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Think again before buying bunnies as Easter gifts
SAN DIEGO – With Easter just a week away, animal rescue groups in Southern California are urging people not to buy rabbits as holiday gifts for children. They said that what begins as a well-meaning gesture often leads to abandoned animals when the novelty wears off and families realize they’re not equipped to properly care.....»»
Developing a self-care plan
Self-care has become a popular topic these days, both online and offline. Grind culture may be a thing, but more people realize that taking a break, healing, and ensuring you're okay are important in achieving your goals and being the best you can be......»»
Hyundai announces ‘Revive and Drive’ promo
Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. has launched a new initiative, the "Revive & Drive Promo," aimed at ensuring that Hyundai owners continue to enjoy the reliability and efficiency of their vehicles, even past the warranty period. The promotional campaign, which runs from 15 October to 15 December, is available at all authorized Hyundai dealerships across the nation. The "Revive & Drive Promo" is tailored to cater to the needs of customers who own Hyundai vehicles purchased in the year 2018 or earlier, covering range of models including the i10, Santa Fe, Eon, Grand Starex, Accent, Sonata, Elantra, Veloster, Tucson, and H100. The primary focus of this program is to offer qualified owners an opportunity to bring their vehicles in for an oil change, which then entitles them to a complimentary care package. This package includes free labor, an oil filter, and a drain plug washer. Moreover, the vehicles will undergo a comprehensive 23-point check-up and a GDS scan, along with a courtesy exterior wash and interior wipe-down, all at no extra cost. These services are to be rendered by Hyundai-trained and certified technicians, ensuring that only Hyundai Genuine Parts are used in the process. This approach aligns with the brand’s endeavor to maintain the manufacturer standards and quality, aimed at delivering a safer and smoother performance for all Hyundai vehicles involved in the program. Cecil Capacete, the managing director of HMPH, expressed the brand’s dedication towards supporting the needs of their loyal customer base, not just the new ones. He stated: “We wish to show all our customers, not just the new ones, that Hyundai is here for them throughout the entire lifecycle of their vehicles. This particular program is meant to support the needs of our loyal out-of-warranty customers.” He further acknowledged a common oversight where maintenance of vehicles aged five years and beyond is often neglected. Through this initiative, Hyundai aims to break this cycle and instill a sense of proactiveness among its customers towards regular maintenance, which in turn contributes to safer roads and ensures the well-being of the occupants. Besides the aforementioned benefits, this limited time offer can also be availed in conjunction with other ongoing local dealer promotions, making it a more attractive proposition for Hyundai owners. Booking an appointment in advance is highly recommended and can be done through the Booking Service on the Hyundai Service Network. Alternatively, customers can also reach out directly to their preferred dealership. The post Hyundai announces ‘Revive and Drive’ promo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
POUND-FOR-POUND — Good guy Gibbons gives Filipino boxers the chance to shine
If you’re a talented fighter nursing dreams of becoming a world champion, there is one guy you need to get in touch with. If you’re a promoter who has got a bevy of promising fighters but with no strong connections to the guys who matter in the world of big-time boxing, you have to meet the fellow who makes things happen. That dude is no other than Sean Gibbons, who heads MP Promotions and a sprinkling of other influential outfits in the United States that gives boxers from all over the opportunity they deserve. Having trouble with your boxer’s stagnant world rating? Call Sean Gibbons. Can’t seem to get the big breaks? Call Sean Gibbons. Being given the run-around by a scammer, give Sean Gibbons a call. You see, Gibbons is a do-it-all boxing man who is a big daddy to just about any major Filipino fighter. He has got a deep knowledge of the fight game since he used to fight during his heyday. But before you start conjuring up images of Gibbons battling it out with boxing’s marquee names, pinch yourself first. Gibbons never achieved greatness as a boxer. He was more of a pretender than a contender, having racked up a 14-7-3 win-loss-draw record with seven knockouts before finally calling it a day in 1996. He never even fought in Las Vegas and instead showcased his wares in obscurity, hopping into one small town and city after another. After spending his first five pro bouts in Oklahoma City, Gibbons brought his act elsewhere and in places he never knew existed: Hugo, Purcell, Waubeek. A year before he retired in 1995, Gibbons, now 56, even traveled to Germany and fought and lost by knockout to local boy Ruediger May. Two more bouts on American soil — the first in Des Moines, Iowa, and the second in Miles City, Montana — paved the way for one final stop in Denmark against Peter Madsen. Gibbons would lose that by stoppage again and decided that enough was enough. Pretty soon, Gibbons got himself doing odd jobs in boxing through a relative — uncle Pat O’ Grady — father to former world lightweight champion Sean O’Grady. “I got the boxing bug from him. I would set up the ring, help sell tickets and train fighters… I started from the bottom,” Gibbons, born in Long Beach, California, said, noting that the first fighter he trained was heavyweight Wimpy Halstead. Oftentimes, Gibbons “would jump in as one of the fighters in the card and I was able to travel the world.” He also got aligned with Top Rank and credits Hall of Fame Bruce Trampler and fight coordinator Pete Susens as his mentors and takes great pride in his close association with eight-division legend Manny Pacquiao. Gibbons actually came to the Pacquiao show rather late. But his seven-year stint working for Pacquiao was the most memorable, saying it doesn’t compare with the 35 other years of involvement with boxing. “Seven years I spent with him were better than the other 35 years,” Gibbons, who graduated from Simi Valley High, said. Gibbons revealed that after Australian banger Jeff Horn elbowed and butted and wrestled his way in carving out a controversial points win in Brisbane in July 2018, “Pacquiao had pretty much been left for dead by some people.” It was right at this time when Gibbons entered the scene as Pacquiao’s go-to-guy for meaningful fights while also providing other Filipino boxers the break they need to become successful. Gibbons didn’t disappoint and was instrumental in striking a deal for fights involving Adrien Broner and Keith Thurman that resulted in a “tremendous run.” The victory over Thurman would go down as an epic as it made Pacquiao the oldest to win a world welterweight crown in July 2019 in Las Vegas. Now that Pacquiao has sailed into the sunset, Gibbons is dedicating his time and effort to the betterment of the other talents under MP Promotions, the Pacquiao-owned company that has majority of the country’s top ring talent under contract. And this is where Gibbons wields his expertise and proof of his savvy can be seen on Jerwin Ancajas, Pedro Taduran, Rene Cuarto, Mark Magsayo and current two-belt world super-bantamweight titleholder Marlon Tapales. Also under Gibbons’ care are Jonas Sultan, Vincent Astrolabio, Jade Bornea and Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist and Asian Games silver medalist Eumir Marcial. Though not every one of them managed to win a world title, Gibbons draws utmost satisfaction from the helping hand that he had extended to them. “The most satisfying thing is to change lives of the fighters and take fighters who wouldn’t normally get these opportunities.” Also, Gibbons points to Pacquiao as a reason why he was able to pull it off. “I had the name Manny Pacquiao promotions and Manny Pacquiao was behind me but the biggest, biggest key was Al Haymon and he took my word for guys like Jerwin Ancajas, Mark Magsayo, Jonas Sultan and many, many others.” And there is no stopping Gibbons from doing the same thing especially when his clients’ welfare is on the line. A few months ago, Gibbons earned the ire of a state commission and got slapped with a ban. Still, Gibbons swears it is his way of showing that he always got his clients’ back. So how does he want people to remember him? “I would like to be remembered as someone who gave his all, no regrets. Just you know, when I work with someone, I put all my heart and soul into it. I got suspended for five for screaming at referees but I would like to be remembered for a guy who always had his client, fighters and boxers’ back and that when we went at it, we gave it our all.” If you end up going to war, you’d certainly want somebody like Sean Gibbons right by your side. The post POUND-FOR-POUND — Good guy Gibbons gives Filipino boxers the chance to shine appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go urges DOH to bolster gov’t health services initiatives
