We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Double pay for workers reporting on Holy Week
Workers nationwide may opt to enjoy a long holiday break or hefty pay this Holy Week......»»
Red carpet to be rolled out for FIVB world meet
The Philippines will leave no stone unturned for the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships 2025 – in terms of hosting the event for the first time ever and competing anew after 50 long years......»»
BTr raises P120 billion from T-bond sale
The government raised the entire program of P120 billion in long-term securities this month even as investors’ asking rates were mixed......»»
Beijing 2008 Olympics: one world, one dream
For the 2008 Olympic Games, Beijing advocated the idea of "One World, One Dream." However, the dream of the Chinese government is not the dream of everyone. In a vast social system long known for its tight control over its population, it's difficult for controllers and the controlled to share the same ideas.It had been a dream for Beijing to host the Olympic Games ever since the International Olympic Committee (.....»»
Philippines vows hosting readiness for men’s volleyball world championship
The Philippines assured to leave no stone unturned in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships 2025 — in terms of hosting for the first time ever and competing anew after 50 long years......»»
The US is cultivating an antagonist to China in Beijing s own backyard
Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the president of the Philippines, is a stark contrast to his predecessor - and besides, Washington has dirt on him The Philippines has been a treaty ally of the United States since 1951, almost as long as it's been an independent country. Before that, it was a colony of the US, which had won it as.....»»
Visita Iglesia suggestions in Metro Manila
Staying in Metro Manila for the long weekend? Here's a quick guide to Catholic Churches in the metropolis you can include in your Visita Iglesia list.....»»
Arsenio Balisacan: A marathoner and economic planner
National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, a long distance runner, initially thought the Vancouver Marathon last year would be his last. .....»»
‘Economic decisions independent from politics’
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto has maintained that his decisions will be separated from his long-standing political background as he pushes for the country’s economic progress......»»
PRO-Davao awaiting order from Senate’s sgt-at-arms to arrest Pastor Quiboloy
THE Police Regional Office-Davao (PRO-Davao) has confirmed that they have not deployed law enforcers to arrest Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, a long-time religious fugitive in the country as they are awaiting a direct signal from the Office of Sergeant-at-Arms (Osaa) in the Senate......»»
China, Not Russia, Still Tops List of Threats to US
WASHINGTON - Russia's war in Ukraine - portrayed by top U.S. officials as posing a danger to the United States itself - still trails China when it comes to long-term threats to America's security, according to a top Pentagon official.The warning from Ely Ratner, the Defense Department's assistant secretary for Indo-Pacific security affairs, comes in testimony prepared for a hearing Wednesday by the House Armed S.....»»
Retired SC Justice Carpio on ChaCha: “it’s a fraud … we have to oppose this”
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 26 February) – The aim of those who want to change the 1987 Constitution is political rather than economic and this “fraud” must be exposed in various fora and in campuses, retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said on Sunday. “It’s a fraud. That’s why we have to oppose […].....»»
[WATCH] Carpio on People’s Initiative: ‘Nothing to do with economic provisions’
'There is no law to implement the people’s initiative clause of the Constitution,' Carpio tells Rappler.....»»
Philippines still has an obligation to cooperate with the ICC — Carpio
Carpio referenced the 2021 case of Pangilinan et al. vs. Cayetano et. al. where the Supreme Court dismissed the petitions to make the withdrawal of the Philippines from the ICC invalid. .....»»
SC asked: Declare secret funds unconstitutional
Retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio led other legal professionals yesterday in filing a petition asking the SC to declare the allocation, release and disbursement of confidential funds as unconstitutional......»»
‘Reed Bank issue first before environment case vs China’
The Philippine government should first resolve the situation on Reed Bank before it files its environmental case against China on the damage to marine resources, including coral reefs, former Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio has suggested......»»
