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Many barangay posts in BARMM uncontested
As the October barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections draw near, we wrote about the apprehension of the authorities over the conduct of the elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or BARMM. The Philippine National Police has statistics on several towns flagged as possible election “hot spots.” In fact, they have asked for a postponement of the elections in those areas, but the Commission denied this despite documented incidents of election-related violence. But just as there are conflict areas, there are an almost equal number of barangays where peace is expected to prevail. There will be no contest in those barangays as the candidates will run unopposed. While this could taint the democratic process as the right of citizens to choose their leaders will be somehow restricted, it is still a welcome development. How does this work? This needs the intervention of the patriarchs of families, the elders of the village, and city or town executives. What is essential is to resort to what local tribes (among Maranaws) call “musawarah,” which is Arabic in origin, and “musyawarah,” which is the Malay word for consultation or dialogue. Contending candidates engage in dialogue to find common ground for agreement to avoid a socially, financially, and politically costly election. In the case of a barangay where one family numerically dominates, they choose by rotation from among the siblings or family leaders who will be the Punong Barangay. The other positions, like barangay councilor or kagawad, secretary, treasurer, etc., are equally divided among themselves. And there is an equitable distribution of the salaries and whatever largesse the barangay will receive from the government and local projects. In contested barangays, the town mayor offers a hefty sum to the party running against his chosen candidate and promises a monthly allowance and other assistance. By buying off the different bets, the mayor gets the full support of the barangay, with the Punong Barangay acting as his political operator when the mayoral elections come around. Experience tells us that the mayor, supported by most Punong Barangays, gets to perpetuate his dynastic family in power. This is also one way of settling “rido” or family feuds that are a side issue during elections. Through back channeling and having a common candidate and slate, families that for years were involved in “rido” are open to reconciliation. A Rappler report said about “149 barangays in Maguindanao del Sur’s 24 towns have unopposed bets for barangay chair.” And local leaders are still negotiating to have more unopposed candidates in more barangays. According to local leaders, this scheme is resorted to not necessarily for partisan considerations but for peace because election rivalries are the common cause of “rido.” This is happening also in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur and many other BARMM barangays. Through the efforts of provincial governors and city and town mayors, several barangays have candidates running unchallenged in October. Democrats might find this an assault on the freedom of the people to choose their leaders. They will claim that politicians manipulate the people to surrender their fundamental rights as citizens to perpetuate themselves in power and protect their dynasties. But what good is democracy if we have conflict and instability in the villages and one cannot sleep at night for fear of violence? In weighing which interest is preponderant — peace or freedom — pacifists will go for the former. This column supports the work of local leaders in BARMM to have familiar candidates for the coming elections so that lives will not be unnecessarily sacrificed on the altar of politics. amb_mac_lanto@yahoo.com The post Many barangay posts in BARMM uncontested appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SEC warns: Be wary of assistance group
BAGUIO CITY — The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Enforcement and Investor Protection Department warned the public on Thursday to be cautious on the benefit promises of the Bagong Bansa Maharlika International Inc. This comes after the SEC received information that the group is allegedly offering food security, free education, free hospitalization and also cash assistance for senior citizens and that the benefits will be enjoyed by members once they confirm their membership after paying P100 for registration fee. The fee is said to be for the processing of their identification cards. SEC disclosed that the BBMII was registered with the office in March 2022 and the group allegedly has a mission to uplift the lives of its members by assisting them in securing financial benefits. However, it warned the public that the registration of BBMII with the commission is purposely to be able to operate as a legitimate organization as it stressed that BBMII does not have license to function as a Social Welfare Development Authority from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The post SEC warns: Be wary of assistance group appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Promoting responsible design and Filipino craftsmanship
