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DA, partner gov’t agencies brace agri-fisheries sector before El Niño starts
The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesday said it is taking the necessary actions to prepare the agriculture and fisheries sector ahead of the looming El Niño phenomenon this year. “We in the DA are doing our best in trying to allocate the resources like seeds, fertilizers, and other commodities that are necessary for the impact of the El Niño phenomenon to the farming communities in the country,” Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban said. He added that last June 1, 2023, the DA’s National El Niño Team (DA-NENT) convened partner agencies from the Food Security Group under the National El Niño Team of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NENT-NDRRMC) for its 1st Inter-agency Meeting to discuss the actions taken and plans of the member-agencies. Panganiban said DA Field Operations Service Director and DA-NENT Chairperson U-Nichols Manalo presented the DA El Niño Mitigation and Adaptation Plan for crops, fisheries, and livestock sub-sectors. The plan is based on the four thematic areas of the DRRM framework - prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, and rehabilitation and recovery. The strategies identified include dissemination of information, education, and communication materials, proper water management, prepositioning of resources, crop diversification, adjustment of planting calendar, buffer stocking of inputs, and promotion of short cycle and drought tolerant crops, among others. “DA is already preparing for the worst scenario for El Niño this year. Nevertheless, we will be of course expecting PAGASA to provide us with regular updates on this. Sana po ay hindi naman magtuloy, but we should always prepare for the worst case scenario,” DA Assistant Secretary for Operations Arnel De Mesa on the other hand said. He also noted that not all areas in the country will be affected, thus the government initiatives could focus more on areas that will be severely hit. De Mesa also urged the representatives from partner government agencies to facilitate easy access and sharing of information with the DA to guide planning and decision-making activities. “With all of us working together, we shall be able to achieve more,” Panganiban, for his part, said. The members of the DA-led Food Security Group are the Departments of Trade and Industry (DTI), Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Energy (DOE), Labor and Employment (DOLE), Budget and Management (DBM), Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), and Department of Finance-Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (DOF-PCIC) are also part of the group. The post DA, partner gov’t agencies brace agri-fisheries sector before El Niño starts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marina marred by conflict
Maritime industry stakeholders are calling the attention of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to review the installation of Atty. Hernani Fabia as head of the Maritime Industry Authority or Marina despite a clear conflict of interest for owning a maritime school and training center. United Filipino Seafarers president, Engr. Nelson Ramirez, and Cargo Safeway Inc. president, Capt. Reynaldo Casareo, among others, have called on Malacañang to scrutinize Fabia’s posting since July 2022 and the implementation of some ridiculous mandates that are detrimental to the industry, particularly to seafarers. Fabia allegedly implemented the Management Level Course or MLC under Marina Advisory 2022-06, making it mandatory, and explaining that it is a crucial finding of independent evaluators hired by Marina to help the country pass the European Maritime Safety Agency audit. Casareo and Ramirez joined calls to reinstate Marina Advisory 2021-23 dated 7 May 2021, Marina Advisory 2021-45 dated 3 August 2021, and Marina Advisory 2021-49 by then Marina administrator, retired Navy Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad was rescinded by Fabia but made as the basis of an extension by the EU recognizing the Filipino crew’s certificates. “With the above, we can rectify all the malicious words thrown at his good person when he (Empedrad) was replaced as Marina’s administrator. Better, if he can be reinstated to his former position as administrator of Marina so he can continue a steady improvement in the areas indicated in the annexed documents stated in the letter of Mr. Henrik Hololei of the European Commission,” Casareo and Ramirez, both members of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association Inc., said in a statement. Conditional okay The EU decision released on 31 March provides that Filipino seafarer certifications will be honored but the Philippines has to address six deficiencies which are monitoring, supervision and evaluation of training, examination, and assessment of competence, program and course design, availability, and use of training facilities and simulators, on-board training, and issue, revalidation, and registration of certificates, but it did not mention the MLC. The MLC has been hit as an added burden to seafarer officers by seamen and manning agencies because aside from its skyrocketing price that starts from P45,000 and 40 days of completion, it is marred with controversies. After all, some seamen can even avail of the said training course even if they will not attend it, “if the price is right.” Casareo, for his part, revealed that MLC with “no show” is being priced at a whopping P80,000 to P120,000. Fabia, back then, insisted that implementing the MLC is a solution for the country to produce competent seafarers and finally pass the EMSA Audit, which was also backed by Transportation Secretary Jimmy Bautista saying that seafarers should avail such training to be at par with the regulations of the European shipowners and regulators. Casareo said the MLC was supported by various training centers “because they are the ones who will benefit from it, as well as Fabia who owns PNTC Training Center.” The MLC, according to Casareo, is in the curriculum already and there is no need to make it mandatory but attestation of the actual shipboard experience as Chief Mates/2nd Engineers must be recognized by Marina as a prerequisite so they can take the Management Level exam. “During the time of Vice Admiral Empedrad, attestations were accepted, so many were able to take exams, and many passed. Only training centers that are offering MLC, are the ones benefiting from the circular issued by Fabia making it mandatory before they can take the exam. Many opted to board again rather than taking MLC as a waste of time and money, so manning agents’ deployment is affected because they cannot be promoted without Management licenses to be Master or Chief Engr,” he said. The website of the PNTC Colleges and Maritime Training Center showed that Fabia founded the institution on 18 April 1994. But the Marina administrator maintained he had relinquished his posts at PNTC when he took the helm at Marina in July 2022. The post Marina marred by conflict appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Is AI Taking Over My Job? 5 Ways GenAI is Affecting Jobs in the Philippine IT-BPM Industry
Amidst the hustle of the Philippine economic landscape, the Information Technology Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry is undergoing a radical shift fueled by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). A dynamic journey of challenges and opportunities is redefining the industry’s future. Led by the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), immerse in a fast-paced […].....»»
