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Bisera optimistic on chances in LPGT Match Play
Buoyed by her respectable showing in her first overseas foray, Florence Bisera bristles with confidence as she prepares for the ICTSI The Country Club Match Play Invitational......»»
Gloria Diaz: Michelle Dee stands a good chance winning Miss Universe 2023
Miss Universe 1969 Gloria Diaz is quite positive about Michelle Dee's chances of winning the Philippines its fifth-ever crown......»»
Ateneo bolsters Final Four chances with thrilling win over Adamson
Ateneo bolsters Final Four chances with thrilling win over Adamson.....»»
Britain’s iconic red phone boxes get new lease of life
In a workshop packed with historic memorabilia, from rusty petrol pumps to vintage enamel signs, Carl Burge skillfully applied the finishing touches to the red British telephone box he was restoring. "They're iconic," said Burge, 54, who has been working on revitalising the tired, ageing phone kiosks for over 20 years. Emblematic of the UK worldwide, these sturdy red pillars first rolled out in the 1920s have endured everything from vandalism to the country's famously wet weather over the ensuing decades. "If you were to send a postcard with nothing written on there apart from a picture of a telephone box and send it anywhere in the world, chances are 95 percent of people will say: that's England," he added. The number of phone boxes in Britain peaked in the 1990s at around 100,000, though many were not the famous red designs. While less used now with the widespread use of mobile phones, around 20,000 working public payphones remain nationwide. Redundant red and other phone boxes are increasingly being adopted by local communities and converted into facilities such as mini libraries, visitor information stands and defibrillators. Some are even rented out by small businesses, like the tiramisu shop called "Walkmisu" in central London. Daniele Benedettini has set up shop inside two red boxes on the edge of Russell Square, selling the famous Italian dessert and coffee. "I think it was a really cool idea to use something really English traditional with something very Italian," Benedettini told AFP. 'Real gem' The cost of running a business from a phone box has also proved lower than opening a regular shop, he added. The 29-year-old, who rents the boxes from a private owner, said they were his first business before also opening a cafe nearby. The phone boxes have been renovated inside and fitted with shelves, a fridge and coffee machine but outside they remain largely the same, as they have stood for decades, apart from some posters on the windows. Burge said that restoring a telephone box takes an average of six weeks, starting with the "painstaking" process of stripping it down to the "bare bones". "You don't know what you are going to find under that paint. You might find a real gem," he added. Burge has seen many phone boxes come through his workshop in the town of King's Lynn, eastern England, and says they are often broken, missing glass from the window panes or their wooden doors are rotting. Once the box's cast-iron frame is stripped of all internal and external components, it is sandblasted to remove paint, rust and any other impurities. The next step is applying body filler and sanding out any imperfections in a laborious process that is done by hand and which can take several days to complete. Finally the telephone box is spray painted with the "Post Office Red" colour, laminated glass is installed and the door is fitted with a new hardwood outer frame. 'Enthusiasm' Burge, who worked in the motor trade for 20 years, turned his passion for collecting British memorabilia into a full-time business called "Remember When UK". He spotted his first phone box while driving past a property that was going on sale. He bought it off the owners, restored it and kept it in his front garden. Burge later sold the phone box but said he "missed it" and thought he would like to refurbish another one. One turned into many, and now Burge is working on restoring several telephone boxes at a time. Among them is an example of the famous K2, which was Britain's first red colour telephone box introduced in 1926 and designed by British architect Giles Gilbert Scott, who is also known for his work on London's Battersea Power Station and other public buildings. But even after two decades in the trade, Burge said he hasn't lost his passion for the work that he does. "I'm getting a little bit older now. Everything seems to be getting a little bit heavier. But I think my enthusiasm level is on par with where it was 22 years ago," he said. "If anything, it's probably more," he added. The post Britain’s iconic red phone boxes get new lease of life appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Filipinas clobber Chinese Taipei XI
The Philippines trailed by 1-0 early in the second half against Chinese Taipei despite having the lion’s share of possession and scoring chances. But that minor setback didn’t stop the Filipinas from swinging the Group A kickoff game back to their favor......»»