Security Bank and its long-time community partner, ArteFino, have again joined forces for the 2023 ArteFino Festival. This year's artisanal fair promises a bigger and better experience, bringing nearly 150 brands across categories such as men's and women's fashion, home, jewelry, and accessories, to name a few. ArteFino runs from 24 to 27 August 2023 and returns to The Fifth at Rockwell in Power Plant Mall, Makati City. In line with its commitment to building communities sustainably, Security Bank is also sponsoring ArteFino Maker's Lab: Upcycled Design Challenge 2023 to support the call for Filipino craftsmanship and sustainability, as embodied in this year's theme of "Heritage meets Innovation." "We look forward to another partnership between ArteFino and Security Bank as we celebrate the best of Filipino culture and tradecraft. Security Bank is proud to be Filipino. We are one with ArteFino's advocacy to promote responsible retail, highlighting local products crafted with purpose, impact, and intention. All this is anchored on our commitment to sustainability and our mission to enrich lives, empower businesses, and build communities sustainably," says Tanya Deakin, FVP and head of Corporate Communications and Brand at Security Bank. The ArteFino denim upcycling challenge is an event that showcases Filipinos' creativity, resourcefulness, and innovation through the upcycling of old and used materials. Entries will use 80 percent upcycled materials, with 60 percent coming from denim, wood, scrap fabric, plastic, and paper and 20 percent from other materials. The post Promoting responsible design and Filipino craftsmanship appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
May the Will of God be done
There are circumstances in our lives that are mysterious and some remain to be a mystery. Whenever we are not able to explain what happened we always make the alibi that it is the Will of God or it’s not according to the Will of God. Do we ever ask ourselves why God allowed this to happen but didn’t allow the other thing? Do we ask for Wisdom from the Holy Spirit to enlighten us? Or do we just simply shrug our shoulders and let it be? When we encounter people who are so anxious about a particular situation and we can’t explain to them the real score, we just say “There is always a reason behind it.” I can categorically say that it was according to God’s plan that last Friday, Police Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. took over the helm as the new Regional Director of the National Capital Region Police Office despite the hindrances put up by a scrupulous individual. During the turnover ceremony led by no less than Philippine National Police Director General Benjamin Acorda Jr., one could feel the joy shared by the officers of the PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, media, and the local folks, with everyone seemingly saying, “This is it!” So we can see that at every moment of our lives, God’s Will and God’s Plan still prevail. Sometimes God allows things to happen to teach us, to show us, to correct us to improve our lives. Through our life’s circumstances, we receive assurances of God’s ever-present and ever-enduring love, which He has manifested perfectly in His Son, and through what He has done for us. Now, are we then going to heed the Lord’s call to us, calling us all to follow Him as we hear Him saying, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”? Through these words, all of us are reminded that, first of all, it is in God alone that we have true hope of redemption and liberation from all our troubles and trials, from the bondage we have to sin. Through Christ alone, there is hope for salvation and eternal life, as we all should realize. That is why we all should follow Him and commit ourselves to Him, so that in everything that we say and do, we will always obey the Lord and do what we have been called and tasked to do, as Christians, as those who believe in the Lord, in His salvation and in His Passion, Death and Resurrection, by which He has redeemed the world. We are all Christ’s witnesses in this world, the ones who should be proclaiming His truth and Good News. However, just as the Lord Himself said, His yoke is light, which means that following Him will likely require sacrifice and effort, that we should not think that being Christians means that we will have an easy and good life ahead of us. There will definitely be challenges and obstacles facing us, but what matters is that we must realize how God is journeying with us and is with us in these struggles of life. Thus, we should always keep our faith in Him and trust in Him, remembering the salvation and help that He has provided to us, His faithfulness to the Covenant, and the promises that He has made for us — that He gave us all His only begotten Son to suffer and die for our sake, that by His death all of us may be saved and have life in us. The post May the Will of God be done appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BBM has kept promises, Sara says
Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has already proven his government’s willingness to fulfill its electoral promises one year into office. “Everyone can see the diligence and perseverance of our beloved President in continuing the positive changes started by the previous administration, and introducing new programs and projects to improve the lives of our fellow citizens,” Duterte said in a Facebook post. The UniTeam tandem of Marcos and Duterte won via landslide in the May 2022 polls. They started holding office at noon of 30 June last year. Duterte said she is happy to be part of an administration that focuses on strengthening the country and being proactive in strengthening the economy, providing sufficient jobs and livelihood opportunities, and addressing poverty. She said the administration has been supportive of fishermen, farmers, and workers, and in building essential infrastructure, improving the quality of education and healthcare for Filipinos, and strengthening the Philippines’ relations with other countries. One year in