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, urged Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa during a Commission on Appointments (CA) hearing on Tuesday, 26 September, to bolster its initiatives towards providing better health services, especially in the grassroots and particularly for poor and indigent patients needing government support. Among those mentioned by Go are the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers in accordance with the law, the establishment of more Super Health Centers in strategic locations nationwide, and the proper implementation of the recently enacted Regional Specialty Centers Act. "Sa inyong palagay, nakakatulong ba ang Malasakit Centers sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan? At hindi ba napapabayaan ang mga pasyente?" Go said during the Commission on Appointments hearing on the ad interim appointment of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa which Go presided on that day. As a response, Herbosa highlighted the significant number of patients served by the centers. "Ang pinakamarami dito sa NCR, almost 607,000 at more than 200,000 sa iba't ibang region. Almost every region is over 100,000 to 200,000 patients served," Herbosa answered. The senator also appealed to the DOH to ensure that poor and indigent patients are given the utmost attention in public hospitals. Go cited a recent department memorandum signed by Herbosa instructing medical center chiefs to ensure that all patients must be accorded with the available services in Malasakit Centers. "Ang mga social workers doon sa loob ng Malasakit Centers — at ako mismo pagpupunta ako doon — sinasabihan ko talaga ang mga social workers, ‘Isa lang ang pakiusap ko sa inyo, as chairman ng Committee on Health, huwag niyo pabayaan ang mga mahihirap na pasyente’," Go said. The Malasakit Centers consist of various agencies offering medical assistance programs including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). These centers were institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, principally authored and sponsored by Go. According to DOH, more than seven million indigent patients have already benefitted from the 159 Malasakit Centers established nationwide. Go also discussed the importance of Super Health Centers, which serve as primary care facilities offering a range of services including consultations, laboratory tests, and minor treatments. These health facilities in communities aim to provide early detection of diseases and also decongest hospitals by providing immediate medical care. "Kung nandiyan ang primary care, (magkakaroon ng) early detection… meaning… hindi lumala ang sakit at maagapan ito. It will also help decongest the hospitals," Go explained. Go also said free consultations handled by municipal health offices, LGUs, and PhilHealth through its Konsulta program can be facilitated in Super Health Centers. Services offered in Super Health Centers include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine. Go was instrumental in pushing for adequate funding to ensure that more Super Health Centers are established across the country. Some 307 Super Health Centers were funded in 2022 through Go’s initiative and with the help of LGUs, DOH, and fellow lawmakers, and 322 more Super Health Centers in 2023. Herbosa supported this initiative, stating that Super Health Centers are partnerships between the national and local governments. Go then questioned Herbosa on whether there would be sufficient funding for the continuous operation of Malasakit Centers and Super Health Centers. "Can you assure us that there is and there will be sufficient funding for the continuous operation of Malasakit Centers?" Go asked. "We will assure the Commission na talagang tutulungan natin ang mga mahirap at nangangailangan using all the funds given by the Department of Health," Herbosa responded. Finally, Go also highlighted RA 11959, or the Regional Specialty Centers Act, a new law he principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate, which mandates the establishment of specialized medical centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. Echoing President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr.'s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country, Go reminded DOH that sufficient funding must be allocated for the proper implementation of the law. “Ipagpatuloy natin na ilapit ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa ating mga kababayang mahihirap na walang ibang matakbuhan. The more we should support their health needs, the more na mag-invest po tayo sa ating healthcare system,” Go said. "Huwag po natin silang pahirapan. Marami po sa mga kababayan natin sa iba’t ibang sulok ng Pilipinas na wala silang sariling health facility. Kaya importante na mailapit natin ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito," he concluded. The CA has suspended the confirmation of Herbosa as Health Secretary due to "lack of material time”, since Congress is set to go on break and will reconvene in November. The post Bong Go urges DOH to bolster gov’t health services initiatives appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Boob love
In anticipation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Avon, the No. 1 intimate apparel brand for Filipinos, invites all to join the Fun Run to Boob Love on 21 October at the CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. Fun Run to Boob Love continues Avon’s Breast Cancer Promise to ensure every woman knows the signs, knows the risks, and knows how to take action. From selling intimate apparel products that give support and confidence to sharing knowledge of breast care as part of self-care, Avon has constantly advocated for keeping women’s breasts in the pink of health. “Avon has been at the forefront of the fight against breast cancer for over 30 years. With the prevalence of this disease in the Philippines, we believe that no one should be left in the dark when it comes to breast cancer,” said Razvan Diratian, Avon APAC managing director and general manager, Philippines. “With the support of our community, we hope this event will break down barriers to breast health education even further. By creating a venue that helps normalize discussions around breast cancer, we can empower more women with the knowledge and skills to take action and save lives.” Comprising both of a 3K to 5K run and a fair dedicated to breast health, the fundraising event is a fun, uplifting, and community-driven celebration of every woman’s breast care journey. Proceeds will be donated to Avon’s long-time partner organization Philippine Cancer Society. The post Boob love appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sky Garden’s Ryu, Hiro and Iwa break into music SCENE
There are now two full-blooded Japanese young men bidding for adulation from the multitude of Pinoys as members of a band signed up recently by AltG, a sub-unit of GMA Music. The boyband is known as Sky Garden. The two are Hiro and Iwa, who have been living here for more than a year now upon the invitation of the band’s founder Ryu (pronounced as Rio), who is a Pinoy-Japanese brought up in Japan, finished college there and worked for a few years at Toyota in Japan. Ryu’s mother is from Isabela. When the pandemic unsettled the world, he decided to move to the Philippines where he easily landed a work-from-home job. He also landed a scholarship for a one-year course at the Ateneo de Manila University. Ryu, Hiro and Iwa (for easier recall they use their very short nicknames as their showbiz names) are very close friends from Nagoya, Japan. They have another friend -- but he took his own life sometime after he lost his job due to the economic constraints and contractions brought by the pandemic virus. Ryu was already in the Philippines when he learned about the tragedy. As casually and as briefly as he could at the launch of Sky Garden in Quezon City, Ryu revealed that he got very worried Hiro might fall into depression, too, since the latter eventually lost his job, too, and so did Iwa. Ryu convinced Hiro and Iwa to join him in the Philippines and he would take care of them until the pandemic subsides, and new jobs and financial opportunities open in the Land of the Rising Sun. To make it easy for the two guys to come to the Philippines, Ryu told them he would buy plane tickets for them. The boyish Ryu, who seems to be a well-disciplined young man who graduated cum laude in college, soon managed to raise money for the plane