High expectations from winners (4)
Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio took very seriously the job given to her by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to prepare a curriculum relevant to producing competent, job-ready, active, and responsible citizens. In her report on basic education in the Philippines, she revealed in detail the problems confronting it, the teachers, and learners; and crafted means to overcome them, guided by the Constitution and the convention on the rights of the child, reaffirming our country’s commitment to improving the quality of basic education in the Philippines. “The four learners at home — one in kindergarten, one in Grade 4, one in Grade 7, and one in Grade 9 — enable me to see different kinds of problems being experienced by learners every day.” “In my work as Secretary of Education, I am in the company of 28 million Filipino learners throughout the country. I can see numerous problems faced by them every day.” “Four learners at home, plus 28 million more throughout the land, these, my countrymen, make my interest in the future of Philippine education a very personal matter.” “Filipino learners are not academically proficient. In time, Filipino learners experience emotional abuse and exhaustion. Some of them suffer from psychological fatigue. And being academically insecure, many of them may fail to meet the standards of a demanding and competitive world. These are caused and triggered by conditions present at home, in our communities, and even in our schools as a result of problems ingrained in our system. This is the truth. This is our future. But this is a future that we can change. That is why we are here.” “We have to take good care of our teachers. They are the lifeblood of the Department of Education. Without our teachers, our mission to carve a better future for our children will fail.” “And to empower our learners with the relevant skills and knowledge, we shall focus on upscaling their knowledge and capacities as public servants. The assessment of the K-12 curriculum revealed the weak teaching methods of our teachers in addressing 21st-century skills. Studies done by the Research Center of Teacher Quality, the World Bank, and UNICEF showed that our teachers need further support, particularly in explicitly and strategically teaching critical thinking and problem-solving skills.” “While critical thinking was the most evident in the curriculum, it was also the least taught to students by the teachers. Instead, lessons leaned towards conceptual or content-based teaching. And lessons lacked in-depth processing to cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving. Finally, there appears to be insufficient knowledge on developing 21st-century skills, including higher-order thinking skills among learners. This is not the fault of our teachers—whose dedication, integrity, and commitment to serving Filipino children and the country strengthen our collective effort to achieve our shared dreams for our learners. The sad reality is that the system has failed them.” “This is the system that burdens them with backbreaking and time-consuming administrative tasks, a system that provides no adequate support and robs them of the opportunity to professionally grow and professionally teach, assist and guide our learners.” “Our teachers must return to our classrooms and they must teach.” Studies and tests were conducted to measure the literacy of the learners. It was discovered that the issue of literacy is alarming in our basic education. We must address it appropriately and effectively. The 2018 study results showed that 81 percent of Filipino learners could not deal with basic math problems, 81 percent had trouble understanding texts of moderate length, and 78 percent could not recognize correct explanations for scientific phenomena or draw valid conclusions from given data. “We can do better than this,” Sara said. “We are better than this. Studies like these are opportunities for us to thoroughly examine our system and defects that hurt our children’s abilities.” (To be continued) The post High expectations from winners (4) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Carpio debunks China lie about owning Spratlys
If you have facts on your side, pound the facts; if you have law on your side, pound the law; if you have neither facts nor law, pound the table......»»
PSID exhibit showcases cross-cultural designs
The Philippine School of Interior Design-Ahlen Institute Inc. resumes its tradition of showcasing the works of its graduating students through a public exhibition three years after being interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Batch 2023’s Phusion exhibit opened last 2 October at the Greenfield Tower in Mandaluyong City and will run every day until the end of the month. “The residential spaces you enter feature cross-cultural design,” the institute’s dean, Dr. Carol Peña, said in her message to exhibition-goers. “Through this theme, PSID-Ahlen aims to showcase how culture influences interior design — and conversely, how interior design exemplifies culture — through the creative adaptation of various design elements and the reimagination of layout.” At the press launch held last Thursday, DAILY TRIBUNE had a walk-through with exhibit guide Jade Vinco, a fourth-year student on the publicity and promotions committee. The exhibit, which serves as the final requirement for graduation, has 12 booths divided among 44 students with a maximum of five members per grouping. For inspiration, each group was given a client, either solo or a couple, representing the mixed cultures they would be fusing to create a unique design for a pre-assigned house area. The students shouldered their expenses with some help from sponsors. [caption