office, Mr. Marcos has already signed six laws, including the SIM Registration Act, An Act Postponing the December 2022 Barangay and SK Elections, and Amendments to the Armed Forces of the Philippines fixed term law. The said laws were part of the 42 priority legislation proposed by his administration’s Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council. The Philippines’ standing in the World Press Freedom Index has improved under Marcos, with the country placing 132nd out of 180 nations, up from 147th last year. Marcos also visited Indonesia, Singapore, New York, Cambodia, Thailand, Belgium, China, Switzerland, Japan, Washington and London in the last 12 months. As of February this year, pledges for investments totaling 3.48 trillion Philippine pesos (about $68 billion) had been made as a result of his trips abroad. Of the commitments, P239 billion have come to pass with corporations putting projects around the nation. Confirmed projects worth P1.5 trillion are in the planning stage, while P1.7 trillion already have existing Memoranda of Understanding or Letters of Intent. The post BBM has kept promises, Sara says appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
VP Sara congratulates PBBM
Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday congratulated President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on his successful leadership in the country after one year in office. In a statement posted on her Facebook account, Duterte said that Marcos has proven the government's determination to fulfill its promises to the Filipino people during the election. "Everyone can see the diligence and perseverance of our beloved President in continuing the positive changes started by the previous administration, and introducing new programs and projects to improve the lives of our fellow citizens," Duterte said. Duterte said that she is happy to be part of an administration that focuses on strengthening the country and being proactive in strengthening the economy, providing sufficient jobs and livelihood opportunities, addressing the challenges of poverty, supporting sectors such as fishermen, farmers, and workers, building essential infrastructure, improving the quality of education and healthcare for Filipinos, and strengthening the Philippines' relations with other countries. "The Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education also express their gratitude to our President for his support of our programs for our fellow countrymen throughout the Philippines and the Filipino youth," Duterte said. Duterte called on all Filipinos to support the administration of President Marcos in order to achieve its goals for all. "Let us strengthen our unity and use it as a weapon to overcome the challenges that lie ahead for us as a nation," Duterte said. Marcos, who is the 17th president of the Philippines, and Duterte, the country's 16th President, marked their first year in office on 30 June. The post VP Sara congratulates PBBM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solar-powered ice plant big boon to fishers, coastal communities
The fisheries industry has been plagued with challenges and the need for sustainable solutions, innovation often emerges as a ray of hope. Such is the case with Sahaya, a groundbreaking solar-powered ice plant that promises to revolutionize fisheries in the country. By providing a reliable and eco-friendly solution to the longstanding challenge of preserving fish freshness, Sahaya is promises to transform the lives of fishermen and uplift coastal communities across the globe. Last 23 June 2023, at Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City, AASC Technologies, a thoroughly Filipino agricultural innovation company based in Cagayan de Oro, unveiled its latest product now available for order across coastal regions in the country. Traditionally, ice plants have relied on fossil fuels to power their operations, leading to high operating costs and detrimental environmental impacts. Sahaya’s solar-powered ice plants aim to change that by harnessing the abundant and renewable energy of the sun. With a sleek design that incorporates photovoltaic panels, Sahaya ice plants can generate clean energy, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Sahaya is made perfect for off-grid coastal communities that rely on fishing for livelihood and sustenance. The post Solar-powered ice plant big boon to fishers, coastal communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM: Presidency a work in progress
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday agreed with an economist who gave him an "incomplete" grade in his first year in office, saying he and his Cabinet have "many, many things that we still need to do." During the sidelines of a launching event in Parañaque, Marcos acknowledged that fulfilling his campaign promises is still "a work in progress" as he marks one year into the presidency. "I saw a report earlier this morning where one of the economists said the grade I will give the President is incomplete. I agree with him. We are not done," the Chief Executive said. "There are many, many things that we still need to do. We have to undo 30, 35, and almost 40 years of neglect in the agricultural sector. And the agricultural sectors still occupy the most fundamental part of our economy. We have done a lot of growth (and) we are beginning to see the systemic changes that will be part of the new bureaucracy, but there is still a long way to go," Marcos added. Marcos said that the government would continue to work to reduce inflation, which he described as the "biggest problem" in the economy. He reaffirmed that he and his government are