fares. Happily, their parents were willing to support them for a few months in the Philippines, hoping they’ll find their financial bearings on a short stretch of time. They got here just early last year. Ryu admitted that his parents, too, we’re partially supporting him which is why he is able to rent a pad in Metro Manila where all three of them stay together. Getting ‘Filipinized’ Hiro and Iwa have college degrees, too, which equipped them with enough English vocabulary to get by in the Philippines. They also find it easy to pick up a foreign language, such as Tagalog. Warm and extroverted, they do not hesitate to break into a conversation with anyone in a mixture of Tagalog and English. Or it could be that Ryu is a very good language teacher. Hiro and Iwa have picked more than enough Tagalog words to enable them to do hilarious contents for their vlog of jokes and how-tos. The two had been vlogging individually in Japan but were easily persuaded by the voluble Ryu into forming themselves into a trio of clownish characters who can also sing and dance and act and do covers of K-pop, P-pop and Japanese pop, of course. Iwa and Hiro even ventured into the streets singing to passers-by with Hiro strumming his guitar. They once found their way in Murphy in Cubao, Quezon City, sang to some kids hanging out on the street one of whom happened to be celebrating his birthday. Iwa offered to buy a cake for the boy on condition that he would take them home to their parents, and let them eat with the family -- including partaking of food that Iwa himself would buy ingredients for and cook in the family pans and stove. “Iwa has very passable cooking skills,” blurted Ryu at the presscon. The middle-class family accepted them. They ate, danced, sang and caroused with the family, including the middle-aged father of the birthday boy. Sky Garden has amassed 17 million views in less than a year for their vlogs, one of which was a gag about “first circumcision.” They also have a series of gags comparing Japanese antics with those of the Pinoys. They are at home playing an assortment of Japanese and Pinoy characters in a variety of situations. Even their covers of hit pops are well-followed to the tune of hundred thousands of views. At the presscon, they easily broke into snippets of the Voltes 5 theme and SB19’s “Gento.” They are completely un-shy in sharing themselves to the people. They seem serious at becoming “Filipinized” Japanese. Jap-Pinoy talent on the rise Their success at entertaining themselves and people prompted Ryu to offer Sky Garden to GMA Music to become a talent group of the company. He sent them email offers since he had figures to show from the video-sharing apps. He also sent the company videos of the three of them performing rock compositions of Hiro with Tagalog lyrics mainly put together by Ryu whose mastery of Tagalog is amazing. He could really pass for a Pinoy who just happens to look like a Japanese. “I’ve been vacationing in the Philippines every school break since my childhood years.That’s how I slowly grew a tongue for Tagalog with no Japanese twang,” confided Ryu. The boys were signed up by AltG just last July, although long before that they have acted as guests in the Vic Sotto-Maine Mendoza sitcom on GMA 7, Papa’s Gurl, and on Family Feud. They’ve also found a manager, Ruby Gomez, who has been a talent supplier for the Kapuso network and for ABS-CBN for some years. Their first single, “Kokoa,” was launched in all the video-sharing apps on 1 September. The boys have vlogged that the song ranked 10th on iTunes 100 on the day it premiered. They’re praying that when the music video for Kokoa is launched on 8 September, it will do well, too. The forthcoming music video may show in fleeting seconds the well-toned upper torso of Ryu and Hiro who do gym workouts. Their chest and abs may peek from unstrapped kimonos which the boys love to wear to signal to people their being Japanese. Iwa has gone a little chubby although pics of them on their FB and Instagram accounts show that Iwa looked the handsomest of them when he had less poundage. AltG will surely find exposure for Sky Garden in their weekly musical-variety All Out Sunday and in the network’s new talent competition shows one of which is hosted by the network’s hottest star for some time now, Dingdong Dantes. We recently intoned in this corner that a wave of Jap-Pinoy talents is upon the entertainment industry. The Sky Garden is one more manifestation of that wave. Sky and garden are iconic images in classic Japanese paintings. Those are images in our subconsciousness over centuries. Ryu, Hiro and Iwa surely know how to connect to the world at large. The post Sky Garden’s Ryu, Hiro and Iwa break into music SCENE appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘I have lost a friend’—PBBM on the death of Sec. Toots Ople
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expressed his sadness over the passing of Migrant Workers Secretary Susan "Toots" Ople, who died at 61. "I have lost a friend; the Philippines has lost a friend," Marcos told the reporters in a media interview following his visit to Toyota Manufacturing Plant in Laguna. "Secretary Toots was a special person. With the deep compassion really for the people she had to care for, namely the migrant workers, and she was very very—she's a big loss," Marcos added. Ople was a former senator and the daughter of the late labor leader Blas Ople. She was appointed labor secretary by Marcos in May 2022. In his remarks, Marcos said that Ople was "very much following the tradition of Ka Blas Ople, of excellence, of compassion." "It is a great loss for all of us," Marcos said. "It is a great loss to the Philippines for the service we know she could have still rendered." DMW announced Ople's death in a statement, saying: "Secretary Toots peacefully joined our Creator at around 1 PM today, August 22, 2023, surrounded by her family and loved one." While DMW said it would release more details soon, it said on 25 July that Ople underwent a wellness break to mourn and spend time with her family. "Our family lost two good men within a span of five days. They are now in a much better place, free from pain and reunited with our beloved parents and brother, Raul," Ople had said in the DMW's announcement as she went on leave. Ople's passing follows the recent demise of her two brothers, Blas Ople Jr. and Felix "Toti" Ople, who succumbed to lung cancer. Susan Ople, on the other hand, faced breast cancer. Ople has a history of assisting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) within and outside the government before Marcos Jr. appointed her as a Migrant Workers secretary. She held the position of labor undersecretary in the Gloria Arroyo administration, and she also established and guided the Blas F. Ople Policy and Training Center, a non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting overseas Filipino workers. Furthermore, she is the daughter of Blas Ople, who was the labor secretary under former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. and later took on the role of foreign affairs secretary during the Arroyo administration. The post ‘I have lost a friend’—PBBM on the death of Sec. Toots Ople appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Idolizing Danny Dolor (The man I might have been if I had at least P500 million)
Here’s sharing with you Cyber Proust’s (now Proust Redux) winning piece when he joined the 2010 Philippine Star Lifestyle Journalism Contest sponsored by Rustan Commercial Corporation and the Stores Specialists, Inc. The announcement called for feature articles, as many as one could submit, about heroes, dead or alive. Cyber Proust submitted three — one about his mother; another about a blogger who tells stories about his clan and people like them, making for a good read for people interested in Philippine upper class but not necessarily high society; and this one, about Danny Dolor, Cyber Proust’s patron and benefactor when Cyber Proust had not yet declared himself rich. Here goes: My hero, my icon, the man I’d rather be When people are asked who they want to be if they ever get the chance to live their lives all over again, they almost always say they want to be the same person. If you ask me the same question, I’d have the same answer, only because I want to keep the same set of parents. But if I could keep my Dad and Mom, and still be someone else, I’d look at you straight in the eye, and declare, I want to be Danny Dolor. I can think of a hackneyed thousand and one reasons why I prefer to breathe and eat and live like Sir Danny, but let me stick to the quintessential five. First, he is rich which we all want to be. He is an art lover which I profess to be. He is a trailblazer even if he is a Libran who prefers balance, while I am an Arian who always wants to be the first. He was a good son who took care of his mother in her old age, which every