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G20 members to unveil EU-MidEast-India trade plan
Major G20 partners will unveil ambitious plans Saturday to bolster trade between India, the Middle East, and Europe, a modern-day Spice Route to bind regions that account for about a third of the global economy. Washington, Saudi Arabia, the EU, the United Arab Emirates, and others will sign an agreement on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi, presenting an alternative to China's wide-ranging strategic infrastructure investments. Officials told AFP the plan would include a slew of data, rail, electricity, and hydrogen pipeline projects. One proposed project would link railway and port facilities across the Middle East -- including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel -- potentially speeding trade between India and Europe by up to 40 percent. "The India – Middle East – Europe economic corridor" is "nothing less than historic" European Union leaders are expected to say when the details of the plans are unveiled later Saturday. The agreement would boost trade but is also seen as another significant step towards Arab Gulf states normalizing relations with Israel. Washington is actively prodding Riyadh -- a major oil producer and security partner -- to normalize ties with Israel after decades of conflict and closed borders. US involvement could also help mend deeply damaged ties between Riyadh and Washington, which frayed after the US-Iran nuclear deal and the 2018 murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The initiative "has enormous potential", according to Jon Finer, US deputy national security advisor. He said the public announcement would come after "months of careful diplomacy, quiet, careful diplomacy, bilaterally and in multilateral settings". The Europe-to-India project is still in the early stages, with participants studying how best to link India's vast 1.4 billion population and quick-growing economy with markets to the West. According to details seen by AFP, the India – Middle East – Europe economic corridor would also develop infrastructure to enable the production and transport of "green hydrogen". It would also strengthen telecommunications and data transfers through a new undersea cable connecting the region. Michael Kugelman, South Asia Institute director at The Wilson Center, said the plan could be a significant response to China's much-vaunted Belt and Road Initiative. The so-called BRI has spread Chinese influence, investments, and commerce across Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America. "If finalised, it would be a game changer that strengthens connectivity between India and the Middle East and would aim to counter BRI," Kugelman posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. The post G20 members to unveil EU-MidEast-India trade plan appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Longer workplace immersion to boost employability of new grads
Having longer workplace immersion programs or on-the-job training for senior high school students is seen to increase their chances of being employed once they graduate, according to a business-led education advocacy group......»»
Singapore holds presidential election
Singaporeans headed to the polls Friday to elect a new president for the first time in more than a decade. The election to replace incumbent Halimah Yacob will also be a measure of support for the ruling party that has been hounded by political scandals. The frontrunner is former deputy prime minister and finance minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a long-time People’s Action Party stalwart before he resigned ahead of his candidacy. The opposition’s candidate is former insurance executive Tan Kin Lian, 75. The third contender, Ng Kok Song, 75, is the former chief investment officer of Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC, which manages the country’s foreign reserves. The vote will have no exit polls before a result is announced late Friday night. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong heads the PAP, which has ruled Singapore continuously since 1959. The election of Shanmugaratnam could boost the PAP’s chances in the 2025 parliamentary election. The PAP suffered its worst-ever election performance in 2020 but maintained its more than two-thirds majority in parliament. WITH AFP The post Singapore holds presidential election appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
How coastal land reclamation can benefit cities and communities
Coastal land reclamation is increasing and will continue to grow and be a popular urban strategy in places that experience urban growth. [caption id="attachment_176366" align="aligncenter" width="1041"] Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, an artificial archipelago that houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences and entertainment venues. | Photograph Courtesy of Abid Bin Nazar.[/caption] This is according to a study, “Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation,” that analyzed landsat satellite images from 2000 to 2020 to quantify spatial extent, scale and land use of urban coastal reclamation of 135 cities globally with populations exceeding one million. Key findings indicate that 78 percent of these cities have turned to reclamation to create additional land, resulting in 253,000 hectares of new land, an area equivalent to Luxembourg. Land reclamation is the process of creating new land from the sea. It’s often used in places with scarcity of land and high population density for many purposes. From Western Europe and West Africa to the Middle East, East Asia and Southeast Asia, these countries’ cities reclaim lands for port extension, residential/commercial and industrial purposes aimed at creating tourist and green spaces. “Coastal land reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” said Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal architect of Fulgar Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners and modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban environments specifically designed to meet their needs. “Architects and urban planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges,” Fulgar added. Innovation, sustainability Singapore, Dubai and Hong Kong are some of the world’s most notable cities with impressive urban reclamation projects. Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are testaments to the city-state’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The former is a luxury integrated resort famed for transforming Singapore’s coastline and city skyline, while the latter is a spectacularly unique horticultural destination that combines art, science and nature. These reclaimed land developments further boost the country’s international reputation and real estate value around the area. Coastal land reclamation has significantly changed the geography of the United Arab Emirates. Dubai features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable developments in the world, like Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above that houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences and entertainment venues, and The World, a groundbreaking project composed of small artificial islands in the shape of a world map. Lastly, Hong Kong’s commitment to preserving art, culture and ongoing sustainable urban development is exemplified by its West Kowloon Cultural District, a 40-hectare reclaimed site along Victoria Harbour’s waterfront designated as the city’s vibrant cultural quarter where the local arts scene can interact, develop and collaborate throughout its sustainability principles. “These projects have created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront, integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” Fulgar pointed out. “Trends and insights on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in addressing various urban development, environmental conservation and community well-being needs, leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter future,“ Fulgar added. The post How coastal land reclamation can benefit cities and communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
An old antibiotic may get new life as an STI prevention pill
The United States is set to roll out a powerful new weapon in the long fight against sexually transmitted infections: a decades-old antibiotic repurposed as a preventative pill. DoxyPEP, or doxycycline used as a post-exposure prophylaxis, has been found to significantly cut the risk of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis when used after condomless sex. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which is developing national guidance for clinicians, will need to weigh the need to contain record high rates of STIs impacting millions of Americans against potentially giving rise to more antibiotic-resistant strains. "Innovation and creativity matter in public health, and more tools are desperately needed," senior CDC official Jonathan Mermin told AFP. But the recommendations, set for publication this summer, will remain narrow in scope. They will likely target only the most at-risk groups of gay men and transgender women with histories of prior infection. As word spreads, some clinics are already prescribing DoxyPEP. Malik, a 37-year-old man in Washington, said his doctor recently told him he could start using doxycycline as a "morning-after pill" following risky sex, something he's had to do twice -- including after a partner did not warn him he had removed his condom. Two-thirds reduction Reported cases of the three bacterial infections grew to 2.5 million in the United States in 2021, following about a decade of growth. Several issues are behind the rise: fewer people are using condoms since the advent of PrEP -- daily pills that significantly reduce chances of contracting HIV. And people who are on PrEP are recommended to undergo screening every three months, likely increasing the identification of infections. Then there is the basic epidemiological fact that the greater the number of people infected, the more they can further infect. Researchers have found DoxyPEP efficacious in three of four trials. "What we found was there was about a two-thirds reduction in sexually transmitted infection every three months," Annie Luetkemeyer, who co-led a US trial, told AFP. The physician-scientist at the University of California, San Francisco recruited some 500 people in San Francisco and Seattle among communities of men who have sex with men and transgender women. Efficacy was greatest for chlamydia and syphilis, both of which were reduced by about 80 percent, while for gonorrhea it was about 55 percent. There were few side effects. Antibiotic resistance Broadening access to doxycycline has prompted concerns about causing antibiotic resistance, particularly in gonorrhea, which is fast mutating. But early research hasn't shown cause for alarm. Connie Celum of the University of Washington, who co-led the US study, told AFP researchers tested gonorrhea samples from breakthrough infections in the DoxyPEP group and compared them to the group who didn't receive the pill. Though they found the rate of resistant gonorrhea slightly higher in the DoxyPEP group, she says the finding could simply mean the pill is less effective against already resistant strains, rather than causing that resistance. DoxyPEP could even boost responsible antibiotic stewardship -- cutting the incidence of infections, thus also cutting need for antibiotic treatment. If it slashed gonorrhea cases by some 50 percent, it could reduce the number of people requiring antibiotic treatment with the current frontline treatment drug, ceftriaxone, which doctors are eager to preserve. Longer term study is required, on both impacts on STIs but also "bystander" bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, which live inside people's noses but sometimes cause serious infections. 'Additional tool' Malik said that while he is glad he could use DoxyPEP as a last resort, he wishes more men were willing to use condoms. Since moving to America from South Asia, he gets relatively little interest on dating app Grindr when he says he's not willing to have condomless sex. But Stephen Abbott -- a doctor at Washington's Whitman-Walker clinic who prescribes and uses DoxyPEP -- said it's crucial to meet people where they are. "From speaking with patients, and being part of the community that's now on PrEP... I think the age of prevention through condoms is fading," he told AFP. A 42-year-old man in London who runs a cultural organization told AFP that word had spread about DoxyPEP through the international gay party circuit and he had procured a supply on the black market and through a partner who buys in bulk in Mexico. It had largely worked for him, though he did have one breakthrough infection of throat gonorrhea. He said he was looking forward to the United Kingdom adopting similar guidance so that people have the right information and aren't left to guess at the right dosage. For Luetkemeyer, DoxyPEP won't be "the answer" to the STI epidemic, and there is considerable interest in the development of a gonorrhea vaccine. "But I'm optimistic... I think this is an additional tool," she said. The post An old antibiotic may get new life as an STI prevention pill appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Quick AI response as small biz magnet
