially unbearable during daytime as high tide approaches, and sometimes at night.
A mother in her early 40s, who has three asthmatic children, said they experience difficulty breathing and stomach aches when the foul smell pops up.
“Kalabanan diri sa amon sa pag start sang galing, ga sakit ang ila tiyan pati iya sang mga kabataan,” she said.
(Most of us here, after the start of the milling season, suffered from stomach aches, including the children.)
BISCOM is a sugar mill district for the towns of Binalbagan, Hinigaran, Moises Padilla, and Isabela; and the city of Himamaylan, which processes a total sugarcane area of 28,725 hectares. It is owned by a singer and businessman Jose Mari Chan.
In a statement sent to Rappler, BISCOM refuted allegations that the company is responsible for the murky and foul-smelling water of the Binalbagan River.
“BISCOM is fully compliant with all the permits required by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other government agencies before the start of our operation and assure the public that our company is discharging zero waste to the water,” the company said.
“We also have a functional water treatment facility. And as a company that supports efforts to preserve the environment, we can’t break any environmental laws or regulations, especially if it poses a negative impact on the lives of residents living close to our milling company,” BISCOM added.
The company said that there may be other factors that need to be considered in relation to the river’s current condition, including the existence of chicken farms close to the river, and the scarcity of water from the town’s upland villages and neighboring towns.
Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Kenny Zamora told Rappler that one factor contributing to the worsening of the foul odor is the drought or lack of rain, which prevents a fresh current of water from the upstream areas to the river and into the ocean.
Zamora said that they will convene with different agencies of the town to discuss the complaints and for them to draft steps on how to prevent such case again in the future, especially as it has affected three additional villages: barangays Canmuros, San Juan, and Progreso.
Canmuros is one of the coastal villages of Binalbagan town and is the home to the Mangrove Eco Park and Wild Life Sanctuary, which covers a 200-hectare land area for the conservation and protection of the town’s floral and fauna.
On residents’ claim that they had documented instances of fish kill every year, Zamora said, “Regarding the claims made by the residents regarding fish kills, we are unable to verify them because the fishermen did not file official complaints with our office, which would have allowed us to look into the circumstances surrounding the purported fish kills in the area.”
Zamora said that that the alleged waste pollution in the river, if confirmed, “threatens the biodiversity in our coastal area, which could lead to a decline in fisheries catch and negatively impact residents who depend on fishing for a living” and would also affect the marine protected area.
He said that the Department of Natural Resources and Environment-City Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) in Kabankalan is the one responsible for water sample analysis. “We are requesting the results of the water tests conducted last year,” he said.
“As to our next steps, we will take action by convening with the sugar company regarding the reports, including what specific chemicals are included in their waste allegedly released into the river, and assess its impact on the health of the residents together with our MHO as well as its impact to the marine animals,” Zamora added.
He also reiterated that before concluding that BISCOM is at fault, MENRO will first ask the CENRO for the results of the water evaluation. They are also going to identify the specific chemicals present in the water that cause an stinky odor and endanger marine life.
“Upon receiving the data, we will look into the results and from there, we will check if it was really the company that is liable to what happened to our river,” Zamora said.
Youth advocate and DENR’s Tayo ang Kalikasan (TAK) Environment ambassador Aldin Yanos expressed concern over the development, noting the threat not only to the health of the residents living close to the river but also the health of the biodiversity in the sanctuary.
“As climate change worsens, big businesses that recklessly endanger the environment should be held responsible, and appropriate measures should be implemented by various government agencies to control water pollution, which in turn would later lead to the loss of the biodiversity in the affected communities,” he told Rappler. – Rappler.com
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Visayas State University gets its 2nd woman president in 100 years | gdecastro0289 | 12/3/2024 18:26 | VSU. Professor Prose Ivy Yepes takes her oath before the chairman of the VSU Board of Regents and Commission on Higher Education Commissioner Prospero E. De Vera III in Diliman, Quezon City on March 11, 2024.
Courtesy of Dr. Guiraldo Fernandez/VSU Board Secretary
LEYTE, Philippines – After a series of panel interviews and forums, Professor Prose Ivy Yepes has been elected the 7th president of Visayas State University (VSU) after a majority vote by its Board of Regents (BOR) in a closed-door session in Diliman, Quezon City on March 11, Monday.
She is the second woman president of VSU after Dr. Paciencia P. Milan, who served from 1999 to 2007.
Yepes, a VSU alumna, graduated cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, major in Plant Protection (specializing in Entomology) in 1990 from the then-Visayas State College of Agriculture (ViSCA), now VSU.
She got her master’s and doctorate degrees in Science Education at Cebu Normal University (CNU), with her dissertation recognized as the Best Dissertation in 2009 by both CNU and the Philippine Association of Graduate Education (PAGE) in Region 7.
Prior to her application for the VSU presidency, she served as vice president for research, development, and extension from 2013 to 2014. She was elected the 3rd president of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) in Sogod, Southern Leyte for two consecutive terms from 2014 to 2022.
Her achievements as SLSU’s president include elevating the university’s SUC [State Universities and Colleges] level status from Level 2 to Level 3, obtaining Commission on Higher Education (CHED) accreditations for their secondary and elementary education programs, establishing Research and Extension Centers, and enhancing various facilities.
She has also been recognized as an educator, researcher, and administrator. She is a recipient of the following awards or recognitions, to name a few: Administrator’s Honorific Award (2022) and the Gandilan Award (2022), Outstanding Southern Leyteño (2017), Most Inspiring Teachers (2022), and Garbo sa CNU Award (2017), to name a few.
Now poised to become the 7th president of VSU a few weeks before it marks its 100th anniversary, Yepes aims to further the university’s achievements, including attaining Green University status, expanding inclusive educational programs, strengthening the institution’s research and extension arm, and renovating key facilities. She envisions VSU as one of the top universities in Asia by 2027.
Yepes further pledged that the incoming administration will address the needs of its constituents and initiate inventories as a key component of its initial administrative strategies.
She also has her eyes on continuing to establish VSU as a globally-recognized university within the first four years of her term.
“If we fail to plan, then we plan to fail, so the first thing that management will do is to do scenario-based strategic planning using futures thinking lens that will involve all stakeholders’ representatives, and from that session, all aspects like academic program, so that we can sustain academic excellence,” she said.
Yepes also echoed her commitment to addressing student concerns, promising to be a “listening president” who prioritizes student voices.
“Together with the VSU team, we will create or establish well-organized student programs and initiatives wherein we can have an avenue to listen to your concerns and interest,” she said.
Yepes is set to formally take her oath as the new VSU president, succeeding Dr. Edgardo Tulin who held the position for eight years. – Rappler.com
Jerry Yubal Jr. is a campus journalist from the Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay City Main Campus. The executive editor of Amaranth, he is also an Aries Rufo Journalism fellow of Rappler for 2023-2024.
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Baguio’s lost shoe sparks viral poem | Miriam Grace Go | 12/3/2024 18:16 | BAGUIO, Philippines – On a seemingly ordinary day in Baguio City, a shoe lost and found at an overpass captivated the hearts of netizens far and wide. Well, not the shoe itself.
On Monday, March 11, the city government’s Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) transformed a standard lost-and-found notice into a poem, spinning in the process the “Baguio Cinderella Story 2.0.”
The poetic announcement:
A lone sole seeks its missing mate,A crimson kiss upon its fate.Four inches high, a daring stride,Size forty-one, where could it hide?
Found by our enforcers, a watchful eye,Near the O-shaped bridge, beneath the sky.Though knocking doors, a tedious quest,A quicker path, we put to the test.
Come, gentle lady, or perhaps a gent (size 41!),Claim this lost treasure, heaven-sent.For in our office, a story awaits,Perhaps a prince Charming, to seal your fate.
So come forth now, and end the plight,Reunite the sandals, bathed in light.Who knows what magic love might bring,On wings of leather, you’ll surely sing.
After it was shared almost 500 times and liked by double the number as of this writing, the next question of course became: Who wrote the poem?
POSD chief Daryll Kim Longid did.
“I just thought that it would catch people’s attention if I wrote it as a poem and in the process reach more audience. The more traction, the higher the chance the owner would come across the post,” Longid told Rappler.
He said he initially tried asking AI to write the verse, “but it wasn’t giving me the output I was looking for.”
“So I just looked up the Old English synonyms of the words I wanted to use as I went through each line. I used a thesaurus,” he said.
This wasn’t the POSD’s first “Cinderella” post. On January 26, 2023, it called on the owner of a single wedge sandal this way:
“We’re looking for the owner of this brand new pairless wedge sandal (left pair) that may have fallen off someone’s bag at the Treasury Market Division office last Monday, 23 January, sometime after the clock struck 12.
“Shoe brand is M Style size 38.
“To claim, please proceed to our office located at the Ground Floor of Block 4 along Hilltop Rd. here at the Public Market and simply present the other pair.
“P.S. You may bring your Prince Charming who could put the sandal on you… if it fits!
Abangan ang susunod na kabanata!”
The post also went viral.
With Monday’s poem, Longid underscored the POSD’s creative approach to public service, transforming the mundane task of reuniting lost items with their owners into a narrative that both delights and engages the community.
On Tuesday night, March 12, the search had its fairy tale ending of sorts, inspiring another poem that, needless to say, went viral again. – Rappler.com
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FACT CHECK: China has not sent fighter jets to West PH Sea | Lorenz Pasion | 12/3/2024 18:37 | Claim: China has sent fighter jets to the West Philippine Sea following recent tensions between Philippine and Chinese vessels.
Why we fact-checked this: The claim was made in a YouTube video posted on March 9 that has 38,668 views and 455 likes as of writing.
The video is titled: “Breaking news! China, nagpadala na ng fighter jets sa West PH Sea! Umaatake na! Simula na ang WW3.” (Breaking news! China has deployed fighter jets to the West Philippine Sea! It is now attacking! [World War 3] has started!)
The claim comes as tensions between Manila and Beijing have been rekindled due to continuing Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea.
The bottom line: No reputable sources have reported on China’s alleged deployment of fighter jets to the West Philippine Sea. There have been no reports from the Philippine Navy via their official Facebook page, X (formerly Twitter) page, and website, nor from the Department of National Defense about the claim.
Outdated report: The misleading video featured photos of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accompanied by audio from a news report. The report discussed senators’ concerns over an alleged threat of war made by Chinese President Xi Jinping if the Philippines continued to insist on the 2016 arbitral ruling invalidating China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea.
The video made it seem as if the alleged threat was made recently, but a closer listen to the audio shows that it made references to former senator Bam Aquino and former president Rodrigo Duterte. The original audio came from a UNTV news report from May 22, 2017.
Current tensions: The claim was posted amid ongoing tensions between Manila and Beijing in the West Philippine Sea. On March 5, four Filipinos onboard the Unaizah Mae 4 sustained “minor injuries” after two China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels used water cannons against the Philippine vessel. The water cannons also shattered the boat’s windshield.
In a separate incident, a CCG vessel collided with the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Sindangan during the latest resupply mission to the grounded ship BRP Sierra Madre, the Philippines’ outpost in Ayungin Shoal.
“Throughout the operation, the PCG vessels faced dangerous maneuvers and blocking from Chinese Coast Guard vessels and Chinese Maritime Militia. Their reckless and illegal actions led to a collision between MRRV-4407 and China Coast Guard 21555 that resulted [in] minor structural damage to the PCG vessel,” PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Chinese jets spotted: In November 2023, two Chinese fighter jets were seen hovering above Philippine planes during a joint air patrol between the Philippines and Australia in the West Philippine Sea.
Chinese vessels also shadowed Philippine and Australian ships during joint maritime patrols in the area, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. – Katarina Ruflo/Rappler.com
Katarina Ruflo is a graduate of Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program. This fact check was reviewed by a member of Rappler’s research team and a senior editor. Learn more about Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program here.
Keep us aware of suspicious Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, articles, or photos in your network by contacting us at [email protected]. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time.
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DFA fumes as China makes public ‘sensitive details,’ including Duterte-era deal | Bea Cupin | 12/3/2024 17:24 | AYUNGIN MISSION. Chinese ships surround a Philippine Coast Guard ship on a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal on September 28, 2023.
Philippine Coast Guard
At least once a month, when the Philippine military and the Philippine Coast Guard voyage to Ayungin Shoal for a mission to bring new troops and supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre, both Beijing and Manila are quick to issue statements on the inevitable tensions out in open sea.
Confrontations, including one in early March 2024 that caused bodily harm on Navy personnel, are a dangerous part of the routine, as China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia ships try to block and drive away Philippine ships.
The BRP Sierra Madre is a World War II vessel purposefully run aground in 1999, in response to China’s encroachment of nearby Mischief Reef. The ship, in all its rusty glory, remains in service and now serves as a Philippine military outpost.
When confrontations happen – collisions, dangerous maneuvers, water cannoning, among others – Beijing is almost always quick to claim “professional conduct.” Never mind that there are stills and footage of its coast guard using powerful water cannons on often smaller Philippine boats.
In all statements, Beijing decries Manila’s supposed encroachment on their territory (it’s not – Ayungin is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, according to a 2016 Arbitral Ruling) and supposed non-adherence to supposed previous commitments.
It turns out, Beijing had been operating on a different reality – not just on how they see features in the West Philippine Sea, but on the status of relations between the Philippines and China.
It seems Beijing had wanted “some understanding, an acquiescence” in trying to negotiate with Manila, the Manila Times reported, quoting a Chinese official.
According to the report, China wanted the Philippines to “commit not to transport large-scale building materials to reinforce the Sierra Madre,” referring to a World War II ship.
In turn, China would “agree” to let only one vessel through during regular rotation and resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre.
Former president Rodrigo Duterte, famous and infamous for promising a “pivot” to China, had supposedly made this “understanding” with China – that the Philippines would not “bring in large-scale building materials to Ayungin Shoal.”
In other words, said the anonymous Chinese official who spoke to the Manila Times, the Duterte administration promised Beijing that they would not be reinforcing the Sierra Madre, where a handful of soldiers are stationed at a time.
Unsurprisingly, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) fumed on Tuesday, March 12, in reaction to the Manila Times’ story on the Marcos administration’s supposed “inaction” over proposals to “normalize” the situation in the South China Sea.
In the newspaper report, the anonymous Chinese official said 11 concept papers were submitted to the Philippines “but these were met with inaction by the Marcos administration.”
“From the outset, the DFA wishes to underscore that the Philippines is approaching these confidential negotiations with utmost sincerity and good faith. We were, therefore, surprised by China’s disclosure of sensitive details of our bilateral discussions,” said the DFA in a statement.
One proposal, raised by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong back in March 2023, meant “actions that would be deemed as acquiescence or recognition of China’s control and administration over the Ayungin Shoal as China’s territory.”
“As Ayungin Shoal is a part of the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, the proposal of China could not be considered by the Philippines without violating the Philippine Constitution or international law,” added the DFA, noting that this was a proposal China had referred to as a “gentleman’s agreement.”
In a statement, the DFA denied claims that the Philippine government “ignored” China’s many proposals, saying they had “immediately undertaken serious study and consideration of all of them.
Without going into specifics, the DFA said: “While a few proposals were deemed somewhat workable, many of the remaining Chinese proposals were determined, after careful study, scrutiny and deliberation within the Philippine Government, to be contrary to our national interests.”
Still, the Philippines, said the DFA, submitted “counter-proposals.” In turn, China submitted its own counter-proposals, “which again did not reflect our interests, especially on issues such as the South China Sea,” according to the DFA.
Ties between the Philippines and China have hit a low point, almost two years into the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. China’s foreign minister has said ties are at a “crossroads”
Unlike his predecessor, who apparently made agreements that yielded to China, Marcos has taken a stronger stance against Beijing’s encroachment in the West Philippine Sea.
Marcos has brought Manila closer to its treaty-ally the United States, all while forging closer defense ties with countries both near and far: Japan, Australia, the European Union, and Canada, to name a few.
Under what’s been dubbed its “transparency initiative,” the Philippines has made it a point to make public Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea. The strategy – especially the presence of embedded Philippine and recently Western media – has incensed Beijing to no end.
To be sure, Philippine officials – diplomats, especially – have made sure to keep channels with China open.
Marcos met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a summit in San Francisco, but sources privy to the meeting say there was no reason to be hopeful after the meet.
In January 2024, Philippine diplomats travelled to Shanghai for the 8th Bilateral Consultation Meeting on the South China Sea (BCM).
Both China and the Philippines promised to improve communications – between diplomats and possibly even its coast guards. Yes, in the months and weeks that followed that high-stakes meeting, things have seemingly taken a turn for the worse.
Four Filipinos were injured in the last mission to Ayungin, after two China Coast Guard vessels blasted their water cannons on the Unaizah May 4, a civilian ship contracted by the Philippine Navy.
In another area in the West Philippine Sea, things are not any better: in Scarborough Shoal, China has also been liberal in its use of water cannons. Filipino fishermen are unable to enter the shoal any time they want.
Since Beijing refuses to budge, ignoring the 2016 Arbitral Ruling and insisting on its view of the South China Sea, and its view alone – how far can more talk really go? – Rappler.com
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What are these “confidential negotiations”? Why is it hidden from the Filipino People? Do the Filipino People have the right to know and be informed?
Correct! Taxpayers should be informed specially what transpired during the last administration’s dealings with this insensitive neighbor.
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Inside Apollo Quiboloy’s lavish world: Mansions, rich-and-famous lifestyle in North America | Herbie G | 12/3/2024 15:00 | PROPERTIES. Rappler investigation finds properties linked to doomsday preacher Apollo Quiboloy.
Graphics by Raffy De Guzman
(Editor’s note: Rappler on March 18 published another story about two more properties in the United States worth P262.52 million linked to Quiboloy and the KOJC. One is a lavish mansion in Las Vegas, while the Hawaii property was sold to a group with links to the church a few months after the pastor was temporarily detained in 2018. Read the investigative report here.)
Embattled doomsday preacher Apollo Quiboloy and his controversial Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) network are linked to multi-million-peso homes in North America – a glimpse of the rich lifestyle that he and his close associates have enjoyed through the years.
A Rappler investigation discovered three properties estimated to be worth $6.10 million (P338 million)* owned by individuals with close links to Quiboloy and the KOJC. Two of these are in Canada, while one is located in an affluent part of Los Angeles in California, near the homes of several celebrities.
The details are based on official documents obtained by Rappler on Monday, March 11, as well as information from sources privy to KOJC operations.
The discoveries came after former president Rodrigo Duterte was appointed caretaker of the properties belonging to the Quiboloy-led group. Besides the North American properties, there are also several landholdings in the Philippines, as well as an air fleet.
Quiboloy, as described by his mentor, Reverend Gordon Mallory of the United Pentecostal Church, “went from a pauper, a beggar, to a multi-billionaire,” with a “lifestyle of the rich and famous.”
“Money means nothing to him,” Mallory said.
Quiboloy has been in the US Federal Bureau of Investigation’s most-wanted list since early 2022, for sex trafficking of children and promotional money laundering, among others. An FBI poster says the preacher is also wanted for forcing members to “solicit donations for a bogus charity, donations that actually were used to finance church operations and the lavish lifestyle of its leaders.”
A Senate committee has cited him in contempt and has sought his arrest so he could testify before the panel which is looking into similar allegations of abuse and exploitation hurled by his former followers.
In a video posted on The Pentecostals of Cebu City Facebook page on January 30, Mallory said Quiboloy owns mansions and estates “all over the world,” confirming the one in California.
Mallory recalled being invited and brought to the California mansion with his wife, and seeing Quiboloy’s vehicles in the garage, which included a “brand new Bentley and a Mercedes.” He said the Filipino preacher also gave him a box that contained cash more than what his family needed to last six months.
“Justin Bieber has a house across the street; the Kardashians have a house down the street; Will Smith lives around the corner,” said Mallory who recalled the time he was invited to Quiboloy’s mansion.
The mansion stands on Simpson Place, a quiet residential neighborhood located in Calabasas, California. Known for its upscale homes, lush landscaping, and privacy afforded its residents, the area offers easy access to amenities and outdoor activities.
Calabasas, located in Los Angeles County, is known for its affluent neighborhoods and celebrity residents. Nestled in the hills west of the San Fernando Valley, it offers a mix of luxury homes, gated communities, and scenic hiking trails. The city also boasts of upscale shopping centers.