Toni Fowler naniniwala sa second chance: ‘Para kasi sa akin mas katangahan kapag hindi ka na nagmahal’
NEVER mapapagod ang aktres at content creator na si Toni Fowler na magtiwala at magbigay ng pagmamahal sa mga taong karapat-dapat. Ayon sa isa sa mga cast members ng “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” naniniwala siya sa second chances dahil alam niyang wala namang perpektong tao at lahat ay nagkakamali at naliligaw ng landas. “Napakasarap magmahal, bakit.....»»
Other countries might join Phl maritime activities in WPS after Ayungin collision—DND
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. believed that the recent collision incidents, involving the China Coast Guard and the Philippine resupply boats in Ayungin shoal, would attract more countries that have an interest in freedom of navigation in partnering with the Philippines in conducting maritime activities in the West Philippine Sea. “I believe it will invite more countries who have an interest in freedom of navigation to participate not only in joint sails but in other security engagements with the Philippines,” Teodoro said in an interview with the state-run Radyo Pilipinas on Wednesday. Teodoro said the Philippines’ engagements with other countries may include capability upgrades, intelligence exchanges, and other defense military-to-military and defense-to-defense cooperation agreements. “To include defense industries in the country,” he added. Teodoro noted that the Philippine government is considering and calibrating many options to address China's increasing aggression in the WPS. In a separate interview, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. confirmed the possibility that the Philippines would conduct maritime activities with other countries. “That's a possibility. Tinitignan natin lahat ng mga (We are looking at all) options,” Brawner said, when asked about the chances that other nations may join the Philippines in its rotation and re-provisioning mission to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin shoal. The military chief added that these chances also include the use of a Navy ship during the Rore mission since the BRP Sierra Madre is also a naval vessel. But they are still studying which country could possibly join the resupply mission. The AFP is currently contracting private boats for its re-provisioning mission to the troops stationed in the grounded Philippine Navy warship in Ayungin Shoal. Last 22 October, a CCG vessel collided with the AFP-chartered resupply ship, Unaiza May 2, after the former attempted to block the latter’s path en route to BRP Sierra Madre at about 10.5 nautical miles from Ayungin Shoal. A separate collision occurred between BRP Cabra and a Chinese Maritime Militia vessel at about 6.4 nautical miles from Ayungin Shoal on the same day. After the incident, the Philippines and China accused each other of increasing tension in the WPS. Both the United States and Canada condemned China for its “dangerous maneuvers” against the Philippine ships in the waters off Ayungin shoal. The post Other countries might join Phl maritime activities in WPS after Ayungin collision—DND appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pacquiao’s gambling gambit
Former Senator Manny Pacquiao found himself in the 10th to 13th position in a 30 September to 4 October survey for the upcoming 2025 national elections. As he is eligible to run again for senator, he appears determined to do so after completing a six-year tenure in the Upper Chamber. Pacquiao’s political ambitions were dealt a blow in the 2022 presidential elections, a predictable outcome given the overwhelming popularity of Bongbong Marcos at the time. However, if there’s one thing Pacquiao is known for, apart from being one of the greatest Filipino athletes, it’s his penchant for taking high risks and gambling with his future. It’s evident that gambling has permeated his public image by endorsing various betting platforms. Post-2022 elections, the boxing legend became associated with M88 Mansion, a company that boasts the “largest and most diversified collection of sports betting offers, casino slot games, table games, and live dealer casino games” on its Facebook page. In light of Pacquiao’s uncertain chances of returning to public service in 2025 it raises the question of whether he inadvertently promotes the erosion of Filipino morals and values by aligning himself with gambling firms and their owners. He has allowed his name and image to be featured prominently in online casino and betting ads. Whether he explicitly authorized such usage is unclear, but what is apparent is that he has aligned himself with this vice, a paradox given his Christian identity. Proverbs 13:11 warns, “Wealth won quickly dwindles away, but gathered little by little, it grows.” Pacquiao still has an opportunity to reverse this image within the two years leading up to the 2025 polls. He can choose to dissolve his partnership with Mansion and distance himself from gambling and even POGO firms. Additionally, he can demonstrate honor by disassociating himself from casinos and any activities that dehumanize Filipinos and harm families. If he secures re-election while maintaining associations with gambling companies, it’s expected that he will prioritize their interests. Pacquiao has been instrumental in passing more than 20 laws since 2010, many of which have been commendable and beneficial to the country. However, unless he takes corrective action soon, Pacquiao risks succumbing to the influence of gambling magnates and submitting to their interests, potentially overshadowing his legislative accomplishments......»»