doing their best to revive the economy. He noted that they are focusing on the agriculture sector, which is crucial to the nation's advancement. He pointed out that the international situation has changed regarding trade and geopolitics; hence Marcos said his government is adjusting to that. Marcos added that the most successful economies are agile and resilient. He said his administration is stepping up its attempts to draw in new investors. "The job ahead of us is to make big structural changes that we have instituted, to make them work, and so we can see the results, not only in terms of statistics in the PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority) but also in the lives of ordinary people," Marcos said. "We have to work smart, and we have to work well and be very conscious. We should not be insular and think that only the Philippines exists," Marcos added. The post PBBM: Presidency a work in progress appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Poor communities in Balanga City assured of Bong Go’s support
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go took the initiative to visit Balanga City, Bataan on Thursday, 1 June, where he personally led a relief operation to assist disadvantaged families living in the area. Addressing the beneficiaries, the senator emphasized the importance of unity, cooperation, and dedicated service in improving the lives of the Filipino people. "Sa ating pagtulong sa isa't isa, nagbibigay tayo ng pag-asa at nagpapalakas sa ating komunidad,” said Go. “Kaya't ako, bilang inyong lingkod-bayan, ay nananawagan sa inyo na patuloy tayong magkaisa at magtulungan. Ipagpatuloy natin ang pag-abot ng tulong at serbisyo sa ating mga kababayan,” he added. Go also underscored his role as a public servant focused on genuine service rather than making empty promises. He called for collaboration among citizens, emphasizing that through collective effort, they could bring hope and strengthen their communities. “Alam n'yo, sa tulong ninyo sa akin noon, walang masasayang na oras. Ako po'y magtatrabaho para sa Pilipino. Sanay po ako sa trabaho at iyan po ang pwede kong ialay sa Pilipino, ang aking pagseserbisyo sa inyo. Hindi po ako pulitiko na mangangako, pero mapapansin n'yo po, ginagawa ko lang po ang aking trabaho,” said Go. The relief operation was mounted at the People’s Center in Balanga City where Go and his team assisted a total of 1,008 indigents. They distributed grocery packs, vitamins, masks, shirts, and snacks to the residents. Go also gave away bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance. Continuing his remarks, Go, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, encouraged residents with medical concerns to visit the Malasakit Centers in the province, including those at Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center in the city, and at Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital. An initiative of Go aimed at providing accessible healthcare assistance to all, particularly for poor and indigent patients, the Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops that house concerned agencies with available medical assistance programs, such as the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. "Mayroon na po tayong 157 na Malasakit Centers sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong (sa inyo). Pinirmahan ni (dating) pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte noong naging senador na po ako. Nasa loob na po ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno: PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD. Lapitan n'yo lang po ang Malasakit Center," cited Go. "Hindi niyo na kailangan umikot at pumila pa sa iba't ibang opisina para humingi ng tulong mula sa gobyerno. Nasa isang kwarto na po sa loob ng ospital ang Malasakit Center kung asan nandoon ang mga ahensyang handang magbigay ng medical assistance para sa inyong pagpapagamot," he explained. The Malasakit Centers Act was principally authored and sponsored by Go in 2019. To date, 157 centers have been established and have benefitted over seven million particularly poor and indigent Filipinos nationwide, according to DOH. Likewise, one of the key initiatives mentioned by Go was the establishment of Super Health Centers. He praised the groundbreaking ceremony of a Super Health Center in Samal town which he attended earlier that day and also aided indigents in that town. He revealed plans of the government, in partnership with LGUs and fellow lawmakers, to build similar facilities in other municipalities of Bataan. Such centers would offer basic medical services, including prenatal care and childbirth facilities. As part of his unwavering commitment to bolster the province's development amid crisis situations, Go, who also serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported several projects in the province. These include the construction of a drainage canal in Abucay and Dinalupihan; the construction of Orani District Hospital with 150-bed capacity; construction of multipurpose buildings in Bagac, Balanga City, Dinalupihan, Hermosa, Limay, Orion and Pilar; acquisition of ambulance units in Pilar and Samal; and construction of a slaughterhouse in Hermosa. He then recognized local officials for their untiring service. Among them were 3rd District Bataan Representative Gila Garcia, Governor Joet Garcia, Balanga City Vice Mayor Vianca Gozon, among others. Drawing inspiration from the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, Go encouraged everyone to continue embodying solidarity and compassion. “Sa ating mga kababayan, nawa'y patuloy nating ipakita ang diwa ng bayanihan. Magtulungan tayo sa ating mga pamilya, mga kapitbahay, at mga kaibigan. Sa pamamagitan ng pagkakaisa at pagmamalasakit, malalagpasan natin ang anumang pagsubok na ating haharapin,” concluded Go. The post Poor communities in Balanga City assured of Bong Go’s support appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