The six-bedroom Calabasas property is valued at US$2.573 million (P142.80 million), based on 2023 tax records seen by Rappler. Its land value was estimated to amount to US$1.19 million (P65.91 million) while improvements done to the property were pegged at US$1.39 million (P76.93 million). The owners paid a total of $29,409.94 (P1.63 million) in property taxes for the fiscal year 2023-2024.
The property was built in 1993 but was first bought by the KOJC in 2011 for US$2.1 million (P116.55 million), according to information obtained by Rappler. Since then, its ownership has been transferred four times among three entities – the KOJC, Helen Panilag, and Guia Cabactulan.
The last documented transaction was in 2018 when Cabactulan appeared to have bought the property from the church for an undisclosed price.
Panilag and Cabactulan are, however, known church associates of Quiboloy, and were among those indicted along with the preacher, by a federal grand jury in a California district court in late 2021.
Panilag is included in the US Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) most wanted list, alongside Quiboloy. She has been tagged by the FBI as “the alleged one-time church administrator in the [US] who oversaw the collection of financial data from church operations around the globe.” She has also been wanted for her alleged “participation in a labor trafficking scheme that brought church members” to the US, including fraudulently obtaining visas and forcing members to solicit donations.
Cabactulan, meanwhile, has been described as “the top KOJC official in the United States who maintained direct communication with KOJC leadership in the Philippines.” She was arrested in January 2020 in the US for immigration fraud.
Another KOJC member included in the FBI’s wanted list – Teresita Dandan – was registered as a resident of the Calabasas property since May 2012. Dandan, according to the FBI, served as the alleged “international administrator,” and one of the top overseers of the church and its alleged bogus charity operations in the US.
Former KOJC workers, who turned against Quiboloy, said the preacher bought the mansion in 2011 and sold it sometime in October 2018, months after authorities held his private plane, where they found a suitcase containing US$350,000 (P19.4 million) in undeclared cash and assorted gun parts, in Hawaii. As it turns out, the buyer in 2018 is also a member of the KOJC.
“I’ve been to that mansion,” Arlene Caminong-Stone, a former KOJC worker based in Minnesota, told Rappler on Sunday, March 11. Stone was one of those who testified online against Quiboloy at the start of the Senate panel hearings in January, narrating details about the alleged abuses by the preacher and providing insights into the inner workings of the KOJC.
According to former KOJC workers, Quiboloy also bought mansions in Canada. One is an over P99-million house in Surrey, and another on Latania Boulevard in Brampton City in Ontario’s Greater Toronto Area.
The seven-bedroom property in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada is about half an hour away from Vancouver. It was first built in 2003, and is just a 15-minute drive from a KOJC church on 13055 Old Yale Road, also in Surrey.
Based on tax records seen by Rappler, the Surrey property was assessed to be worth CAD$2.42 million (US$1.79 million/P99.5 million) in 2023. Its land value was estimated to be worth CAD$1.68 million (US$1.25 million/P69 million) and improvements done on the property cost CAD$734,000 (US$544,197/P30.17 million).
The owners paid CAD$7,297.54 (US$5,410/P300,000) in gross taxes for 2023.
A document obtained by Rappler from the Land Title and Survey Authority of British Columbia shows that the property is owned by another known Quiboloy associate, Mariteo Canada. Her name was cited in an article posted on Quiboloy’s website. She was also tagged as part of Quiboloy’s delegation in an event with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples in 2022.
The four-bedroom property in Brampton, Ontario is situated along Latania Boulevard, a half-hour car ride to Toronto. Houses in the area are priced not less than CAD$1 million each, according to real estate websites.
The alleged Quiboloy-linked property was first listed as being for sale in April 2010 for CAD$699,000 (US$518,243/P27.73 million) and was sold the same year for CAD$658,000 (US$487,826/P27 million).
The property was last listed as being available in September 2020 for CAD$1.45 million (US$1.74 million/P96.25 million) but with no indication whether it was successfully sold. Taxes paid were estimated to be CAD$7,721 (US$5,723/P317,249).
According to a property document obtained by Rappler, one of the two listed owners is linked to the KOJC. Her profile on LinkedIn showed that she is an “administrative assistant” of the church. A cursory search of other names included in the document also showed connections to Quiboloy’s group.
The property is half an hour’s drive from the nearest KOJC headquarters.
Quiboloy’s group has been open about many of their properties, especially those in the Philippines.
Among the notable properties owned by the group are well-manicured estates in the village of Tamayong in Calinan District in Davao. Tamayong serves as the KOJC’s headquarters and is where the preacher built his mansion, near the group’s so-called Prayer Mountain.
Aside from the approximately eight-hectare Prayer Mountain, Quiboloy’s group also owns what they refer to as Glory Mountain, roughly a 21-hectare property, in the same village.
According to KOJC workers, Quiboloy has landholdings in Samal Island city, and at Purok 8, Barangay San Miguel in Indangan Buhangin, Davao City, where the preacher set up the main headquarters of the allegedly bogus charity group, the Children’s Joy Foundation.
Quiboloy’s group also owns the Jose Maria College (JMC), and an unfinished multi-billion-peso mixed-use indoor arena, touted to dwarf the close to P9-billion Iglesia ni Cristo Philippine Arena in Bulacan. Located near Davao’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport, the King Dome, according to a November 2019 Sunstar report, was envisioned to be the biggest indoor arena “with a seating capacity of 70,000, bigger than the Philippine Arena, which is currently the world’s largest indoor arena with a maximum seating capacity of 55,000.”
ApolloAir, a Davao-based airline owned by Quiboloy, maintains an aircraft fleet that includes Bell 429 and 505 light helicopters, a Robinson R44 four-seat light helicopter, and two planes.
Senator Robinhood Padilla told reporters on Thursday, March 7, that Quiboloy lent him one of his helicopters when he campaigned for a Senate seat in 2022.
One plane, a US$18-million (P999 million) Cessna Citation Sovereign+, was bought in 2014 and was sold back to Cessna for US$9 million (P499.5 million) after the 2018 Hawaii incident. Another is a Gulfstream IIB transcontinental twin turbofan-powered aircraft, which was decommissioned in 2010 because it was no longer airworthy.
Quiboloy has been very generous toward his friends, especially Duterte, his new property administrator, with whom he forged a friendship dating back to the years preceding the latter’s presidency.
In 2016, Duterte openly acknowledged being gifted by Quiboloy with three properties in Woodridge Park in Ma-a, along with an additional lot in Royal Pines located in Matina, Davao City. Aside from real estate holdings, Duterte disclosed that Quiboloy had also gifted him with a Nissan Safari and Ford Expedition several years prior.
Duterte said Quiboloy was so generous that whenever the preacher made a purchase, he would buy two so he could give him the other one.
He also recalled that Quiboloy had even offered to cover the expenses for the then-mayor’s consultation with a known American neurosurgeon, Dr. Martin Cooper, after the preacher learned about his sweaty palms.
Quiboloy has humble beginnings, starting as a 19-year-old Pentecostal convert in the late 1960s, recalled Reverend Mallory who claimed to have mentored the then-young preacher long before he started building his religious empire.
“We took him out of a hut…. He and his family used to beg for food…. His teeth were rotten and we took him to a dentist,” the aging Mallory, preaching, told his congregation.
The American preacher said Quiboloy lived with him for eight years, and they sent him to a Bible school where he excelled. Years later, Quiboloy declared himself the “appointed son of God,” and has repeatedly claimed that without him, there will be no eternal salvation.
“He developed into a wonderful preacher and became our national youth president…. But somewhere along the line, he tripped up, left our organization, formed his own, and became something he really isn’t, but he really started to lift himself up…. He turned his back on the apostolic truth,” Mallory said.
Quiboloy traces his roots to the ultraconservative Oneness Pentecostal movement that began in the early 20th century, particularly in the US. It emphasizes a monotheistic view of God, departing from the conventional doctrine of the Trinity.
Oneness Pentecostals maintain their belief in a singular divine being who reveals himself in three manifestations, as opposed to the orthodox Christian concept of the Trinity consisting of three distinct persons.
Quiboloy has admitted to going into hiding even before Philippine authorities could issue an arrest order, citing purported threats of assassination. – Rappler.com
*$1 = P55.5
If you have tips about properties linked to Apollo Quiboloy and the KOJC or any other helpful information, you may share them with us via email: [email protected].
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Thanks to Rappler’s investigative journalists Jodesz Gavilan and Herbie Gomez, whose work gives ordinary Filipinos a view of the lavish world of Pastor Quiboloy. Based on Reverend Mallory’s statement, Pastor Quiboloy is now the world’s most affluent religious leader. Indeed, his life follows this line: “… from rags to multi-billion worth of riches.” Now, it could end up either as 1) “… to a life of blessing in a faraway island nation beyond the reach of both US and Philippine Laws or 2a) “… to a privileged prison life (most likely in the Philippines)” or 2b) “… to a non-privileged prison life.” All this will depend on whatever God will do to his “appointed son.”
Option 2B seems most fitting. The world is tired of people like this who steal from others for their own enrichment.
How does this make you feel? | Rappler | https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/investigative/apollo-quiboloy-mansions-properties-lifestyle-north-america/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0L-VwjRBUdg-EpbYN97VPUzDFisqWhEYTPJgfOtgCz6Ua0CHQQenMGfDQ_aem_AEFIBEMRSUD_lU5MZHaxVg |
[Free to Disagree] Arrest Quiboloy! | Glenda Gloria | 11/3/2024 15:36 | My fitness coach and I discuss politics even if we have disagreements. We did not vote for the same politicians over several elections. He also describes himself as conservative while I like to think I am progressive.
One thing we agree on is that political differences should not be a reason to avoid discussions. The trick is, we try to figure out what we can agree on.
In my most recent training session, we agreed that Apollo Quiboloy should be arrested and brought to trial for the crimes of which he is accused. These crimes have been highlighted by the Senate committee investigation led by Senator Risa Hontiveros. Sexual abuse, child abuse, human trafficking, labor exploitation have been testified to by eight witnesses who are credible.
Senator Hontiveros’ investigation is by no means the only process that has brought about credible evidence of heinous crimes committed by the “appointed son of God”. The Department of Justice has ordered the filing of charges for child abuse and qualified human trafficking. If convicted, the man who says he decides whether I will roll past the pearly gates, will himself enter the gates of Bilibid.
Similarly, a US court has unsealed a warrant of arrest for Quiboloy, making him desired not only in heaven but also in court in the US. Truly a most wanted man.
The other thing my fitness coach and I agree on is that Senator Robin Padilla has defiled himself before the temple of Apollo in a farce that would have Aristophanes turning in his grave. (Look it up Robin. Or have your staff google it for you.)
“Respectfully” objecting to Senator Hontiveros’ move to cite Quiboloy in contempt without giving a reason is a bit like saying “gonna comb my mustache in a public hearing in the Senate with all due respect”. Some things are just inexplicable. Not miraculous, inexplicable.
Later, St. Robin the obtunded, gave his reason for objecting by saying he felt that the self-proclaimed “owner of the universe” is a victim.
In any case, the move to dishonor the Senate and sacrifice its powers to cite in contempt and then arrest those who defy the legitimate use of its authority, shows us that Robin is willing to sacrifice the integrity of the institution he is supposed to serve for the benefit of a new religious movement and its leader. Sounds cultish, oh, sorry, saintly to me.
Also Padilla doesn’t seem to have read the Constitution. He explains further that his objection is based on the Constitutional provision on the separation between church and state. I guess he interprets this to mean that any son of a man can call himself “messiah” and no longer be subject to our criminal laws.
He has seemingly sworn an oath of friendship to Quiboloy that he considers higher than the oath he swore to the Republic when he became a member of the Senate.
Guilty of similar “saintly” behavior are Senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos and Bong Go who have also opposed the move to cite Quibble boy in contempt.
Senator Cynthia Villar says that she opposes the move because she is friends with the pastor and he has been good to her family. This reminds me of the observation of some that the Villar style of governance starts with the first principle, “what is good for my family is good for the nation.”
If I were to choose a Marcos for canonization, I would choose Imee. She says amusing things, went to extremes to get a UP degree and once even hinted she understood the concept of an apology for her father’s misdeeds. But it is good that UP did not give her a law degree. Her reason for coming to the aid of the “self-appointed savior” like a latter-day Veronica, is that she is unsure that the Senate was investigating in aid of legislation. So let me summarize and interpret for her, the opinion of Jaye Bekema, who does have a law degree.
First, we need laws that define consent and sexual abuse in the context of religious settings where patriarchal norms, the surrender of will and unquestioning allegiance to the leader (a common sign of cults) is the norm. Second, we need to improve laws to protect workers rights because working in a volunteer labor arrangement still means that one should be fully protected from abuse. Lastly we need to look at the guarantee of religious freedom as this relates to anti-trafficking laws (Robin, hello! Finished with the mustache yet?).
But alas, in this instance, Senators Villar and Marcos prove yet again that being a woman and occasionally spouting pro-woman words don’t necessarily make you a woman’s advocate. Did these two not bother to hear the heart-rending testimonies of child abuse and sexual abuse? Do they not yet understand the decades-old call not to invalidate women when they speak of abuse? And before these two or their defenders say that there have been false accusations in past, may I remind them of the nature of the evidence presented?
Please do not gaslight us by saying that your unprincipled partisanship is actually impartiality.
As for Senator Go, he doesn’t seem to have a reason. Or at least I could not find a news report for his reasons. He has nothing to say. As it has been in the past, so it is now, so it will be forever and ever – he has nothing to say. He seems not to question the way. His is to obey.
The only question I ask is, “who is he obeying exactly?” My fitness coach and I ask also, why do they obey? What is their agenda? Are helicopter rides and free air time enough of a reason to behave as if one is a citizen of the Kingdom? Please say that a senator’s vote cannot have become so cheap. But then again, what am I saying? That there is a price? A higher price for joining the Kingdom of Jesus Christ? Heaven forbid!
I suppose I have booked myself an appointment with the “appointed” for my lack of faith in his cosmic power and heavenly righteousness. Let me raise the stakes.
So what happens next? I assume he cannot come in person to smite me because there is scuttlebutt that the transcendent and omnipotent has gone into hiding. Likely, I will be hit by a lightning bolt when I step outside. I will put in my will, instructions for my sons whom I have anointed (with baby oil when they were little) but not appointed, to inform Rappler of my demise.
But I am actually less afraid of Quiboloy’s superpowers than I am of the abuse of decency by the Senate’s gang of four. Afraid for the Senate, afraid for our women, afraid for our country. – Rappler.com
Sylvia Estrada Claudio is a medical doctor who also holds a PhD in psychology. She is Professor Emerita of the University of the Philippines-Diliman.
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Thanks to Dr. Sylvia Estrada Claudio for her inspiring and enlightening ideas. As long as she is not in Davao City, only a lightning bolt, not a bullet from a gun, may strike her. If Quiboloy will succeed in overpowering our Senate through the help of his minions there, then we have to be afraid. Just as Dr. Claudio concluded her article: “Afraid for the Senate, afraid for our women, afraid for our country.”
How does this make you feel? | Rappler | https://www.rappler.com/voices/thought-leaders/free-to-disagree-arrest-quiboloy/?utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Social&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0IzXcZ1MdMBQD7d75Z-hqlsJXts0EcPaoR4uoG7c8gQYwT5OJALbRMAiM_aem_2rL3mGPF8ktooAIHWcA1gw |
Inside Apollo Quiboloy’s lavish world: Mansions, rich-and-famous lifestyle in North America | Herbie G | 12/3/2024 15:00 | PROPERTIES. Rappler investigation finds properties linked to doomsday preacher Apollo Quiboloy.
Graphics by Raffy De Guzman
(Editor’s note: Rappler on March 18 published another story about two more properties in the United States worth P262.52 million linked to Quiboloy and the KOJC. One is a lavish mansion in Las Vegas, while the Hawaii property was sold to a group with links to the church a few months after the pastor was temporarily detained in 2018. Read the investigative report here.)
Embattled doomsday preacher Apollo Quiboloy and his controversial Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) network are linked to multi-million-peso homes in North America – a glimpse of the rich lifestyle that he and his close associates have enjoyed through the years.
A Rappler investigation discovered three properties estimated to be worth $6.10 million (P338 million)* owned by individuals with close links to Quiboloy and the KOJC. Two of these are in Canada, while one is located in an affluent part of Los Angeles in California, near the homes of several celebrities.
The details are based on official documents obtained by Rappler on Monday, March 11, as well as information from sources privy to KOJC operations.
The discoveries came after former president Rodrigo Duterte was appointed caretaker of the properties belonging to the Quiboloy-led group. Besides the North American properties, there are also several landholdings in the Philippines, as well as an air fleet.
Quiboloy, as described by his mentor, Reverend Gordon Mallory of the United Pentecostal Church, “went from a pauper, a beggar, to a multi-billionaire,” with a “lifestyle of the rich and famous.”
“Money means nothing to him,” Mallory said.
Quiboloy has been in the US Federal Bureau of Investigation’s most-wanted list since early 2022, for sex trafficking of children and promotional money laundering, among others. An FBI poster says the preacher is also wanted for forcing members to “solicit donations for a bogus charity, donations that actually were used to finance church operations and the lavish lifestyle of its leaders.”
A Senate committee has cited him in contempt and has sought his arrest so he could testify before the panel which is looking into similar allegations of abuse and exploitation hurled by his former followers.
In a video posted on The Pentecostals of Cebu City Facebook page on January 30, Mallory said Quiboloy owns mansions and estates “all over the world,” confirming the one in California.
Mallory recalled being invited and brought to the California mansion with his wife, and seeing Quiboloy’s vehicles in the garage, which included a “brand new Bentley and a Mercedes.” He said the Filipino preacher also gave him a box that contained cash more than what his family needed to last six months.
“Justin Bieber has a house across the street; the Kardashians have a house down the street; Will Smith lives around the corner,” said Mallory who recalled the time he was invited to Quiboloy’s mansion.
The mansion stands on Simpson Place, a quiet residential neighborhood located in Calabasas, California. Known for its upscale homes, lush landscaping, and privacy afforded its residents, the area offers easy access to amenities and outdoor activities.
Calabasas, located in Los Angeles County, is known for its affluent neighborhoods and celebrity residents. Nestled in the hills west of the San Fernando Valley, it offers a mix of luxury homes, gated communities, and scenic hiking trails. The city also boasts of upscale shopping centers.
The six-bedroom Calabasas property is valued at US$2.573 million (P142.80 million), based on 2023 tax records seen by Rappler. Its land value was estimated to amount to US$1.19 million (P65.91 million) while improvements done to the property were pegged at US$1.39 million (P76.93 million). The owners paid a total of $29,409.94 (P1.63 million) in property taxes for the fiscal year 2023-2024.
The property was built in 1993 but was first bought by the KOJC in 2011 for US$2.1 million (P116.55 million), according to information obtained by Rappler. Since then, its ownership has been transferred four times among three entities – the KOJC, Helen Panilag, and Guia Cabactulan.
The last documented transaction was in 2018 when Cabactulan appeared to have bought the property from the church for an undisclosed price.
Panilag and Cabactulan are, however, known church associates of Quiboloy, and were among those indicted along with the preacher, by a federal grand jury in a California district court in late 2021.
Panilag is included in the US Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) most wanted list, alongside Quiboloy. She has been tagged by the FBI as “the alleged one-time church administrator in the [US] who oversaw the collection of financial data from church operations around the globe.” She has also been wanted for her alleged “participation in a labor trafficking scheme that brought church members” to the US, including fraudulently obtaining visas and forcing members to solicit donations.
Cabactulan, meanwhile, has been described as “the top KOJC official in the United States who maintained direct communication with KOJC leadership in the Philippines.” She was arrested in January 2020 in the US for immigration fraud.
Another KOJC member included in the FBI’s wanted list – Teresita Dandan – was registered as a resident of the Calabasas property since May 2012. Dandan, according to the FBI, served as the alleged “international administrator,” and one of the top overseers of the church and its alleged bogus charity operations in the US.
Former KOJC workers, who turned against Quiboloy, said the preacher bought the mansion in 2011 and sold it sometime in October 2018, months after authorities held his private plane, where they found a suitcase containing US$350,000 (P19.4 million) in undeclared cash and assorted gun parts, in Hawaii. As it turns out, the buyer in 2018 is also a member of the KOJC.
“I’ve been to that mansion,” Arlene Caminong-Stone, a former KOJC worker based in Minnesota, told Rappler on Sunday, March 11. Stone was one of those who testified online against Quiboloy at the start of the Senate panel hearings in January, narrating details about the alleged abuses by the preacher and providing insights into the inner workings of the KOJC.