Phivolcs: Bulusan logs increased seismic activity
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has observed increased seismic activity in Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon province. Phivols has recorded 87 volcanic earthquakes in the Bulusan Volcano Network since 5 a.m. on 14 October. Of the number, 29 were volcano-tectonic or VT earthquakes—associated with rock fracturing processes occurring 1 to 8 kilometers beneath the southern and western sectors of Bulusan Volcano. The degassing at the active summit crater and vents has been weak to moderate this week. Bulusan emitted an average of 241 tons of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas daily on 19 October. Phivolcs also noted an increase in volcanic carbon dioxide concentrations from June to August 2023. The volcanic spring temperature has likewise increased since February. It was detected in a monitored spring on the southwestern sector of the edifice. Phivolcs said these parameters indicate that hydrothermal activity driven by deep magma degassing may be occurring beneath the volcano and may lead to steam-driven eruptions at any of the summit vents. Bulusan remains under Alert Level 0 (normal). However, increased chances of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions occurring at the crater or summit area is still expected. Entering into the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone, particularly near the vents on the south-southeastern slopes, should be avoided due to the possibility of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruption, rockfall, and landslide. Flying close to the volcano’s summit should also be avoided as ash from any sudden phreatic eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Phivolcs also warned people living within valleys and along river or stream channels should be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall. The post Phivolcs: Bulusan logs increased seismic activity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bulusan acting up anew — Phivolcs
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, or Phivolcs, on Monday warned of increased chances of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions occurring at the crater or summit of Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon province. Phivolcs said it has recorded 87 volcanic earthquakes in the Bulusan Volcano Network since 5 a.m. on 14 October, of which 29 were volcano-tectonic earthquakes. The agency also observed weak to moderate degassing at the active summit crater and vents this week. Bulusan has emitted an average of 241 tons of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas daily since 19 October. Phivolcs also noted an increase in volcanic carbon dioxide concentrations from June to August 2023, and an increase in volcanic spring temperatures since February. Phivolcs said these parameters indicate that hydrothermal activity driven by deep magma degassing may be occurring beneath the volcano and may lead to steam-driven eruptions at any of the summit vents. However, Bulusan remains under Alert Level 0 (normal) although Phivolcs reminded the public that increased chances of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions occurring at the crater or summit area are still expected. Phivolcs has warned the public against entering the four-kilometer-radius permanent danger zone, particularly near the vents on the south-southeastern slopes due to the possibility of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions, rockfalls and landslides. Flying close to the volcano’s summit should also be avoided as ash from a sudden phreatic eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Phivolcs also warned people living in the valleys and along the river or stream channels to be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahar in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall. The post Bulusan acting up anew — Phivolcs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Del Rosario confident on new TLPGA title bid
Pauline del Rosario, despite toning down expectations, remains optimistic about chances in her return stint to the LPGA of Taiwan (TLPGA), joining a formidable roster of Filipina campaigners in the Party Golfers Ladies Open unfolding November 8 the Lily Golf and Country Club in Guanxi Township in Hsinchu county......»»
Two more Paris qualifiers for boxers
Only lightheavyweight Eumir Marcial qualified for the Paris Olympics out of nine fighters in the Philippine boxing team at the Hangzhou Asian Games with two more chances to book tickets in world competitions in Busto Arsizio, Italy, on Feb. 29-March 12 and Bangkok on May 12-June 3......»»