id="attachment_193559" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Per Ankh’ Antoinette Nicole Mercado, Joana Mannel Lipana, Katrin Miriel Araja, Janiz Karen Adlawan and Katrina Marie Balkin. | PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOCELYN VALLE FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE[/caption] Filipino x Egyptian: ‘Per Ankh’ Antoinette Nicole Mercado, Joana Mannel Lipana, Katrin Miriel Araja, Janiz Karen Adlawan and Katrina Marie Balkin chose to name their booth from the ancient Egyptian symbol per ankh, meaning “key of life.” But they came up with a very contemporary and homey take on the melding of cultures between a newlywed couple, one Filipino and the other Egyptian, as their clients. Thus, the choices and placements of cultural references — (from the Philippines) Malakas at Maganda, the Bulul and (from Egypt) pyramid pharaoh — look like personal belongings rather than museum pieces. The writings in hieroglyphics (meaning “ikaw at ako, habangbuhay”) and Baybayin (meaning “ikaw ang tahanan”) also make complementary effect. Another well-thought-out cultural fusion is exemplified by the pair of Egyptian interlocking chairs with cushions made of Maranao malong and a backrest in solihiya. [caption id="attachment_193561" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Buhay Ubuntu’ by Sofia Pascual, Cheska Mendoza, Sophia Chelsea Yling and Chloe Carpio.[/caption] Filipino x South African: ‘Buhay Ubuntu’ Sofia Pascual, Cheska Mendoza, Sophia Chelsea Yling and Chloe Carpio discovered the Philippines has many things in common with South Africa. The acacia tree, for instance, is where animals hide in safaris. That’s why they chose a dining set made in solid acacia wood and had it shaped round so their clients, a retired couple, could have a “personal dining experience with their guests.” They also took note of the similarities of Bahay Kubo to the traditional Tswana and Sotho huts in South Africa. Thus, the thatched roofs are made from synthetic materials. The other materials, though, are natural as both cultures utilize what they can find from their surroundings. [caption id="attachment_193562" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘FILLENIUM’ by Michelle Bagro, Rovina Manuel, Rosana Bandola and Romeo Gabriel Conge.[/caption] Filipino x American: ‘Fillenium’ Michelle Bagro, Rovina Manuel, Rosana Bandola and Romeo Gabriel Conge felt challenged designing a kitchen for their client, a Filipino-American in his 20s with a partner who’s a chef. The American influence is so prevalent that they had difficulties zeroing in on just one aspect. They finally decided to focus on the Hollywood Regency style born during the golden era of the world’s movie capital from the 1920s to the 1950s. Thus, the bold colors, specifically blue, with metallic accents and, of course, the iconic black-and-white tiles. A giant pair of kutsara’s tinidor serves as a centerpiece for some Pinoy reference and perhaps humor. [caption id="attachment_193550" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Relajarse’ by Maui Severino.[/caption] Filipino-Nicaraguan: ‘Relajarse’ Maui Severino opted to singlehandedly conceptualize the booth she’s named after the Spanish word for “relax.” She has an actual client — her aunt, a nurse married to a Nicaraguan and currently based in Hawaii. The bathroom she designed comes with a walk-in closet. It also has gold accents because “gold is Nicaragua’s main export.” Then there are Filipino elements, such as solihiya cabinets and closets, as well as ceilings made of abaca. Plus, the potted Monstera Deliciosa plants. It feels like being transported into Central or Latin America. Filipino x Brazilian: ‘A Diversao’ Irish Monique Cube, Reichel Alessandra Baytan and Chey De Guzman confessed to breaking away from their usual muted colors to vibrant hues in designing the den for their client. They then chose Brazilian elements with an organic connection with nature and colors inspired by the Amazon. From the Filipino side, they decided to use natural elements and materials. Thus, the padded walls and banig ceilings also serve as sound absorbers as their clients love music and to party. Filipino-French: ‘L’Amour du Monde Entier’ Alma Marie Lacman, Glovelle Palileo, Kristin Dominique Ramos and Sophia Ejercito designed a decidedly fused Filipino and French design for their client, a supermodel now married to a French national. They mixed the airiness and spaciousness of the French design with the Filipino references. Check out the Luna painting and the Banaue Rice Terraces. Filipino x Scandinavian: ‘Lagom’ Stephen Michael Chan, Maria Beatriz Guiterrez, Nicolette Lee and Carl Lois Mico cleverly and beautifully melded Filipino and Scandinavian elements to create an inviting and exciting dining area. There are mixed dining chairs, including a bench inspired by the bangko. For drama, there’s an accent wall, where, at first glance, “medyo nakatago pa ang accessories,” and then the Filipino elements are revealed. Then there’s a daybed at the back because Filipinos love to have a siesta after a meal. Filipino-English: ‘A Bachelor’s Tavern’ Regine Calupitan, Marielle Marzan, Izabela Galanto and Ailene Carino designed a British kitchen for their client, a Filipino-English rugby player. Thus, the choice of the Chesterfield furniture, which the aristocrats prefer because their clothes don’t get creased. The ambiance also resembles a pub but is elevated. Filipino-Italian: ‘Semantika’ Jana Loise Cruz, Sophia Denise Ignacio and Jeyna Francesa Meria were inspired by their clients’ love story that started in the heart of Milan in designing a romantic and opulent bathroom. They chose accent pieces highlighting both cultures’ craftsmanship and went for an open layout. There’s a bathtub because Italians supposedly love long baths and a garden outside to invite nature in. [caption id="attachment_193555" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘YAKKA’ by Kharen Urbano, Franchesca Eunice Co, Kristine Sempio and Kat Calloy.