According to former KOJC workers, Quiboloy also bought mansions in Canada. One is an over P99-million house in Surrey, and another on Latania Boulevard in Brampton City in Ontario’s Greater Toronto Area.
The seven-bedroom property in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada is about half an hour away from Vancouver. It was first built in 2003, and is just a 15-minute drive from a KOJC church on 13055 Old Yale Road, also in Surrey.
Based on tax records seen by Rappler, the Surrey property was assessed to be worth CAD$2.42 million (US$1.79 million/P99.5 million) in 2023. Its land value was estimated to be worth CAD$1.68 million (US$1.25 million/P69 million) and improvements done on the property cost CAD$734,000 (US$544,197/P30.17 million).
The owners paid CAD$7,297.54 (US$5,410/P300,000) in gross taxes for 2023.
A document obtained by Rappler from the Land Title and Survey Authority of British Columbia shows that the property is owned by another known Quiboloy associate, Mariteo Canada. Her name was cited in an article posted on Quiboloy’s website. She was also tagged as part of Quiboloy’s delegation in an event with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples in 2022.
The four-bedroom property in Brampton, Ontario is situated along Latania Boulevard, a half-hour car ride to Toronto. Houses in the area are priced not less than CAD$1 million each, according to real estate websites.
The alleged Quiboloy-linked property was first listed as being for sale in April 2010 for CAD$699,000 (US$518,243/P27.73 million) and was sold the same year for CAD$658,000 (US$487,826/P27 million).
The property was last listed as being available in September 2020 for CAD$1.45 million (US$1.74 million/P96.25 million) but with no indication whether it was successfully sold. Taxes paid were estimated to be CAD$7,721 (US$5,723/P317,249).
According to a property document obtained by Rappler, one of the two listed owners is linked to the KOJC. Her profile on LinkedIn showed that she is an “administrative assistant” of the church. A cursory search of other names included in the document also showed connections to Quiboloy’s group.
The property is half an hour’s drive from the nearest KOJC headquarters.
Quiboloy’s group has been open about many of their properties, especially those in the Philippines.
Among the notable properties owned by the group are well-manicured estates in the village of Tamayong in Calinan District in Davao. Tamayong serves as the KOJC’s headquarters and is where the preacher built his mansion, near the group’s so-called Prayer Mountain.
Aside from the approximately eight-hectare Prayer Mountain, Quiboloy’s group also owns what they refer to as Glory Mountain, roughly a 21-hectare property, in the same village.
According to KOJC workers, Quiboloy has landholdings in Samal Island city, and at Purok 8, Barangay San Miguel in Indangan Buhangin, Davao City, where the preacher set up the main headquarters of the allegedly bogus charity group, the Children’s Joy Foundation.
Quiboloy’s group also owns the Jose Maria College (JMC), and an unfinished multi-billion-peso mixed-use indoor arena, touted to dwarf the close to P9-billion Iglesia ni Cristo Philippine Arena in Bulacan. Located near Davao’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport, the King Dome, according to a November 2019 Sunstar report, was envisioned to be the biggest indoor arena “with a seating capacity of 70,000, bigger than the Philippine Arena, which is currently the world’s largest indoor arena with a maximum seating capacity of 55,000.”
ApolloAir, a Davao-based airline owned by Quiboloy, maintains an aircraft fleet that includes Bell 429 and 505 light helicopters, a Robinson R44 four-seat light helicopter, and two planes.
Senator Robinhood Padilla told reporters on Thursday, March 7, that Quiboloy lent him one of his helicopters when he campaigned for a Senate seat in 2022.
One plane, a US$18-million (P999 million) Cessna Citation Sovereign+, was bought in 2014 and was sold back to Cessna for US$9 million (P499.5 million) after the 2018 Hawaii incident. Another is a Gulfstream IIB transcontinental twin turbofan-powered aircraft, which was decommissioned in 2010 because it was no longer airworthy.
Quiboloy has been very generous toward his friends, especially Duterte, his new property administrator, with whom he forged a friendship dating back to the years preceding the latter’s presidency.
In 2016, Duterte openly acknowledged being gifted by Quiboloy with three properties in Woodridge Park in Ma-a, along with an additional lot in Royal Pines located in Matina, Davao City. Aside from real estate holdings, Duterte disclosed that Quiboloy had also gifted him with a Nissan Safari and Ford Expedition several years prior.
Duterte said Quiboloy was so generous that whenever the preacher made a purchase, he would buy two so he could give him the other one.
He also recalled that Quiboloy had even offered to cover the expenses for the then-mayor’s consultation with a known American neurosurgeon, Dr. Martin Cooper, after the preacher learned about his sweaty palms.
Quiboloy has humble beginnings, starting as a 19-year-old Pentecostal convert in the late 1960s, recalled Reverend Mallory who claimed to have mentored the then-young preacher long before he started building his religious empire.
“We took him out of a hut…. He and his family used to beg for food…. His teeth were rotten and we took him to a dentist,” the aging Mallory, preaching, told his congregation.
The American preacher said Quiboloy lived with him for eight years, and they sent him to a Bible school where he excelled. Years later, Quiboloy declared himself the “appointed son of God,” and has repeatedly claimed that without him, there will be no eternal salvation.
“He developed into a wonderful preacher and became our national youth president…. But somewhere along the line, he tripped up, left our organization, formed his own, and became something he really isn’t, but he really started to lift himself up…. He turned his back on the apostolic truth,” Mallory said.
Quiboloy traces his roots to the ultraconservative Oneness Pentecostal movement that began in the early 20th century, particularly in the US. It emphasizes a monotheistic view of God, departing from the conventional doctrine of the Trinity.
Oneness Pentecostals maintain their belief in a singular divine being who reveals himself in three manifestations, as opposed to the orthodox Christian concept of the Trinity consisting of three distinct persons.
Quiboloy has admitted to going into hiding even before Philippine authorities could issue an arrest order, citing purported threats of assassination. – Rappler.com
*$1 = P55.5
If you have tips about properties linked to Apollo Quiboloy and the KOJC or any other helpful information, you may share them with us via email: [email protected].
Error.
Please abide by Rappler's commenting guidelines.
Thanks to Rappler’s investigative journalists Jodesz Gavilan and Herbie Gomez, whose work gives ordinary Filipinos a view of the lavish world of Pastor Quiboloy. Based on Reverend Mallory’s statement, Pastor Quiboloy is now the world’s most affluent religious leader. Indeed, his life follows this line: “… from rags to multi-billion worth of riches.” Now, it could end up either as 1) “… to a life of blessing in a faraway island nation beyond the reach of both US and Philippine Laws or 2a) “… to a privileged prison life (most likely in the Philippines)” or 2b) “… to a non-privileged prison life.” All this will depend on whatever God will do to his “appointed son.”
Option 2B seems most fitting. The world is tired of people like this who steal from others for their own enrichment.
How does this make you feel? | Rappler | https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/investigative/apollo-quiboloy-mansions-properties-lifestyle-north-america/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2IExZCUTH_DugRiFH66mm3A0xlfwLnqsQ2U5gLERxFQ8uVTLdK4C-XLIs_aem_zCMGMh_jK0VqvxeYa9n4-g |
DFA fumes as China makes public ‘sensitive details,’ including Duterte-era deal | Bea Cupin | 12/3/2024 17:24 | AYUNGIN MISSION. Chinese ships surround a Philippine Coast Guard ship on a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal on September 28, 2023.
Philippine Coast Guard
At least once a month, when the Philippine military and the Philippine Coast Guard voyage to Ayungin Shoal for a mission to bring new troops and supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre, both Beijing and Manila are quick to issue statements on the inevitable tensions out in open sea.
Confrontations, including one in early March 2024 that caused bodily harm on Navy personnel, are a dangerous part of the routine, as China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia ships try to block and drive away Philippine ships.
The BRP Sierra Madre is a World War II vessel purposefully run aground in 1999, in response to China’s encroachment of nearby Mischief Reef. The ship, in all its rusty glory, remains in service and now serves as a Philippine military outpost.
When confrontations happen – collisions, dangerous maneuvers, water cannoning, among others – Beijing is almost always quick to claim “professional conduct.” Never mind that there are stills and footage of its coast guard using powerful water cannons on often smaller Philippine boats.
In all statements, Beijing decries Manila’s supposed encroachment on their territory (it’s not – Ayungin is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, according to a 2016 Arbitral Ruling) and supposed non-adherence to supposed previous commitments.
It turns out, Beijing had been operating on a different reality – not just on how they see features in the West Philippine Sea, but on the status of relations between the Philippines and China.
It seems Beijing had wanted “some understanding, an acquiescence” in trying to negotiate with Manila, the Manila Times reported, quoting a Chinese official.
According to the report, China wanted the Philippines to “commit not to transport large-scale building materials to reinforce the Sierra Madre,” referring to a World War II ship.
In turn, China would “agree” to let only one vessel through during regular rotation and resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre.
Former president Rodrigo Duterte, famous and infamous for promising a “pivot” to China, had supposedly made this “understanding” with China – that the Philippines would not “bring in large-scale building materials to Ayungin Shoal.”
In other words, said the anonymous Chinese official who spoke to the Manila Times, the Duterte administration promised Beijing that they would not be reinforcing the Sierra Madre, where a handful of soldiers are stationed at a time.
Unsurprisingly, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) fumed on Tuesday, March 12, in reaction to the Manila Times’ story on the Marcos administration’s supposed “inaction” over proposals to “normalize” the situation in the South China Sea.
In the newspaper report, the anonymous Chinese official said 11 concept papers were submitted to the Philippines “but these were met with inaction by the Marcos administration.”
“From the outset, the DFA wishes to underscore that the Philippines is approaching these confidential negotiations with utmost sincerity and good faith. We were, therefore, surprised by China’s disclosure of sensitive details of our bilateral discussions,” said the DFA in a statement.
One proposal, raised by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong back in March 2023, meant “actions that would be deemed as acquiescence or recognition of China’s control and administration over the Ayungin Shoal as China’s territory.”
“As Ayungin Shoal is a part of the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, the proposal of China could not be considered by the Philippines without violating the Philippine Constitution or international law,” added the DFA, noting that this was a proposal China had referred to as a “gentleman’s agreement.”
In a statement, the DFA denied claims that the Philippine government “ignored” China’s many proposals, saying they had “immediately undertaken serious study and consideration of all of them.
Without going into specifics, the DFA said: “While a few proposals were deemed somewhat workable, many of the remaining Chinese proposals were determined, after careful study, scrutiny and deliberation within the Philippine Government, to be contrary to our national interests.”
Still, the Philippines, said the DFA, submitted “counter-proposals.” In turn, China submitted its own counter-proposals, “which again did not reflect our interests, especially on issues such as the South China Sea,” according to the DFA.
Ties between the Philippines and China have hit a low point, almost two years into the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. China’s foreign minister has said ties are at a “crossroads”
Unlike his predecessor, who apparently made agreements that yielded to China, Marcos has taken a stronger stance against Beijing’s encroachment in the West Philippine Sea.
Marcos has brought Manila closer to its treaty-ally the United States, all while forging closer defense ties with countries both near and far: Japan, Australia, the European Union, and Canada, to name a few.
Under what’s been dubbed its “transparency initiative,” the Philippines has made it a point to make public Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea. The strategy – especially the presence of embedded Philippine and recently Western media – has incensed Beijing to no end.
To be sure, Philippine officials – diplomats, especially – have made sure to keep channels with China open.
Marcos met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a summit in San Francisco, but sources privy to the meeting say there was no reason to be hopeful after the meet.
In January 2024, Philippine diplomats travelled to Shanghai for the 8th Bilateral Consultation Meeting on the South China Sea (BCM).
Both China and the Philippines promised to improve communications – between diplomats and possibly even its coast guards. Yes, in the months and weeks that followed that high-stakes meeting, things have seemingly taken a turn for the worse.
Four Filipinos were injured in the last mission to Ayungin, after two China Coast Guard vessels blasted their water cannons on the Unaizah May 4, a civilian ship contracted by the Philippine Navy.
In another area in the West Philippine Sea, things are not any better: in Scarborough Shoal, China has also been liberal in its use of water cannons. Filipino fishermen are unable to enter the shoal any time they want.
Since Beijing refuses to budge, ignoring the 2016 Arbitral Ruling and insisting on its view of the South China Sea, and its view alone – how far can more talk really go? – Rappler.com
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What are these “confidential negotiations”? Why is it hidden from the Filipino People? Do the Filipino People have the right to know and be informed?
Correct! Taxpayers should be informed specially what transpired during the last administration’s dealings with this insensitive neighbor.
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NU’s got it all for you: Belen, Disquitado show force in Bulldogs’ 5-game win streaks | jisaga0269 | 12/3/2024 14:29 | ALL BARK, ALL BITE. NU Lady Bulldogs spiker Bella Belen and NU Bulldogs spiker Jade Disquitado react in the UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – After both going through its share of uncharacteristic opening-day losses, National University is now back on top where it belongs in the UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments.
Former rookie MVP Bella Belen has once again been a force in the women’s division, nimbly complementing her reliable scoring punch with undeniable defensive stats that the Lady Bulldogs sorely needed in their five-game winning streak since losing to the UST Golden Tigresses.
NU’s men’s team has likewise picked up the pace, with first-year standout Jade Disquitado definitively avenging the Bulldogs’ end of a lengthy 34-game victory run through a powerful attacking skill set already beyond his years.
For their consistent efforts in lifting the vaunted NU volleyball program through the early goings of the season, Belen and Disquitado have been named the Collegiate Press Corps Players of the Week for the period of March 6 to 10.
Ever the feisty, yet humble star, the 21-year-old Belen deflected credit of her recent achievements to her teammates, who have helped her get the Lady Bulldogs back on track with their own standout performances.
“We’re really happy because we’ve seen that we can all contribute,” she said in Filipino. “Our team is not about building star players. We all want to rise as one, with no one left behind.”
Belen, who averaged 15.0 points, 14.5 excellent digs, and 8 excellent receptions in the week’s two-game stretch, bested La Salle rival and MVP Angel Canino, former Player of the Week Angge Poyos of UST, and FEU leader Gerzel Petallo for the award handed by reporters regularly covering the beat.
Disquitado, the 2023 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference Finals MVP, likewise deferred his outings to the people surrounding him, most notably NU’s multi-titled system architect Dante Alinsunurin.
“I’m just happy that I’m having good games while following Coach Dante’s system and following my teammates,” he said in Filipino.
The 19-year-old hotshot, who peaked with a 29-point, 23-reception outing over FEU, bested teammate Owa Retamar, La Salle’s Vince Maglinao, and Ateneo’s Jian Salarzon for the award presented by the San Miguel Corporation and supported by minor sponsors Discovery Suites and Jockey. – Rappler.com
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How does this make you feel? | Rappler | https://www.rappler.com/sports/uaap/men-women-volleyball-player-week-nu-bella-belen-jade-disquitado-march-6-10-2024/?utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Social&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2yAIEN4wCpFWPR4pU4EzyyxSEPNo4juxTEpXm2IuEmMVZa1T4-awNyWgY_aem_MdmgQ70OFoFm2z1U1kHHwQ |
WATCH: When activists are abducted and forced to ‘surrender’ | Lian Buan | 11/3/2024 18:49 | MANILA, Philippines – So far there have been 14 documented incidents of activists being abducted, and then forced to “surrender” as communist rebels supposedly returning to the fold of government. Some surrenders are quiet, some require big announcements from the military service.
Others are not documented at all.
Watch this special report on the two most recent cases involving four young activists who played their captors. They are alive, and ready to tell their story. In one case, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) found a smoking gun against the military’s intelligence service.
Read related stories:
– Rappler.com
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[Rappler’s Best] Where the streets have no name | lfangeles0309 | 12/3/2024 13:45 | Nico Villarete/Rappler
Have you spent any of your weekends biking? You probably have – just to tune out or flex those frozen legs. But our 24-year-old environment reporter Iya Gozum is a hardcore biker. Thus it comes as no surprise that she’s turned her passion into one breathtaking story. She biked for 120 kilometers throughout Metro Manila to see how (un) friendly the nation’s capital is to bikers like her.
Watch her zigzag through the urban maze here.
As I biked with Iya virtually, her laps and turns and stops reminded me of a U2 song, “Where the Streets Have No Name.” Depending on how you’ve soaked in U2 history, the song is an ode to breaking free or to a world not segregated according to wealthy or filthy streets. The Philippines is one of the most class-conscious societies in the world, as eminent writer and teacher Butch Dalisay told us in this interview, and there’s no better proof of this than the streets where we live.
It doesn’t take much to realize it. If you live in an upper middle-class neighborhood, you’d have no trouble finding bike lanes for your daily exercise. A wealthy, well-managed city such as Iloilo City, named top bike-friendly city in 2021, can offer a bike tour – something that other cities are unable to. Iya herself concluded that Taguig, in particular, the elite BGC enclave, scored high in the bike-friendly department in the metro.
Why are there no sufficient spaces for bikes and more accessible means of transport? Again, class. As Iya’s investigation showed, our roads are built and maintained for private, not mass, transport, to the extent that they have become extended parking areas for cars. The biggest obstacle to a safe bike journey is the number of parked vehicles along Metro Manila’s major streets, according to Iya’s report. It’s after all an undeniable fact that most cities and towns have a bias for cars and private vehicles.
But it’s never too late to reimagine our cities.
The COVID-19 lockdown gave rise to pop-up bike lanes, and our daily traffic nightmare that’s costing us sanity and money is pushing us to look collectively for solutions.
Beyond the need for more lanes for active transport is the gaping hole in the country’s mass transport system. A few, even if delayed, fixes are being done, however.
Rappler’s Lance Spencer Yu gives us a tour of the initial construction phase of the Metro Manila Subway. Watch his report from 38 meters below the ground at the subway’s North Avenue Station in Quezon City. How will the 33-kilometer subway work once done? Here’s a guide to its 17 stations.
Unfortunately, there’s a price to pay for modernization: the Philippine National Railways will cease operations for at least five years, starting on March 28, to give way to the construction of the North-South Commuter Railway.
Will our roads – and therefore lives – get better in the coming years? We, at Rappler, don’t only hope for that, we’d like to do our part in making our cities liveable by starting with a campaign to #MakeManilaLiveable. We have created a dedicated space for stories and reports about the liveability of Philippine cities. Check out this page. For meaningful conversations on what we can all do together, join our chat room on liveable cities – but you first need to download the Rappler app (on iOS; on Android).
Let’s do this – one city at a time. – Rappler.com
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NU’s got it all for you: Belen, Disquitado show force in Bulldogs’ 5-game win streaks | jisaga0269 | 12/3/2024 14:29 | ALL BARK, ALL BITE. NU Lady Bulldogs spiker Bella Belen and NU Bulldogs spiker Jade Disquitado react in the UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – After both going through its share of uncharacteristic opening-day losses, National University is now back on top where it belongs in the UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments.
Former rookie MVP Bella Belen has once again been a force in the women’s division, nimbly complementing her reliable scoring punch with undeniable defensive stats that the Lady Bulldogs sorely needed in their five-game winning streak since losing to the UST Golden Tigresses.
NU’s men’s team has likewise picked up the pace, with first-year standout Jade Disquitado definitively avenging the Bulldogs’ end of a lengthy 34-game victory run through a powerful attacking skill set already beyond his years.
For their consistent efforts in lifting the vaunted NU volleyball program through the early goings of the season, Belen and Disquitado have been named the Collegiate Press Corps Players of the Week for the period of March 6 to 10.
Ever the feisty, yet humble star, the 21-year-old Belen deflected credit of her recent achievements to her teammates, who have helped her get the Lady Bulldogs back on track with their own standout performances.
“We’re really happy because we’ve seen that we can all contribute,” she said in Filipino. “Our team is not about building star players. We all want to rise as one, with no one left behind.”
Belen, who averaged 15.0 points, 14.5 excellent digs, and 8 excellent receptions in the week’s two-game stretch, bested La Salle rival and MVP Angel Canino, former Player of the Week Angge Poyos of UST, and FEU leader Gerzel Petallo for the award handed by reporters regularly covering the beat.
Disquitado, the 2023 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference Finals MVP, likewise deferred his outings to the people surrounding him, most notably NU’s multi-titled system architect Dante Alinsunurin.