David Palmieri on disrupting the way we travel
David Palmieri, chief executive officer of Aquila, Inc. and president and CEO of SigeGo Corp., a Filipino-owned company, believes in the transformative potential of digital technology in improving the travel experience. In an interview on Daily Tribune’s digital show, Pairfect, Palmieri enthused about the company’s latest and biggest venture in the Philippines — to be launched in June. The project is a public-private partnership formed with the Travel and Tourism Board of the Philippines. In order to better the lives of Filipinos and advertise the nation’s tourism industry abroad, the alliance intends to create a groundbreaking smart lifestyle application. [caption id="attachment_137193" align="aligncenter" width="512"] Photograph Courtesy of Gravatar | David Palmieri, chief executive officer of Aquila, Inc. and president and CEO of SigeGo Corp.[/caption] Simplenight, a global technology leader in building innovative enterprise solutions, is SigeGo Corp.’s partner in this venture. Simplenight is known for “powering some of the largest travel brands worldwide.” Palmieri is also the acting chief commercial officer of Simplenight. SigeGo is a super app much like most booking apps, but on a wider scale. Putting together SigeGo was something right up Aquila, Inc.’s alley, being a leading strategic advice and consultancy firm in the travel sector. The Philippines, known for its stunning natural scenery and welcoming people, makes a perfect location for this creative initiative. “It was really a great place to kind of start off this smart kind of smart lifestyle application to enhance the lifestyle of the Filipino people. Then also to focus on promoting the Philippines for inbound travel,” Palmieri remarked. The SigeGo app will include a variety of niches, such as lodging, ground transportation, food, entertainment, excursions, activities and parking. Users’ interactions with the travel industry will change as a result of the convenience of being able to plan and handle all parts of their trip on a single platform. The project’s development and success are greatly aided by partners like Union Bank, Visa, Sabre, Amadeus and Cloudstaff. The low usage of credit cards in the Philippines, which hinders easy digital transactions, is one of the main issues Aquila seeks to solve. “Some of the barriers really seem to lie on the payment side,” Palmieri said. In order to handle several payment methods, such as cash, bank cards and gift cards, the company has created a payment system. This open-minded strategy guarantees that users with various payment preferences can access and use of the features of the SigeGo program. When asked about the marketing strategy, the Aquila CEO emphasized the importance of spreading the word about the project amid the growing competition in the travel tech industry. The company has enlisted the services of a prominent marketing firm called Active Social, which will help create awareness and generate interest in the lifestyle app. The Philippines’ travel industry is expected to undergo a big transition thanks to the CEO’s vision and Aquila’s experience. The SigeGo app promises to improve Filipinos’ quality of life, support small local businesses, and highlight the country’s rich heritage of culture. The post David Palmieri on disrupting the way we travel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SHDA celebrates 53 years of building livable, affordable communities
For over half a century, the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association, Inc. has been at the forefront of providing quality housing solutions for Filipino families. Founded in 1970, the association has since been committed to developing livable and affordable communities that promote the well-being of its residents. This year, the SHDA celebrates its 53rd anniversary on 18 May 2023 at Marquis Events Place in BGC, Taguig City with a grand celebration that recognizes its accomplishments and looks forward to a more sustainable future. The theme for this year's celebration is "SHDA: Forging Livable and Affordable Communities Towards Sustainable Nation Building." In her message, SHDA Chairman, Ms. Arlene C. Keh highlighted: "In our 53 years of existence, SHDA has been steadfast in our commitment to provide quality homes to Filipinos. We are proud of the milestones we have achieved, including the partnerships we’ve had in the spirit of continuing our mission and vision. As we continue to navigate through the challenges of the industry, we remain committed to our vision of being the leading advocate of sustainable, affordable, and inclusive housing in the Philippines." As part of the celebration, Pag-IBIG Fund CEO Ms. Marilene C. Acosta spoke on SHDA and Pag-IBIG Fund’s partnership: "Whenever I am asked why I have devoted all those years to the Pag-IBIG Fund, my answer is always quite simple. It is because Pag-IBIG pursues the same values and advocacies that I hold. I believe that the same holds true for SHDA. Your members' shared pursuit of your vision and mission has allowed you to remain a strong, vibrant, and crucial partner in the development of housing policies in our country." SHDA's involvement extends beyond its partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. The association has actively contributed to the establishment of key institutions that promote the growth and