Prime Infra unit starts first auto MRF plant
Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc., a subsidiary of Enrique Razon’s Prime Infra, has inaugurated the country’s first automated materials recovery facility (MRF) that will help address solid waste management problems......»»
Economic repair job begins
The coalition Government is taking immediate steps to strengthen New Zealand's fragile economy, deliver cost of living relief and restore responsibility to the management of public finances, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. "Today's half-year economic and fiscal update lays bare the extent of Labour's economic and fiscal vandalism."Labour inherited a growing econom.....»»
Stock markets dip as US inflation comes into view
Stock markets drifted lower on Monday as investors eyed the release this week of key US inflation data that could guide Federal Reserve plans for interest rates going into the new year. Oil prices fell nearly two percent before bouncing higher and then sliding back lower as dealers awaited a delayed meeting of OPEC and its allies to decide over output levels. With Wall Street seeing little action at the back of last week owing to the Thanksgiving break, traders had few catalysts to drive action, though analysts were upbeat about the end of the year. "Although there isn't much buying interest at the moment, it's more notable that there still isn't much selling interest," said Briefing.com analyst Patrick O'Hare. The retreat in equities comes after a recent run-up across world stock markets fuelled by bets the US central bank has finished lifting interest rates as inflation comes down and the jobs market comes off the boil. Expectations that the Federal Reserve is done with hiking rates continued to weigh on the dollar Monday. The main focus this week is the release Thursday of the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, the Fed's preferred gauge of inflation. "These numbers will be closely scrutinized for insights into inflation trends and their potential implications for monetary policy decisions," said SPI Asset Management's Stephen Innes. "While the current backdrop does not signify 'mission accomplished' in terms of addressing inflation, policymakers must now focus on planning for the next phase of the economic battle." Still, observers were upbeat about the outlook, with the latest weakness blamed on traders taking a breather after a strong month. Tony Sycamore, at IG Group, said early December could see some selling as investors "rebuild energy and (look) to set up for the end-of-year fireworks". Others said a drop in Wall Street's VIX "fear gauge" -- a measure of equity volatility -- to its lowest since January 2020 suggested investors were getting their mojo back. Eyes are also on developments at OPEC after the group and its allies, notably Russia, delayed a meeting aimed at agreeing production quotas, with some African countries said to be baulking at Saudi Arabian calls for more cuts. The group is thought to be close to reaching an agreement that could see the Saudis and Russia extend output reductions into the new year. OANDA analyst Craig Erlam said the OPEC+ group has shown in the past it usually can get a deal done, even if Saudi Arabia and Russia need shoulder bigger cuts. "But the question is how far they'll push it, given the recent trend in oil prices and increasing concerns around global growth next year," said Erlam. Crude prices have fallen in recent weeks as demand is seen coming down owing to slowing economies, particularly China's, and the Middle East conflict appears to not have expanded to include other countries in the region. Key figures around 1630 GMT New York - DOW: DOWN 0.2 percent at 35,338.58 points London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.4 percent at 7,460.70 (close) Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.4 percent at 7,265.49 (close) Frankfurt - DAX: DOWN 0.4 percent at 15,966.37 (close) EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.4 percent at 4,354.41 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.5 percent at 33,447.67 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: DOWN 0.2 percent at 17,525.06 (close) Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.3 percent at 3,031.70 (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.0935 from $1.0922 Pound/dollar: UP at $1.2611 from $1.2585 Euro/pound: DOWN at 86.70 pence from 86.79 pence Dollar/yen: DOWN at 148.94 from 149.56 yen West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 0.1 percent at $75.44 per barrel Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 0.3 percent at $80.36 per barrel .....»»
Is it menopause?