“I’m just happy that I’m having good games while following Coach Dante’s system and following my teammates,” he said in Filipino.
The 19-year-old hotshot, who peaked with a 29-point, 23-reception outing over FEU, bested teammate Owa Retamar, La Salle’s Vince Maglinao, and Ateneo’s Jian Salarzon for the award presented by the San Miguel Corporation and supported by minor sponsors Discovery Suites and Jockey. – Rappler.com
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[Kitchen 143] Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez | Cara Angeline Oliver | 12/3/2024 20:02 | Bookmark this page to watch Kitchen 143 live on Tuesday, March 12, at 8 pm.
Kitchen 143 now heads out of the home kitchen and visits old and new favorite restaurants in and out of Metro Manila.
In this episode, Kitchen 143 host Michelle Aventajado of Momma ‘N Manila heads to the 32nd floor of Westin Manila in Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong for some delightful Spanish cuisine. Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez is a new partnership between the renowned chef and Westin.
Joining her live are Chef Chele Gonzalez himself, Westin General manager Alexander Dietzsch, and Cantabria’s chef de Cuisine Ivan Saiz Sordo.
Visit our Instagram page to get a chance to win one of five gift certificates worth P2,000! Don’t forget to download the Rappler Communities app and join the food and travel channel to have a chat with fellow foodies.
Download the Rappler Communities app available on web, iOS, and Android. – Rappler.com
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Lights, camera, connection: Baguio unveils 4th Montañosa film fest | Herbie G | 12/3/2024 13:54 | UNITE. Mentors and filmmakers unite, shaping the future of cinema through guidance and collaboration in Baguio..
courtesy of MFF
BAGUIO, Philippines – Baguio, known for its vibrant culture and arts, unveiled the fourth iteration of the Montañosa Film Festival (MFF) at the Grand Sierra Pines on Sunday, March 10.
The film festival, themed “Building bridges beyond boundaries,” has focused on the power of film to connect diverse cultures and communities.
MFF 2024 boasts an exciting lineup across narrative, documentaries, mobile phone films, and the newly introduced animation and children’s films categories.
Twenty-four finalists were chosen for their unique perspectives, undergoing mentorship from Harlene Bautista, Paolo Villaluna, Jade Castro, Jet Leyco, Ditsi Carolino, Nico Hernandez, Arjanmar Rebeta, Tristan Cua, and Arvin Belarmino.
The opening gala set for March 16 will feature Tanabata’s Wife, a poignant narrative that sets the tone for a festival committed to showcasing compelling stories.
Collaborations with the Film Development Council of the Philippines and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) promise to enrich the festival experience through Film Talks, CCP’s outreach programs, and public screenings designed to ignite passion for local cinema.
Highlights of MFF 2024 include SineMusiKain, a fusion of film, music, and culinary arts; Sine Ibayo, an international film showcase; and SineSindak, a horror-themed night at the Diplomat Hotel.
There will also be a series of free public screenings like the MFF Best of the Best, and the Cordillera School of Digital Arts’ (CSDA) Anima sa Montanosa at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center Basement, Error 404 film premiere by Take One at Vivistop Baguio, and the most awaited MFF 2024 films in-competition public screenings at the SM City Baguio.
The festival’s culmination will see awards presented to outstanding filmmakers by a jury comprising Pepe Diokno, Ryan Cayabyab, Joyce Bernal, Zig Dulay, and Dingdong Dantes.
The festival will conclude with the 2nd Baguio Folk Music Festival on March 24 at the Rose Garden, celebrating the region’s musical talents and cultural heritage.
Ferdinand John Balanag, MFF director and founder, alongside Baguio City Tourism Officer Aloysius Mapalo, Creative Council Director Rene Misa, and lead festival organizer Raymond Sakiwat introduced an array of activities designed to foster international cultural exchanges.
“This year’s MFF aims to transcend physical and cultural barriers, inviting audiences to explore diverse narratives from around the globe,” said Balanag.
The MFF’s vision resonates with Kidlat Tahimik, a national artist for film, who reflected on the evolution of Filipino cinema: “Decades ago, we were talking about making truly Filipino films… Now, we’re amplifying the voices of our local storytellers through Montañosa… I expect to see Montañosa outlive Cannes and Berlin.”
Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who welcomed participants, said the festival serves as a platform for local filmmakers to enrich Baguio’s cultural identity.
“Their work reflects the stories, and landscapes of our beloved city, adding depth and richness to our cultural identity,” Magalong said. – Rappler.com
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Jamie Malonzo finds solace in basketball, Ginebra after off-court dustup | delfin.dioquino editor | 10/3/2024 16:23 | SHOT. Jamie Malonzo in action for Barangay Ginebra in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – On the court, Jamie Malonzo does not have to think about anything but basketball.
The Barangay Ginebra forward has found solace in the sport and his team after he caught unwanted attention following his involvement in an ugly melee that made the rounds on social media.
“It has been a lot for me. Just credit to my team, they’ve been holding me down, checking on me. Throughout that whole process, they have my back. I have to give credit to my team,” said Malonzo on Friday, March 8.
With all eyes on him, Malonzo turned in one of the best games of his PBA career as he steered the Gin Kings to a triumphant start in the Philippine Cup by way of a 113-107 win over Rain or Shine on Friday.
He finished with a career-high 32 points on a 5-of-9 clip from three-point distance to go with 8 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 assists, and 2 steals, taking charge for a Ginebra side missing injured star guard Scottie Thompson.
That kind of performance, Gin Kings head coach Tim Cone said, is a sign that Malonzo is slowly moving past that harrowing experience that left him with bruises on his face and a swollen eye.
“I think he has found… a sanctuary in practice and games. He is back to his comfort zone with his teammates,” Cone said. “It showed in his game that he can put everything behind and just move forward.”
“We’re actually really proud of Jamie and what he did and how he did and how he came back to practice and just let his game do the talking.”
The support from the rest of the team has been immense for Malonzo.
Ginebra veteran LA Tenorio said the players welcomed Malonzo back to the team without bombarding him with questions about the incident.
“The good thing about the team is there were no whispers. When he went to practice, it was just a normal day,” said Tenorio in a mix of Filipino and English.
“We really did not have to talk about it. Coach did not even have to tell us that we’re not supposed to talk about it. It is just the the culture of the team that we understand each other.”
If there were anything good that came out from that experience, Malonzo – according to Tenorio – is focused on basketball.
“He has a chip on his shoulder now. Not that he needs to prove himself, but to rise to the occasion after what happened to him, that is a real hard situation,” said Tenorio.
“I just told him that he’ll definitely learn from this and he’ll be a more mature person after this.” – Rappler.com
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Megan Young apologizes for touching Miss Botswana’s hair at Miss World 2024 pageant | Ysa Abad | 12/3/2024 12:59 | MANILA, Philippines – Miss World 2013 Megan Young issued an apology after she drew flak for touching the hair of Miss Botswana Lesego Chombo during the Miss World 2024 coronation night, saying that she takes “full responsibility” for the “thoughtless and disrespectful act.”
Young hosted the finals night in Mumbai, India on Saturday, March 9. During the competition’s question-and-answer portion, the Filipina beauty queen fixed a tendril of Chombo’s hair before the latter went on with her pitch.
This particular incident earned the ire of African pageant fans, who deemed Young’s action as cruel, disrespectful, and culturally insensitive. Some even left comments on Young’s Instagram posts, saying that her action has “jeopardized” Chombo’s performance in the competition, with some even accusing the title holder of engaging in “witchcraft.”
While some of Young’s fans came to her defense, emphasizing that she had meant well, some netizens also took the chance to explain the cultural significance behind an African woman’s hair.
Addressing the incident, Young posted a statement on her Facebook account on Monday, March 11, sharing that she “wanted to offer a helping hand” but “failed to oversee the bigger picture.” She added that since the incident occurred, she had been “made aware that culturally, this is unacceptable.”
Young added that she sought Chombo after the incident and has since spoken and apologized privately.
She continued that it was not her intention to “invade personal space or make anyone feel uncomfortable.” She also extended her apologies to anyone who witnessed the incident and felt any “discomfort and confusion” by her actions.
“I deeply regret my actions and will strive to be more mindful and respectful in the future,” she added.
Chombo, meanwhile, also took to social media to ask her supporters to be “kinder” to Young and the winner, Krystyna Pyszková of Czech Republic. “I appreciate that you are all looking out for me, but it really doesn’t make me good when you bring other people down in my name or for my sake,” she said.
Chombo finished as part of the Top 4 along with delegates from Lebanon and Trinidad and Tobago.
Meanwhile, Philippine bet Gwendolyne Fourniol failed to enter the pageant’s Top 40. Young remains to be the only Filipina beauty queen to win the Miss World crown. – Rappler.com
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Talaba trails: Taste the unique flavor of oysters in Aklan | Herbie G | 12/3/2024 12:53 | FRUIT OF LABOR. Roberto Macahilig harvests oysters in a aquaculture farm in New Washington, Aklan.
Jed Nykolle Harme/Rappler
AKLAN, Philippines – New Washington town, a coastal municipality situated in the first district of Aklan, has gained popularity as a bustling hub for supplying oysters to numerous hotels in Metro Manila and provinces across the country.
While Aklan may not be hailed as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, the oyster industry in this town is nothing short of remarkable. Even Roxas City, famed for its seafood, relies on Aklan for its oyster supply because of their briny and sweet flavor.
Bert Macahilig, 24, a Talaba farmer, told Rappler what sets Aklan’s oyster apart is its export-quality oyster.
“Ro taeaba riya sa New Washington hay kilaea gid dahil mabahoe, matam-is, ag malimpyo. Kung man-o kabahoe ro shell, makaron man ro sueod nga meat. Ag mahaba ro life span, tatlo hasta ap-at nga adlaw, kapin kung properly stored. Pag-abot sa Manila, eab-as gihapon,” he said.
(Oysters from New Washington are renowned for their size, sweetness, and cleanliness. Their meat is almost as big as their shell. With proper storage, their freshness can be maintained for three to four days, ensuring that when they arrive in Manila, they are still as fresh as when they were harvested.)
Asked about the difference in other provinces, Macahilig said it’s because of their brackish clean water.
He said, “Uwa-uwa gid ro taeaba it Roxas, bisan sanda ro Seafood Capital. Iya sanda gabuoe sa New Washington gihapon, dahil ro among tubi riya, malimpyo. Bukon it polluted.”
(Oysters in Roxas have no match in Aklan, even though they are the Seafood Capital. They still source their oysters here in New Washington because our water is not polluted.)
As a neophyte trader, Macahilig said he was merely observing the challenges of buying and selling fresh oysters until he finally took the leap of growing and harvesting them himself.
“Second year ako as an entrepreneurship student kato. Kita ko gid ro kalisod ni mama, ag si papa ron hay construction. Indi gid mag-igo para kamon. Nakabaton ako it P4,000 nga scholarship halin sa province, kag ang ginpuhunan ko sa negosyo,” he said.
(As a second-year entrepreneurship student at the time, I observed the hardships of my mother and witnessed my father’s challenges in construction work. It couldn’t make ends meet. So when I received a P4,000 scholarship from the province, I made the decision to invest the entire amount as capital into my business venture.)
At that time, he said he was happy to put it all into an oyster farm as an investment.
With his own startup trade business, Macahilig helped meet the needs of his family. His income mostly comes from the sale of his harvests.
As a start-up business owner, Macahilig had to learn the ropes of his oyster farm first.
He said, “Pagkahalin ko sa eskwelahan, mauuli ako sa bahay ng alas-6. Agad akong pupunta sa suba, doon hahanap ako ng bangka. Kahit malayo mula sa bahay, sinusugod ko pa rin. Minsan, hanggang alas-9 ng gabi pa ako nag-aani. Kinabukasan, idedeliver ko agad. Nakakapagod, pero sulit.”
(When I get home from school, I’ll be back by 6 pm. I’ll immediately head to the river to look for a boat. Even if it’s far from home, I still go. Sometimes, I harvest until 9 om. The next morning, I’ll deliver them immediately. It’s tiring, but worth it.)
Like any other commerce, oyster traders like Macahilig are also not immune to setbacks. In his case, it comes in the marketing of their naturally occurring seafood.
He said, “Mahirap dahil ang kontrol sa presyo ay nasa mga mamimili mula sa Maynila. Lalo na ang mga middlemen, sobrang tawad at abuso dahil ang ibang magsasaka ay walang sapat na edukasyon. Binibili nila ang mga talaba sa mababang presyo at ipinagbibili sa mga hotel nila ng P50 hanggang P60 bawat piraso. Ang iniisip ng mga magsasaka ay ang pambili ng pagkain at pamasahe ng kanilang mga anak papunta sa eskwelahan.”
(It’s difficult because the control of the price lies with the buyers from Manila. Especially the middlemen, they haggle severely and take advantage because some farmers are uneducated. They buy oysters at low prices and sell them to their hotels for P50 to P60 each. What the farmers think about is buying food and paying for their children’s transportation to school.)
Growing and harvesting oysters have become a way of life for many farmers in New Washington. The farmers plant their oysters for two months in their nursery and transplant them to their growing farm. They will then harvest and sell them after seven months.
“Mahaba ang proseso, pero sulit naman. Nakabili ako ng sarili naming bangka. Nabayaran ko na ang buwis sa aming bahay. Nakakuha pa kami ng dagdag na sakahan sa ilog. At ngayon, nagdagdag ako ng bangus sa negosyo,” he said.
(The process is long, but it’s worth it. I bought our own boat. We’ve paid for the taxes on our house. We acquired additional farmland by the river. And now, I’ve added milkfish to the business.)
Right now, Macahilig is supplying oysters in the local markets. He is also transporting Aklan’s oysters weekly to five restaurants and hotels in Metro Manila with a profit of P20 per kilogram. He also led farmers in their town to export 2,000 kilograms of oysters to Taiwan recently.
Macahilig’s 55-year-old father Roberto has been an oyster farmer for more than half of his life. He said that their harvest is better in rainy seasons.
“Mas maeamig, mas mabahoe, manami, ag quality ro taeaba riya. Kung mainit abi hay gataas ro salinity it tubi, kaisot rayon ro taeaba ag mabuhay mag-abo,” said Roberto, a father of five.
(In colder seasons, oysters tend to be larger and possess better quality taste. In hotter weather, the salinity of the water increases, leading to stunted growth and slower reproduction of oysters.)
Roberto shared with Rappler that thefts also occur in the rivers.
He said, “Natatakawan man kami riya. Pagkatapos namon itanom it 7 buean, kung inug harvest eon, uwa eot-ah it sueod ro among mga kariton. Ubos gid ah nanda it buoe, lugi kami nga mayad.”
(We also experience theft of our oysters. After planting them for seven months, when it’s time to harvest, there’s nothing left to gather. The thieves even took our tires. It was a significant loss for us.)
Through oyster farming, Roberto and his wife managed to see three of their children earn their degrees.
“Hara eon amo nga pangabuhian halin sa umpisa. Suwerte kami kay malimpyo ro among suba kag bantog ro among taeaba sa ibang lugar. Responsable man ro mga tawo riya kaya wala gid nasasamad ro kalidad it among taeaba. Kag masuwerte ako kay bisan may mga propesyonal na sanda, nagabalik gihapon sila sa lugar nga halin kami. Palangga nila ro mga taeaba namon, pareho man sa mga kabataan it ibang mga mag-uuma it taeaba sa amon lugar,” he said.
(This has been our livelihood from the beginning. We consider ourselves fortunate because our river remains clean, and our oysters are well-known in other areas. The people in our community are also responsible, which ensures the quality of our oysters. And I feel blessed because even though they are professionals now, they still come back to our hometown. They love our oysters, just like the children of other oyster farmers in our area.) – Rappler.com
Jed Nykolle Harme is an associate editor at Eamigas Publication, and is an Aries Rufo Journalism fellow for 2023-2024.
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GAME SCHEDULE: 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference | jisaga0269 | 27/04/2024 22:53 | PVL Images
The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) heads to another title showdown between the league’s top sister teams!
Defending champion Creamline and sister squad Choco Mucho dispute the PVL All-Filipino championship for the second straight conference in a best-of-three series. Here’s the schedule:
It’s all even again for the top four teams.
The semifinalists of the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference battle in a single round-robin, where the top two teams will advance to the best-of-three finals. Here’s the schedule:
Near-daily volleyball is back to satisfy fans’ hunger for action as the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) releases its 2024 All-Filipino Conference schedule, starting on February 20.
The development comes after the UAAP also released its Season 86 men’s and women’s volleyball tournament schedules on a Wednesday-Saturday-Sunday rotation.
The PVL, meanwhile, stays in its usual Tuesday-Thursday-Saturday slate, kicking off Tuesday, February 20, at the PhilSports Arena with a double-header featuring newcomers Strong Group Athletics and Capital1 taking on contenders Petro Gazz and Chery Tiggo, respectively.
Capping off the conference’s first week is an appearance at the Araneta Coliseum, with reloaded Farm Fresh challenging the Creamline dynasty in the 6 pm triple-header main event.
Fans outside NCR, however, will have fewer chances to see their favorite PVL stars live unlike the past conference, as only the Ynares Center in Antipolo, Rizal and the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna are the announced venues away from Metro Manila.
The season-starting All-Filipino Conference is scheduled to run for three months until May 14 at the maximum, unless plans change.
Other notable elimination round matches are Choco Mucho vs. Petro Gazz on February 27, Petro Gazz vs Creamline on April 6, PLDT vs Chery Tiggo featuring multiple former F2 Logistics veterans on April 16, and the Creamline-Choco Mucho finals rematch on April 18.
Here is the entire conference schedule, as of Wednesday, February 14:
– Rappler.com
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FACT CHECK: ICC probe ongoing, no ‘guilty’ verdict issued vs Duterte | Lorenz Pasion | 12/3/2024 13:22 | Claim: The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued its decision finding former president Rodrigo Duterte guilty of crimes against humanity in relation to his administration’s war on drugs.
Why we fact-checked this: The video bearing the claim was posted on February 25 by a YouTube channel with over 632,000 subscribers. As of writing, the video has garnered 4,387 views and 95 likes.
The title and thumbnail of the video bears the claim, with text on the thumbnail stating: “ICC may desisyon na! Duterte, guilty!” (ICC has already made a decision! Duterte, guilty!)
The facts: Contrary to the claim, Duterte has not been found guilty of the charges against him, nor has he been acquitted. The ICC has not issued any official decision or announcement on its website regarding its investigation of the human rights abuses committed during the Duterte administration’s war on illegal drugs.
The video did not provide any evidence to back up its claim that a verdict has already been reached. Instead, it merely featured audio of former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque calling on the current Marcos administration to put in writing the Philippines’ non-cooperation with the ICC on its ongoing probe.
The posting of the misleading video coincides with recent opinion polls that showed growing public support for the Netherlands-based tribunal’s investigation. A Social Weather Stations poll conducted in December 2023 and released in February 2024 indicated that 53% of Filipinos approve of the probe, while 56% agree that the Philippine government should allow the ICC investigation. Similarly, a December 2023 OCTA Research poll, released in February 2024, showed that 59% of Filipinos support the Philippines rejoining the ICC.
ICC investigation: In 2018, then-ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda opened a preliminary examination into the drug war killings. Under the Duterte administration’s “war on drugs” campaign, at least 6,252 individuals were killed in police operations as of May 2022, while human rights groups estimate that between 27,000 to 30,000 people were killed in vigilante-style executions.
In 2021, the ICC Office of the Prosecutor formally requested authorization from the court’s pre-trial chamber (PTC) to open a full investigation. In September that year, the PTC granted the request to look into Duterte’s drug war and killings by the so-called Davao Death Squad between 2011 and 2016.
In November 2021, the ICC temporarily suspended its investigation to consider the Philippines’ request to defer to the Philippine government in conducting the probe. The ICC resumed its probe in July 2023 after dismissing the Philippine government’s request and appeal. (TIMELINE: The International Criminal Court and Duterte’s bloody war on drugs)
Non-cooperation with ICC: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has said his government will not cooperate with the ICC probe. This stance was further emphasized by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla who “firmly asserted” the ICC’s lack of jurisdiction over the Philippines. (TIMELINE: What the Marcos administration says about the International Criminal Court)
Amid growing support for the probe and calls for the Philippine government to cooperate with the ICC, the President reiterated his concerns about the investigation, stating on February 20 that it “opens a Pandora’s box.” Marcos said “sufficient answers” to the questions regarding “jurisdiction and sovereignty” are still needed.