development of the housing sector. The event was not only about celebrating SHDA's achievements but also about launching new programs and initiatives to further its mission. Among these is the SHDA Cares program, which aims to extend the organization's reach to more communities in need through various corporate social responsibility initiatives. Co-chaired by Ms. Clarissa G. De Joya and Mr. Herbert Tan, the CSR Committee also launched National Developers Convention 2023, a conference that will bring together experts and stakeholders to discuss current issues and developments in the housing industry. Attendees were also given a sneak peek of what to expect at the 8th Housing Expo, which promises to showcase the latest innovations, trends, and best practices in the industry. In addition to these new initiatives, the event highlighted the partnership between Habitat for Humanity Philippines and SHDA. As part of the celebration, a ceremonial MOU signing or donation handover between both organizations’ representatives, SHDA Chairman, Ms. Arlene C. Keh, and National President, Ar. Leonardo B. Dayao, Jr., and Habitat for Humanity Philippines' Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Mardi Mapa-Suplido, took part. This partnership is a testament to SHDA's commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos through housing and their dedication to working with other organizations to achieve this goal. The post SHDA celebrates 53 years of building livable, affordable communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gaza ceasefire takes effect
Rocket fires by Palestinian militants in Gaza targeting Israel and retaliatory air strikes by the Jewish state’s military halted on Sunday after the two sides agreed to a ceasefire. The ceasefire brokered by Egypt took effect at 10 p.m. on Saturday, though two rockets were fired from Gaza after 11 p.m. with no victims, the Israel army said. “Israel’s National Security Adviser Tsahi Hanegbi... thanked Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and expressed the State of Israel’s appreciation for Egypt’s vigorous efforts to bring about a ceasefire,” a statement from the Israeli prime minister’s office said. “We want to thank Egypt for its efforts,” Islamic Jihad political department official Mohammad al-Hindi told Agence France-Presse. He has been in Cairo since the fighting erupted on Tuesday. The current bout of violence erupted on Tuesday when Israeli strikes on Gaza killed three leading IJ members. Three other senior figures from the Palestinian militant group were killed in later strikes. They are among at least 34 lives lost in the fighting inside Gaza, according to the territory’s health ministry. There have been two deaths in Israel, a Gazan laborer and an Israeli in Rehovot. The army said nearly 1,100 rockets had been fired from Gaza towards Israel with 300 intercepted by its air defenses. The post Gaza ceasefire takes effect appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gaza ceasefire takes effect after five days of deadly fighting
A ceasefire took effect in and around the Gaza Strip on Saturday after five days of cross-border exchanges that have killed at least 33 Palestinians in Gaza and two people in Israel. The truce was due to take effect at 1900 GMT, Egyptian and Palestinian sources said. But in the final 30 minutes running up to 1900 GMT, dozens of rockets were fired from Gaza towards Israel, prompting renewed air strikes, AFP correspondents in the territory said. Most of the rockets were intercepted by Israeli air defences. Egypt, a longtime mediator in Gaza, secured the agreement of both Israel and the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad to its latest ceasefire proposal, an Egyptian security official said. "Israel's National Security Adviser Tsahi Hanegbi... thanked Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and expressed the State of Israel's appreciation for Egypt's vigorous efforts to bring about a ceasefire," a statement from the Israeli prime minister's office said. He said Israel's response to the Egyptian initiative means "quiet will be answered by quiet, and if Israel is attacked or be threatened it will continue to do everything it needs to do in order to defend itself". A Palestinian source confirmed Islamic Jihad's agreement. "We want to thank Egypt for its efforts," Islamic Jihad political department official Mohammad al-Hindi told AFP. He has been in Cairo since the fighting erupted on Tuesday. On Saturday, Israel had again pounded Gaza with air strikes targeting the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad following a new barrage of rocket fire into Israel to mark the funeral of its military commander Iyad al-Hassani, who was killed on Friday. 'What have we done?' For days, life in Gaza and in Israeli communities near the border has been a daily routine of air strikes and sirens warning of incoming rocket fire. Residents in the crowded Gaza Strip cowered indoors as the fighting raged, with streets empty and only a few shops and pharmacies open. "The whole Palestinian people are suffering," Muhammad Muhanna, 58, told AFP in the ruins of his home. "What have we done?" In Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, a dead donkey lay in the ruins of a row of buildings levelled in an Israeli strike. "No one is safe in their homes," said Imad Rayan, 64. A spokesman for the interior ministry in Gaza said on the final day of its campaign the Israeli military had concentrated on "targeting civilians, residential and civilian buildings". There had been mounting calls for a ceasefire to be agreed, including from Israel's closest ally, the United