With each passing birthday I get closer and closer to that midlife transition known as menopause, and whenever I feel unusually warm, I wonder if it is finally happening. Menopause is the time when a woman no longer has menstrual cycles for 12 continuous months. It is a natural biological process and is not a disease. The average age of menopause for Filipino women is 49 years old, and the changes can begin between in the early 40s, with symptoms starting three to five years before menses stop and can even last for an average of seven years up to 14 years after the menses stop. One of the most commonly associated symptoms of menopause are hot flashes -- a feeling that typically begins as a sudden sensation of heat centered in the upper chest and face that rapidly spreads all over the body. The sensation of heat lasts about two to four minutes and is often associated with profuse sweating and occasionally palpitations, sometimes followed by chills and shivering and a feeling of anxiety. Hot flashes usually occur several times per day and are particularly common at night and can interfere with sleep. While hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause, it is not the only symptom. Once the menses start becoming irregular, women can feel irritable and have mood swings, trouble sleeping, joint pain, incontinence, memory loss and depression. Some may have trouble describing their symptoms, and they may consult with a number of specialists -- from cardiologists to gastroenterologists, endocrinologists and psychiatrists. Menopause can also occur after surgical removal of the ovaries. Menopause can also occur after surgical removal of the ovaries. If you have surgery to remove your uterus (hysterectomy) you will no longer have periods, but if your ovaries are left behind you can still go through perimenopause and menopause later on. If your ovaries are also removed during a hysterectomy, you may experience symptoms of menopause immediately. The management of menopause varies from person to person and depends on the severity of symptoms and a woman’s overall health. Several approaches can be considered: 1. Lifestyle changes. Many women find relief from symptoms by adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet and stress reduction techniques. 2. Maintaining an appropriate weight for your height. 3. Hormone replacement therapy. This involves taking medications that replace the hormones (estrogen and sometimes progesterone) that decline during menopause. It can effectively relieve symptoms but carries some risks and is not suitable for everyone. 4. Non-hormonal medications. Some non-hormonal medications can help alleviate specific symptoms, such as antidepressants for mood swings or prescription creams for vaginal dryness. 5. Alternative therapies. Some women explore alternative treatments like acupuncture, herbal supplements or natural remedies to manage their symptoms, though the efficacy of these methods can vary. 6. Regular health checkups. It’s crucial for women in menopause to maintain regular health checkups, as this life stage can be associated with an increased risk of certain health conditions, such as heart disease and osteoporosis. A visit to your doctor can help to find out if you could be going through perimenopause. If have any of the symptoms but are younger than 45 years old, these may not be due to menopause but other hormone problems. Your doctor can order some blood tests to check your hormone levels to determine the cause of your symptoms. Menopause is a transformative journey that every woman will experience. While it comes with its share of challenges, it is a natural and inevitable part of life. Understanding the phases, symptoms, causes and management options for menopause can empower women to make informed decisions and embrace this new phase with confidence and grace. It is also important for women to seek support, whether from healthcare professionals, support groups or loved ones, to navigate this significant life transition successfully. The post Is it menopause? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Dev’t, capacitybuilding for cities
An attractive proposition and a necessary goal to further improve the state of the Philippines is to accelerate and sustain inclusive growth in the country. But what exactly needs improvement? How can this be achieved? What does it entail? How will it benefit the Philippines? Metro Manila is already developed and, in my opinion, not the priority in making more improvements. The cities outside Metro Manila are, however, a different story altogether. The economic competitiveness and resilience of said cities require much improvement. The development of these cities as engines of growth that are inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and strong is the foundation with which to realize these improvements. Specific areas may need financial inputs, and technical support varies from city to city. Examples of sectors to focus on are energy, environment, governance, health, local economy, small to medium entrepreneurship, taxation, technology and education. The enumeration is not exclusive and may be expanded. Generally, the growth trajectories of nations are closely linked to their urban environment, where cities act as propulsions of growth and lay the groundwork for their foundation. At first glance, it may seem like a tall order, but with proper planning, preparation, and stakeholder cooperation, it becomes achievable. If urban growth is well planned, cities can accelerate regional economic growth, innovation, and the end goal of prosperity for all. Circling back to my initial point on why cities outside Metro Manila are important to focus on for development, these smaller cities have a relatively high urban population concentration and hold the most growth potential. Although varying in size and level of development, they are equally important in ensuring the country’s success. To achieve this would require the cooperation and participation of various sectors and stakeholders. Government agencies, various leagues of local government units, civil society groups, non-government organizations, and the private sector, which may include corporations, business chambers, and trade associations, must all be involved. Implementing this undertaking will be an opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of the “whole-of-nation” approach. Government agencies that top the list of entities expected to shore up this collective effort include the Department of the Interior and Local Government, National Economic and Development Authority, Anti-Red Tape Authority, Department of Finance, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Health, and Department of Education. The participation of the Philippine National Police is also crucial, as business can thrive only in an atmosphere of peace and security. The benefits of capacity building for cities are many. Initially, the more apparent recipients are the affected cities themselves and their inhabitants. However, increased capability will lead to a more efficient and equitable distribution of resources and delivery of services to the specific sectors we have mentioned. This will support decentralization and public financial management by helping cities widen their own-source revenue bases. It also helps cities enhance tax collection efficiency, access debt capital markets, and strengthen their public financial systems to create a more equitable fiscal framework geared towards inclusive growth. Decentralization also improves governance, with cities becoming more accountable and transparent to their constituencies. With accountability and transparency, the city becomes an attractive destination for investments. Local entrepreneurs will be one of many who will seize upon these attractions, but foreign investors as well. The different benefits and positive impact foreign direct investments provide a country deserve another article in the future. For now, let us all call on our government and the private sector to join hands in developing and building capacity for all cities in the Philippines. Let us contribute to moving our country forward and taking it to new heights. The post Dev’t, capacitybuilding for cities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bankman-Fried to testify at his US crypto trial
Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of the collapsed cryptocurrency exchange FTX, plans to make another high-stakes gamble and testify in his defense on Thursday at his criminal fraud trial. Bankman-Fried's decision to take the stand comes after three weeks of devastating testimony for the 31-year-old known as SBF, who has been accused of stealing billions of dollars from clients. His lawyer, Mark Cohen, told Judge Lewis Kaplan he expected Bankman-Fried's testimony to last for four or five hours. He is expected to begin around 2:00 p.m. (1800 GMT). Prosecutors were wrapping up their case on Thursday and handing it over to the defense, which said it plans to call four witnesses, including Bankman-Fried. Bankman-Fried, once one of the most respected figures in crypto, has been charged with seven counts of fraud, embezzlement, and criminal conspiracy. If convicted, he could face a de facto life sentence of more than 100 years in prison. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate had, in just a few years, turned his FTX platform into the world's second-biggest crypto exchange -- making him a tech-world billionaire wunderkind. But his empire began to crumble last November when a news report pointed to unhealthy ties between FTX and Alameda Research, Bankman-Fried's personally owned trading company. Amid growing revelations, major investors pulled their money out of FTX, sinking it swiftly into bankruptcy. Some $8.7 billion was still unaccounted for after the dust settled, according to the receiver appointed to manage the liquidation. Bankman-Fried has denied taking other people's money, blaming former colleagues for the situation. But key witnesses in recent weeks, all former FTX or Alameda employees, refuted his account. Supported by internal documents compiled by the prosecution, they said he was behind the breaches and did not lose sight of the financial situation of FTX and Alameda. Ex-girlfriend offers evidence Among those taking the stand was Caroline Ellison, Bankman-Fried's former business partner and girlfriend. She offered conclusive evidence against him and delivered details on his management, saying he was involved in all major decisions. Ellison, a Stanford University mathematics graduate, was appointed by Bankman-Fried in 2021 to head Alameda, whose activities were largely financed by money from customers of FTX without their knowledge. She has pleaded guilty to fraud charges and agreed to cooperate with the prosecution, as have two other close associates of Bankman-Fried. Bankman-Fried's decision to testify in his defense is unusual in a country where criminal defendants generally decline to do so because they have to face cross-examination and run the risk of incriminating themselves. Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, comedian Bill Cosby, singer R. Kelly, and drug trafficker Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman were among high-profile defendants who declined to testify at their recent trials. A Cornell University study of hundreds of trials published in 2009 found that 77 percent of defendants who chose to testify were convicted while 72 percent of those who declined to take the stand were found guilty. The post Bankman-Fried to testify at his US crypto trial appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A positive difference
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Mahatma Gandhi once said. Marian Wright Edelman states, “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” Two memorable statements capture the essence of Attorney Kelvin Lester Lee, hailed by Dean Antonio La Viña of Ateneo School of Government as “one of the finest and most visionary individuals to have emerged from Ateneo Law School.” It’s no surprise that Atty. Lee became a Commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019. While his position may be formidable, those who have met him in person can attest to his kind-hearted nature and willingness to devote his time generously. When expressing his views, he displays a remarkable level of candor, always taking the time to carefully consider his words before speaking. Aside from his sense of humor, Lee possesses a remarkable ability to engage in meaningful conversations. When he speaks, he has a way of looking directly into your eyes, underscoring the significance of his words. Even in intense situations, he maintains a calm demeanor and is known to offer a comforting smile, lightening the atmosphere. In his role as Commissioner at the SEC, Atty. Lee assumes the responsibility of overseeing various crucial departments and divisions. These include the markets and securities regulation department, the information and communications technology department, the PhiliFintech innovation office dedicated to Philippine financial technology, and the international affairs and protocol division. Moreover, he holds authority over capital markets, sustainable finance, Fintech and information technology, and international affairs, ensuring their effective management and implementation. While the enormity of those tasks might induce vertigo in most individuals, Atty. Lee remains unfazed. “It is perhaps the best job I have ever had,” he admitted. “I enjoy making a positive change in the sector I am handling. I enjoy pushing innovations and encouraging improvements in the financial sector and capital markets.” With great responsibility, Lee adopts a heightened level of caution. Recognizing the potential impact of his words, he expressed the need to exercise carefulness in his public statements, as any statement he makes can influence the stock market. This awareness underscores his commitment to acting with prudence and considering the far-reaching implications of his words. Let’s delve into the life of Lee, who began his journey in the humble city of Davao, his birthplace. He embarked on his educational path at the Ateneo de Davao University for his grade school education, followed by his enrollment at Davao Central High School, then called Davao Chinese High School. After completing his schooling in Davao, he ventured to Beijing, China, where he pursued studies in the Chinese language and gained work experience with a foreign company. However, after two years, he returned to the Philippines and enrolled in Ateneo de Manila University to pursue a law degree. This journey showcases his diverse experiences and the foundation of his educational and cultural background. “The Ateneo de Manila entrance exam was the only one I could take that year when I came back from China,” he said, adding that he never dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “I just wanted to give it a try. And found I was a surprisingly good fit for it.” As a lawyer, he has five ideal lawyers. Only one is a foreigner: Sir Thomas