Rappler has debunked similar false claims on the ICC issuing a verdict and summons related to the drug war killings. – Marie Flor Cabarrubias/Rappler.com
Marie Flor Cabarrubias is a graduate of Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program. This fact check was reviewed by a member of Rappler’s research team and a senior editor. Learn more about Rappler’s fact-checking mentorship program here.
Keep us aware of suspicious Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, articles, or photos in your network by contacting us at [email protected]. Let us battle disinformation one Fact Check at a time.
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It’s been a long time coming: PH celebs attend Taylor Swift’s ‘The Eras Tour’ concert | Ysa Abad | 18/02/2024 14:14 | SWIFTIES. Filipino celebrities Isabelle Daza, Anne Curtis, Andrea Brillantes, and Kathryn Bernardo watched Taylor Swift's 'The Eras Tour' concert.
Isabelle Daza, Andrea Brillantes, and Kathryn Bernardo's Instagram
MANILA, Philippines – Sana all! Several Filipino celebrities had their wildest dreams come to life as they were among the lucky fans who got the chance to watch pop star Taylor Swift during her highly-anticipated The Eras Tour concert.
To the heartbreak of many Philippine-based Swifties, the “All Too Well” hitmaker didn’t include a stop in the Philippines for her The Eras Tour. With zero shows in the country, numerous fans – including several famous Filipino personalities – flew to different parts of the world to catch the superstar in action.
Taylor had a four-night residency at the Tokyo Dome in Japan from February 7 to 10. As of February 18, she’s currently in Melbourne, Australia to conclude a three-night show. After Melbourne, she’ll be staging the concert in Sydney, Australia from February 23 to February 26. Then, Swift will bring the concert to Singapore – her only stop in Southeast Asia – from March 2 to 4 and 7 to 9.
Let’s take a look at the Filipino stars who channeled their die-hard fangirl selves for Taylor’s The Eras Tour concert:
Anne marked her birthday on February 17 by catching one of Swift’s concert stops in Melbourne. The actress-host attended the show with her “It Girls” squad, fellow actress Isabelle Daza, Martine Cajucom, and Nicole Warne.
The celebrity friend group took to social media to document their concert experience, sharing photos of their tickets and friendship bracelets, as well as showing off their Taylor-inspired outfits.
“I have two types of friends — those who make fun of me for being a Swiftie and those who fly to come see her with me,” Martine captioned her Instagram post.
Meanwhile, Belle shared a compilation of clips from the concert. “The Taylor effect,” she wrote.
Kathryn also flew to Melbourne to watch The Eras Tour concert with best friend Arisse de Santos. For her concert fit, the actress donned a Taylor Swift T-shirt, metallic mini-skirt, and black boots.
The A Very Good Girl star has been a known Swiftie for several years now. In 2014, Kathryn already attended Swift’s Red tour, the singer’s last concert in the Philippines. And she even had the chance to pose for a photo with the Grammy-winning singer!
Alexa was one of the lucky Swifties who were present during the singer’s three-night concert in Japan. The actress stunned in a Speak-Now inspired pink tulle dress. Completing her look are multiple friendship bracelets on her arm and butterfly clips on her hair.
“I can’t believe I finally experienced this live. My life is complete,” she wrote alongside a clip of the singer performing “All Too Well.” In a separate clip, the Pira-Pirasong Paraiso actress wrote: “I was enchanted to meet you, Taylor.”
Fangirling knows no age and actress Angelika is proof of that! Sharing photos from the Japan concert stop, she thanked the American singer for making a tita like her happy.
The Eras Tour is a huge event for a lot of Swifites. And like most fans, Andrea also went all out with her concert OOTD! The actress was a head-turner with her French Fries costume and a cheeseburger box clutch. The whole ensemble is a nod to the “You Need to Calm Down” music video where Taylor dressed up as French fries while Katy Perry wore a burger outfit.
“I know I had the best day with you today. Taylor Swift + my sisters + Tokyo = the best day,” the Senior High actress said alongside photos of her enjoying the concert.
Another Speak Now girlie! Michelle watched Taylor’s Japan concert in an all-purple ensemble: floral tube top, waistband pants, and butterfly accessories.
“Finally! My heart is so happy,” she captioned her post.
Former Pinoy Big Brother housemate Criza said that it was “enchanting to finally meet” Taylor during the singer’s Japan concert.
“Dreams really do come true. I still remember the day you announced your The Eras Tour concert for 2024 and all I said was, ‘I need to go. Whatever happens, I’m gonna go,” she said. The Zoomers star added that she “prayed and manifested” for her concert moment.
Addressing the singer, Criza said: “I will fly thousands of miles just for you and only you. You’re the only one who can make my heart skip a beat.”
The Eras Tour served as the singer’s first stadium tour in five years. It kicked off in the USA in March 2023 and is expected to end by December 2024 after 150 shows.
According to the Guinness World Records, Swift’s The Eras Tour has officially been named as the highest-grossing music tour ever. It’s the first concert tour to generate over $1 billion in revenue. – Rappler.com
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Paalam vows strong comeback after exiting Olympic boxing qualifier with injury | delfin.dioquino editor | 11/3/2024 15:45 | AIM. Carlo Paalam in action for the Philippines in the Boxam Elite Tournament in Spain.
Federacion Espau00f1ola de Boxeo Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines – Filipino boxer Carlo Paalam vowed to come back stronger after he crashed out of contention in the World Qualification Tournament for the Paris Olympics in Busto Arsizio, Italy, due to a shoulder injury.
The Tokyo Games silver medalist surrendered in the second round of his last 16 bout against Turkmenistan’s Shukur Ovezov in the men’s 57kg on Sunday, March 10 (Monday, March 11, Manila time).
“Unfortunately, I sustained an injury in my last match that has not fully healed, and during the course of the fight, it became apparent that continuing would risk further damage,” Paalam wrote on Facebook.
“As much as it pains me to step away from the ring in this manner, my health and well-being must always come first.”
Paalam suffered the injury when he got slammed to the canvas in the third round of his split decision victory over Mexico’s Andrey Bonilla.
The pride of Bukidnon outlasted Bonilla to advance, although he looked visibly hurt after the bout.
It was a disappointing exit for Paalam considering he needed only two more wins to book a return trip to the Olympics.
But Paalam still has one shot to qualify for Paris through the second World Qualification Tournament in May in Bangkok, Thailand, where three Olympic berths are up for grabs in his division.
“Rest assured, I am focused on recovering fully so I can come back stronger and continue pursuing my passion for boxing,” Paalam said.
Filipina boxers are carrying the fight for the Philippine boxing team as Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas are both a win away from a Paris spot.
Petecio, a Tokyo Games silver medalist, battles Turkey’s Esra Yildiz in the women’s 57kg semifinals, while Villegas faces Bulgaria’s Zlatislava Chukanova in the women’s 50kg quarterfinals on Monday. (UPDATE: Bound for Paris: Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas punch Olympic tickets) – Rappler.com
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[Bodymind] The absurdity of Robin Padilla | Chay Hofilena | 9/3/2024 13:00 | Marian Hukom
Having a subpoena issued against you is a big deal, at least for ordinary citizens like us.
When I read that Senator Migz Zubiri signed the subpoena against preacher Quiboloy (PQ) I was relieved, thinking: “Dapat lang (As it should be). No man, no matter what connections he has, can do things with impunity.“
However, PQ has ignored this subpoena and failed to appear at the hearings of the Philippine Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality to address alleged human rights abuses by PQ, his Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) and its media arm, Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI).
Thus, when I read about Senator Padilla signing an objection letter that seeks to reverse a Senate panel’s decision to hold preacher PQ in contempt for failure to comply, I said to myself: “Talaga nga naman (Really now), one bad apple can really infect the whole barrel. Happily, in the Senate’s case, it is not the whole barrel, but just four of them: the original “bad apple“ Padilla, and the three he infected: Christopher Lawrence Go, Cynthia Villar, and Imee Marcos.
The reason Senator Marcos gave was, “Kinakailangan muna na alamin natin muna ang dapat alamin kasi puros kuwentuhan lang.” (First, we need to find out what needs to be known because it’s all just talk for now.)
My answer: Well, DUH…That is precisely why we want PQ to attend the hearings: so he can give his side, so it will no longer be “just talk.”
She said she would rather leave the Quiboloy case in the hands of the courts. However, the Senate hearing is a broad investigation of the human rights abuses by PQ, KOJC, and SMNI, whereas a court hearing against PQ is limited to whether the prosecution can prove he committed the crimes of which he stands accused…and who knows when that will take place, much less reach its conclusion?
Unlike when Senator Padilla first objected to the Senate’s holding PQ in contempt, he has now given his reasons, and I quote: “Dito sa nakikita ko, pagka nagpatuloy sa ganitong proseso parang sinasaklawan na natin, magkakaroon ba tayo ng panukala na sasagasaan natin ang religion? Papunta na ito. Wala na kay pastor, napupunta na doon sa buong organization. Sa buong religion nila.”
(From what I see here, if we continue with this process, it seems like we’re encroaching. Are we going to propose something that will encroach on religion? It’s heading that way. It’s no longer just about the pastor; it’s going to the whole organization. To their entire religion.)
Padilla also cautioned against the Senate’s actions against a religious group, saying senators run the risk of going against the constitutional provision about the separation of Church and State.
First, a clarification: Pastor Quiboloy is not being questioned because he is a preacher. He is being questioned because he is accused of committing criminal acts. If we follow Padilla’s reason to its reductio ad absurdum, is he suggesting that if a priest or, indeed, a preacher like PQ, commits an act of murder, he not be examined/questioned/tried simply because he is religious? Does the public, which needs protection, not deserve to have this alleged murderer attend hearings regarding his alleged crimes?
Why are the four senators opposed to the ruling? Might PQ have a hold on them? Some possibilities are:
1. Fear. If the Senate runs after PQ, who might say which other powerful person they might run after next? And if the Senate can prove PQ committed crimes, or show there is enough reason for the courts to try him, does that mean that this might snowball into more attention given to other cases where crimes have been committed also or foster more acceptance/a feeling of normalcy for powers that be to be held accountable?
2. Gratitude? Senator Padilla himself said, “Ang helicopter pinahiram niya sa akin, ang mga ganoong klaseng pabor.” (He lent me a helicopter, that kind of favor).
Really, Senator Padilla? Just because this helicopter-lender gives you a ride, he can get you to make political decisions that make a mockery of justice?
Utang na loob (Debt of gratitude) is bandied about as a positive Filipino characteristic, an attribute we should be proud of. But what if it interferes with justice? What if it means people who have been wrongly done by (raped, trafficked, etc. – Q’s alleged victims) are denied a full investigation into what took place?
Take “Rene” and “David.” Rene alleged that he was sexually abused by male staff with the preacher’s approval; David alleged he was tortured by having chili “put in his eyes and on his genitals.”
How can an elected representative of the Filipino people really look at Rene and David in the eye and deny them possible justice simply because the accused gave him a more comfortable ride during his campaign?
Is that really all it takes nowadays? – Rappler.com
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It is terribly lamentable that such personalities sit in the Senate. It is a slap on the middle income for their taxpayer’s money and a kick for those left in the “laylayan” as they are continuously subjected to not only “absurdities” but outright lack of gray matter between the ears.
I agree with Dr. Margie Holmes’s explanation of why four senators opposed the Senate panel ruling, holding PQ in contempt for failure to comply. For me, it is both fear and gratitude. In addition, Padilla’s use of “reductio ad absurdum” showed his desperation to find a logical reason to support his stand. So, he used a fallacy. Lastly, as for “Is that really all it takes nowadays?” – if Padilla gets his second term, the answer to such a question is affirmative.
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La Salle, San Beda headline 6-team cast in PBA D-League | delfin.dioquino editor | 11/3/2024 22:03 | SHOT. Kevin Quiambao in action for EcoOil-La Salle in the 2023 PBA D-League Aspirants' Cup.
PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – Six teams duke it out as the 2024 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup comes off the wraps on Thursday, March 14, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
EcoOil-La Salle shoots for a third straight championship, with Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda, CEU, Gotorakku-St. Clare, Keanzel, and CCI-Yengskivel standing in its way.
The Green Archers and Red Lions are billed as favorites after their respective title romps in the UAAP and NCAA.
Led by Gilas Pilipinas forward Kevin Quiambao, La Salle ended its seven-year UAAP title drought with a three-game conquest of the UP Fighting Maroons in the finals of Season 86.
Meanwhile, San Beda proved its championship calibre, taking down top seed Mapua Cardinals in three games of the Season 99 finale to capture its first NCAA championship since 2018.
The two teams also locked horns for the Aspirants’ Cup crown last year, with EcoOil-La Salle sweeping Marinong Pilipino-San Beda in the finale.
CEU, Gotorakku-St. Clare, Keanzel, and CCI-Yengskivel, though, are determined to spoil the party of their highly favored foes.
Following a single-round classification, the top two teams directly advance to the final four, while the four remaining squads vie for the two other semifinal berths. – Rappler.com
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MMDA vows clearer guidelines on e-bikes, e-trikes restriction | Pia Ranada | 12/3/2024 10:10 | CONSULT. MMDA acting Chairman Don Artes holds a consultation meeting among stakeholders from LGUs, members of civil society groups, civic and police authorities, during the drafting of the implementing rules and regulation (IRR) for the MMDA regulation No. 24-022 or the regulation that prohibits e-trikes and e-bikes on national roads, at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig City, on March 11, 2024.
Jire Carreon/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said it is all set to implement its April 15 restriction on electric bicycles and electric tricycles but that it would address concerns of various transport and mobility groups in its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) about the new policy.
“Tuloy na tuloy (It will definitely push through),” said MMDA chairman Romando Artes, in a press conference on Monday, March 11, at the MMDA head office in Pasig City.
Earlier, transport and mobility groups asked for a delay in the enforcement of the restriction of e-bikes and e-trikes in national roads in Metro Manila. Move As One Coalition, composed of over 100 groups, also asked for more public consultations on guidelines for light electric vehicles and better bike lane infrastructure in the capital region given that these are shared with e-bike users.
But Artes said that rather than delay the April 15 implementation, the MMDA would just release the draft IRR to these groups “at least 15 days before” so that they can give their feedback.
The IRR, said Artes in a meeting with the transport and mobility groups before the press conference, would clear up aspects of the policy. Confusion and alarm had greeted the “ban” when it was first announced because it appeared to cover all two-wheeled e-vehicles, even those that could already reach speeds of traditional motorcycles.
The MMDA officials asked e-vehicle groups to help update their e-vehicle classifications to reflect more current technology. The IRR, said Artes, can also allow e-bikes and e-trikes to cross or U-turn on national roads in certain parts.
But discussions got more heated when the meeting turned to the gaps in bike lane infrastructure and infrastructure for e-vehicles. A recent Rappler documentary shows these glaring deficiencies in Metro Manila bike lanes.
The e-bike and e-trike restriction means the only way e-bike riders can go on national roads is if that road has a bike lane. The active transport groups said the bike lane network in Metro Manila is still sorely lacking and unsafe, despite government funds being allocated for their improvement.
“Ang tanong ng aming mga grupo at ng mga vulnerable road users, imbis po na paalisin ang gumagamit ng mga e-bike at e-trike sa mga highway na ito, na saan na po ang nararapat na imprastraktura para po ma-ensure na maging safe tayong lahat?” asked Cristina Batalla of Make It Safer Movement during the MMDA meeting.
(The question of our groups and vulnerable road users is, instead of banning e-bike and e-trike users from these highways, where is the appropriate infrastructure to ensure we are all safe?)
She pointed to the Special Provision on People Mobility in the MMDA’s own 2024 budget. A look at the document states that: “The MMDA shall promote people mobility through road sharing projects and activities as well as the use of non-motorized modes of transportation. The amount appropriated herein for the Traffic Management Program shall be used to cover the funding requirements for the promotion of people mobility.”
The Traffic Management Program was allocated over P65 million.
Artes’ initial response was to question whether that special provision was in the Department of Transportation’s budget and not the MMDA’s. But proven wrong, he said that even if that were the case, Metro Manila’s road system just couldn’t accommodate the type of bike lanes the groups wanted.
“Kahit may ganyang mandato, siguro naman kung nag-iikot ka sa Metro Manila, ‘yung situation ng kalsada natin, hindi kaya lahat na ibigay o pagbigyan ‘yung ganyang klaseng mandato. Kulang na kulang talaga yung spaces natin,” he said.
(Even if there is that mandate, if you go around Metro Manila, look at the situation of our roads, we cannot give in to that kind of mandate. We really lack space.)
Later on, he sought to give advocates of wider bike lanes a “reality check.” For one thing, he said, did they not consider that there are many car-selling establishments along EDSA?
“Hindi kami papayag dahil imaginin mo, ang daming mga tindahan ng sasakyan doon. Kung isasara namin isang lane, paano sila lalabas, so didiretso sila sa second lane? Come on,” he told the groups.
(We won’t agree to that because imagine, there are so many car stores there. If we were to block off one lane, how will the car buyers get out? They will go to the second lane? Come on.)
“We have to live in the reality of life here in Metro Manila. We cannot insist on everything we want. And we cannot please everybody here,” he added later on.
Asked by Rappler at the press conference what the longterm plan of MMDA is given that laws like the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) orders government to construct lanes for e-vehicles, Artes said they would wait until vehicular traffic abates in the metropolis.
“Siguro ‘pag efficient na at maganda na yung mass transportation natin, particularly ‘pag nabuksan na yung MRT7, yung subway, mababawasan naman po yung sasakyan, baka by that time po, lumuwag yung kalsada na ma-accommodate sila,” said the MMDA chief.
(Maybe when our mass transportation improves, when the MRT7 and subway start operations, the cars will be lessened. Maybe by that time, the roads will be less congested and we can accommodate them.) – Rappler.com
Improving transportation infrastructure and policies is part of the call of various groups to #MakeManilaLiveable. On Rappler, we have created a dedicated space for stories and reports about liveability in Philippine cities. Learn more about the movement here.
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Wanted: Manny Pangilinan’s replacement | Ralf Rivas | 12/3/2024 8:00 | TYCOON. Manny Pangilinan chats with business reporters after PLDT's press briefing on March 9, 2024.
Ralf Rivas/Rappler
PLDT chairman, president, and CEO Manny Pangilinan is still looking for his successor.
The 77-year-old has led PLDT since 1998 and has been meaning to pass the baton for some time now. He already stepped down as the telco giant’s big boss in 2021, only to assume the post again in 2024 after his successor, Al Panlilio, resigned due to health reasons.
In a recent press briefing, Pangilinan said that PLDT management is still in the process of looking for one, noting that the successor must have a sharp business sense. That person also needs to understand how the other businesses in the MVP group interact and relate with each other.
Pangilinan said they are careful about choosing the next person taking the helm, noting that this “long term decision will affect the company long term.”
“This is not just making an investment or buying an equipment, so no, it’s difficult because you have to look at the future in terms of the successor, I know that he should be younger than I am, much younger, should be steeped in IT, have an excellent business sense,” Pangilinan said.
“At the end of the day, it has to be somebody with a very good nose for business,” he added.
So far, sources said that management is looking at both insiders and outsiders for the role. They are even considering names that are not in the telco industry, but have experience in tech.
Pangilinan also noted that the successor must know about the other businesses under the MVP group, especially now that it recently formed a digital entity that will harness the data assets of the various companies in the conglomerate.
Digico, a collaboration co-owned by PLDT, Smart, the Manila Electric Company, and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, will use a tech platform to “scale up and achieve seamless integration of services and capabilities.”
Pangilinan also detailed how Digico will consolidate the group’s multiple payment channels for a more seamless and secure experience for customers and businesses.
The next CEO must also sustain PLDT’s profitability. In 2023, net income more than doubled to P26.6 billion, mainly due to a decline in expenses and stable top-line growth.
Revenues and core income posted just single-digit growth at 3%, which Pangilinan described as the telco industry’s “pain” in recent years.
“We’re stuck in terms of the growth story, so the telco that is able to develop the next great big idea to achieve escape velocity would be the winner,” Pangilinan said.
Will it be 5G, artificial intelligence, or internet of things that will bring elusive double-digit growth?
Those are some of the challenges that Pangilinan’s successor will have to face. – Rappler.com
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Bound for Paris: Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas punch Olympic tickets | delfin.dioquino editor | 12/3/2024 4:40 | HYPED. Nesthy Petecio of the Philippines reacts after winning her fight against Irma Testa of Italy in the Tokyo Olympics.