Skin in the game
Where do you find yourself in the skincare spectrum? Are you still assiduously doing your 13-step Korean beauty routine, convincing everybody your glistening face is not “hulas,” but glass skin? “The word is dew-y!” Or are you the basic sunscreen, a chemical and physical exfoliant or two, maybe slathering a peptide, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or whatever serum is in vogue type? Or are you, “I will fight the ravages of time until my skin is as taut as a drum head and as supple as clouds, or I die trying?” In a crowded field littered with skin and beauty “CEOs” being as high profile as the brands they carry, Skin Manila is positioning itself as a sober alternative, anywhere between Glenda, Rosmar (If you don’t recognize these names, maybe get thee a Tiktok app, Luddite!), the basic aesthetic clinics, and the Belo-Aivee industrial complex. Skin Manila has been around for a decade, and the brand quietly expanded to nine branches without much fanfare and hype, but they’re beginning to introduce it to a much wider audience. The company’s choice of name — Skin Manila — even has a generic bent to it. This is something they have done on purpose, trying to be above the fray of the skincare noise and hype, but also smack dab in the middle in terms of accessibility and affordability. Even Skin Manila’s retail line is called Prescription Skin Care, which calls to mind a no-frills approach, although a glance at the ingredient label will see active ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid in their creams and serums. One of Skin Manila’s most successful branches is in Baguio, already bedecked with a Christmas-winter theme where people keep taking selfies. This is where we found ourselves trying its services, during its first anniversary. Apparently, red-cheeked Baguio denizens with what seems like the perfect temperate weather for good skin aren’t taking any chances. Skin Manila offers infusion treatments, cosmetic surgery services, rejuvenation and skin repair, but a signature treatment I chose is the ALMA-Q/PICOLASE Carbon Facial (P8,000) because it sounded like a spacecraft model, and as someone middle-aged, you know you need something industrial strength. This is described on the brochure as “a non-invasive, painless laser skin facial that uses a formulated carbon liquid applied to the face that quickly and effectively treats a variety of skin imperfections. It is suitable for all skin types and particularly beneficial for oily skin, blackheads, enlarged pores, dull rough, uneven textured skin and acne.” [caption id="attachment_193124" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] The Exilis is used to contour both face and body.[/caption] As the kind of person who registers a mere 2.1 on the tiis ganda scale, I wouldn’t call this procedure completely painless. You feel fluttery pinpricks when the laser hits the skin because a fan is administered alongside, so the pain skates away, but the memory of it stays? (Yes, this is still about skincare) along with the smell of singed hair? Flesh? This is definitely medical grade. This is presumably nothing but a cakewalk to someone who’s already used to all sorts of facial treatments, but if a client is particularly pain-sensitive, the nurse can administer Emla, a topical cream-based anaesthetic. This same procedure is definitely painless on the underarms because skin is thicker there, and is more used to trauma with waxing and depillating. The laser definitely stimulates collagen because immediately after treatment, your face feels very soft, but the results would reveal themselves over a couple of days and weeks. One of our companions said he received compliments days later from people who didn’t know about his facials. The carbon facial is also supposed to reduce hyperpigmentation, which the aestheticist said wasn’t actually my main problem, and I could feel the smugness of my 14-year-old self for deciding to have an at-the-very-least-SPF-15-sunscreen-on-your-face routine whatever else happens because that’s what I read on the pages of Glamour in the late ‘80s. One of my other companions tried the Exilis Face and Neck Contour (P5,000), “which is supposed to contour and tighten the skin by forcing heat deeply into the skin while using cooling technology. The optimal heat stimulates heat production of collagen, which tightens skin, and reduces wrinkles.” He took a picture of his face when one side had already been treated and this half did appear visibly slimmer. According to the clinic brochure, this type of facial is for maintenance after you’ve done the other medical-grade facials. Aesthetic centers are like salons, where you go to a particular one because they make you feel good and pampered. Stephanie Nuestro, general manager of Skin Manila, said this is a large part of their training. “Customer training is as important as the technical know-how of machines…all our aestheticians are nurses.” No matter where you find yourself in your skincare journey, the old adage remains true — the most effective skincare routine is the one you’re able to stick to. The post Skin in the game appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Republican hardliners oust US House speaker in historic vote