Moore, an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, and statesman whom Roman Catholics venerated as Saint Thomas More. “He stood by his faith and principles,” he said. Fresh from hurdling the Bar exam, he worked at the Siguion-Reyna Montecillo and Ongsiako law firm, where he learned the importance of being enterprising and putting in a diligent effort to succeed. However, despite his professional growth, he decided to quit and return to his hometown of Davao, placing the deeply rooted value on family and prioritizing personal and familial responsibilities above career pursuits. As a father to two daughters, Atty. Lee expressed that fatherhood has had a profound impact on him, bringing about significant changes. He considers it one of the greatest blessings he could ever receive. According to him, the love that his children show him is genuine and unmatched. He believes that the love of young children is unparalleled. Experiencing this level of love is indescribable, knowing someone loves you unconditionally. This extraordinary bond makes fatherhood one of the most precious and fulfilling aspects of his life. “The love your kids show you is real,” he said. “You will never be as loved as you are by your young children. There is no feeling quite like it to know that someone loves you as much as that. That’s what makes it one of the best things.” Working in government “It is an honor to serve. Very few people get an opportunity to help the country and serve the president and the people,” said Lee, who is a former assistant secretary at the Office of the Executive Secretary in Malacañang, where he was also designated to sit on the Board of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Atty. Lee’s dedication to public service earned him well-deserved recognition in his field. In March this year, he received two international accolades for his role in driving the advancement of financial technology in the Philippine business sector, highlighting his visionary thinking and influential impact solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field. In the 10th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, Lee was bestowed the Gold Stevie award for his outstanding contributions as a Thought Leader of the Year. These awards celebrate workplace innovation across all 29 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. From a vast pool of over 800 regional nominations, winners were selected in various categories, including the Award for Excellence in Innovation in Products & Services, the Award for Innovative Management, and the Award for Innovation in Corporate Websites, among others. “It feels great. It’s always wonderful to be recognized for all the hard work and changes you pursue at a government agency. And I was quite surprised to get the Gold Stevie Award, the highest level of the award for thought leadership. I feel so honored!” In the next decade, Atty. Lee, now 44, envisions continuing his career in law, possibly incorporating elements of technology, and hopes to stay actively involved in government work and make a significant impact by fostering meaningful transformation. “Working in government can be quite fulfilling. I encourage young lawyers and professionals to enter the arena and work in government to try and make a positive difference.” The post A positive difference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Canada St Lawrence seaway workers strike
Workers who help thousands of freight shipments each year navigate Canada's St. Lawrence seaway connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean went on strike Sunday. In a statement, Unifor said the union representing some 360 workers and their employer, the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, remain "1,000 nautical miles apart" on wages. Observers suggested the strike effectively brings an early end to the shipping season on the waterway, which normally starts in March and ends with the first snow. Each year more than 4,000 vessels move through the system of locks, canals, and channels from Lake Erie to Montreal, transporting an estimated 35 million metric tons of grain, iron ore, and other cargoes. The seaway workers have been without a contract since their last collective agreement expired in March. "This impasse is extremely unfortunate," said Unifor national president Lana Payne, "But our members remain committed to getting a fair agreement." The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation said only 100 vessels "outside the system" are currently affected by the strike, adding that none were waiting to exit the seaway. The non-profit corporation, which operates the seaway on behalf of the Canadian government, said employees' wage demands appeared to be patterned after current negotiations with autoworkers who had fallen behind inflation. It argued that its own staff had negotiated salaries well above inflation over the past two decades. The post Canada St Lawrence seaway workers strike appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MMDA lays down Oplan Undas
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has activated its “Oplan Undas 2023” to ensure the orderliness of this year’s traditional observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on 1 and 2 November, respectively. MMDA acting Chairperson Atty. Romando Artes said 1,448 traffic enforcers and other personnel from the Traffic Discipline Office, Road Emergency Group, Metro Parkways Clearing Group, and Task Force Special Operations will be deployed in key areas in the metropolis. Artes said they expect a lot of people to visit cemeteries and memorial parks during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, so they are taking steps to ensure that traffic is managed smoothly and that everyone is safe. In addition to “Oplan Undas 2023,” the MMDA has also implemented traffic management measures to alleviate expected heavier traffic congestion during the holidays. Among the measures is the temporary suspension of excavation activities in Metro Manila effective midnight of 13 November up to midnight of 8 January 2024. Exempted from the moratorium are flagship projects of the government, bridge repairs and constructions, and flood interceptor catchment projects, among others. Shopping mall operators will also be required to submit respective traffic management plans to the MMDA for their respective mall sales and other promotional events two weeks before the scheduled dates of such events. Mall-wide sales shall only be allowed on weekends and the deliveries of shopping mall operators shall only be allowed during nighttime, from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following day. To ensure maximum visibility of traffic enforcers during the holiday season, nighttime duty of traffic enforcers would be extended until 12 midnight, effective 13 November to 8 January. The MMDA said traffic enforcers were told to avoid kumpulan or grouping and unnecessary use of cellular phones while on duty except when reporting traffic situations or accidents in their areas of assignment. Traffic management shall be prioritized, the agency stressed. Thus, apprehension of simple moving violations which may cause traffic congestion shall be avoided. The post MMDA lays down Oplan Undas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More rural banks taking merger route
More rural banks are consolidating their operations to boost the financial strength of the industry amid the initiatives of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to improve the risk management of small banks......»»