good son should do especially if he were single. I am single, but I was always away from home, too busy changing and finding writing jobs. The closest I got to emulating Sir Danny was spending endless nights conversing with my mother whenever I was home during Christmas breaks. Sir Danny, on the other hand, never travelled abroad because he wanted to be by his mother’s side every night of the year. When he visited Lipa, their hometown, he would pick up his mobile phone to check on his mother and sister Fe in their Makati home, rattling off his orders to their yaya — check their temperature, don’t forget the medicine after their merienda, and so on. Finally, Danny Dolor is a good Catholic who hears Sunday Mass, fingers his beads when in the car, and joins the procession on Good Friday beside his own Mater Dolorosa. How I wish I could give away lands on which to build churches, donate thousands of portfolio bags for priests attending their annual convention, and build a museum in honor of a townsman, Alfredo Maria Obviar, who may yet be the first Filipino bishop to be beatified and, in God’s time, canonized. First conversation I am lucky to have an icon whom I have seen up close. I have seen Danny Dolor when he goes into a trance as he describes his first conversation with National Artist Atang de la Rama, to whom he became a friend and confidante, or fits of laughter as he recalls the usually funny repartee between his friends Sylvia La Torre and Oscar Obligacion when the latter was still alive. For all the secrets and fun times we have shared, I stick to calling him Sir as I did the first time I interviewed him in his thickly-carpeted, air-conditioned and perfume-smelling den. I had known about the man before I ever met him. I knew about his Tribung Pinoy which concertized all over the country in the late 1970s all the way to the mid 1980’s. I never saw them perform in person, but I read about Danny Dolor and his gang of sopranos, tenors and baritones who rendered their harana, danza, balitaw and, of course, kundiman, in schools and churches, and quixotic venues like the Culion Leper Colony in Palawan, the mental hospital and the women’s correctional where the patients and inmates cried, sang, danced and thanked him because no one ever came to sing for them. The path-breaking Danny Dolor also produced the first ever concert at the Cultural Center of the Philippines featuring an all-Filipino-traditional-music repertoire. Danny Dolor’s house, at that time when I interviewed him, was along Tamarind corner Banaba in uppity Forbes Park. In the den, paintings, sculptures, plaques, and trophies vied for the attention of first-time guests. I immediately liked a Zalameda portrait of a basketball player, but what impressed me was a plaque with Latin inscriptions which, my host explained to me, was his papal award. He next brought me to the lanai, thrice as large as the den, where beside the lacquered opium bed stood a gigantic St. Joseph. He showed me a life-size oil portrait of Charito Solis, Ramon Valera ternos worn by Gloria Romero and his sister Fe, and original drawings of Darna by Mars Ravelo. The man, who knows his art, takes pride in his penchant for everything Filipino. It is an interest that goes a long way back to his childhood during the Japanese occupation. In the family hacienda where they evacuated, he listened to the farmers sing native songs. In grade one a year or two later, the young Danny sang Bayan Ko before his classmates, to the shock of the teacher who probably expected Jack and Jill. When Sir Danny was in grade school, he watched Filipino films in the movie houses along Rizal Avenue. As a high school student, he listened to the Mabuhay singers over the radio. In college, he watched Tawag ng Tanghalan on television. Is it any wonder that he should mount a best-selling exhibit of movie ads from the golden years of Philippine cinema? Or that he has maintained, for more than ten years, a column in the Philippine Star, “Remember When?” featuring the movie stars and great musical talents of yesteryears? Danny Dolor is unique in that he straddles the worlds of show business and high society, which many find incompatible. Not with him who has produced movies, including Indie films, and concert tributes honoring luminaries of the silver screen like Director Hermogenes Ilagan and movie queen Carmen Rosales. His involvement in the upper strata, on the other hand, is never without a good reason. For example, he collaborated with the socialite businesswoman Nedy Tantoco in organizing the best-selling Ramon Valera retrospective exhibit. If he is chummy with the grand dame Imelda Cojuangco that’s because he is a loyal and trusted officer the Cofradia de la Inmaculada Concepcion, of which she is the chair. Every year, come Feast of the Immaculate Conception, they gather hundreds of children from depressed areas to receive their first holy communion. Imagine the mix For all of these, he takes a break from his duties as chairman of various companies that include a hospital, hotel, educational institution, bank and subdivisions. Imagine the mix — movies, music, church, business and high society. And he dances the Rigodon too. How can one not desire such completeness? There’s something though he’d rather not be said about him. In my times of need, he does not hide under his canopied bed, and in the milestones of my life, he gives me a thick red envelope. Once I ran out of cash to pay my rent, I called him up and told him that if only I could touch the tip of his pants, I was sure to have what I needed. Scolding me first for being such a cheap copy of the woman in the bible, he said Yes to my pleadings, while reminding me to help him prepare another souvenir program for yet another concert tribute for another forgotten gem of Philippine music. The man does not believe in outright charity. Not to me, anyway. And while he is patient with me, he insists that I “fix” my life for “all these things you delight in will soon come to pass” and “if you do not take care of yourself, who will?” and so on. From his mother, he passes on a classic gem, “Never do anything that people will notice from afar,” a rough translation of “Huwag kang gagawa ng kahit anong matatanaw mula sa malayo.” In short, don’t be a show-off. My hero and icon, Danny Dolor, is not only a model for living the successful and well-lived life that I dream about. He is also a saviour, a mentor and an angel who, despite the “professional distance” we keep between us as a “client” and as a “talent,” if the relationship must breed results, has come closest to being my “Tito” and best friend. Sir Danny will not be pleased with this article. He will think that I need to borrow money from him again. The post Idolizing Danny Dolor (The man I might have been if I had at least P500 million) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
COMELEC asked to exempt DSWD, related agencies from election spending ban
The Commission on Elections has been asked to consider exempting the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other related agencies doing relief work in the province of Albay in light of the impending election spending ban. Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, who made the appeal on Saturday, sent a letter to the poll body, requesting that the DSWD and other government agencies involved in relief operations in Mayon Volcano be granted exemption from Omnibus Election Code amid the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls on 30 October. "Any minute, Mayon could erupt violently. This could also be a prolonged evacuation effort. Nobody knows for sure. But it's better to be safe and be ready with all the relief programs we need -– this could extend beyond the Barangay elections," the veteran lawmaker said. "Clarity is everything for us. We want to abide by the law. And we want to take care of our people. We want to do both. COMELEC has the means and the power to help us do both. That’s why we are making this request," Salceda added. Mayon's violent eruption, according to Salceda, might affect at least 103,181 people in eight cities and municipalities in Albay, accounting for 7.5% of the province's entire population. Meanwhile, 39,901 individuals are currently directly at risk under Alert Level 3. Since warnings of an imminent violent eruption have been known to come and go, Salceda believes that evacuation operations might take 45, 90, or 110 days. "Evacuation efforts must continue until volcanic activity clearly subsides or until a violent eruption actually occurs. Until then, evacuees will require food aid, training activities, cash-for-work programs, and other socioeconomic support to replace economic activities they are barred from doing due to the evacuation orders," Salceda added. Amid the restiveness of Albay's Mayon, the lawmaker averted that relief operations from various agencies would not end once the eruption. The economist-lawmaker said the eruption will displace agricultural, quarrying, ecotourism, and other economic activities in the danger zones, indirectly affecting Albay's economy as a whole. "Likewise, a violent eruption will also likely cause health issues, which will require immediate medical attention and corresponding support through the Medical Assistance Program." With this, Salceda asks Comelec, which had the power under the Omnibus Election Code, to allow such other expenditures especially forDSWD-like activities. Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code prohibits the release, disbursement, and expenditure of public funds 45 days before a regular election and thirty days before a special election, but emergency works due to a public calamity and maintenance of existing public works are exempted from the provision. The BSKE election, which was originally set for 5 December of this year, was moved to an earlier date, pursuant to Republic Act 11935, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos on 12 October last year. The coming grassroots poll this year will break the year-long postponement. Recall that BSKE has been postponed four times since 2016 through RAs 10923, 10952, 11462 and 11935. The post COMELEC asked to exempt DSWD, related agencies from election spending ban appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Addressing poverty, hunger toward inclusive econ recovery
As President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos prepares to deliver his second State of the Nation Address today, I remain hopeful that this can be an opportunity to highlight concrete steps towards a path of full and inclusive economic recovery. I am optimistic that this platform where all branches of government come together to listen to the priorities of the President can strengthen our unity and commitment to uphold the administration’s eight-point Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which includes food security, supply chain management, energy costs, healthcare and social protection, infrastructure development, green economy, market competition, and entrepreneurship. As I always say, “Dapat po ay walang maiwan na Pilipino lalo na po ang mga mahihirap nating kababayan. Dapat po walang magutom. Importante po ang laman ng tiyan at trabaho po para sa bawat Pilipino (No Filipino should be left behind, especially our poor countrymen. No one should go hungry. Food and work are important for every Filipino).” Amidst the recent lifting of the State of Public Health Emergency due to the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring food security for all Filipinos must remain a top priority of the Marcos Administration. It is in this light that I fully support President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s “Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program”, which was recently launched in Tondo, Manila. As one of the priority programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the FSP seeks to reduce involuntary hunger incidents among low-income households. We also respect the decision of President Marcos, Jr. in lifting the State of Public Health Emergency in our country. We trust that it was arrived at after careful consideration of the present health issue and the need to finally open up the economy. With or without the State of Public Health Emergency, the government should fulfill its obligations to protect the lives of Filipinos, safeguard their health, and give what is due to them, especially to our medical frontliners. As a legislator, I have authored and supported bills that aim to address the most urgent issues faced by our fellow Filipinos today. I have also spearheaded the enactment of several legislations that aim to bring healthcare services closer to those in need, especially at the grassroots. As we all know, health is wealth and must be prioritized to attain a productive citizenry. Among these is the Malasakit Centers Act which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate and was enacted into law in 2019. These centers bring various government agencies under one roof to provide convenient access for indigent patients needing medical assistance. So far, 158 Malasakit Centers are operational nationwide and have helped more than seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health. I have recently successfully sponsored the Regional Specialty Centers bill, which I am also a co-author, now awaiting the signature of the President. The bill aims to make available specialized medical facilities in various regions nationwide, benefitting particularly poor and impoverished Filipinos. For example, under the bill, services provided by the Philippine Heart Center, currently located in Quezon City, will also be available in regional DOH hospitals. The enactment of the measure will also include services for a broad range of specialties, including lung care, orthopedics, neonatal care, renal care, cancer care, and mental health, among others, making it a multi-year comprehensive nationwide healthcare improvement plan. Aside from these, we have also continuously supported the establishment of Super Health Centers in strategic locations around the country as a way to provide better access to basic medical services, especially at the grassroots. Through the collective efforts of DOH and fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Meanwhile, driven by my passion for public service, I continue to respond to the needs of our fellow citizens, particularly the poor, wherever they may be in the country in my capacity as a senator and public servant. On 18 July, we were in Bulacan to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the San Miguel Super Health Center. Alongside Congresswoman Lorna Silverio, Board Member Raul Marian, and Mayor Roderick Tiongson, we also provided aid to 1,000 impoverished individuals in the town. We then visited the town of Bustos to distribute assistance to 1,000 indigents, in collaboration with Mayor Iskul Juan’s office. I am delighted to announce that on 20 July, we held and witnessed the topping-off ceremony of the New Senate Building in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. This was presided over by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, fellow senators, and other officials. This will be the new home of the Senate once completed. My office continues to deliver aid this week to our fellow citizens facing various crises. We promptly responded to the needs of victims of separate fire incidents. In Brgy. Kasangyangan, Zamboanga City, we helped 419 victims; in Baganga, Davao Oriental, we assisted 299 victims; and in Maco and Laak, Davao de Oro, we aided three victims. We conducted a series of aid distributions in Batangas, bringing smiles to 300 residents of Batangas City in partnership with Board Members Lydia Lopez, Maria Louise Gamo Vale, and Jesus de Veyra; 100 in San Juan in partnership with BM Melvin Vidal; 100 in Lipa City in partnership with BM Aries Mendoza; and 100 in Rosario in partnership with BM Jonas Patrick Gozos. We did not neglect the people of Nueva Ecija, where I am considered an adopted son of the province, and managed to spread joy to 364 beneficiaries from Llanera in coordination with their municipal council, and 166 from the Science City of Muñoz, in collaboration with Mayor Baby Alvarez’s office. We also reached San Fernando City, Pampanga, where we were able to assist 16 indigents alongside Mayor Vilma Caluag. In Quezon City, together with Councilor Aiko Melendez, we were able to assist 163 displaced workers. We also supported 100 individuals in Biñan City, Laguna, in collaboration with Councilor Alvin Garcia. Millions of Filipinos require the support and protection of the government. As a legislator, I can only do so much. However, if each of us does our part, then we can be a powerful force that could help our fellow Filipinos break free from the cycle of poverty and hunger. The post Addressing poverty, hunger toward inclusive econ recovery appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Navigating reputation crisis