Digital banking powered by artificial intelligence or AI is increasingly becoming the norm. How fast and flexible industry players can maximize benefits from this technology to provide credit to most small businesses is the edge, Edwin Bautista, president and CEO of Union Bank of the Philippines, told the Daily Tribune. [caption id="attachment_164549" align="aligncenter" width="585"] Edwin R. Bautista, president and CEO, UnionBank of the Philippines[/caption] “All we know is AI will disrupt industries, so the earlier you try to figure out how to adopt it, the better. Now, the question is, how many financial institutions are prepared to make that bet of lending using alternative data sources using AI?” Bautista said. UBP’s digital banking arm UnionDigital Bank is shifting gears to provide small businesses with accessible loans using AI. It collects data from the Internet and humans and organizes them into qualitative and quantitative categories to generate text, images, audio and videos. Many small business owners usually need financial statements on paper, as they sell products and services primarily online through social media, such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. However, Bautista said their financial capabilities could be traced and analyzed even without the formal documents required by traditional banks, such as income tax returns, financial statements, and trading partners profiles. He stressed AI does not discriminate. “When you look at the smaller businesses, they appear as an underground economy, so they cannot produce those kinds of documents. AI will help us because what it does is it puts together different information about that particular business or person and flow of sales so it can give a prediction on whether the small business owner will pay you back or not.” This technology is critical to lenders, including informal lenders, as micro, small and medium enterprises comprise 99 percent of all businesses in the country and drive most of its economic activities. Global market researcher McKinsey & Company said Philippine-based lenders can boost their growth by tapping the country’s bankable population, which is expected to expand by 30 percent to 85 million by 2030, along with owners of small and medium enterprises. “The Philippines has an estimated 15 million informal entrepreneurs and self-employed workers. Meanwhile, retail lending is heavily concentrated in a narrow band of wealthy households,” the researcher said. McKinsey reported a few domestic digital banks had gained traction, with three digital banks, including UnionDigital, growing a total market value by $3 billion. In contrast, traditional banks only saw a $2.2 billion growth between January 2021 and January 2023. However, McKinsey stressed digital banks in the Philippines have been limiting their services to mobile payments. “While competition in digital financial services intensifies, dominant players have yet to emerge outside the mobile-payments subsector. Six digital banks have recently launched operations in the Philippines, but none lend at scale.” Unlike informal lenders, Bautista said digital banks can reach more borrowers as AI learns about all people with access to the Internet and produces sound data correlations. “The theory is that if you have many friends and are grounded in a particular community, chances are you will not just run away from your debt. The minute borrowers go outside their community. It’s challenging for informal lenders because they already do not know the people they are lending to.” With the developments in AI, Bautista said UBP is redesigning its brick-and-mortar banks by tapping digital technologies and its UnionDigital to exchange market insights, systems, and people skills to boost mutual growth. “We think we can be the number one Consumer Bank in the Philippines in the next three years. Why? Because Our growth path is based on broadening the base on which we can learn to adapt. You can only do that if you’ve transformed your front, middle, and back office accordingly.” Bautista said this means the ever-changing skills development of people of both banks. While AI has been demonized by some of the labor force and business owners worldwide, saying it will replace traditional jobs and employees, Bautista said the future remains uncertain. Still, it can also highlight innately human jobs. “AI may rather have pluses and minuses. You will be affected negatively, but you will also have a positive impact if new jobs are generated.” Bautista said proof of this is the human eye, intuition, and brain need to verify whether AI-generated data matches customers’ changing preferences and needs. “So today, I can know instantly what my customer sentiments are. If my back-end operations take me six months, what good is knowing today if I can act on it? And the only way I can act is I have people with the ability to modify their things and a back end that allows me to change my products and features near real-time.” The post Quick AI response as small biz magnet appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao Oriental hastens resilience-building efforts