Ueslei Marcelino/REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – With precious Olympic berths on the line, Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas made sure not to waste their chances.
The two Filipina boxers secured their places in the Paris Games after emerging triumphant in their respective divisions in the World Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, Italy, on Monday, March 11 (Tuesday, March 12, Manila time).
Petecio booked a return trip to the Olympics after clinching a top-two finish in the women’s 57kg category with 4-1 split decision over Turkey’s Esra Yildiz.
A Tokyo Games silver medalist, Petecio flaunted her ring savvy as she built a 20-18 lead in four of the five judges’ scorecards following the first two rounds.
Yildiz earned the nod of all five judges in the third round, but Petecio – composed from start to finish – hardly looked threatened and won with scores of 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 28-29.
It was the only split decision victory for Petecio in the tournament after she won her first four bouts either via unanimous decision or stoppage.
Still, it was enough for the pride of Davao del Sur to reach the Olympics for the second straight edition and get a crack at completing her unfinished business after falling short of the gold in Tokyo.
Meanwhile, Villegas survived Bulgaria’s Zlatislava Chukanova for a top-four finish in the women’s 50kg class via unanimous decision, 5-0, but not after a tight contest that saw three of the five judges settle for a tie, with the other two scoring in favor of the Filipina.
Villegas unanimously won the first two rounds, but she incurred a one-point penalty for holding as she left the comeback door ajar for Chukanova.
The Olympic ticket appeared to slip out of Villegas’ hands when she got knocked down in the third round after a right straight to the head from Chukanova, but the pride of Leyte brushed the fall off and finished the fight.
Villegas even got the nod of two judges in the third round as she sealed her spot for her Olympic debut, 29-27, 29-27, 28-28, 28-28, 28-28.
According to rules set by the Paris 2024 Boxing Unit, in the case three or more judges have even scores, they are requested to pick a winner. Villegas won the tiebreak.
Petecio and Villegas will join fellow boxer Eumir Marcial in Paris, increasing the Philippines’ athlete roster for the Olympics to six.
Also qualified for Paris are pole vaulter EJ Obiena and gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan.
Not as fortunate as Petecio and Villegas, though, were Carlo Paalam, Rogen Ladon, Claudine Veloso, Mark Ashley Fajardo, John Marvin, Ronald Chavez Jr., Hergie Bacyadan, and Riza Pasuit.
But they can still make the Olympics through the second World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand, in May. – Rappler.com
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Puerto Princesa establishes arboretum to protect nature, support wildlife | Bonz Magsambol | 12/3/2024 9:24 | TREE-PLANTING. Puerto Princesa locals participate in a tree-planting activity on February 14, 2024.
Gerardo C. Reyes
PALAWAN, Philippines – Sweltering temperatures during dry months prompted sustainability projects in Puerto Princesa City supporting birds and wildlife, emphasizing the interdependence of humans and nature.
Puerto Princesa City, through its City Environment and Natural Resources Office (City ENRO) established an arboretum, a botanical collection of trees within the city’s nature park near the New City Hall which will house both endemic and native trees. The establishment of this arboretum started during a yearly event that nurtures Balayong trees within the city’s Balayong People’s Park back in July 2023.
Carlo Gomez, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer, said the arboretum will serve as a center for research and a bioreserve that will potentially attract visitors, students, and researchers.
Gomez emphasized that their office focused on planting endemic, native, or fruit-bearing trees because it supports biodiversity and wildlife.
These include the Inyam tree, the fruit of which is a favorite food of birds. Narra, the Philippines’ national tree, also attracts plenty of insects for pollination due to its fragrant flowers and leaves. Banaba and Bani trees too, with their flowers and canopies attracted pollinators like bees.
The Kamuning tree is also found in the arboretum. Kamuning is known scientifically as Murraya paniculata and is considered a medicinal plant used for gas pains, sprain, bone pain, and snake bites. In Malaysia, its leaves are widely used as food flavor additives for cuisine, specifically in preparing meat, fish, and soup and flavor curries.
Endemic trees are those only found in Palawan, including the endemic ironwood species known as Palawan Mangkono (Xanthostemon speciosus).
Other trees that Puerto Princesa City ENRO is prioritizing were native trees known in their local names as Bakawan Gubat, Agoho, Alalod, Balayong, Balite, Batino, Bignay, Bayok, Bogo, Burawis, Bunog, Dao, Ipil, Iniol, Gatasan, Duguan, Kalantas, Kasoy, Lapnisan, Langka, Lanite, Lumaraw Malabagtik, Malakatmon, Malabakawan, Mulawin, Pangi, Pasi, Putian, Red Nato, Repetek, Sahing, Siar, Talisay, Talisay gubat, Taluto, Ururingin, Tanabag, White Nato, among others, said Forester Sheryl Ampas-Paed.
Senior Environmental Management Specialist (SEMS) Forester Zorina C. Arellano, who heads City ENRO’s Forest Management Division said that native trees are linked to the well-being of insects, birds, and wildlife species that naturally occur in an area, thus it is important to consider native trees compared to exotic and introduced trees.
She explained that native trees, especially fruiting trees support wildlife and biodiversity like mammals, avian species, bees, and others that form part of the biodiversity. Native trees should be planted and not an invasive introduced species, which might limit biodiversity. Invasive species will dominate an area and cause other trees to vanish.
“Native trees are their habitats, and these birds and wildlife are dependent on them,” she said.
Environmental Management Specialist Myla Adriano said that in order to intensify public awareness campaigns they conducted puppet shows in schools and the barangays as part of raising student’s awareness of the importance of birds and wildlife.
She emphasized the need to protect wildlife habitats as they are the animals’ sources of food, For instance, the endemic Palawan hornbill (Anthracoceros marchei) is a large forest bird that is only found in Palawan. Also endemic in Palawan is the iconic Palawan Peacock Pheasant, locally known as the tandikan.
She explained that birds also take seeds and disperse them through their droppings, therefore bringing plants back to ecosystems that have been destroyed.
Gerald Opiala, a government employee and a landscape designer explained that in landscaping it is important to incorporate water which is vital to birds and wildlife’s existence.
Landscape with a bird bath or any water features supports wildlife, especially birds and other avian species affected by dry weather and scarcity of water.
“Meron bird bath kasi ang mga ibon ay nag-su-suffer during drought kaya may mitigation measures tayo. Yun ang support natin sa wildlife natin lalo na sa mga ibon. Ito yung obligation po natin sa nature kasi itong bird bath ay iniinuman din ng mga birds kasi nahihirapan yan sila kung may drought lalo na dito sa urban areas,” he explained. (There’s a bird bath because birds suffer during drought and these are some mitigation measures. This is our support to our wildlife and birds. This is our obligation to nature because birds drink water in our bird baths, especially during droughts in urban areas)
Birds and avian species play an important role in our ecosystem, emphasized Gomez who is also a professional birder and bird photographer, being an official of the Wild Bird Photographers of the Philippines (WBPP).
He explained that they are indicators of a healthy environment.
“Ang mga ibon ay nagbibigay ng important barometer na healthy pa ang ating environment (Birds give an important barometer of whether the environment is healthy or not),” City ENRO Gomez said. – Rappler.com
Gerardo C. Reyes Jr. is a community journalist at Palawan Daily News and is an Aries Rufo journalism fellow of Rappler for 2023-2024.
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‘Part of something big’: Zain Mahmood sees bright future with UST Tigers | Jasmine Payo | 10/3/2024 19:01 | PROMISING. Zain Mahmood in action for Gilas Pilipinas Youth in the FIBA U18 Asia Championship in 2022.
FIBA
MANILA, Philippines – Zain Mahmood was a highly touted big coming off Maranatha High School in California. With his combination of size, heft, and scoring prowess, the Filipino-Canadian teen caught the attention of some of the Philippines’ top basketball programs, attracting feelers and offers to play in the country’s collegiate ranks.
Eventually, he committed to the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers in February.
What awaits him is a program raring to restore its lost UAAP men’s basketball glory.
“I feel like being a part of the dynamic of what’s going on is just as good as, and probably even better, because then it feels like you were there to help build it, brick by brick, stone by stone,” said Mahmood on why he joined the Growling Tigers in the Navs Effect podcast.
Mahmood is projected to beef up UST’s frontcourt, an apparent Achilles’ heel of the team last season as the Tigers gave up the most points per game while being the second-worst team in rebounds.
Standing at about 6-foot-7, Mahmood posted 11.3 points and 5.8 rebounds with the Gilas Pilipinas Youth team in the FIBA U18 Asia Championship in 2022, bringing optimism that he can solve the team’s most glaring issues.
“I think I bring a strong inside presence but I also believe I’m able to stretch the floor really well and dominate inside out,” Mahmood said. “I think I have a complete game and I want to be able to demonstrate that.”
The 18-year-old will join a UST squad hoping to end years of agony.
Just last season, the Tigers finished with just two wins in 14 games. A year before that, they only notched one victory.
Missing the Final Four in the past three seasons, UST has been hell-bent on reviving its basketball program, acquiring former champion coach Pido Jarencio as head tactician, former UAAP champion mentor Juno Sauler as an assistant coach, and even appointing alumnus and San Miguel sports director Alfrancis Chua as special assistant to the UST rector for sports.
The Tigers have also tapped a pool of prized recruits, including Forthsky Padrigao from the Ateneo Blue Eagles, Kyle Paranada from the University of the East, Leland Estacio from California, Geremy Robinson from De La Salle University, and Ashon Andrews from the University of the Philippines.
All that to reinforce their core players bannered by Nic Cabañero, who led the league in points in Season 86, and Christian Manaytay, a reliable big man to complement Mahmood.
“I spoke to the coaches, and you know, some of the players, and I think that culture shift over there is coming,” Mahmood said.
“I’m looking forward to being a part of something big,” he added.
Mahmood will have a full five-year eligibility period for the Tigers starting in Season 87.
With the roster shaping up to be a promising one, Mahmood is upbeat about his future in the Tigers’ lair, considering the impressive displays the team enjoys in off-season leagues such as the Pinoy Liga: Next Man Cup.
Last February 3, in the team’s most notable win yet, the Tigers pulled off an upset over reigning UAAP champion La Salle Green Archers, sans season MVP Kevin Quiambao, ending UST’s nine-year-long losing streak against the Taft-based squad in the sport.
The Tigers, who have been fielding mostly new recruits, also hold wins versus NCAA champion San Beda Red Lions and the Adamson Soaring Falcons in Pinoy Liga.
For Mahmood, the early success could help push the Tigers to great heights starting next season.
“I’m looking forward to integrating with the team and seeing what coach Pido has to offer,” he said. “As well as getting back to the winning track and bringing us back to the championship.”
“I think that UST is going to be a name in the headlines all year, next year.” – Rappler.com
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Wanted: Manny Pangilinan’s replacement | Ralf Rivas | 12/3/2024 8:00 | TYCOON. Manny Pangilinan chats with business reporters after PLDT's press briefing on March 9, 2024.
Ralf Rivas/Rappler
PLDT chairman, president, and CEO Manny Pangilinan is still looking for his successor.
The 77-year-old has led PLDT since 1998 and has been meaning to pass the baton for some time now. He already stepped down as the telco giant’s big boss in 2021, only to assume the post again in 2024 after his successor, Al Panlilio, resigned due to health reasons.
In a recent press briefing, Pangilinan said that PLDT management is still in the process of looking for one, noting that the successor must have a sharp business sense. That person also needs to understand how the other businesses in the MVP group interact and relate with each other.
Pangilinan said they are careful about choosing the next person taking the helm, noting that this “long term decision will affect the company long term.”
“This is not just making an investment or buying an equipment, so no, it’s difficult because you have to look at the future in terms of the successor, I know that he should be younger than I am, much younger, should be steeped in IT, have an excellent business sense,” Pangilinan said.
“At the end of the day, it has to be somebody with a very good nose for business,” he added.
So far, sources said that management is looking at both insiders and outsiders for the role. They are even considering names that are not in the telco industry, but have experience in tech.
Pangilinan also noted that the successor must know about the other businesses under the MVP group, especially now that it recently formed a digital entity that will harness the data assets of the various companies in the conglomerate.
Digico, a collaboration co-owned by PLDT, Smart, the Manila Electric Company, and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, will use a tech platform to “scale up and achieve seamless integration of services and capabilities.”
Pangilinan also detailed how Digico will consolidate the group’s multiple payment channels for a more seamless and secure experience for customers and businesses.
The next CEO must also sustain PLDT’s profitability. In 2023, net income more than doubled to P26.6 billion, mainly due to a decline in expenses and stable top-line growth.
Revenues and core income posted just single-digit growth at 3%, which Pangilinan described as the telco industry’s “pain” in recent years.
“We’re stuck in terms of the growth story, so the telco that is able to develop the next great big idea to achieve escape velocity would be the winner,” Pangilinan said.
Will it be 5G, artificial intelligence, or internet of things that will bring elusive double-digit growth?
Those are some of the challenges that Pangilinan’s successor will have to face. – Rappler.com
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Bound for Paris: Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas punch Olympic tickets | delfin.dioquino editor | 12/3/2024 4:40 | HYPED. Nesthy Petecio of the Philippines reacts after winning her fight against Irma Testa of Italy in the Tokyo Olympics.
Ueslei Marcelino/REUTERS
MANILA, Philippines – With precious Olympic berths on the line, Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas made sure not to waste their chances.
The two Filipina boxers secured their places in the Paris Games after emerging triumphant in their respective divisions in the World Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, Italy, on Monday, March 11 (Tuesday, March 12, Manila time).
Petecio booked a return trip to the Olympics after clinching a top-two finish in the women’s 57kg category with 4-1 split decision over Turkey’s Esra Yildiz.
A Tokyo Games silver medalist, Petecio flaunted her ring savvy as she built a 20-18 lead in four of the five judges’ scorecards following the first two rounds.
Yildiz earned the nod of all five judges in the third round, but Petecio – composed from start to finish – hardly looked threatened and won with scores of 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 28-29.
It was the only split decision victory for Petecio in the tournament after she won her first four bouts either via unanimous decision or stoppage.
Still, it was enough for the pride of Davao del Sur to reach the Olympics for the second straight edition and get a crack at completing her unfinished business after falling short of the gold in Tokyo.
Meanwhile, Villegas survived Bulgaria’s Zlatislava Chukanova for a top-four finish in the women’s 50kg class via unanimous decision, 5-0, but not after a tight contest that saw three of the five judges settle for a tie, with the other two scoring in favor of the Filipina.
Villegas unanimously won the first two rounds, but she incurred a one-point penalty for holding as she left the comeback door ajar for Chukanova.
The Olympic ticket appeared to slip out of Villegas’ hands when she got knocked down in the third round after a right straight to the head from Chukanova, but the pride of Leyte brushed the fall off and finished the fight.
Villegas even got the nod of two judges in the third round as she sealed her spot for her Olympic debut, 29-27, 29-27, 28-28, 28-28, 28-28.
According to rules set by the Paris 2024 Boxing Unit, in the case three or more judges have even scores, they are requested to pick a winner. Villegas won the tiebreak.
Petecio and Villegas will join fellow boxer Eumir Marcial in Paris, increasing the Philippines’ athlete roster for the Olympics to six.
Also qualified for Paris are pole vaulter EJ Obiena and gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan.
Not as fortunate as Petecio and Villegas, though, were Carlo Paalam, Rogen Ladon, Claudine Veloso, Mark Ashley Fajardo, John Marvin, Ronald Chavez Jr., Hergie Bacyadan, and Riza Pasuit.
But they can still make the Olympics through the second World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand, in May. – Rappler.com
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Hontiveros: Let Quiboloy face allegations | The wRap | Cara Angeline Oliver | 11/3/2024 22:00 | Today on Rappler – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:
Senator Risa Hontiveros urges fellow senators to set aside friendship after several of her colleagues called for the reversal of a Senate contempt order against Quiboloy.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Sunday, March 10, at least 13,000 terrorists were among Palestinians killed.
Three news agencies take down a photo of Kate Middleton with her family following concerns the image may have been manipulated or digitally altered.
Big and rising names from Hollywood gather on Sunday, March 10 at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, USA, for the 2024 Academy Awards.
Oppenheimer takes home seven awards out of 13 nominations including Best Picture at the 96th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 10. — Rappler.com
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Bukidnon cave claims lives of 4 Yamashita treasure hunters | Herbie G | 11/3/2024 21:06 | CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – At least four men in search of the fabled Yamashita treasure died when they suffocated inside a cave they were exploring in Kadingilan town in Bukidnon province on Monday, March 11.
Captain Larry Mahlin, Kadingilan police chief, said one of the victims, identified as Rey Gallardo of Valencia City, was pulled out from the cave by rescuers in the morning.
Mahlin said they have yet to account for the three remaining miners who are presumed dead inside the cave in Sitio Tinago, Barangay Cabadiangan.
“We are also waiting for a ladder to lower the body bags into the cave,” Mahlin said.
He said the victims were part of a group of eight treasure hunters who went inside the cave, searching for the fabled Yamashita treasure on Sunday, March 10.
A nearby police station sent distress radio messages, seeking help from organized rescuers after learning that the hunters needed assistance, Mahlin said.
Robert John Laguna, a member of the Kadingilan Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, said they did not enter the cave because of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide inside. (A previous version of this story stated that the cave “reeked of carbon monoxide.” Carbon monoxide is odorless. This has been corrected. – Editors)
Laguna said the cave is also known for a labyrinth of passages that pose potential risks to rescuers who are unfamiliar with it. – Rappler.com
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Vita Coco cements partnership with Philippines in new deal with Century Pacific | gdecastro0289 | 11/3/2024 19:30 | Century Pacific Food
MANILA, Philippines – If any of your friends or relatives abroad have taken a sip of Vita Coco in the United States or in the United Kingdom, chances are the coconut water came from the Philippines.
Although Vita Coco Coconut Water is an American brand, it sources its coconut water from the Philippines and other countries in Southeast Asia.
On Monday, March 11, billionaire Po family-led Century Pacific Food disclosed that it has entered into a new long-term contract with The Vita Coco Company to help meet the US brand’s need for 90 million liters of coconut water over the next five years. (READ: Century Pacific founder Ricardo Po Sr. dies at 90)
Century Pacific first entered into a partnership with Vita Coco in 2012 or over a decade ago, and has supplied it with its coconut water requirements.
As millions of consumers worldwide shift to healthier drinks, demand for coconut water has gone up, with both companies seeing a “significant increase in sales over the last decade.”
Century Pacific said it has since become “one of the largest suppliers of Vita Coco, augmenting its capacity by 50% in 2022, to serve the brand’s growing needs.”
It said the new agreement with Vita Coco will require a capital expenditure of $40 million, and is expected to create at least 1,500 jobs in manufacturing.
It added that its previous agreement with Vita Coco was signed in 2020 and set for renewal in 2025. This new accord, Century Pacific said, is “incremental to the existing agreement.”
“The expansion of the multi-year agreement with Vita Coco conveys our mutual trust and respect for each other as business partners, a relationship built through consistency, collaboration, and excellence,” said Noel Tempongko Jr., vice president of Century Pacific’s Coconut OEM business. An OEM or Original Equipment Manufacturer business produces parts that another company needs.
Tempongko said the new agreement will further support the growth of the local coconut industry in the region.
Jonathan Burth, chief operating officer of Vita Coco, said they “look forward to further solidifying our long-term partnership with Century Pacific.”
“Our mutual ambition to serve consumers better with healthier products has taken us to new heights in innovation and quality. This agreement also creates an avenue by which we collaborate to make a positive impact on society and help build thriving communities among smallholder farmers in the Philippines,” Burth said.
Century Pacific is now one of the Philippines’ biggest branded food companies. Its leading business is its tuna enterprise with its brands Century Tuna, 555, and sardines, especially after acquiring the Ligo brand in 2021. It is also in the meat business, producing canned goods such as Argentina Corned Beef and Meat Loaf. In 2001, it expanded into the canned milk market with its Angel and Birch Tree brands.
The Philippines is the second largest producer of coconuts in the world, and has around 2.5 million coconut farmers, many of them in Mindanao.
Century Pacific said it works with local smallholder farmers, such as in General Santos City and in Sarangani province in central Mindanao, and creates market access for their products.
Other Vita Coco suppliers in Southeast Asia are Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. In South America, Brazil is a supplier.