Kevin McCarthy was axed Tuesday as speaker of the US House of Representatives in a brutal, historic rebellion by far-right Republicans furious at his cooperation with Democrats. The maneuver laid bare the chaotic levels of infighting among Republicans heading to the 2024 presidential election almost certainly led by Donald Trump, who is making history of his own as the first former or serving president to be the target of multiple criminal indictments. The first ouster of a speaker in the House's 234-year history was supported by only a handful of right-wing Republican hardliners. However, the House was almost evenly divided and with Democrats joining eight rebel Republicans rather than riding to McCarthy's rescue, he had no way to survive. The 58-year-old former entrepreneur -- who did not comment as he left the chamber -- had sparked fury among conservatives when he passed a bipartisan stopgap funding measure at the weekend backed by the White House to avert a government shutdown. Florida conservative Matt Gaetz, who forced the removal vote, gambled that he could oust McCarthy with just a few Republicans, helped by Democrats loath to bail out a speaker who only recently opened a highly politicized impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Republicans were warned by their leadership about plunging the party "into chaos" but Gaetz, who has repeatedly complained about McCarthy failing to honor agreements made with conservatives, retorted: "Chaos is Speaker McCarthy." "The reason Kevin McCarthy went down today is because nobody trusts Kevin McCarthy," he added after the vote. "Kevin McCarthy has made multiple contradictory promises, and when they all came due, he lost." Democrats, too, had no love for McCarthy, pointing to his decision to renege on a deal with Biden on spending limits agreed earlier this year in high-stakes talks over the federal budget. Biden issued a statement through his press secretary after McCarthy's overthrow urging the House to quickly choose a replacement, arguing that the urgent challenges facing the country "will not wait." 'Pigsty of incompetence' The New Democrat Coalition, a bloc of pro-business Democratic lawmakers, described McCarthy as "simply not trustworthy." And Congressional Progressive Caucus chairwoman Pramila Jayapal, a leading leftist, vowed to let Republicans "wallow in their pigsty of incompetence" rather than rescue McCarthy. The tussle came just days after the House and Senate passed a measure to avert a costly government shutdown -- both with big bipartisan majorities -- by extending federal funding through mid-November. Conservatives were furious, seeing their chances dashed by forcing massive budget cuts. They accused McCarthy of a flip-flop, saying he'd promised an end to hastily prepared stopgap legislation, hammered out with the support of the opposition, and a return to budgeting through the committee process. The writing was on the wall after Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries encouraged his members to oust McCarthy. Every Democrat then joined 11 rebel Republicans to reject a preliminary motion that would have blocked the final ouster vote. With McCarthy out, a temporary speaker put the House into recess until a permanent replacement is elected. Republicans will gather at 6:30 pm (2230 GMT) to discuss putting up a candidate for a vote to be the new speaker -- and it is not out of the question that McCarthy could be nominated for a return to the role he just lost. It took 15 rounds of balloting for the Californian to win the gavel in January, but the fight demonstrated that he has the support of most of the party, and he could try to persuade the rank-and-file to rally behind him once more. Alternatively, he may bow out. This could set up a showdown among his lieutenants -- most likely House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and House Majority Whip Tom Emmer. But Republican hopefuls may shy from taking on what looks like a poisoned chalice in which the hard-right faction will continue to exercise control from the sidelines. Trump -- who is facing 91 felony indictments and was in court Tuesday in New York as a defendant in a civil fraud trial -- berated Republicans on his social media platform for "always fighting among themselves." Tellingly, though, he offered no support for McCarthy. The post Republican hardliners oust US House speaker in historic vote appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Olympic-bound Filipina gymnast thankful for saying yes to Philippines
When Aleah Finnegan failed to advance to the United States Olympic trials three years ago and eventually kissed her Tokyo Games chances goodbye, the Filipino-American artistic gymnast from Missouri thought her Olympic dream was over......»»