DAVAO CITY — In a bid to accelerate resilience-building efforts at the local level for the coming years, the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental officially adopted the Strengthening Institutions and Empowering Localities against Disasters and Climate Change or SHIELD program. Davao Oriental Information officer Karen Lou Deloso revealed that the province is set to implement the program in a six-year term until 2028, focusing to assist local communities in becoming more resilient to natural catastrophes and the impacts of climate change by promoting cooperation among various stakeholders, opening up opportunities for financing, and putting forward risk-informed and inclusive resilience measures. She added that the Davao Oriental’s adoption of the SHIELD program is a key step toward creating a province that is more resilient and sustainable. The program will be implemented by the Department of the Interior and Local Government with the provincial government of Davao Oriental co-designing the resilience actions in data governance, capacity development, multi-stakeholder partnership, and economic resilience. Governor Corazon Malanyaon said the province hopes to lessen the vulnerability of its communities, safeguard its natural resources and foster chances for sustainable development by utilizing the expertise and support of the SHIELD initiative. In a previous meeting with United Nations Development Program personnel last month, Malanyaon said it has shown a warm welcome for the program and expressed her desire to focus on tailored-fit actions focused on the agriculture and tourism sectors. “These two sectors are considered priority programs of her administration, aimed at reducing poverty incidence in the province,” Malanyaon said. She added that they hope to boost the province’s readiness and resilience to potential hazards, such as extreme weather events and the negative effects of climate change, by integrating the SHIELD program with the agricultural and tourism sectors of the province. “With the implementation of the program involving a multi-stakeholder approach, with active involvement from governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities, SHIELD is regarded as an essential initiative for aiding communities in adapting to the impacts of climate change,” said Malanyaon. The adoption of the SHIELD program by the Provincial Development Council reflects Davao Oriental’s proactive approach toward addressing the urgent concerns of disasters and climate change. The post Davao Oriental hastens resilience-building efforts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Why you need to value the vagus nerve
By now, you must have realized that the realm of wellness is expanding rapidly. There are countless discoveries about the human body and the psyche, and how intricately connected everything is to you, your outlook and disposition. There is one particular part of the body that deserves our special attention: the vagus nerve. What is it? Also known as the vagal nerves, they serve as the main nerves of the parasympathetic nervous system. The specific body functions it covers are the immune system, digestion, heart rate, respiratory rate, reflex actions (like coughing, swallowing, sneezing and vomiting). Being involuntary, it cannot be controlled. Or so most experts think. When the vagus nerve is damaged, everything can go wrong with your major organs. In fact, serious damage to this nerve can lead to a halting of digestion or gastroparesis when food in the stomach will not move into the intestines. It can also lead to fainting due to low blood pressure. It can also affect your brain. The good news is when the vagal nerves are stimulated, it could hasten healing of epilepsy and depression. What is interesting to know is that if you suffer from acid reflux, this could lead to lower back pain. And chances are, the vagus nerve must be damaged. 10 ways to boost the vagus nerve First of all, you must learn how to locate it. They run down both sides of the body from the brain to the large intestines, down the neck on both sides and wrapping around the lungs and the stomach. In Chinese medicine, the inside of the pinky finger. Take note: Overstimulation of this nerve may lead to fainting due to low blood pressure. Drink generous amounts of water. The rule is 10 to 12 glasses daily. Cold water immersion may lead to reduction of stress and exercise recovery. [caption id="attachment_148141" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of unsplash/ ghislaine-guerin | COLD water intake may lead to reduction of stress.[/caption] Drink peppermint or ginger tea before a meal to improve digestion. Eat foods rich in tryptophan (for the brain): turkey, poultry, bananas, spinach, seeds, nuts [caption id="attachment_148143" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of unsplash/jeff siepman | BANANAS are rich in trytophan.[/caption] Have regular bowel movements. Limit sugar intake. Take fermented food or consume a probiotic supplement. Cut back on red meat. Try Intermittent Fasting under the supervision of a doctor. Sing out loud. It so [caption id="attachment_148142" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of unsplash/alyssa yung | SINGING out loud soothes the vagus nerves.[/caption] Meditate to calm down the body and avoid anxiety. Affirmation: “I have nerves of steel.” Love and Light. othes the vagus nerve. (Who cares what the neighbors might say. Just sing to your heart’s content.) The post Why you need to value the vagus nerve appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Iraq unveils $17-B transport project linking Europe and Mideast
Iraq on Saturday presented an ambitious plan to turn itself into a regional transportation hub by developing its road and rail infrastructure, linking Europe with the Middle East. Once completed, the $17 billion project known as the "Route of Development" would span the length of the country, stretching 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) from the northern border with Turkey to the Gulf in the south. Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani announced the project during a conference with transport ministry representatives from Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. "We see this project as a pillar of a sustainable non-oil economy, a link that serves Iraq's neighbors and the region, and a contribution to economic integration efforts," Sudani said. While further discussions are required, any country that wishes "will be able to carry out part of the project", the Iraqi parliament's transport committee said, adding the project could be completed in "three to five years". "The Route of Development will boost interdependence between the countries of the region," Turkey's ambassador to Baghdad Ali Riza Guney said, without elaborating on what role his country would play in the project. War-ravaged and beset by rampant corruption, oil-rich Iraq suffers from dilapidated infrastructure. Its roads, riddled with potholes and poorly maintained, are in terrible condition. Those connecting Baghdad to the north cross areas where sporadic attacks are still carried out by remnants of the Islamic State group. Sudani has prioritized the reconstruction of the country's road network, along with upgrading its failing electricity infrastructure. Lack of 'fluidity' Developing the road and rail corridor would allow Iraq to capitalize on its geographical position, with the aim of making the country a transportation hub for goods and people moving between the Gulf, Turkey, and Europe. Work has already started to increase capacity at the commercial port of Al-Faw, on the shores of the Gulf, where cargo is to be unloaded before it embarks on the new road and rail links. The project also includes the construction of around 15 train stations along the route, including in the major cities of Basra, Baghdad, and Mosul, and up to the Turkish border. The Gulf, largely bordered by Iran and Saudi Arabia, is a major shipping zone, especially for the transportation of hydrocarbons extracted by countries of the region. Zyad al-Hashemi, an Iraqi consultant on international transport, cast doubt on the plan to develop the country into a transportation hub, saying it lacks "fluidity". "Customers prefer to transport their goods directly from Asia to Europe, without going through a loading and unloading process," that would see containers moved between ships and road or rail, he said. Transport is a key sector in the global economy and Iraq's announcement is the latest in other planned international mega-projects, including China's "Belt and Road Initiative" announced in 2013 by its President Xi Jinping. The planned works in that project would see 130 countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa connected through land and sea infrastructure providing greater access to China. The post Iraq unveils $17-B transport project linking Europe and Mideast appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gilas Pilipinas’ SEAG win fuels excitement for 2023 FIBA World Cup
Less than a hundred days before the opening tip of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Filipino basketball fans are growing excited as they await the final list of local and international basketball superstars who will be playing in the Philippine leg of the said basketball championship. Following Gilas Pilipinas’ euphoric win against an import-laden Cambodian team in the recent 32nd Southeast Asian Games, and with the team’s grit and sound coaching strategies, basketball enthusiasts are optimistic about the team’s chances in this year’s FIBA World Cup. With Gilas Pilipinas facing familiar foes — Italy, Dominican Republic and Angola — in the FIBA World Cup’s group stage, the victory over Cambodia could inspire the players as they compete with these teams. Playing in front of the home crowd will boost the team’s morale as Gilas Pilipinas sets their sights on winning in the 2023 FIBA World Cup and qualifying to represent the flag in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. The Philippines last played in the 1972 Olympics and winning the FIBA World Cup could end the drought. In an interview, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas President Alfredo S. Panlilio shared his wishes that Gilas Pilipinas could win at least two (games) and move to the next round. Since the 2014 FIBA World Cup, Gilas Pilipinas had only won once in 10 matches. Thus, there is enormous pressure to perform at an all-time high, considering that the Philippines is one of the co-hosts of this year’s tournament. Panlilio added, “If we do that (win at least two games and advance to the knockout stage), possibly, because the highest ranking Asian team after every tournament gets a slot in the Olympics. It’s a reward if we’re the highest Asian team. In the meantime, what remains crucial for Gilas Pilipinas’ coaching staff is its selection of players that would participate in the FIBA World Cup. The players’ selection also excites Filipinos as they all wait to see if Filipino-American and Utah Jazz Guard Jordan Clarkson would don the country’s colors. News reports quoted Gilas Pilipinas Head Coach Chot Reyes saying, “The selection would be based on various factors such as schedules, players’ plans, and even economics. To be very honest about it, to be very frank, economics will also be an issue.” “There are a lot of things that are going to be involved in making the final determination. We plan to have a 16- or 18-man pool, and it might be more, to go on an extended training period that will include foreign camps and tune-up games against quality competition,” Reyes said. The Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia will host this year’s FIBA World Cup from August 25 to September 10, 2023. The games will be played simultaneously at the Araneta Coliseum for Groups A and B, Mall of Asia Arena for Groups C and D, Okinawa Arena in Japan for Groups E and F, and at the Indonesia Arena in Jakarta for Groups G and H. The qualifying teams will head to Manila as the Playoffs and Finals Games will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena. As the country prepares to host the most prestigious FIBA World Cup, Panlilio also called on all basketball stakeholders to unite to support Gilas Pilipinas as it competes in the international arena. With the Philippines’ passionate fans, rich basketball culture, and world-class venues, the stage is all set for the 2023 FIBA World Cup, which is certain to leave a mark on the global basketball landscape. The post Gilas Pilipinas’ SEAG win fuels excitement for 2023 FIBA World Cup appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Zelensky heads to G7 as Ukraine wins access to F-16s