Be models of excellence, integrity, inductees told
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on the new officials of various government agencies to be models of excellence and integrity. In a speech during the oath-taking ceremony on Wednesday in Malacañang, Marcos said that the new officials are “leaders and trailblazers in their own professions” who have demonstrated “patriotism, excellence, and wholehearted service throughout their careers and endeavors.” “I bestow on them the challenging but rewarding responsibility that their respective positions will entail,” Marcos said. He also reminded the new officials that they have a “big break that will change the course of their future” and that their term comes with the promise of “new beginnings, new systems, new practices.” “You now have more opportunities to create improvements in your respective workplaces,” Marcos said. He also emphasized the importance of the new officials’ unwavering commitment and presence to the sectors they serve. “As appointed leaders, your unwavering commitment and even your mere presence daily are crucial to the sectors that you serve [and] to the performance of your respective mandates,” Marcos said. He also expressed his trust that the new officials will remain “models of excellence and integrity, especially to your staff, stakeholders and communities.” Marcos also pledged the administration’s support to the new officials in addressing the pressing concerns that hinder development in the sectors of their communities. “This administration will spare no effort to provide the support necessary to address the pressing concerns that hinder development in the sectors of our communities under your authority,” Marcos said. Finally, Marcos asked the families and loved ones of the new officials to give them their wholehearted support. “Public service is no easy task. Leading an office or a group with such a significant and influential role in the nation’s affairs will be difficult both for them and for you,” Marcos said. “Life in government will always be hard and challenging, but every service delivered brings purpose, it brings fulfillment,” he added. Among the officials inducted were Jennifer Pia Sibug-las, Chairperson of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Vice Admiral Roy Echeverria, Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard, and Dennis Anthony Uy, who serves as the Special Envoy to the Republic of Korea for Digital Transformation. This event coincided with the oath-taking ceremony for new officers of various organizations, namely the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Press Photographers of the Philippines, Malacañang Press Corps Malacañang Cameramen Association and Presidential Photojournalists Association. The post Be models of excellence, integrity, inductees told appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM trusts new officials to be ‘models of excellence and integrity’
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on the new officials of various government agencies to be models of excellence and integrity. In a speech during the oath-taking ceremony on Wednesday in Malacañang, Marcos said that the new officials are "leaders and trailblazers in their own professions" who have demonstrated "patriotism, excellence, and wholehearted service throughout their careers and endeavors." "I bestow on them the challenging but rewarding responsibility that their respective positions will entail," Marcos said. He also reminded the new officials that they have a "big break that will change the course of their future" and that their term comes with the promise of "new beginnings, new systems, new practices." "You now have more opportunities to create improvements in your respective workplaces," Marcos said. He also emphasized the importance of the new officials' unwavering commitment and presence in the sectors they serve. "As appointed leaders, your unwavering commitment and even your mere presence daily are crucial to the sectors that you serve [and] to the performance of your respective mandates," Marcos said. He also expressed his trust that the new officials will remain "models of excellence and integrity, especially to your staff, stakeholders, and communities." Marcos also pledged the administration's support to the new officials in addressing the pressing concerns that hinder development in the sectors of their communities. "This administration will spare no effort to provide the support necessary to address the pressing concerns that hinder development in the sectors of our communities under your authority," Marcos said. Finally, Marcos asked the families and loved ones of the new officials to give them their wholehearted support. "Public service is no easy task. Leading an office or a group with such a significant and influential role in the nation's affairs will be difficult both for them and for you," Marcos said. "Life in government will always be hard and challenging, but every service delivered brings purpose, it brings fulfillment," he added. Officials who the President swore in included Jennifer Pia Sibug-las, Chairperson of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Vice Admiral Roy Echeverria, Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard, and Dennis Anthony Uy, who serves as the Special Envoy to the Republic of Korea for Digital Transformation. This event coincided with the oath-taking ceremony for new officers of various organizations, namely the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Press Photographers of the Philippines, Malacañang Press Corps, Malacañang Cameramen Association, and Presidential Photojournalists Association. The post PBBM trusts new officials to be ‘models of excellence and integrity’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DTI pushes for AI research hub; P300-M for consumer protection programs
The Department of Trade and Industry is pushing for the establishment of the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research, however, it remains "unfunded” under the proposed 2024 National Expenditures Program. During the hearing of Senate Committee on Finance’s Subcommittee “M” on DTI’s proposed P7.909 billion budget for the fiscal year 2024 on Tuesday, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual emphasized the idea would help the country's Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises to effectively adopt “artificial intelligence in their business operations. “This is a research [and development] center. The model is the AStar of Singapore…It’s industry-oriented, it's not academic research. It’s a way to help MSMEs to adopt AI in their operations,” Pascual said, citing that large companies in the country “can take of themselves” to implement AI solutions in their businesses. “But this SMES would need assistance and this is the center that could do that plus the continuing research in the impact of AI on employment which jobs will be affected,” he said. The issue of AI ethics will also be addressed through CAIR, he added. “We are working this out, actually with some business groups that can donate…In fact, we have been offered already a place,” the DTI chief said. Pascual explained that the CAIR has been included in the DTI’s plan for revitalizing Philippine industries under the Philippine Development Plan. Meanwhile, DTI’s Competitiveness and Innovation Group, Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba said the agency has been