Understanding the silent threat
Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, another deadly virus has emerged globally, casting a shadow of fear and concern. The Nipah virus, often overshadowed by its more notorious counterparts, has garnered attention due to its alarming fatality rate and potential for large-scale outbreaks. First identified in 1999, when it caused an outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore, the virus was named after the village of Sungai Nipah in Malaysia, where it was initially discovered. It primarily affects both animals and humans. The primary mode of transmission of the Nipah virus is through direct contact with infected bats or their contaminated excretions, such as saliva or urine. Human-to-human transmission is also possible through close contact with infected individuals’ respiratory secretions or bodily fluids. The virus can be transmitted through contaminated fruits, particularly date palm sap, which has been a common source of outbreaks in South Asia. Nipah virus infection can manifest as a range of clinical presentations, from asymptomatic or mild flu-like symptoms to severe encephalitis. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, dizziness, and nausea, making diagnosis challenging in the initial stages. Patients can develop severe respiratory issues and neurological symptoms as the disease progresses, leading to coma and death. Alarmingly, Nipah virus infections have been known to have fatality rates ranging from 40 percent to 75 percent, significantly higher than Covid-19. Nipah virus outbreaks have predominantly occurred in South and Southeast Asia, particularly in Bangladesh, India, and Malaysia. These regions are home to fruit bats, the natural reservoir of the virus. While sporadic outbreaks have been reported, the virus’s potential for human-to-human transmission poses a serious public health threat. It’s crucial to understand that comparing the Nipah virus to Covid-19 is not a matter of declaring one deadlier. These viruses differ significantly in transmission, scale, and global impact. However, it is essential to highlight the unique challenges posed by Nipah virus outbreaks. As mentioned earlier, the Nipah virus has a significantly higher fatality rate than Covid-19. While Covid-19 has caused immense suffering and loss of life globally due to its wide transmission, Nipah virus outbreaks are associated with higher mortality rates among those infected, making it a deadlier prospect for affected communities. Nipah is primarily spread through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials, limiting its potential for a pandemic on the scale of Covid-19. However, the virus’ high fatality rate and human-to-human transmission potential make it a concerning localized threat. Covid-19 has led to unprecedented global efforts to contain its spread, including the development of vaccines in record time. In contrast, Nipah has received less attention and funding, which raises concerns about the world’s preparedness to respond effectively to potential outbreaks. Given the potential severity of Nipah virus outbreaks, it is crucial to take proactive measures to prevent and control its spread. Although infectious diseases expert Dr. Rontgene Solante, who is also the president of the Philippine College of Physicians, has said that there is nothing to fear about the zoonotic disease, establishing a robust surveillance system to monitor potential outbreaks is essential. Early detection allows for the swift isolation of infected individuals and the implementation of public health measures. Raising public awareness of the risks associated with handling bats or consuming date palm sap without proper precautions can also reduce the chances of transmission. While no licensed vaccines are available yet, progress in this area could significantly improve our ability to combat the virus. The Nipah virus may not be capturing global headlines like Covid-19, but its potential for devastation cannot be underestimated. With a high fatality rate and the ability to spread from person to person, potential Nipah virus outbreaks demand our attention and preparedness. While Covid-19 has dominated our lives for the past few years, we must remain vigilant and proactive to understand and combat other deadly infectious diseases like the Nipah virus. The lessons we have learned from the Covid-19 pandemic can help us respond more effectively to future health threats, whether known or yet to be discovered. The post Understanding the silent threat appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cone not taking chances
It could be the most problematic Gilas team ever but no matter the odds, coach Tim Cone is armed for battle with a band of brothers determined to fight ‘til the final buzzer of every contest at the Hangzhou Asian Games......»»
OTS dismisses another SSO at NAIA
The Office for Transportation Security confirmed on Monday that the agency has dismissed another Security Screening Officer assigned to Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2, after he was caught on close circuit television taking things from the luggage of a departing passenger while conducting a final security baggage inspection on 13 September. Last Saturday, OTS Administrator Undersecretary Ma.O. Aplasca personally served the dismissal order against SSO Billy Boy Garcia at NAIA Terminal 2 after a thorough investigation. We have so much problem already here. What do you want to show? Effective today, you are dismissed from the service and remove that ID of yours.You don’t deserve to wear that uniform,” Aplasca said. Garcia was then immediately served with the dismissal order and was right there and then stripped of his access pass, office ID and uniform. The OTS investigators will further pursue this case, and they are requesting the said passenger to come forward to shed light on the incident. Meanwhile, during the interview conducted by one of the members of Airport Press Club, the OTS chief said, “As of today, based on my observation, I think its not too late yet. We still have the core of our people who could make this internal cleansing a success.” Aplasca did not categorically state that the incidents of theft at the NAIA will be totally stopped and instead said he expects what he called the new breed of OTS personnel to snitch on their erring colleagues. “I can confidently say that the chances of them being caught are high because we have new personnel. Mga bagong breed na di nila ito-tolerate,” Aplasca also stated in the same interview. The OTS will not stop and will continue to conduct an intensified internal cleansing program to eliminate scalawags in their agency. The post OTS dismisses another SSO at NAIA appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Birdie-spree looms as pros battle in ICTSI Mimosa tourney
The men of the tour set out for a power duel at Mimosa Plus’ Acacia course with majority almost effusive in talking about its fine condition and the chances of a four-day hunt for birdies in the ICTSI Mimosa Plus Championship......»»