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday headed to Hiroshima to join G7 talks, after winning long-sought US support for access to advanced fighter jets and training for Kyiv's pilots. The rare long-haul trip is a chance to confer with allies like US President Joe Biden, but also to woo key unaligned powers at the summit, including India and Brazil. Zelensky's surprise appearance -- he had previously been expected to appear by video -- comes after a stop in Jeddah to address the Arab League and a breakthrough in his long-running campaign to convince Washington of Ukraine's need for F-16s. Momentum had been building for providing the planes, but US support is key because its approval is legally required for the re-export of US equipment purchased by allies. The United States had previously cited long pilot training times and high costs as a reason not to supply the jets, with officials insisting there were more cost-effective ways to boost Kyiv's air defenses. But F-16s now appear likely to join the list of advanced systems, including Western tanks and long-range weaponry, that Ukraine's supporters have agreed to provide after initial reluctance. Biden told G7 leaders in Japan that Washington would now support the request, in a move hailed by Zelensky as a "historic decision". The two leaders will meet in Hiroshima to discuss the "practical implementation" of the plan, Zelensky said, with the White House saying Biden was "looking forward" to the talks without confirming a date. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan insisted the fighter jet decision did not reflect an about-turn in US policy. "Nothing has changed. Our approach to the provision of weapons, material, and training to the Ukrainians has followed the exigencies of the conflict," he told reporters in Hiroshima. "We've reached a moment where it's time to look down the road and to say 'What is Ukraine going to need... to be able to deter and defend against Russian aggression?' "F-16s, fourth-generation fighter aircraft, are part of that mix. The obvious first step there is to do the training and then to work with allies, partners, and the Ukrainians to determine how to do the actual provision points as we move forward." The timeline for that training remains unclear, with US officials previously estimating it could take up to 18 months. Still, the decision was welcomed by allies including the United Kingdom. "The UK will work together with the USA and the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark to get Ukraine the combat air capability it needs," Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted, adding: "We stand united." Sullivan denied providing the planes would further escalate the conflict, and said Ukraine has pledged that no US military equipment will be used for attacks inside Russia. "We are going to do everything we can to support Ukraine in its defense of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and we are also going to proceed in a way that avoids World War III," he added. Zelensky's arrival has cast a long shadow over the remaining two days of the G7 summit, with Ukraine stealing the spotlight from a long list of other thorny subjects, including how to address concerns about China's growing military and economic power. Sessions on Saturday will address "economic coercion" and how to diversify key sectors and supply chains. "What we have done over 20 years with China, encouraging development, was right, but maybe we should have been more careful on critical material, supply chains and those elements," an EU official. "I think the aim of all G7 leaders is to say that China has followed a systematic policy of acquiring critical raw materials, controlling supply chains... and we are responding to this by diversifying." There will also be talks with non-members as G7 leaders try to convince developing nations they can offer diplomatic and economic alternatives to the likes of China. Several invitees, including Brazil and India, have declined to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and are also likely to be key targets for diplomacy by Zelensky, whose arrival is expected later Saturday, Japan's NHK broadcaster said. Japan's foreign ministry said he would participate in Ukraine talks with G7 leaders on Sunday, as well as a session on "peace and stability" that will also include invited non-member countries. The bloc has already unveiled new sanctions against Moscow, pledging Friday to "starve" Russia's "war machine." The post Zelensky heads to G7 as Ukraine wins access to F-16s appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
World-class foes boost triathletes
Competing against world-class foes had prepared the national triathlon squad for the tough grind in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games. Triathlon Association of the Philippines president Tom Carrasco yesterday said he is confident over the SEA Games chances of the triathletes after getting world-class exposure in the 30th Subic International Triathlon over the weekend. In the previous staging of the biennial meet in Hanoi, the Filipinos dominate the triathlon and duathlon event after bagging three gold, one silver and one bronze medal. Now, Carrasco is pumped up, knowing that his wards would deliver in the 11-nation conclave set in Phnom Penh from 5 to 17 May. “We’ve just completed the elite events as a final tune-up for our Cambodia-bound team. They experienced a very tough race today (Sunday) competing again Asia’s best. Very good experience,” Carrasco, who is looking to win at least three gold medals in the biennial meet, said. Carrasco said seeing action in high-level events is definitely a big boost to the triathletes. “We might not have had a Filipino on the podium of the SuBit race but I’m happy they got exposed to a world-class experience,” Carrasco said in a separate interview. In the SuBit event, five-time SEA Games gold medalist Kim Mangrobang emerged as the best local performer after finishing 24th in the 48-woman field with a clocking of one hour, one minute and seven seconds. In the men’s side, Filipino-Spanish Fernando Casares finished 25th out of 66 local and international competitors after crossing the finish line in 54:46. Mangrobang and Casares will banner the 11-man national team in both the triathlon and duathlon events of the biennial meet. Also competing in the SEA Games are Raven Alcoseba (women’s triathlon and women’s aquathlon), Kim Remolino (men’s triathlon and mixed relay), John Chicano (men’s duathlon) and Kira Ellis (women’s duathlon). For the aquathlon events, Gene Quiambao (women’s aquathlon) and Josh Ramos (men’s aquathlon) will join Alcoseba and Remolino the mixed relay team will be composed of Ellis, Aki Lorbes, Erica Burgos and Wacky Baniqued. The national squad will be flying to Cambodia this Friday, just in time for the start of the event on 6 May at the Cambodian province of Kep. The post World-class foes boost triathletes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NU, UST try to boost twice-to-beat chances