requesting funds, amounting to P200 million, for the CAIR since two years ago. Aldana did not give further details as to why the Department of Budget and Management disapproved their requests. Stressing the importance of the AI program, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda lamented there must be a reason why the CAIR did not get a budget. Legarda asked Aldaba to further provide details on CAIR as the latter noted the DTI doesn’t have enough space in their existing building, “It’s a physical center and its goal is for us to become an AI center of excellence in the region in the near future. It’s going to house our data scientists, researchers, engineers who will be conducting AI [research and development] to support the needs of the industries, including MSMEs, start-ups, large companies, and multi-nationals,” Aldaba said. The CAIR is also eyed to provide capacity building and training and workshops on AI, she added “so that new products and services could come out from the idea. However, Legarda said DTI should not wait for the physical CAIR to be set up before it starts building the capacity of Filipinos concerning AI, adding that developing a physical infrastructure may take at least two years. “And knowing government, that’s so slow. That means all the resources on AI will not ensue until the structure is done,” Legarda lamented. “What I’m saying is that while the infrastructure is not yet set up, we should continue with AI capacity buildings and research.” Senator Mark Villar, who presided over the budget hearing, backed Legarda’s position, noting that DTI should ensure that AI benefits the country. “Other countries are very concerned also about what AI might mean for the labor industry and what the implications are. I think it’s important that we learn how we can leverage it to help our industries,” he said. On the other hand, Pascual appealed to the Senate for an additional P300 million in funding to strengthen the DTI’s consumer protection programs. “We want to reorganize our consumer protection activity by centralizing it because you cannot expect a junior person running after hoarders or profiteers in an area where there are a lot of people of influence that are operating in the region,” he said. “So the plan that we have done, this planning, after the budget submission, is to centralize the consumer protection activity in the head office and have a quick response task force,” said Pascual. “That would require a funding of P300 million to strengthen our consumer protection activities," he added. Villar supported the DTI’s plan citing its significance amid the ongoing inflation being experienced in the country “It is very relevant that the DTI takes a stronger role in monitoring these hoarders and manipulators,” he said. DTI Assistant Secretary Jean Pacheco said the P300 million would fund an inter-DTI strike team to increase their enforcement activities, consumer education and advocacy, complaints handling, and procurement of equipment for the certification and testing of vapes, among others. At least P130 million of the total request will be utilized for the procurement of equipment for DTI’s certification and testing of vape products, which is in line with their implementation of the law regulating e-cigarettes. The post DTI pushes for AI research hub; P300-M for consumer protection programs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
World Bank chief vows to tackle ‘dysfunctionality’ at development lender
World Bank President Ajay Banga said Tuesday that he is working to reform "dysfunctionality" in the boardroom of the development lender, and pledged to refocus its mission to better address the challenges posed by climate change. The former Mastercard chief executive told the Council on Foreign Relations in New York that the bank should alter its current twin mandate of poverty alleviation and boosting shared prosperity to include climate change. "I think the twin goals have to change to being elimination of poverty, but on a livable planet, because of the intertwined nature of our crises," he said. He added that he was working to redefine the World Bank's business around what he called five key knowledge "verticals": people, prosperity, planet, infrastructure, and digital. Fixing the plumbing Banga, an Indian-born naturalized US citizen, was nominated to lead the World Bank earlier this year by President Joe Biden and began his new role in June. The bank has historically been led by an American, while the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has been run by a European -- a controversial arrangement that has existed since the two institutions were founded in the aftermath of the Second World War. Banga has already made a number of changes to the bank's management since taking over, setting up a new 15-person private sector advisory board, and pledging deeper cooperation with regional development banks to tackle shared challenges. On Tuesday, Banga vowed to "fix the plumbing" at the bank, which he said suffered from "dysfunctionality" in the boardroom. The World Bank's board is made up of 25 executive directors appointed by its 189 member countries, who must balance the interests of the development lender with those of the states they represent. "I want people to say when I’m gone that I left the bank working much better than when I got it, because then my successor will not have to deal with what I’m dealing with," he said. Climate change Proposals to reform the World Bank's balance sheet from countries including the US and Saudi Arabia could add as much as $125 billion in extra lending capacity if they come to pass, Banga told the audience in New York. This would be a significant increase for the development lender, which mobilized just over $100 billion in financing last year. Banga has previously called on the World Bank to collaborate more closely with the private sector to meet the enormous costs associated with climate change mitigation and adaptation. On Tuesday, Banga said the bank should carefully target where it wants to encourage private investment to help cap carbon emissions in order to have the biggest impact. "We need to focus on 10 countries where the growth of emissions will be so high if we don't change to renewables that all the work we do in the developed world to reduce the use of emission-heavy energy will be lost," he said, without naming them. These middle-income countries are states "where there is some hope for the private sector, both in terms of scalable models and the like, that renewable energy could make money," he added. In order to invite the private sector to participate, the World Bank should offer to manage some of the political risks associated with climate-related investments in these countries, along with the risk of currency fluctuations, Banga said. The World Bank group already has a political risk agency, but the foreign exchange risk is an issue that still needs to be resolved, he told the audience in New York. "That's the way to involve the private sector," he added. The post World Bank chief vows to tackle ‘dysfunctionality’ at development lender appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
World Bank chief pledges to reform ‘dysfunctional’ development lender