[/caption] Filipino-Australian: ‘Yakka’ Kharen Urbano, Franchesca Eunice Co, Kristine Sempio and Kat Calloy designed an office-cum-den that can be used for a studio condo unit. There’s a working station for the client who runs his own business. Then there’s a spot for relaxation with a hammock to boot! They also used wildlife and Outback inspirations and an original artwork echoing the Great Barrier Reef. [caption id="attachment_193557" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘PearL of the Orient Meet Prosperity’ by Victor Flores, Kaila Laido, Sophia Serrano and Jade Vinco[/caption] Filipino-Japanese: ‘Peart of the Orient Meet Prosperity’ Victor Flores, Kaila Laido, Sophia Serrano and Jade Vinco decided on a round concept for the bedroom they designed for their client. They explained that there’s a round shape in both the Philippine and Japanese flags. The number eight is also considered in Japanese culture. [caption id="attachment_193564" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘KANLUNGAN’ by Karen Cabalquinto, Isobel Merici Dator, Erica Leona Chua and Sheina Rose Gina[/caption] Filipino-Persian: ‘Kanlungan’ Karen Cabalquinto, Isobel Merici Dator, Erica Leona Chua and Sheina Rose Gina opted for a Filipino name to call their booth as it perfectly describes the coziness of the bedroom they designed for their client, who has two kids. They said having a bedroom with two sections in Iran is customary, so they did exactly that. They also used Persian floral patterns and other elements, Filipino elements, such as mahogany wood and Bulacan pattern furniture. The post PSID exhibit showcases cross-cultural designs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Topacio: ‘President Arroyo has done no wrongdoing during her term’
The camp of Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo deemed "baseless" the graft and malversation raps filed against the former president before the Ombudsman last week, accusing her of abuse of discretion over the disbursement of P38.807 billion in Malamapya funds during her presidency. Arroyo's legal counsel, Ferdinand Topacio, said that while they have yet to receive the copy of the complaint-- and learned about it through the news-- they have no doubt that the accusations will be disproven. "Suffice it to state that based on newspaper reports, the complainant admits that the funds concerned were used for public purposes," the lawyer said. "In accordance with settled legal principles, Pres. Arroyo has done no wrongdoing during her term, and we are confident that these charges will be proven false, in the same manner, that other accusations made before them have been shown to be baseless," he said. Topacio was referring to a 34-page complaint filed by National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms or NASECORE president Petronilo "Pete" Ilagan and Boses ng Konsyumer Alliance Inc. president Rogelio Reyes, suing Arroyo of 96 counts each of graft and malversation. The complainants cited irregularities in the utilization of Malampaya funds during Arroyo's incumbency, specifically the realigning of the revenues to finance government projects for which the funds were not intended. Arroyo was the Philippine president from 2001 to 2010. Ilagan and Reyes accused Arroyo of taking advantage of her post in allowing the use of P38.807 billion of Malampaya funds for purposes other than the avowed intention of Presidential Decree 910 and as highlighted by a 2017 special audit on the fund by the Commission on Audit. PD 910, signed in 1976, mandates that the profits from Malampaya remitted to the government should be used to finance energy resource development and exploration activities. However, it also stipulates that Malampaya earnings can also be used for "other purposes as directed by the President," which the complainants argued was abused by Arroyo. "Respondent Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo whimsically took the opportunity of the said law's inadequacy and deliberately twisted the interpretation of the said provision to mean that she, as President, had the discretion to use the Malampaya Fund for whatever purpose she deemed fit," the complainants said. Ilagan and Reyes heavily emphasized Arroyo's command to direct the Malampaya funds to agricultural and irrigation programs, disaster rehabilitation, transport projects, national security activities, and cash assistance to the transport sector under the Pantawid Pasada Program, which they claimed was entirely unrelated to energy development. "In short, the Malampaya fund became a discretionary fund of the Office of the President, and disbursements therefrom became subject of whims and caprice of the respondent without regard to the purpose and policy of Presidential Decree No. 910," the complainants said of Arroyo. In the meantime, Topacio expressed their intention to defer it to the justice system and thereafter present a counterargument against the charges in due time. Arroyo and three of her Cabinet secretaries were previously sued for plunder by the National Bureau of Investigation before the Ombudsman for purportedly stealing a P900-million Malampaya fund intended for the impoverished back-to-back typhoon victims in 2009. She was cleared of the charges in 2016 following then-Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales' verdict that the NBI "failed to prove" that they colluded in the illegal diversion of Malampaya fund. The post Topacio: ‘President Arroyo has done no wrongdoing during her term’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»