Defending champion National University and University of Santo Tomas would rather downplay the angle of a hyped-up rivalry and just focus on what’s at stake when they cross paths once again in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. Sharing the second spot with identical 9-3 win-loss records, both Final Four-bound squads have an opportunity to better their chances of claiming the last twice-to-beat advantage with a victory in their scheduled 11 a.m. battle. The Tigresses are on a four-game roll after five outings in the second round and are looking to take advantage of their momentum to complete an elimination head-to-head sweep of the Lady Bulldogs. UST was the last team to complete the Final Four cast after eliminating Far Eastern University from contention to join league-leading twice-to-beat De La Salle University and Adamson University in the next round. The Tigresses snapped NU’s 20-game winning streak that spanned three years in their first meeting in a thrilling come-from-behind fashion, 25-23, 27-25, 17-25, 22-25, 15-11, last 4 March. Head coach Kungfu Reyes knows that the Lady Bulldogs are out to exact revenge against them but he doesn’t want his players to get too emotional and lose focus. “We want to play volleyball and not play for the occasion. We can’t let the hype (of the game) get into our heads, otherwise, we’ll be overwhelmed,” Reyes said. “We must remain on target, on the dot, because NU surely will be.” Top Most Valuable Player contender Eya Laure, who dropped 28 points against FEU, Imee Hernandez, Regina Jurado and Milena Alessandrini will again be at the center of the Tigresses march to replicate their first round win over the Lady Bulldogs. But NU is far from the shaky team it once was. The Lady Bulldogs have also piled up four consecutive victories after their back-to-back losses at the hands of the Lady Spikers to end the first round and at the start of the second. NU has not dropped a set since then. Reigning MVP and last year’s Rookie of the Year Bella Belen acknowledges that the Lady Bulldogs are eager for payback but they need to keep their emotions in check. “We are really eager to get back at UST because they defeated us in the last round. But we need to be composed,” Belen, who had 21 points in a sweep of winless University of the East last Saturday, said. “We have to be relaxed. If we get overeager we risk committing errors.” Helping out Belen are Alyssa Solomon, Ces Robles, Vange Alinsug, setter Lams Lamina and libero Jen Nierva. Meanwhile, the sliding University of the Philippines and UE clash at 3 p.m. The Fighting Maroons are on a nine-game losing skid for a 1-11 card while the Lady Warriors try to barge into the win column after failing in their first 12 attempts. In men’s play, unbeaten NU (12-0) seeks to move closer to an outright Finals seat in a showdown against UST (10-2) at 9 a.m. while UE (4-8) looks to remain in contention for a semis seat when it clashes against UP (1-11) at 5 p.m. The post NU, UST try to boost twice-to-beat chances appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UST makes Final Four grade
University of Santo Tomas completed the Final Four cast after showing Far Eastern University the exit door, 26-24, 22-25, 25-16, 25-23, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament yesterday at the Mall of Asia Arena. Veteran Eya Laure capped her efficient outing by hammering down the finishing blow to banish the last hurdle blocking the way of the Tigresses’ third straight semifinals appearance. UST improved its win-loss record to 9-3 for a share of the second spot with semis-bound defending champion National University. Standings leader and twice-to-beat De La Salle University and Adamson University occupy the other Final Four seats. Laure, whose back-to-back aces midway through the fourth set cleared the way for UST to take control of the match, finished with 28 points and had eight digs. The outside hitter and skipper punched in 23 kills off 47 attempts and had three aces and two kill blocks for the Tigresses, who will shoot to boost their chances of clinching the last semis incentive with another win over the Lady Bulldogs on Wednesday. While Laure took care of offense, Detdet Pepito took charge of the floor defense drawing praise from head coach Kungfu Reyes. “We’re just happy our B7 (Pepito) was activated especially during the latter part of the game. Detdet was a bit tentative in the first and second sets. At least, she bounced back on the following sets,” Reyes said of his defense specialist who had 21 digs and 19 excellent receptions. UST had a close call in the opening set and allowed FEU to steal one in the second frame before recovering its bearing to seal the win. Laure landed consecutive service winners to seal the Tigresses decisive 5-0 rally to take a 19-17 lead in the fourth set. The Lady Tamaraws kept the game close but an error followed by Laure’s crosscourt hit put the Tigresses at match point. Laure put FEU out of its misery after saving two match points in the battle that lasted two hours and 15 minutes. Imee Hernandez added 19 points while Milena Alessandrini, Jonna Perdido and Regina Jurado scored seven each for UST, which came back from a 16-21 deficit to steal the extended opening set. The Lady Tamaraws kissed their semis hopes goodbye after dropping to a 6-7 slate. Still, it was a good run for FEU, which will close its campaign against Adamson on 30 April, after finishing with a 1-13 card last year. Laure put FEU out of its misery after saving two match points in the battle that lasted two hours and 15 minutes. Chenie Tagaod scored 12 points while Gerzel Petallo had 11 for the Lady Tamaraws. Meanwhile, De La Salle University mercilessly mauled also-ran Ateneo de Manila University, 25-22, 25-19, 25-18, to secure