World Bank President Ajay Banga said Tuesday that he is working to reform the "dysfunctional" development lender, and pledged to refocus its mission to better address the challenges posed by climate change. The former Mastercard chief executive told the Council on Foreign Relations in New York that the bank should alter its current twin mandate of poverty alleviation and boosting shared prosperity to include climate change. "I think the twin goals have to change to being elimination of poverty, but on a livable planet, because of the intertwined nature of our crises," he said. He added that he was working to redefine the World Bank's business around what he called five key "verticals": people, prosperity, planet, infrastructure and digital. Fixing the plumbing Banga, an Indian-born naturalized US citizen, was nominated to lead the World Bank earlier this year by President Joe Biden, and began his new role in June. The bank has historically been led by an American, while the IMF has been run by a European -- a controversial arrangement that has existed since the two institutions were founded in the aftermath of the second World War. Banga has already made a number of changes to the bank's management since taking over, setting up a new 15-person private sector advisory board, and pledging deeper cooperation with regional development banks to tackle shared challenges. On Tuesday, Banga vowed to "fix the plumbing" at the bank, which he called a "dysfunctional" institution. "I want people to say when I’m gone that I left the bank working much better than when I got it, because then my successor will not have to deal with what I’m dealing with," he said. Climate change Proposals to reform the World Bank's balance sheet from countries including the US and Saudi Arabia could add as much as $125 billion in extra lending capacity if they come to pass, Banga told the audience in New York. This would be a significant increase for the development lender, which mobilized just over $100 billion in financing last year. Banga has previously called on the World Bank to collaborate more closely with the private sector to meet the enormous costs associated with climate change mitigation and adaptation. On Tuesday, Banga said the bank should carefully target where it wants to encourage private investment to help cap carbon emissions in order to have the biggest impact. "We need to focus on 10 countries where the growth of emissions will be so high if we don't change to renewables that all the work we do in the developed world to reduce the use of emission-heavy energy will be lost," he said, without naming them. These middle-income countries are states "where there is some hope for the private sector, both in terms of scalable models and the like, that renewable energy could make money," he added. In order to invite the private sector to participate, the World Bank should offer to manage some of the political risks associated with climate-related investments in these countries, along with the risk of currency fluctuations, Banga said. The World Bank group already has a political risk agency, but the foreign exchange risk is an issue that still needs to be resolved, he told the audience in New York. "That's the way to involve the private sector," he added. The post World Bank chief pledges to reform ‘dysfunctional’ development lender appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Thailand’s ancient town of Si Thep added to world heritage list
Thailand's ancient ruined town of Si Thep, a 1,500-year-old complex of temples, monasteries and other buildings, was added to UNESCO's world heritage list on Tuesday. The site in Phetchabun province -- some 200 kilometers (120 miles) north of Bangkok -- is Thailand's first cultural site to be recognized by UNESCO since 1992. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin thanked the UN cultural body for the decision but an expert warned the complex is not ready for an influx of tourists. Archaeologists date the statues and buildings of Si Thep, built by the Dvaravati civilization, to between 1,500 and 1,700 years ago. At its peak the town was a thriving cultural and trading metropolis that celebrated Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. The decision was announced by UNESCO at a meeting in Riyadh, and in a prepared video message, Srettha thanked delegates for the listing. Si Thep was "a treasure not only for people all over the world, but for people of all generations," he said. "I look forward to welcoming you all to the site". Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, minister of natural resources and environment, said it was a "proud moment" for his country. Speaking at a press conference in the capital Bangkok, he invited people "to cherish the beauty of Si Thep, the new UNESCO site of Thailand." But Chulalongkorn University history and heritage lecturer Phacha Phanomvan said the site was "completely unprepared" for a sudden spike in visitor numbers. "The work starts now," she told AFP, warning of a lack of basic infrastructure including no waste management, roads in poor condition and no parking spaces for large tour buses. She is worried about undiscovered sites and looting of artefacts which could fetch higher prices on the black market because of the heritage listing. "Si Thep was already one of the most looted sites in Thailand in the 1970s and 1980s," she said. The site also has unresolved land boundary and zoning issues affecting nearly 300 local villagers including dozens of households without title deeds. Officials said that from September 20 to 24 it will be free to enter Si Thep, which is Thailand's fourth site on the UNESCO cultural heritage list. UNESCO already recognizes historic Ayutthaya and Sukhothai towns, as well as archaeological site Ban Chiang in northeastern Thailand. Thai officials hope the UNESCO listing will help attract more tourists -- a vital part of the kingdom's economy, which has struggled in the pandemic's aftermath. The post Thailand’s ancient town of Si Thep added to world heritage list appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
And then there were three: SUGA next BTS member to enlist
It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later! On 17 September, BIGHIT Music announced via Weverse that SUGA of K-pop mega-group BTS will begin mandatory military service on 22 September. “SUGA will be beginning his required service on 22 September” the agency wrote on the fan community platform. “There will not be any official events taking place on the day he starts his service or on the day he enters the training camp.” “We kindly ask fans to refrain from visiting Suga at his workplace during the period of his service. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only,” the statement continued. The statement concluded with the agency asking for the fans’ continued support until Suga finishes his military service: “We ask for your continued love and support for Suga until he completes his service and returns. Our company will also strive to provide all the support he needs during this time.” After wrapping up the encore for the successful D-Day: The Final concert tour in August, the agency announced that the 30-year-old rapper had terminated his enlistment postponement and would begin his enlistment process. Suga will be the third BTS member to enlist in the military, following Jin’s compulsory military service in December 2022 and J-hope’s in April this year. South Korean law mandates that all male citizens between the ages of 18 and 28 should serve in the military for 18 to 21 months. The post And then there were three: SUGA next BTS member to enlist appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»