States. US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, in a call to Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, "stressed the urgency of reaching a ceasefire agreement in order to prevent any further loss of civilian life", the State Department said. Egypt had kept up its mediation effort despite repeated setbacks. On Saturday, shrapnel from a rocket fired from Gaza hit a building site in Sdot Negev, just over the border into Israel, killing one man and wounding another. Both were day labourers from Gaza. Islamic Jihad said its fighters were pursuing "missile strikes on Israeli cities" in revenge for Israeli "assassinations" of their commanders and strikes on populated areas. The exchange of fire came after the Palestinian health ministry reported the death of two men aged 19 and 32 in an Israeli army raid on a refugee camp in the occupied West Bank city of Nablus. The Fatah movement of Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas said the two men killed in the raid were members of its armed wing, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades. Deadliest fighting since August The current bout of violence erupted on Tuesday when Israeli strikes on Gaza killed three leading Islamic Jihad members. Three other senior figures from the Palestinian militant group were killed in later strikes. They are among at least 33 lives lost in the fighting inside Gaza, according to the territory's health ministry. There have been two deaths in Israel, one of them the Gazan day labourer. The army said nearly 1,100 rockets had been fired from Gaza towards Israel in the current fighting, including 300 intercepted by its air defences. Gaza, a coastal enclave that is home to 2.3 million Palestinians, has been plagued by poverty and unemployment since Israel imposed a blockade in 2007 when the Islamist movement Hamas took control. The territory has seen numerous wars between militant groups and Israel since the Hamas takeover. This week's fighting was the worst in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since an August flare-up that killed nearly 50 Palestinians. The conflict has escalated since veteran Israeli politician Benjamin Netanyahu returned to power late last year, heading a coalition with the extreme right and ultra-Orthodox parties. The post Gaza ceasefire takes effect after five days of deadly fighting appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fighting cybercrime
In an interconnected world driven by technology, the Internet has become an integral part of our daily lives. It has revolutionized the way we communicate, work, and conduct business. However, with its numerous benefits, the online realm also poses significant risks, one of which is the proliferation of online scams. Online scams are deceptive schemes aimed at defrauding individuals, exploiting their vulnerabilities, and compromising their financial security. This essay explores the evolving landscape of online scams, and their various forms, and highlights the importance of taking proactive measures to protect ourselves in a digital world. Online scams come in various forms, constantly adapting and evolving to exploit the latest technological trends. Phishing scams, for instance, involve fraudulent attempts to acquire sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details, by posing as trustworthy entities through emails, websites, or text messages. These scams rely on social engineering techniques to deceive unsuspecting victims into divulging their personal information. Another common form of online scam is advance-fee fraud, also known as the Nigerian Prince scam. This scam involves an email or message from someone claiming to be a wealthy individual or a government official who promises a large sum of money in exchange for a small upfront payment. Victims who fall for this scam end up losing their money without ever receiving the promised fortune. Other prevalent online scams include identity theft, investment fraud, online shopping scams, and romance scams. These scams exploit people’s desires for financial gain, love, or exclusive deals, preying on their trust and gullibility. In the face of these evolving online scams, individuals must take proactive measures to protect themselves and safeguard their online activities. Here are some essential steps to minimize the risk of falling victim to online scams: Educate yourself. Stay informed about the latest scams and tactics employed by fraudsters. Regularly update yourself on common scams and learn how to identify warning signs and red flags. Knowledge is a powerful defense against online scams. Exercise caution. Be cautious when sharing personal information online. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, downloading attachments from unknown sources, or responding to unsolicited messages. Verify the authenticity of websites before entering sensitive information and use secure, reputable platforms for online transactions. Strengthen security measures. Utilize strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security. Keep your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications up to date to protect against known vulnerabilities. Be skeptical. Develop a healthy skepticism towards unsolicited offers, lucrative deals, or requests for financial assistance. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and question any requests for personal or financial information. Protect personal information. Be mindful of the information you share online, particularly on social media platforms. Fraudsters can gather valuable details from your profile to tailor their scams. Restrict your privacy settings and be cautious about sharing sensitive information publicly. Maintain regular backups. Regularly back up your important files and data to an external source. In case of a ransomware attack or data loss, having backups ensures you can restore your information without giving in to scammers’ demands. As the digital world continues to evolve, the threat of online scams persists. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the various forms these scams can take and to remain vigilant in protecting themselves. By educating ourselves, exercising caution, and implementing strong security measures, we can minimize the risk of falling victim to online scams. Remember, staying safe online requires an ongoing commitment to digital hygiene and a healthy dose of skepticism. The post Fighting cybercrime appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go joins Panaad Festival in Bacolod City