the top seeding in the Final Four. Rookie Shevana Laput picked the perfect time to drop her career-high 16 points as the Lady Spikers hiked their record to 12-1 and extended their head-to-head winning streak over their archrivals to 12 dating back to Season 79 spanning six years. Angel Canino added 13 markers while Thea Gagate had 12 for La Salle, which will close its elims campaign on 29 April against winless University of the East. In men’s play, FEU halted a four-game slide with a morale-boosting upset win over UST, 25-21, 22-25, 21-25, 25-21, 15-10, to strengthen its bid for a Final Four seat. Rey Sabanal and Dryx Saavedra scored timely hits in the fifth set as the Tamaraws escaped with their seventh win in 13 games. The duo pushed FEU’s separation to 13-9 in the deciding frame before UST’s rookie sensation Josh Ybanez committed the last of his team’s costly 45 errors from the pipe to send the Tamaraws at match point, 14-10. Then Mark Calado wasted no time, attacking from the back row straight to the center of the Golden Spikers’ court for the skid-breaking victory. Calado had 21 points and seven digs for the Tamaraws while Saavedra pitched in 16 points. Ybañez uncorked 28 points on 27-of-52 attacks with 17 excellent receptions and six digs as the Tigers saw their eight-game winning streak snapped for a 10-2 card. The post UST makes Final Four grade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UST makes Final Four grade
University of Santo Tomas completed the Final Four cast after showing Far Eastern University the exit door, 26-24, 22-25, 25-16, 25-23, in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena. Veteran Eya Laure capped her efficient outing by hammering down the finishing blow to banish the last hurdle blocking the way of the Tigresses’ third straight semifinals appearance. UST improved its win-loss record to 9-3 for a share of the second spot with semis-bound defending champion National University. Standings leader and twice-to-beat De La Salle University and Adamson University occupy the other Final Four seats. Laure, whose back-to-back aces midway through the fourth set cleared the way for UST to take control of the match, finished with 28 points and had eight digs. The outside hitter and skipper punched in 23 kills off 47 attempts and had three aces and two kill blocks for the Tigresses, who will shoot to boost their chances of clinching the last semis incentive with another win over the Lady Bulldogs on Wednesday. While Laure took care of offense, Detdet Pepito took charge of the floor defense drawing praise from head coach Kungfu Reyes. “We’re just happy our B7 (Pepito) was activated especially during the latter part of the game. Detdet was a bit tentative in the first and second sets. At least, she bounced back on the following sets,” Reyes said of his defense specialist who had 21 digs and 19 excellent receptions. UST had a close call in the opening set and allowed FEU to steal one in the second frame before recovering its bearing to seal the win. Laure landed consecutive service winners to seal the Tigresses decisive 5-0 rally to take a 19-17 lead in the fourth set. The Lady Tamaraws kept the game close but an error followed by Laure’s crosscourt hit put the Tigresses at match point. Laure put FEU out of its misery after saving two match points in the battle that lasted two hours and 15 minutes. Imee Hernandez added 19 points while Milena Alessandrini, Jonna Perdido and Regina Jurado scored seven each for UST, which came back from a 16-21 deficit to steal the extended opening set. The Lady Tamaraws kissed their semis hopes goodbye after dropping to a 6-7 slate. Still, it was a good run for FEU, which will close its campaign against Adamson on 30 April, after finishing with a 1-13 card last year. Chenie Tagaod scored 12 points while Gerzel Petallo had 11 for the Lady Tamaraws. In men’s play, FEU halted a four-game slide with a morale-boosting upset win over UST, 25-21, 22-25, 21-25, 25-21, 15-10, to strengthen its bid for a Final Four seat. Rey Sabanal and Dryx Saavedra scored timely hits in the fifth set as the Tamaraws escaped with their seventh win in 13 games. The duo pushed FEU’s separation to 13-9 in the deciding frame before UST's rookie sensation Josh Ybanez committed the last of his team's costly 45 errors from the pipe to send the Tamaraws at match point, 14-10. Then Mark Calado wasted no time, attacking from the back row straight to the center of the Golden Spikers' court for the skid-breaking victory. Calado had 21 points and seven digs for the Tamaraws while Saavedra pitched in 16 points. Ybañez uncorked 28 points on 27-of-52 attacks with 17 excellent receptions and six digs as the Tigers saw their eight-game winning streak snapped for a 10-2 card. The post UST makes Final Four grade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
San Pedro, Cabuyao boost twice-to-beat bid in Liga Laguna
San Pedro kept a hold of its solo lead even as Cabuyao moved up a notch higher as they bolstered their chances for the twice-to-beat incentive in the Liga Laguna Season 3......»»
Yulo broadens arsenal to boost medal chances
Filipino gymnastics’ star Carlos Yulo is now showing more proficiency in three of six events of the men’s artistic gymnastics......»»
Tough 5-tourney stretch for Knott in road to Tokyo
A busy two-month stretch is ahead of Fil-American track star Kristina Knott, who will take part in four athletic tournaments in the United States, plus another one in Italy in her bid to boost her chances of qualifying for the Tokyo Olympic Games this July......»»
Yuka Saso s JLPGA sweep bid gets boost
The recent JLPGA announcement kept the Fil-Japanese shotmaker in the hunt for the top two honors although with a full calendar laid out, a slew of other bidders also bolstered their respective chances for the coveted twin crowns......»»
Hotshots boost playoff bid
CLARK– Magnolia beefed up its playoff chances after making short work on Terra Firma, 103-89, in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup eliminations Thursday at the Angeles University Foundation (AUF) Gym here. The Hotshots cruised to their third straight win and improved their card to 4-4 in the provisional standings. So far, league-leaders TNT […] The post Hotshots boost playoff bid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»