Trust from customers is the lifeblood of any company or brand. In the modern age, bad service stories could spread through social media and become a nightmare. However, this can be prevented or reversed using the communication system appropriate to the public audience and company team. Paolo Alba, country lead and regional business director of PRecious Communications, said the best solution for companies is to continuously update staff on business challenges or issues before they worsen into crises. “When it’s an issue, normally, we can still control this. In a crisis, we usually stop operations and then do damage control with the media. You now have more people starting to engage and giving their own opinions.” Public relations firms like his which also serve business clients in other parts of Southeast Asia, help companies how to plan and carry out crisis control, which involves identifying the possible problems they can encounter and crafting the steps to limit the consequences. “It’s always good to admit when there’s something to happen. I’m a firm believer that the truth always reveals itself. We should identify who’s at fault to take the next steps to remedy the problem.” After these, Alba said companies can have a ready, pre-approved, or “push-button solution when they come to the problem scenario.” Sometimes problems become more severe, and Alba said companies should remain on top of it throughout their existence. “The best solution there is always to trust what’s happening on the ground. You only know exactly how to react once you know the facts that are happening. We have to make sure. After the initial break-in business operations, we can control the narrative.” Alba said investigating the problem enables companies to ascertain whether it needs internal or external damage control. He frequently said the company must only review its policies or negotiate with its departments to resolve the problem. “It’s typical that a crisis stems from issues within a particular business group. In this case, there’s little to worry about regarding the recovery of the overall business or a comprehensive recovery plan. The staff needs to update stakeholders on the company’s decisions.” Alba said companies can do this by posting announcements or clarifications on their websites. Usually, he added the simple but not-so-obvious solution is to talk with the customers themselves, a significant lesson he learned from handling a range of companies, including digital banks, and is anchored from the Filipino value of malasakit or compassion. “I realized the solution is simply to go door to door to the affected families and sincerely let them know that we will care for their loved ones. Sometimes we get too concerned about how to move without a strategy when sometimes a simple solution is to speak to your stakeholders directly.” When the problem has escalated into an apparent crisis, Alba said the company must reach the biggest audience possible and lay out its plan through a press conference or social media. He said what matters is the company is present where its stakeholders are. “It doesn’t mean the company should project a beautiful image to the media, but it reinforces that it is taking the matter seriously. And it is doing something about the problem.” To genuinely reassure the customers, the company should deliver what it has promised and update them through the media and its workers through internal meetings about the efforts to resolve the problem. “It greatly affects your reputation because, without follow-through actions, you would not be seen as a credible institution. If you solve it and properly update everyone along the way, you’ll have a solid reputation and recover successfully.” He said it also helps to learn from the mistakes and successes of other companies in tweaking strategies for better crisis control. “We try to learn from those and put it into a playbook.” The post Navigating reputation crisis appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Zamboanga City
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the significance of investing in health infrastructure, particularly the establishment of Super Health Centers nationwide to bring basic medical services from the government closer to communities. In his video message during the groundbreaking ceremony of Zamboanga City Super Health Center in Barangay Manicahan on Friday, June 30, Senator Go highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that focuses on bolstering the nation's healthcare system. Through such efforts, the country can better address healthcare challenges and ensure the well-being of its citizens, especially at the grassroots. “The more we should invest sa ating health care. The more na laanan natin ng pondo dahil hindi po natin alam kung ito na ba ang pinakahuling pandemya na darating sa ating buhay. Huwag na po sanang dumating. Sana po’y bumalik na tayo sa normal nating pamumuhay,” Go cited. Senator Go pointed out that Super Health Centers serve as hubs for basic healthcare delivery, providing a wide range of medical services to communities. Super Health Centers offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had were allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the Department of Health for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The senator emphasized that these Super Health Centers would cater to the needs of underserved areas, especially those lacking adequate healthcare infrastructure. By ensuring that every citizen has access to quality healthcare services, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, the government can take significant strides towards achieving universal healthcare coverage, Go expressed. “Ngayon tatayuan na kayo ng inyong Super Health Center. Pwede diyan ang dental, laboratory, x-ray, at birthing, panganganak. Ang mga buntis pwede nang manganak diyan. Iyan ang Super Health Center,” the senator said. “Iyan ang pamamaraan na ilapit natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan. Iyan ang Super Health Center,” he highlighted. In line with his priority of protecting the well-being of Filipinos, Go then offered to help any resident who may need medical attention. He encouraged them to visit the Malasakit Centers at the Zamboanga City Medical Center, Mindanao Central Sanitarium, and Labuan General Hospital. The Malasakit Centers program has successfully established 158 centers so far and helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide. It brings together relevant agencies, including DOH, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to help reduce a patient’s hospital expenses to the lowest possible amount. He also continues to take significant steps in his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for Filipinos by principally sponsoring Senate Bill No. 2212, otherwise known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The bill was passed before the session break and is now awaiting the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. If the measure is enacted, in Mindanao, specialty centers will be established at Zamboanga City Medical Center, Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro City, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center in Ozamis City, Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City, Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City, Caraga Regional Hospital Surigao City, Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Tandag City, and Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City. The post Bong Go lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Zamboanga City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos urges PCA to uplift lives, improve conditions of coconut farmers
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday urged the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to keep improving the lives of Filipino coconut farmers and giving them the tools they need to better their circumstances. During the 50th Anniversary of the PCA held at the CCP Complex in Pasay City, Marcos wanted coconut farmers to dream larger for themselves and their families and break free from the bonds of poverty. To achieve the goal, Marcos said the coconut farmers must get all the support they need, directing the PCA to improve their conditions. "Through their hard work, they can plant, take care of, and nourish resilient coconut trees necessary for the emergence of a stronger coconut industry so that we may all reap the benefits of this essential product," Marcos said. "I thus encourage the PCA to continue to uplift [the] lives of our coconut farmers and empower them to improve their conditions, break free from the chains of poverty, and dream bigger for themselves and their loved ones," he added. In light of the numerous challenges faced by the industry, Marcos Jr. urged the PCA to strengthen their efforts in implementing the development plan aimed at modernizing the industry. Marcos also emphasized the importance of investing in new technologies to ensure the coconut sector's ability to adapt and withstand challenges. He pointed out that there is no reason why the country should not be the biggest producer of coconut products for export. "(T)his administration started to formulate the plans on how to redevelop our coconut industry, how to help our coconut farmers. There is no reason why the Philippines should not be the biggest producer of export in terms of coconut products," he said. The President stressed that the country's potential in terms of exporting coconut products is "quite good." He said the government is now "going to sit down to finalize" the plan to bolster the country's coconut production. "We cannot allow this very, very grand opportunity for our farmers to slip by," Marcos said. "I am very optimistic that we will be able to bring back to the coconut industry… When the government fell in 1986, all of those very important programs for the coconut industry stopped," Marcos added. Presidential Decree (PD) No. 232 established the PCA on June 30, 1973, with the objective of facilitating the rapid development of the coconut and palm oil sectors. PD No. 582, enacted in 1974, introduced amendments to PD No. 232. These amendments expanded the responsibilities of the PCA to encompass the creation and execution of a nationwide coconut replanting program, as well as the distribution of free hybrid coconut seed nuts to coconut farmers. The post Marcos urges PCA to uplift lives, improve conditions of coconut farmers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Alive