Vita Coco says its products are made by picking and cracking the “best coconuts before extracting the coconut water.”
It says coconut water is “clear, fat-free liquid,” low in calories and cholesterol-free, and “naturally rich in electrolytes, especially potassium.”
“Once extracted, we filter the coconut water and standardize the flavor profile by adding Vitamin C and 1% sugar,” its website says. The coconut water is then pasteurized and packaged before being shipped.
Vita Coco is the number one coconut water brand in the US and the UK, with a market share of 50% and 75%, respectively, the company says.
Vita Coco says coconut water is becoming a “staple in the fridge of our core consumers,” and has become an alternative to “sugary sports drinks.” It estimates the “addressable” US retail market at over $30 billion.
Vita Coco started when its founders Michael Kirban and Ira Liran met two Brazilian women at a bar in New York City. When they asked the women what they missed most about Brazil, they said it was “agua de coco,” prompting Kirban and Liran to draw up a plan to bring coconut water to the US.
Global pop icons such as Madonna and Rihanna have endorsed Vita Coco.
Vita Coco had net sales of $494 million in 2023, up 15% from the year prior. It had a net income of $47 million in 2023 compared to $39 million in 2022. – Rappler.com
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Activists cheer as Baguio court resumes hearing on anti-terrorist label petition | Herbie G | 11/3/2024 19:51 | SUPPORT. Families and friends show support for four Cordillera activists as they question their designation as terrorists by the Anti-Terrorism Council in Baguio.
Sherwin De Vera/Rappler
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Organized activists in Baguio City on Sunday, March 10, welcomed the resumption of proceedings in a regional court on the petition for certiorari and writ of a preliminary injunction filed by their leaders who were tagged by the Anti-Terrorism Council as “terrorists.”
This came after Baguio Regional Trial Court Branch 7 Judge Cecilia Corazon Dulay-Archog of Branch 7 resumed the hearing on Friday, March 8, after the Supreme Court (SC), through Court Administrator Raul Villanueva, greenlit the local court proceedings.
In January, Archog suspended the hearings on the petition filed by activists Sarah Abellon-Alikes, Jennifer Awingan-Taggaoa, and Stephen Tauli to ask the High Court for guidance regarding the case’s jurisdiction.
Windel Bolinget, chairperson of the Baguio-based Cordillera Peoples Alliance(CPA), said, “The decision to continue the case under RTC Branch 7 is very much welcome. Now that the Supreme Court has clarified the issue of jurisdiction, we hope that the case will proceed with the court considering our prayers, particularly the injunction and, of course, the entire petition.”
Bolinget joined Alikes, Taggaoa, and Tauli in filing the petition as a result of their terrorist designation by the ATC, along with two other activists.
As a result of the designation, the government released a freeze order on their personal and organizational bank accounts.
Bolinget said they also welcomed the news about the Baguio-based court’s jurisdiction because the city is nearer to them, which would mean lesser expenses on their part.
Had the legal proceedings been moved to Manila, it would have been costly, time-consuming, and raised more security concerns on their part, Bolinget said.
According to Bolinget, concerns for their safety grew following “documented harassment incidents” within the premises of the Baguio Justice Hall after the three court hearings.
In his February 6 response to Archog, Villanueva noted that petitioners filed the case before the rules took effect.
He pointed out that the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and related SC rules “are silent on whether petitions filed prior to the effectivity of the subject rules are to be transferred to the CA or to the newly designated anti-terrorism courts.”
“(T)his Office opines that your court shall continue hearing the instant case until the same is disposed or terminated. After all, jurisdiction has already attached to your court when the subject petition was filed…,” read part of Villanueva’s memorandum.
However, the SC Office of the Court Administrator’s memo did not dampen the resolve of the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG).
The OSG had filed a supplemental comment seeking the dismissal of the petition before the March 8 hearing. The government argued that RTC in Baguio has no jurisdiction over the petition.
Acting on submission, the court required the petitioners to file their response to the OSG pleading within 10 days. – Rappler.com
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[EDITORIAL] Kalaban mo ang mga senador na protektor ni Quiboloy | Miriam Grace Go | 11/3/2024 10:35 | May malasakit sa mahihirap, makatarungan, tumutulong sa nangangailangan. Hindi corrupt, matuwid, mahabagin, nakaka-inspire.
Ilan ito sa mga katangiang sinabi nating dapat taglayin ng mga pipiliin nating senador noong 2019 at 2022, ayon sa surveys. Noong 2019, kung kailan ibinoto natin sina Bong Go, Imee Marcos, at Cynthia Villar; noong 2022, nang ibinoto natin si Robin Padilla.
Ang tanong tungkol sa apat na mambabatas: nakikita ba natin sa kanila ang mga katangiang ito?
Nitong Marso 5, nagdesisyon si Senator Risa Hontiveros – ang tagapangulo ng committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality – na i-hold in contempt ang pastor na si Apollo Quiboloy. Hiniling ni Hontiveros kay Senate President Migz Zubiri na ipag-utos ang pag-aresto sa pinuno ng Davao-based na Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
Ito ay matapos na isnabin ni Quiboloy nang ilang ulit ang imbitasyon, kalaunan ay subpoena, ng komite na humarap sa pagdinig tungkol sa mga umano’y pang-aabusong ginagawa niya at ng kanyang mga alipores sa KOJC at sa brodkaster nilang SMNI o Sonshine Media Network International. Sa madaling sabi, binastos niya ang institusyong halal ng taumbayan.
Bakit nagpipilit si Hontiveros na makaharap at direktang matanong si Quiboloy? Dahil ambibigat ng mga paratang sa kanya ng mga dating miyembro at manggagawa niya: panggagahasa sa menor de edad, sexual abuse maging sa kalalakihan, trafficking o pangangalakal ng mga tao, pangingikil sa mga OFW, pang-aabuso at pagpapahirap sa mga empleyado, pag-aareglo ng mga pekeng kasal sa ibang bansa.
Dahil anumang makakalap sa imbestigasyon ng Senado ay gagamitin sa pagbuo o pagrerebisa ng mga batas, kailangang mabuo ang kuwento, mapagtahi-tahi ang mga detalye, maunawaan ang mga kalagayan o pangyayaring nagbibigay-daan sa mga inilalarawang pang-aabuso. Ang layunin ay mapatibay ang ating mga batas upang maprotektahan at mapagsilbihan ang mamamayan – layunin na, di ba, dapat ay naiintindihan at sinusuportahan ng bawat senador? (BASAHIN: [OPINION] The Quiboloy contempt order: Legislative overreach or valid exercise of Senate power?)
Bukod na usapin ito sa mga kasong kriminal na kinakaharap ni Quiboloy at mga alipores niya sa Amerika, kung saan nasa wanted list sila ng Federal Bureau of Investigation. Hindi rin ito nakadepende sa mga kasong isinampa ng Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) laban sa kanila. Ibig sabihin, maaaring isulong, at dapat isulong, ang tatlong ito nang sabay-sabay. (BASAHIN: PRIMER: Investigations, cases against Apollo Quiboloy)
Balik tayo kina Padilla, Go, Marcos, at Villar. Pumirma sila sa isang sulat na kumokontra sa kapasiyahan ng committee chairperson. Ayaw nilang masabing binastos ni Quiboloy ang Senado; ayaw nilang maipaaresto ito para humarap sa pagdinig. Kahit na mismong si Pangulong Marcos ang nagpayong ilatag niya ang kanyang panig sa harap ng mga akusasyon; kahit na sinabi ng BFF niyang si dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na magpaaresto na lang siya.
May pitong araw mula Marso 5 para mabaligtad ng mga sumusuporta kay Quiboloy ang kapasiyahan ni Hontiveros. Batay sa kalakaran sa Senado, kailangan ng boto ng mayorya ng mga miyembro ng komite para mangyari ito. Labing-apat ang miyembro; walo ang mayorya; apat pa ang kailangang makumbinsi ng pasimunong si Padilla para magtagumpay sila.
Ilista natin ang pangalan ng mga kailangan nilang kumbinsihin: Nancy Binay, Pia Cayetano, Grace Poe, Raffy Tulfo, Joseph Victor Ejercito (pumirma pero umurong din), Mark Villar, Loren Legarda, Joel Villanueva, at Koko Pimentel.
Sila rin ang kailangan nating paalalahanan na tatandaan natin ang kanilang mga pangalan kapag muli silang tumakbo bilang senador o kumandidato para sa ibang posisyon. Ilaglag ang sinomang makikinig kay Padilla at pipirma. Dahil ang pagpirma para salagin ang imbestigasyon kay Quiboloy ay panlalaglag din sa ordinaryong mamamayan na dapat nilang ipinagsasanggalang.
Sabi ni Padilla, kaibigan niya si Quiboloy, pinahiram siya nito ng helicopter nang nangangampanya. Sabi ni Cynthia Villar, kaibigan niya si Quiboloy, kaya mahirap paniwalaan ang mga ibinibintang sa kanya. Sabi ni Imee Marcos, ano raw ba ang mabubuong batas sa imbestigasyong ito na para sa kanya ay puro “kuwentuhan” lang. Si Bong Go, well, kung saang panig ang “amo” niyang si Duterte, doon siya.
Kaya sorry na lang kay “Amanda,” na umano’y ni-rape ni Quiboloy noong kabataan niya, kasi kaibigan ng apat na senador si Quiboloy. Sorry na lang kay “Rene” na hinalay ng kalalakihang opisyales ng KOJC, kasi kaibigan ng mga senador si Quiboloy. Sorry na lang kay “David,” na pinagtrabahong walang suweldo sa SMNI, dahil kaibigan ng mga senador si Quiboloy. Sorry na lang kay Reinalyn, na bilang OFW ay pinuwersang ibigay sa KOJC ang 90% ng kanyang sahod sa ibang bansa sa halip na ipadala sa kanyang pamilya.
Sorry na lang sa mga biktima ng mga akusadong nagtatago sa ngalan ng relihiyon at nakaaasa sa proteksiyon ng mga koneksiyon nila sa Senado. Sorry na lang na ang ilan sa ibinoto natin – na malaon ay hihingi na naman ng boto natin – ay wala palang malasakit sa mahihirap at inapi, isasantabi ang makatarungan, hindi tutulong sa nangangailangan, gagamitin ang puwesto para paboran ang kakilala, mangungunsinti ng kalikuan, walang habag sa naaapi, hindi nakaka-inspire.
O baka naman mas malaking tao, at hindi talaga si Quiboloy, ang pinoprotektahan nila?
Matapos aminin ni Quiboloy na nagtatago na siya, itinalaga niya si Duterte bilang administrador ng lahat ng ari-arian ng Kingdom of Jesus Christ.
Gaano kayaman ang religious group ni Quiboloy? Sabi ni Duterte mismo, niregaluhan siya ng kanyang kaibigan ng ilang lote at bahay, ilang magagarang sasakyan. At sabi nga ni Senator Padilla, nagpapahiram ng helicopter sa kampanya. Ayon din sa isang testigo, binigyan nito ng bulto-bultong armas ang mag-amang Duterte nang dumalaw sa bundok na pag-aari rin niya at kung nasaan ang kanyang mansiyon.
Kaya kung sakaling ang Senate committee investigation ni Hontiveros, o ang mga kaso ng DOJ, o ang mga kaso sa US ay umabot sa pagsilip sa bank accounts at paghalughog sa mga ari-arian ni Quiboloy o ng KOJC, malamang na madamay din ang kayamanan ng “administrador” (baka beneficial owner?) na si Duterte. (Bilisan daw, sabi ni dating senador Leila de Lima, kung gagawin ito ng pamahalaan, dahil baka mailipat ang mga pera at titulo.)
Lalo nang sorry sa “maliliit” na biktima na naglakas-loob tumestigo para sa pagsusulong ng mga batas na may pangil at mas makabuluhan. At least, daig nila sa tapang ang ilang senador na dapat sana’y kagalang-galang. – Rappler.com
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Rhenz Abando ready for EASL playoffs after winning KBL injury return | Jasmine Payo | 3/3/2024 21:42 | KEY COG. Anyang's Rhenz Abando goes for a shot against Goyang in KBL action.
Anyang Jung Kwan Jang
MANILA, Philippines — Rhenz Abando will not be a mere spectator in the East Asia Super League (EASL) Final Four to be held in Cebu this weekend after getting the green light to play.
The high-flying Abando will suit up for the Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters in the continental league after a successful return on Sunday, March 3, in the Korean Basketball League.
In his first game back since suffering a spinal injury last December, Abando powered his way to 17 points in 28 minutes, on top of 4 rebounds and 3 assists in Anyang’s 92-87 win against Goyang Sono.
The former NCAA Most Valuable Player, however, said his injury recovery is around “85-90 percent,” admitting to still feeling pain when bending his body.
Abando’s game was well-attended by Filipino fans in South Korea, including Philippine ambassador Maria Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega.
“The support of the Filipino fans is a great help. The embassy people came, so I think I’m even happier that we won the game,” Abando, who was named Player of the Game, said after the contest.
“I am happy that I was able to win on my comeback match. The team still has some room to improve, but I am happy that we won,” he added.
Abando’s return was coincidentally with the same team he played against when he suffered the gruesome injury.
Chinanu Onuaku collided with Abando while he was in mid-air, leading to an awkward fall for the Filipino.
He and Onuaku met before the game, with the latter apologizing for the mishap, per Abando.
The EASL Final Four, set to be held at the Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City, will feature Anyang against rival Seoul SK Knights in the semifinals on March 8, 5 pm.
The winner of that matchup will face off with the victor of the Chiba Jets-New Taipei Kings tussle in the second semifinal game at 8 pm.
The gold- and bronze-medal matches will be on Sunday, March 10, at the same venue. — Rappler.com
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Results, team standings: UAAP Season 86 volleyball | Jasmine Payo | 5/5/2024 21:02 | ROARING. NU's Bella Belen (left) and Alyssa Solomon react in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball finals
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP Season 86 volleyball tournaments reach a tipping point with the men’s and women’s finals!
LOOK: UAAP volleyball championship schedule
Here are the results in the men’s and women’s divisions:
MAY 15
May 11
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
MAY 8
MAY 5
MAY 4
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
** – Twice-to-beat* – Final Fourx – Eliminated
APRIL 27
APRIL 24
APRIL 21
APRIL 20
APRIL 17
APRIL 14
APRIL 13
APRIL 10
APRIL 9
APRIL 4
APRIL 3
MARCH 24
MARCH 23
MARCH 20
First round
MARCH 17
MARCH 16
MARCH 13
MARCH 10
MARCH 9
MARCH 6
MARCH 3
MARCH 2
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 17
– Rappler.com
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‘Mentally down’: Dongallo shakes off Yee suspension, focuses on improving UE fortunes | jisaga0269 | 3/3/2024 20:56 | FOR COACH JERRY. UE spiker Casiey Dongallo wears a wristband to show support for coach Jerry Yee.
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP certainly picked a bad time, at least for the UE Lady Warriors, to hand out their season-long suspension to head coach Jerry Yee.
Mere hours before UE took on Yee’s former team Adamson Lady Falcons, the league officially handed down its stunning decision while Yee himself was in a separate venue outside the Mall of Asia Arena talking to reporters about the development.
Although the players and the remaining coaching staff were already given a heads-up, the side effects of the off-court development were still evident on the taraflex, as Adamson rolled over UE with back-to-back 25-19 routs and eventually prevailing in an extended fourth frame, 29-27.
For Lady Warriors super rookie Casiey Dongallo, the announcement certainly played a part in her team’s lethargic start.
“As [interim coach] Doc [Obet Vital] pointed out, we were mentally down in the first and second set. That was certainly one big added burden in our minds,” she lamented in Filipino.
“But as the game flowed, the coaches did not lack in reminders for us to set that aside. We just had to play our game especially in the third and fourth sets, where we were able to do just that. Still, we fell short.”
To the Lady Warriors’ credit, they indeed stepped up in the latter frames, stealing a 28-26 decision to stay alive in the third, before almost pulling off a fifth-set decider in a thrilling finish, 25-19, 25-19, 26-28, 29-27.
Also catching fans’ attention were the UE players’ accessories during the game – an assortment of armbands, muscle tapes, and wrist guards that have “Coach Jerry” scribbled on them.
Dongallo, far and away the league’s leading scorer with a 27 points per game average, added 26 more to her fast-growing tally as a small silver lining to UE dropping its third straight close game.
Moving forward, given the fact that Yee may still lead practices away from game arenas, Dongallo hopes that she and her teammates could break out of this slump soon – both standings-wise and mentally speaking.
“It’s not like we can just forget what happened this game, but I think we just have to move forward, give it all in training, fix what needs to be fixed, especially our mental state,” she continued.
“We really need to get our minds back in the game, as it was clear that we were affected with what happened to coach Jerry.” – Rappler.com
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RUNNING LIST: President Marcos’ foreign trips in 2024 | Dwight de Leon | 22/01/2024 15:00 | TRAVEL. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos fly to Malaysia for a state visit in July 2023.
Presidential Communications Office
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has established himself as a frequent flyer, does not intend to slow down in 2024.
For this year, the Office of the President (OP) has been provided a budget of P1.4 billion for missions and state visits, as well as P1.1 billion for traveling expenses.
The amounts are a significant increase from what the OP had in its budget for traveling purposes in 2023.
Rappler tracks the countries that the President will visit in 2024.
Updated as of Apri 22, 2024
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) announced on January 24 that President Marcos will be the keynote speaker at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue, dubbed as Asia’s premier defense summit, on May 31.
As per the IISS, he will join an esteemed list of heads of state who delivered a speech at the summit in the past, such as Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Malacañang has yet to confirm Marcos’ visits to the following countries. The list is based on international gatherings usually attended by the President, invitations that Malacañang received, and other statements that Philippine officials made in the past.
President Marcos and First Lazy Liza attended the royal wedding of Prince Abdul Mateen, the 10th child of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and businesswoman Yang Mulia Dayang Anisha Rosnah Binti Adam.
Marcos flew to Vietnam for a state visit upon the invitation of his Vietnamese counterpart Vo Van Thuong.
There, Marcos reiterated the agreements between Manila and Vietnam’s coast guards, and the two nation’s “cooperation and coordination” in the South China Sea. The two countries also inked an agreement on rice trade.
Marcos was in Canberra, Australia on February 28 to 29. As a guest of the government, he addressed the Australian Parliament, zeroing in on security issues. He also witnessed the signing of agreements on maritime domain, cyberspace, and antitrust between the Philippines and Australia.
The President returned to Australia on March 3, just a few days after his state visit to the country, to take part in the special summit in Melbourne between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Australia from March 4 to 6.
President Marcos was in Berlin in March for a working visit, meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
The two countries signed agreements to strengthen cooperation on maritime issues and the upskilling of Filipino skilled workers.
After his trip to Germany, Marcos wrapped up his Central Europe tour with a state visit to the Czech Republic, where he met with President Petr Pavel, Prime Minister Petr Fiala, Senate President Miloš Vystrčil, and President of the Chamber of Deputies Markéta Pekarová Adamová.
President Marcos flew to Washington on April 10 to take part in the first-ever trilateral summit between the Philippines, the United States, and Japan on April 11. It was a meeting that ultimately zeroed in on the growing threat posed by China in the West Philippine Sea. – Rappler.com
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Tourism Secretary Frasco backs return of church panels to Cebu | Ralf Rivas | 3/3/2024 20:21 | HISTORY. The controversial early 19th-century panels depicting the founder of the Augustinian Order displayed at the National Museum of the Philippines.
National Museum of the Philippines
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco joined Cebuanos in calling for the return of the pulpit panels allegedly stolen from the heritage church of Boljoon.
In a statement sent to Rappler on Sunday, March 3, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Frasco sent a letter to National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) Board of Trustees Chairperson Andoni Aboitiz.
“These panels bear profound significance in Cebuano’s history, serving as a tangible reflection of the rich cultural heritage and religious traditions of the people of Cebu. Moreover, the Boljoon Church is of outstanding cultural value to the Philippines as a National Cultural Treasure and National Historical Landmark, and is on the Philippines’ tentative list as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for Baroque Churches of the Philippines (Extension),” she said in her letter.
Frasco, former mayor of Liloan, Cebu, currently sits on the NMP board as an ex-officio member. She said that cultural heritage has a significant role in the approved National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028.