Sen. Bong Go attended the Panaad Festival in Bacolod City in Negros Occidental on Monday, 17 April, where he vowed to continue pushing for health-related initiatives that will improve the lives of Filipinos and bring government services closer to those in need. “Isa pong malaking karangalan at batiin po ang mga taga-Bacolod ng Happy Panaad Festival,” said Go in his speech. Go emphasized that he is not the kind of politician who makes lofty promises. Instead, he pledged to offer his services to the best of his abilities as both a senator and a proud Filipino. “Kahit saang sulok ng Pilipinas po, napuntahan ko na po. ‘Yung naririnig n’yo sa telebisyon na ‘mula Aparri hanggang Jolo’, hindi lang po Aparri ang napuntahan ko. Umabot na po ako ng Batanes para sa pagbubukas ng Malasakit Center at para tumulong sa mga biktima ng kalamidad,” he said. Go continued, “Umabot na rin po ako ng Jolo, para tumulong sa mga nasunugan at sa pagbubukas ng Malasakit Center. Basta kaya lang po ng akin katawan at panahon ay pupuntahan ko po kayo para tumulong sa abot ng aking makakaya.” Go also recognized the attendance of both national and local officials at the event. Among those present were Senator Francis Tolentino, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, and representatives from other national agencies. He also recognized Negros Occidental Governor Bong Lacson and the rest of the provincial government, 1st District Representative Gerardo Valmayor, Jr., 2nd District Representative Alfredo Maranon III, 3rd District Representative Francisco Benitez, 4th District Representative Juliet Marie Ferrer, 5th District Representative Emilio Bernardino Yulo, 6th District Representative Mercedes Alvarez, Abang Lingkod Partylist Representative Stephen Paduano, board members and mayors in the province, among others, for their unwavering efforts to improve public service delivery in the province. The Panaad Festival is one of the most celebrated festivals in the country, held annually in the province of Negros Occidental. It is a week-long celebration that showcases the rich culture, traditions, and products of the province. But more than just enjoying the festivities, Go was in Negros Occidental for an equally significant purpose, which is to visit the Malasakit Center at the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH) and to extend his help to the indigent residents in the city. In his speech, Go shared that the Malasakit Center is a one-stop-shop for medical assistance, which he initiated, to improve access of particularly poor and indigent patients to medical services. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These centers aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Prior to visiting Bacolod City that day, Go came from Capiz province where he conducted a Malasakit Center monitoring visit in Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital (RMPH) in Roxas City where he also aided patients and hospital personnel. He also joined the groundbreaking of Super Health Centers in Panitan and Panay towns where he also provided aid to indigent residents. The post Bong Go joins Panaad Festival in Bacolod City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Engkwentro 9: Confident Gabunilas promises entertaining fight against Indonesia foe
CEBU CITY, Philippines —ARQ Boxing Stable’s John Paul “Angas ng Cebu” Gabunilas promises a highly-entertaining fight against Indonesian Wandi Priman Hulu in the main event of “Engkwentro 9” fight card tomorrow, March 24, at the Talisay City sports complex, south Cebu. Gabunilas, one of ARQ’s banner boxers, expressed his confidence in winning the bout in […] The post Engkwentro 9: Confident Gabunilas promises entertaining fight against Indonesia foe appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Adiwang returns from ACL injury, fights Malachiev in ONE Fight Night 6
Adiwang, who tore his ACL in an all-Filipino bout against Jeremy Miado at ONE X last March, looks to bounce back not just from his injury, but also to make his late father proud......»»
2 NPA leaders, 1 medic surrender in MisOr
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Tired of false promises of better lives, two leaders and a medic of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) surrendered to the 58th Infantry Battalion (58IB) in Misamis Oriental, the Philippine Army unit confirmed Sunday.According to a stateme.....»»
Go: Duterte has delivered on campaign promises
The Filipino people will judge and attest to the success of President Duterte’s leadership and the positive change his administration has brought to their lives, said Sen. Bong Go......»»
Inspired by Pacman, Adiwang wants to finish Brooks as quick as possible
Top ONE Championship strawweight Lito “Thunder Kid” Adiwang is gunning for a lightning-quick end to his next bout......»»