A Cessna 206 light aircraft with seven people on board recently crashed in the Amazon jungle in Colombia. Three people were confirmed dead; four, missing. This had not been big news until 9 June, when the authorities declared that they found the four passengers in the search effort. Surprisingly, 40 days after the plane crashed in the jungle, the four siblings (aged 13, nine, four and one) were exhausted, dehydrated and malnourished, but otherwise “fully conscious and lucid”. It is astonishing how these four children survived in the wild for more than a month, considering their age and the fact that the older kids had to take care of their younger sibs. Gen. Pedro Sánchez, who led the search operation, told NBC News that the children’s survival was down to three factors. “First, the wish to maintain their lives. Second, they are indigenous people, so they have immunity to so many hazards in the jungle,” he said. “Third, they know the jungle.” The children’s father, who did not board the aircraft with his family, said that, according to his 13-year-old daughter, their mother had been alive for four days after the crash, but she told her kids to leave and find help as she laid dying. It was revealed that the children ate cassava flour in the beginning but when they eventually ran out of food, 13-year-old Lesly led her younger brother and sisters to find what they could eat in the forest, such as seeds and fruits, because she knows what are poisonous and what are not. Moreover, Lesly built makeshift shelters from branches held together with her hair ties, and they hid in tree trunks to protect themselves in an area filled with snakes, animals and mosquitoes. In addition to avoiding wild animals, the children also endured intense rainstorms and might have had to evade armed groups said to be active in the jungle. Unfortunately, Wilson, a Belgian shepherd which helped in the search and rescue of the little siblings, went missing during the mission Dozens of soldiers remained in the jungle on the search for Wilson. Military officials and the children’s family believe Wilson encountered the kids independently during the search efforts. In Lesly’s drawing, a dog is playing near a tree and a stream as the sun shines. In her sister Soleiny’s, a dog sits beside a large flower under the sun. On social media, netizens are pleading for Wilson’s safe return. The Colombian military spokesperson said: “We have a saying, ‘we never leave an element behind,’ even less, the four children; we would not leave Wilson.” The story of the four kids who survived in the jungle is truly marvelous and inspiring. In Taiwan, due to geopolitical tension, a new Civil Defence Contingency Handbook prepares civilians for air raids, major fires, collapsing structures, power outages, as well as shortage of water and essential goods. The pamphlet lists nearby air-raid shelters and hospitals and explains what to include in the survival kits should a war break out. According to the South China Morning Post, the handbook uses “international situations, including the Ukraine war, as references”. Civilians are advised how to react when directly confronted by enemies, when to report suspicious activities in the neighborhood to authorities, how to identify disinformation, and what to do if a major communication system is knocked out of service. The pamphlet also provides instructions on safety measures to take if Taiwan comes under attack by missiles or nuclear bombs, and ways to avoid being exposed to radiation from missile explosions or attacks of the island’s nuclear power plants. The post Alive appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Warm as the sun’: Pangulasian illuminated
Among the four island resorts under the El Nido Resorts umbrella, Pangulasian stands out for its luxury concept. This property in Bacuit Bay shares the resort group’s ecological vein, but each has its own particular lure. Apulit Island in Taytay is deemed the “adventure” destination in an idyllic setting; Miniloc in El Nido is the “discovery” place for activity-filled holidays; and Lagen Island is the “sanctuary,” made distinct for its “lush, four-hectare forest and calm, shallow lagoon.” While travelers may opt for their own kind of vacations — and at a time when custom travel itineraries are the rage — the enduring appeal of island getaways will always be in most bucket lists. The Philippines offers a mélange of island resorts, but in the realm of true luxury, just a handful may be considered — among them, Pangulasian. El Nido Resorts’ Mags Bautista, senior marketing and communications manager, tells Daily Tribune more about this island destination. [caption id="attachment_140326" align="aligncenter" width="525"] BEDROOM suite.[/caption] Daily Tribune (DT): What makes Pangulasian distinct among other island resorts? Mags Bautista (MB): Pangulasian Island delivers luxury Filipino hospitality designed to match the stunning natural beauty of its setting in the Managed Resource Protected Area of El Nido-Taytay. It brings together sustainable practices and world-class comfort to offer naturally immersive experiences with its 750-meter stretch of white-sand beach, a house reef teeming with marine life, and a spectacular view of the sunrise and sunset — it definitely stays true to its local moniker as the “Island of the Sun.” For accommodations, it has a total of 42 contemporary Filipino villas built sustainably with cutting-edge “green” design. [caption id="attachment_140325" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF REBY TRINIDAD | FROLICKING along the 750-meter white sand at Pangulasian.[/caption] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF REBY TRINIDAD | FROLICKING along the 750-meter white sand at Pangulasian. DT: Would you say Pangulasian is the most luxurious resort in the Philippines? Why? MB: No. While there are other resorts that have superior facilities and amenities, Pangulasian takes pride in its excellent customer relations. Guests always come back to the resort because of the hospitality of the staff that, you could say, is “warm as the sun.” The workforce brings in unparalleled efforts and dedication to ensure that guests have a truly memorable and enjoyable stay. DT: What can you say about the amenities, facilities of Pangulasian? Any special services given to guests — personal butler, dine by the beach, room service? MB: Although the resort does not have butler service, it offers room service from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. The resort also offers private lunches outside Pangulasian and private dinners within the resort. Happy hour at the pool bar from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. [caption id="attachment_140327" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Pangulasian’s team takes extra care to provide a truly meaningful guest experience.[/caption] DT: What makes the food and beverage at Pangulasian special? MB: Staying true to our commitment to sustainability, we source many of our products locally, importing internationally only to provide the occasional familiar option for international guests who would like a bit of a taste of home. We commit to support local suppliers with an emphasis on sustainable development. The resort offers unique drinks such as our signature thirst-quenching Tropical Spice, blended Watermelon, and Mango Ginger drink. Guests will also enjoy our very own Pangulasian Sunrise made with hand-squeezed dalandan juice paired with premium tequila. [caption id="attachment_140330" align="aligncenter" width="525"] STEAK with asparagus and potato slices.