“[A]s the Department of Tourism supports the protection and conservation of our nation’s religious and cultural treasures and artifacts, it also advocates that the destinations and communities from whence these treasures and artifacts emanate should be proactively sustained and duly respected,” said Frasco.
She also stressed that pilgrimage tourism, which is an important tourism segment in the country, “hinges on destinations like Boljoon Church in attracting tourists and supporting local economies.”
“One of the identified priorities of the Department of Tourism is pilgrimage tourism, wherein tourists visit destinations to pay homage to religious artifacts and sites that are of significance to their faith. Religious artifacts and sites such as the pulpit panels and the Boljoon Church enrich the culture and history of tourism destinations, driving travelers to visit and supporting the local economy by providing tourism-related livelihood and employment,” Frasco said in her letter to Aboitiz.
The four pulpit panels were lost from the Archdiocesan Shrine of Patrocinio de Maria Santissima in Boljoon for decades until they resurfaced on February 13 as a “Gift to the Nation” donation by private collectors to the NMP.
Their resurfacing has spurred widespread calls in Cebu, especially in Boljoon, for their return to the church that was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the NMP. – Rappler.com
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I appreciate the action of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. I hope this will not result in a second “fiasco.” If the National Museum of the Philippines insists otherwise, the right party or parties may file a complaint at the Senate for an investigation. This will be an opportunity for some senators to grandstanding and smart shaming. In fairness, kindly include the House of Representatives, too. If both legislative chambers are too busy for the economic Cha-cha, how about filing it with the Philippine National Police?
How does this make you feel? | Rappler | https://www.rappler.com/philippines/visayas/tourism-secretary-christina-frasco-supports-return-church-panels-boljoon-church-cebu/ |
Cellar dwellers on top: Terrafirma stuns NLEX, shares PH Cup lead with Blackwater | Jasmine Payo | 3/3/2024 20:21 | LEADER. Terrafirma guard Juami Tiongson in action against NLEX.
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MANILA, Philippines –A longtime league cellar dweller, the Terrafirma Dyip are starting to turn heads in the PBA Philippine Cup.
For the first time since the 2016 Governors’ Cup, Terrafirma is off to a 2-0 start in the conference after gutting out a 99-95 win over the NLEX Road Warriors at the Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, March 3.
After erupting for 30 points in their opening assignment last Friday, March 2, high-scoring guard Juami Tiongson was on a mission for the Dyip anew as he dropped a team-best 21 points in the come-from-behind triumph.
Javi Gomez de Liaño backstopped Tiongson with 18 points, while top rookie Stephen Holt, who scored a PBA career-high of 27 points two days ago, filled up the stat sheet with 17 markers, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals.
“We have two wins now, but I told my players we have to win every game,” said Terrafirma head coach Johnedel Cardel as the Dyip joined the Blackwater Bossing as the surprise leaders early in the conference.
“We’re not thinking of our two wins because we might relax.”
“Every game, our mindset should be 1-0, 1-0, until we reach our goal, which is to enter the quarterfinals,” added Cardel as Terrafirma, formerly known as Mahindra, aims to duplicate its 2016 Governors’ Cup run, which was the only time the franchise advanced to the next round.
With NLEX leading by double figures at halftime, 57-47, Terrafirma came out with guns blazing from the break and opened the third quarter on a 14-4 run to overtake the Road Warriors, 61-60.
It was a nip-and-tuck battle between both teams throughout the second half, and with Terrafirma up by just 2, 95-93, with over a minute left to play, Sean Anthony had a chance to tie the game for NLEX, but his wide-open layup clanked off the rim.
Isaac Go then drilled two free throws for the Dyip to extend their lead to two possessions, 97-93, before Dave Marcelo quickly responded with a layup on the other end.
A turnover by NLEX star Robert Bolick with 25 ticks left led to two clutch free throws by JP Calvo to re-establish Terrafirma’s 4-point cushion, 99-95.
NLEX had two opportunities to make it a single possession game in the next play, but Anthony Semerad’s three-point attempt and another easy layup by Anthony failed to hit the target once again.
Terrafirma spoiled the huge performance of Bolick, who came up with a game-high 29 points, 5 rebounds, and 8 assists.
Rookie Jhan Nermal was the other Road Warrior in double-figures in the loss with 15 points.
NLEX slipped to a 1-1 card – tied with the TNT Tropang Giga and the Meralco Bolts.
Terrafirma 99 – Tiongson 21, Gomez de Liaño 18, Holt 17, Calvo 16, Alolino 9, Sangalang 8, Go 7, Ramos 3, Cahilig 0, Camson 0, Mina 0.
NLEX 95 – Bolick 29, Nermal 15, Valdez 9, Miranda 7, Ular 7, Anthony 6, Semerad 6, Nieto 6, Marcelo 4, Pascual 4, Herndon 2.
Quarters: 21-26, 47-57, 70-73, 99-95.
– Rappler.com
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Pangilinan, Aboitiz, Ang team up for P185-billion integrated LNG facility | Ralf Rivas | 3/3/2024 17:34 | MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines’ richest tycoons are setting aside business rivalry to team up for the country’s first and “most expansive” integrated liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in the province of Batangas valued at $3.3 billion (P185.2 billion).
Manny Pangilinan’s Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGen) and Sabin Aboitiz’s Aboitiz Power will jointly invest in Ramon Ang’s San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corporation’s gas-fired power plants, namely the 1,278-megawatt Ilijan power plant, and a new 1,320-megawatt combined cycle power facility.
The tycoons will likewise invest in almost 100% of the LNG import and regasification terminal owned by Linseed Field Corporation, which are currently owned by the local office of Singaporean LNG firm Atlantic, Gulf & Pacific Co. The facility will be used to receive, store, and process LNG fuel for the two power plants.
“For the first time, three leading power companies are working together to secure our country’s energy needs while transitioning towards cleaner power sources,” Ang said in a statement on Sunday, March 3.
The three said the deal would help boost the country’s energy security, which is “competitively priced and affordable to a broader base of Filipino consumers.”
“This is a pathbreaking venture. Apart from transforming the energy landscape of the Philippines, this symbolizes a milestone alliance among major players in the energy industry towards a more sustainable future,” said Pangilinan. (READ: San Miguel confirms Ramon Ang’s investment in Manny Pangilinan’s MPIC)
Once operational, it would have over 2,500 megawatts of generation supply, backed by “advanced LNG storage and regasification capabilities.”
Natural gas is touted as a “bridge fuel” to aid countries transition to cleaner sources of power. The Department of Energy aimed to boost the share of natural gas in the power generation mix to 26% by 2040.
At least seven LNG terminals are expected to be built along the coasts of Luzon.
A report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism earlier pointed out that most of the proponents have long been in the power industry. – Rappler.com
$1=P56.11
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I appreciate this action by our wealthiest tycoons. I hope this will not end up like the political “Uniteam.” Secondly, I hope the political triumvirate of Corruption, Repression, and Disinformation will not affect this endeavor. Good luck to this wealthiest triumvirate!
How does this make you feel? | Rappler | https://www.rappler.com/business/pangilinan-aboitiz-ang-integrated-lng-natural-gas-facility/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_medium=Social&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1W5cYmDzKBm88eLzDTlfNAbKLo7sS8CeNJnDAIlnDIE08U-HLtrr4ZULo_aem__u_b6uD26woeJsK_nnBTKg |
Here’s a rundown of changes to the Miss Universe Philippines pageant since 2020 | Ysa Abad | 3/3/2024 19:22 | In December 2019, Filipino pageant fans and aficionados were surprised when it was announced that the Miss Universe franchise would no longer be under the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc (BPCI) after 55 years.
BPCI, under the leadership of Stella Araneta, had led the search for the Philippines’ representative to the Miss Universe competition since 1964. During those times, it was through the annual Binibining Pilipinas pageant that the Miss Universe Philippines queen was crowned, alongside candidates to at least five more international pageants.
However, with the establishment of the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) organization came a new team that took charge in choosing the country’s representative to the prestigious international tilt.
As the pageant is set to hold its fifth edition under the Miss Universe Philippines organization this 2024, let’s look back at the notable changes that they’ve introduced in the competition since 2020:
During its 2021 edition, MUPH announced that there’ll be no height requirement for its screening process. Prior to this, the minimum height requirement for interested candidates was 5’4.
Height requirement was also removed in its succeeding editions.
It was also in 2021 when Miss Universe Philippines kicked off the competition with the Top 100 delegates – the biggest number of candidates in the pageant’s history.
These 100 delegates would undergo several online and remote challenges and then get narrowed down to the Top 75 and 50 and eventually 30 based on their performances in the challenges and votes from supporters.
Twenty-seven of the Top 30 for the 2021 edition were chosen by panelists while the three remaining delegates were the ones who garnered the highest number of fan votes. Scores of the Top 30 all went back to zero in the lead-up to the preliminaries and coronation night. Only the Top 30 delegates participated in the in-person pageant activities.
The 2021 competition remains to be the only edition where 100 delegates participated.
In 2022, the Miss Universe Philippines started with 50 delegates. According to MUPH, they’re “narrowing the field to get [them] closer to our Final 30 delegates.” Only 32 finalists from the initial 50 delegates made it to the in-person pageant activities.
Since the Miss Universe Philippines organization introduced a huge number of delegates for their pageants, they’ve been whittling down the participants through a series of online and remote challenges.
In the 2021 edition, the candidates had to participate in the headshot challenge, video introduction challenge, runway challenge, casting video challenge, and virtual interview challenge. Each candidate had to showcase their strengths in these challenges as pageant fans vote for their respective bets. Those who garnered the highest number of fan votes will also have a higher chance of advancing in the competition.
For its succeeding editions, the delegates participated in the photoshoot, swimsuit, and runway challenges. In the 2023 competition, the MUPH organization only announced the Top 5 delegates for each challenge, with the first placer only being disclosed during the finals night. The winner for each of the online challenge also secured a semifinal spot in the competition.
In lieu of the Miss Universe organization’s decision to allow moms and wives in the international competition, the local team also opened the MUPH pageant to women who are married and with children.
In its more than 70-year history, the Miss Universe organization had only allowed single women, aged between 18 and 28, who “must not have ever been married, not had a marriage annulled, nor given birth to, or parented a child” to compete.
Out of the 38 Miss Universe Philippines 2023 delegates, three were mothers.
Notably, MUPH was the first of the local pageants in the Philippines to open the competition to beauty queens of any civil status – married and with children.
Meanwhile, the recently-launched The Miss Philippines pageant followed through with the initiative, also opening their 2023 edition to mothers and wives. The Miss Philippines competition chose the country’s representatives for the Miss Supranational and Miss Charm pageants.
After opening the competition to mothers and wives, the Miss Universe organization became more inclusive as it removed the age restrictions across all of its associated pageants.
Previously, the MUO had only allowed women aged between 18 to 28 to participate in the competition. With the age limit being eliminated, even women aged 29 and above can compete in the pageant.
In the Philippines, 69-year-old fashion designer Jocelyn Cubales was one of the official candidates of the Miss Universe Philippines-Quezon City pageant.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2024 competition is also looking to be an interesting edition as it also introduced another change aside from the removal of age limit.
For the 2024 edition, the delegates for the national competition were chosen through the Accredited Partners Program, wherein only accredited partners approved by the MUPH organization selected the candidates from their respective localities through local pageants or appointments.
According to the MUPH organization, this change in the selection process will make the competition more “streamlined and efficient.” Additionally, having accredited partners select the candidates from their respective areas will also gave MUPH access to a “wider and more diverse pool of potential candidates.”
With this, the 2024 roster also includes candidates representing overseas Filipino communities for the first time. Delegates include representatives from Australia, northern and southern California, Florida, Hawaii, Miami, Sydney, the United Kingdom, Virginia, and Washington.
As the 2024 edition is still underway, pageant fans are still anticipating how these new developments will affect the competition. – Rappler.com
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Cebuana singer Amelyn Pardenilla captivates in American TV series ‘Expats’ | Marguerite de Leon | 3/3/2024 16:44 | Courtesy of Amelyn Pardenilla
They say that zero expectations equal zero disappointment. Hong Kong-based Cebuana singer Amelyn Pardenilla had this philosophy when she auditioned for what she believed was a very small role, walking away without any expectations.
The “very small part” turned out to be an opportunity for her to go from singing on local stages to acting on the global screen.
“I was shocked,” Pardenilla recalls. “When Lulu Wang called to announce the news, she had to repeat it several times on the phone before it sank in.”
Wang is a Hollywood filmmaker, and she called to offer Pardenilla a role in an American TV series starring none other than Nicole Kidman. The character would have speaking parts and a story. And the icing on the cake? The role comes with a soulful solo song number where Pardenilla showcases her singing talent.
Expats is a six-episode limited series on Amazon Prime Video. A Time magazine review touted it as “the first must-see show of 2024.”
The series follows the story of three privileged American expats in Hong Kong. Two of them, Margaret (Nicole Kidman) and Hilary (Sarayu Blue) are wealthy women living in sprawling apartments in Hong Kong’s richest neighborhood. Pardenilla plays Puri, Hilary’s helper. Award-winning Filipina actress Ruby Ruiz plays Essie, the cherished yaya of Margaret’s family.
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The beautifully shot series starts as a whodunnit, slow-burn thriller, set against the pulsing backdrop of Hong Kong. But stay on for the whole ride and you’ll see how Wang uses the show as a platform for much-needed conversations on privilege, the choices (or lack thereof) that modern women have to make, and Hong Kong’s struggle for independence.
Episode 5, titled ”Central,” is an hour and a half long – the length of a feature film. Wang designed “Central” as a standalone episode, and the narrative completely shifts away from the troubles of the American women and into the new land they call home, and to the people who make their daily lives easier: the domestic helpers.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Blue says of episode 5: “That episode is the actual show, in my opinion. You can’t tell the story of Expats without having Essie’s and Puri’s experience,” she said.
Episode 5 opens with the sound of women laughing and speaking Tagalog. The outdoor grounds of Hong Kong’s central business district transform into “Little Manila.” The helpers, on their precious day off, lay out cardboard boxes that serve as makeshift areas for everything from manicures to games and meals. Puri’s voice floats above the joyful din as she sings the opening bars to the pop battle hymn “Roar” by Katy Perry. The voices of other Filipina singers blend in, creating a choir version of the song that is both heartfelt and hopeful.
We know that being a helper abroad isn’t easy. But in Expats, Wang goes even deeper and zeroes in on something that isn’t always talked about: what about the dreams of these women?
Pardenilla has been living and working in Hong Kong for the last 22 years as a professional singer in 5-star luxury hotels like The Peninsula. But in 2021, Hong Kong’s live entertainment industry suffered the aftermath of the pandemic.
“My husband is also a musician, so our incomes were hit. We offered private music lessons, but it wasn’t a stable and reliable source,” she said.
Fortunately, the dry spell didn’t last long. “In May 2021, I heard about the audition from a friend. I didn’t know what the project was about, all I knew was that it was for an acting part. The production was looking for a Filipina in her 40s who knew how to sing,” she recounted.
That she had no prior professional acting experience didn’t stop Pardenilla. “I just thought it would be great exposure for me as a singer,” she said. She sent an audition tape and not long after, she got a callback to do a live audition with a certain Lulu, whom she didn’t realize at the time was the director.
“The audition lasted only around 10 minutes, but Lulu and I ended up talking for a long time after. I was really at ease with her. I never thought the director would handle auditions for bit parts, so I thought she was an assistant,” she recalled laughing.
A post shared by The Asian American Foundation (@taaforg)
Pardenilla’s experience as a real-life overseas Filipino worker (OFW) helped her slip into Puri’s skin easily. According to the Philippine Statistics Office’s latest data, there are 1.96 million OFWs.
The same survey says that 44.4% of these workers are involved in elementary occupations, which includes domestic work. Pardenilla is proud to represent this group of modern heroes. Sadly, there are still people who belittle the job of a helper, but Pardenilla is quick to defend the community.
She reacts to a negative comment she read online. “Katulong na naman daw yung role ng Pinoy (They said the Filipino plays the help yet again). That person also said we only had small parts in the series, so why make a big deal?” she said with disappointment. She added, “But there are no small roles, and there are no small jobs. I have many domestic helper friends here. A job is a job. We all work hard and sacrifice.”
Pardenilla’s enthusiasm for her first acting job was still palpable during the interview. “Some days I barely slept because I still had singing gigs at night, then had to be on set early the next day. But I was always alert and excited as soon as I was in front of the camera,” she said.
When it comes to working with Hollywood stars, Pardenilla admits she got starstruck around her fellow cast members. “There was Brian Tee from The Fast and The Furious. There was also Ate Ruby, a veteran actress. Initially, I wasn’t mingling too much with our American co-actors. But Ate Ruby would ask me to sing on set, and that drew their attention,” she laughs. “It boosted my confidence and helped me relax around them.”
Pardenilla has nothing but praise for the cast and crew. “Lulu was incredibly supportive, especially for a first-timer like me. She was also open to suggestions. Puri was supposed to speak in broken English, but I explained that many Filipino helpers are college-educated. They may not speak with an American accent, but the heavily accented, bad English is a stereotype. She ultimately abandoned the idea,” she said.
And for the question in everyone’s mind: what was it like working with Nicole Kidman? “I never had any scenes with her, and she had a busy schedule, so she wasn’t always on set. I only met her in January at the cast party in New York before the premiere! She is so nice and down to earth. She told me that I did a really good job, and coming from her, that meant a lot,” she said proudly.
Pardenilla is a registered nurse but chose to make music her life’s work. Now, she plans to continue acting as well. As someone who carved a long and fruitful career in entertainment, Pardenilla has some advice for those looking to succeed in a creative industry: “Work hard on your dreams. Do what it takes to get just one foot in the door first, then work as hard as you can. Don’t give up when things get hard. I had many ups and downs too. But I love singing and music, and God has always found a way to provide, even during the hard times,” she said. – Rappler.com
Expats is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
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‘Uncalled for,’ ‘lack of due process:’ UE coach Jerry Yee slams season-long ban | jisaga0269 | 3/3/2024 15:14 | IN THE DARK. UE Lady Warriors head coach Jerry Yee reacts in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament
UAAP Season 86 Media Team
MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP rocked the Season 86 women’s volleyball landscape on Sunday, March 3, after it announced a season-long suspension spanning three months on UE Lady Warriors head coach Jerry Yee for “acts that are inconsistent with the purposes of the [UAAP] Association.”
Per a league statement, the complaint was “raised by a member school on account of conduct violative of the purposes of the UAAP – a platform for Member Universities to foster camaraderie and fair play,” concurred by the league Board of Trustees last Thursday, February 29, and handed on Friday, March 1.
Yee, no longer allowed to enter game arenas as set by the suspension’s parameters, met with members of the media in a separate venue to express his disappointment with the verdict.
“I maintain that there was no ethical breach in my decision to accept UE’s head coaching job, because it was a mutual parting of ways for both Adamson and I,” he wrote in a prepared statement.
“It is unfortunate that this career decision of mine has been met with vitriol at the late-onset, borne out of vindictiveness ironically from an institution that prides itself in instilling Catholic virtues and teachings,” he continued, insinuating that the complaint came from Adamson’s side.
Assistant coach Dr. Obet Vital will take over the Lady Warriors for the duration of suspension, or until a favorable decision is met on Yee’s appeal – scheduled for filing on Monday, March 4.
“I met again with Adamson and [sponsor] Akari around the first week of June 2023 to discuss a mutual termination of agreement, and thereafter on June 7, 2023, the school issued a “statement of release” effectively terminating my services as head coach of the Lady Falcons,” Yee’s statement continued.
“While focusing on my teams in the NCAA (CSB) and PVL (Farm Fresh), UE approached and offered me a head coaching job which I accepted on June 21, 2023.”
League representatives have politely declined in issuing further statements or clarifications on the exact nature of Yee’s offenses out of respect for his incoming appeal.
“My dismay with the UAAP board’s decision is merely secondary to the disappointment that I hold in not being able to fulfill my commitment in coaching and mentoring the UE Lady Warriors,” Yee’s statement continued. “Moreover, this decision also unduly deprives me of the right to obtain other sources of living and providing for my family.”
“I think it’s uncalled for and there was no due process,” he continued in a separate interview. “They did not get my side on this and I was surprised that there was something like this.
Yee now hopes his side will be heard as he maintained he was blindsided by the decision and is still in the dark on what he did wrong.
“If they give me an audience, I can speak up,” he continued. “For now, our practices continue.” – Rappler.com
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