MIF Law nullification: Remote or certain?
In recent months, the Maharlika Investment Fund Law has stirred considerable controversy and debate in the Philippines. Enacted to promote economic development and address pressing issues in the country, this law has faced legal challenges and criticism from various quarters. The question that looms large is whether the Supreme Court will likely nullify this law. The Maharlika Investment Fund Law, also known as Republic Act 11954, was passed by the Philippine Congress and signed into law by the President on 18 July 2023. Its primary objective is establishing a government-managed investment fund to promote economic development, infrastructure projects, and poverty alleviation. The law outlines the creation of the Maharlika Investment Fund, or MIF, and its funding sources, including contributions from government agencies, public enterprises, and certain revenue streams. The MIF Law faced legal challenges from various individuals, groups, and organizations almost immediately after its enactment. Critics have argued that the law violates the Constitution on several grounds, including the separation of powers, the fiscal autonomy of local government units, and the due process clause. Let’s examine these legal arguments in more detail. Critics contend that the law violates the principle of separation of powers by allowing the executive branch to control and manage the funds allocated under the MIF. They argue that the legislature should have greater oversight and control over the allocation and disbursement of public funds. As the Constitution guarantees, local government units or LGUs in the Philippines enjoy fiscal autonomy. Opponents argue that the MIF law encroaches upon this autonomy by diverting funds that could otherwise be allocated to LGUs for their own development projects. Some critics also claim that the law’s provisions lack clarity and transparency, potentially leading to the arbitrary and unfair allocation of funds. They argue that this lack of due process could result in mismanagement and corruption. The Supreme Court’s decision on whether or not to nullify the Maharlika Investment Fund Law will depend on several factors, including legal arguments, political considerations, and the interpretation of the Constitution. The Court will carefully consider the legal arguments presented by both sides. It will assess whether the law indeed violates constitutional principles such as the separation of powers and fiscal autonomy. The strength and persuasiveness of these arguments will be pivotal. It may also examine previous decisions and legal precedents to guide its decision-making process. If there are past cases that bear similarities to the issues raised in the MIF law, these could influence the Court’s stance. While the Court is an independent institution, it operates within a political context. Public opinion and the perception of the law’s impact on society may indirectly influence the Court’s decision, as judges may be mindful of the broader implications of their ruling. The Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Constitution will play a central role. Justices may have differing views on interpreting constitutional provisions, which could lead to a split decision. Offhand, what are the chances then of the MIF Law being nullified? If the legal challenges successfully demonstrate that the law indeed violates fundamental constitutional principles, such as the separation of powers or the fiscal autonomy of LGUs, then the chances of nullification increase. However, if the Court finds that the law is consistent with the Constitution, it will likely be upheld. The political climate and public sentiment may also be influential factors. If there is widespread public support for the law and the government’s efforts to promote economic development, the Court may consider that when rendering its decision. Conversely, if there is strong opposition and concerns about the law’s impact on governance and fiscal management, the Court may be more inclined to scrutinize it closely. The prospects, therefore, of the Supreme Court nullifying the MIF Law are uncertain and will depend on a range of legal, political, and constitutional factors. Therefore, it is essential to remember that the Court’s decision should be based on thoroughly examining the law’s compliance with the Philippine Constitution, rather than political or public pressure. Ultimately, the judiciary’s role is to uphold the rule of law and protect the constitutionality of legislation, ensuring that justice prevails in the Philippines. The post MIF Law nullification: Remote or certain? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»