[/caption] DT: Are there any dishes that are a must-try for guests? MB: Absolutely! Our head chef recommends the following set of dishes: Starting with Ensaladang Talong soup; Tomato and Shrimp for the main course; US Angus Rib eye with Pangulasian Bistek sauce; and Baguna Calamansi pie for the dessert. DT: How about the beach and sports/water activities? Some say the waters are better for activities like snorkeling rather than swimming. Would you agree? MB: Though nestled in the protected marine seascape of El Nido, guests of Pangulasian can enjoy various water activities. Through the regular island-hopping tours, guests can engage in kayaking, snorkeling and swimming activities all across Bacuit Bay to better appreciate the beauty of El Nido. The crystal-clear waters with its sustainably managed house reefs make El Nido a good spot for snorkeling and diving. We also offer more immersive activities like the mangrove cruise in Aberawan, bottom fishing with the local fishermen, and the hiking trail through the forest of Pangulasian. DT: What do most guests like to do at the resort? MB: Guests, mostly foreigners, are fascinated by El Nido’s big and small lagoons, its pristine beaches with crystal clear waters, and of course, its stunning limestone rock formations. As such, Pangulasian guests always look forward to hop on the daily complimentary island tours and join the morning snorkeling to see the coral reefs and spot some black-tip reef sharks. DT: How does one get to Pangulasian? What does the resort do to make guests feel relaxed and comfortable getting there? MB: Airswift offers daily flights from Manila to El Nido, Palawan. Travel time is approximately one hour long. Guests are welcomed by one of Pangulasian’s tour guides upon arrival at the airport. They are then transported to the Jetty Lounge for refreshments and a bathroom break. After which, a 30-minute boat ride takes guests across the Bacuit Bay to Pangulasian Island Resort. DT: What makes a stay worth the splurge for guests of the resort? MB: As what most people would say, “Money can’t buy happiness,” but here in Pangulasian, the island team takes extra care to provide a truly meaningful guest experience — all the way from their arrival at Lio airport, to their festive welcome at the resort, through guided tours and activities, and up until we bring them back to the airport for their departure. With its spacious villas, its local and international selection of dishes, and island tours and activities, the team strives to deliver on the promise of excellent service and hospitality. The post ‘Warm as the sun’: Pangulasian illuminated appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rex Gatchalian confirmed as DSWD chief
The Commission on Appointments on Tuesday confirmed the ad interim appointment of former Valenzuela Representative Rex Gatchalian as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Gatchalian earlier vowed before the CA members to put equal thrusts and premium into the development programs of the DSWD. “Yes social welfare is very important, but equally as important will be the development programs of the department because these development programs are the ones that will break the chain of the cycle of poverty,” he said. Gatchalian said he will be working on strengthening the DSWD flagship programs including the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino. Program or 4Ps, sustainable livelihood program, community-driven of Kalahi CIDS, human capital investments, and digitalization of the social welfare program so that people can have easy access to basic social services. He also promised to boost social protection programs nationwide, as well as expand efforts to attract more social workers by establishing a DSWD academy. “We want to make that every single social welfare that we do launch should be targeted measurable, conditional and as clear exit mechanism so that we don’t saddle the country with one dole out program over another,” he said. Gatchalian also targets to lean into the existing capacities of the private sector in partnership with the government to make sure the country will become disaster prepared. He added the DSWD will push forward its residence and care facilities as well as capacitate further the social workers nationwide. Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda vouched for Gatchalian’s ability to lead the DSWD as being a disciplinarian and forceful. “He knows the grassroots being a local chief executive. He is able to communicate this very clearly and he really seems to have a very logical mind if I am not mistaken. He’s focused on his job, at the same time he has compassion on the people being a mayor,” Legarda said. CA vice-chair Rep. Ramon Guico Jr. of Pangasinan welcomed Gatchalian’s confirmation describing him as a true public servant in the government. While Rep. Manuel Sagarbarria of 2nd District Negros Oriental said he has known Gatchalian to be hard working, intelligent dedicated public servant. “His first-hand experience into the needs of his constituents back then when he was a local chief executive and his background working in the legislative branch are the very qualities that make him a perfect fit for the post,” Sagarbarria said. Other CA members also voted on the confirmation of Gatchalian including Cavite Rep. Lani Revilla; Surigao del Sur Rep. Johny Pimentel; and CA Assistant minority floor leader Rep. Jose Gay Padiernos. Senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, JV Ejercito, Grace Poe, and Risa Hontiveros also supported Gatchalian. Gatchalian was installed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after the CA did not confirm former Erwin Tulfo’s appointment over citizenship and libel issues. The post Rex Gatchalian confirmed as DSWD chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mental health inclusion to PhilHealth eyed
Senator Mark Villar on Wednesday has filed a measure seeking to expand the country’s health insurance program for about 3.6 million Filipino patients with psychiatric disorder. The lawmaker filed the Senate Bill 2062 or an Act Expanding Philippine Health Insurance Coverage, granting also a benefit package to all mental health patients in the country. “We should not set aside mental health disorders, it’s affecting a lot of Filipinos. In fact, according to the Department of Health there are around 3.6 million Filipinos facing mental health issues,” Villar said in a statement. Citing the recently published study by the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative Resilient Communities Program, Villar underscored the “costly treatments and services” that usually barred patients to access proper mental health care treatment in the Philippines. The measure is set to provide benefit packages to those with mental disabilities covering emergency services, psychiatric and neurological services, as well as mental health gap action program. “We are pushing for a benefit package so that our fellow countrymen will no longer thing about the treatment cost,” he said, noting that mental health patients are likewise entitled to gain support from the government. Under the bill, non-member parents of minors suffering from mental health disorders are also allowed to avail of the treatment package from the PhilHealth. “Mental health is equally important as physical health. It is a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being. We filed this bill to normalize seeking help for mental health disorders and to break the stigma that comes with it. By recognizing and prioritizing mental health, we can create a healthier, happier, and more inclusive society for Filipinos, especially the youth,” Villar said. Currently, PhilHealth is offering inpatient benefits being paid to the accredited Health Care institution; as well as outpatient benefits with day surgeries, radiotheraphy, hemodialysis and blood transfusion. Under the PhilHealth Z benefits program, those 20 listed illness and health conditions including the Acute lymphocytic leukemia, Early breast cancer, prostate cancer, kidney transplant, standard risk coronary bypass graft, tetralogy of Fallot, ventricular septal defect, cervical cancer, Z MORPH (Mobility, Orthosis, Rehabilitation and Prosthesis Help), selected orthopedic implants, peritoneal dialysis, colon cancer, rectal cancer, expanded mobility orthosis rehabilitation help, premature and small newborns, children with developmental disabilities, children with mobility impairment, children with visual impairment, children with hearing impairment and rheumatic heart disease. PhilHealth also covers benefits for outpatient malaria package, HIV-AIDS package, anti-tuberculosis treatment through directly-observed treatment Short-course, voluntary Surgical Contraception Procedures and animal bite treatment Package. The post Mental health inclusion to PhilHealth eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fil-Kiwi Mark Abelardo seeks to break slump in ONE: Fists of Fury II
Abelardo, training out of Fairtex Training Center in Thailand, is confident that he can take care of business against the American......»»
Palace confident holiday spike in virus infections manageable
Malacañang said Monday the sudden spike in the number of COVID-19 infections after the two-week holiday break was “manageable” as the country can still provide health care services to the patients......»»