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Oftana new 3-point King
TNT’s Calvin Oftana’s career is really on an upward trajectory. From PBA champion to Asian Games gold medalist, Oftana now owns the title PBA Three-point King......»»
Meralco s Almazan rules 3-point showcase for big men in PBA All-Star weekend
The inaugural 3-point shooting contest for bigs got a little rock 'n roll to it......»»
Lady Spikers in crucial tiff vs Lady Tamaraws
Defending champion La Salle, after a minor bump in the first round, begins its crucial second-round campaign today in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum......»»
Lady Spikers begin push for top spot
Defending champion La Salle, after a slight stumble in the first round, wants some serious business to regain its rightful place on top when it begins its crucial second-round campaign in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum......»»
DOLE lauds outstanding Public Employment Service Offices across nation
The Department of Labor and Employment urged collective action to address the Philippines’ job problems on 25 October during the 23rd National PESO Congress in Palo, Leyte. DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma stressed in his speech the vital role of Public Employment Service Offices or PESO and DOLE’s frontline partners in promoting productive employment at the local level. “The responsibility of realizing the objectives of the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan and the Trabaho para sa Bayan Act is not the DOLE’s responsibility alone. It is jointly shared with our social partners, especially our PESOs. The challenges we face in our employment landscape demand collective action and innovative solutions,” Laguesma said. Laguesma also emphasized the need for open and constructive dialogue with PESO managers across the nation as he bared the department's five-point agenda, which includes strengthening its core functions, fortifying partnerships with employers and educational institutions and digitalizing public employment services. DOLE conferred awards to PESOs with outstanding accomplishments in the past year during the 2022 National Search for Best PESO Awards. Among the accomplishments are the 2.4 million jobseekers employed through the facilitation of PESOs, which translates to a 91 percent placement rate across the regions. PESO Bataan won in the first-class province category, PESO Lanao del Norte in the second-class province category and PESO Aurora in the third to fifth class category. DOLE also hailed PESO Iloilo City as champion for the highly urbanized city category and PESO Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental for the component and independent component city category. Among the awardees for the municipal PESOs were PESO Villasis, Pangasinan (first class municipality category); PESO Pila, Laguna (second to third-class municipality category); and PESO Llanera, Nueva Ecija (fourth to sixth-class municipality category). The University of Batangas was elevated to the Hall of Fame for winning the search for best PESO in 2018 and 2019 and the Bayanihan Service Award in 2020 and 2021. The university job’s placement office received a trophy and a P250,000 cash prize. The post DOLE lauds outstanding Public Employment Service Offices across nation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ernie Gawilan starts 4th Asian Para Games defense of 3 golds
Dabawenyo Paralympian swimmer Ernie Gawilan will be defending his three gold medals from the 3rd Asian Para Games at the 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China on Monday, October 23. Gawilan is nervous but prepared for the competition, and is focused on retaining his titles in the men's 200-meter individual medley (IM) SM7, men's 100m backstroke S7, and men's 400m freestyle S7. The 32-year-old para-swimming champion has experience in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympics and the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, and brought home two golds, two silvers, and one bronze in the 12th Asean Para Games held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia set in June this year......»»
Global apparel retailer marks 5th year in Phl
Uniqlo marks the fifth anniversary of its Global Flagship Store in the Philippines with fun-filled activities for the public from 13 to 26 October. Since its opening in 2018, the Uniqlo Manila Global Flagship Store has brought customers exciting things over the years. As part of the brand’s appreciation for being part of Filipinos’ daily lives, Uniqlo offers customers an even better shopping experience. Embrace the future Uniqlo Manila’s fifth anniversary theme is “Elevated Store. Elevated Essentials. Embrace the Future.” Bringing the concept to life is Uniqlo’s partnership with five young and distinguished individuals who have achieved global recognition in their respective fields. Each partner represents one of the brand’s biggest item lines which all hold innovative functionality at its core. Food and lifestyle content creator Erwan Heussaff, recognized by the prestigious James Beard Media Awards last June, joins the group for AIRism. Groundbreaking director Martika Escobar, the first Philippine director to win an award at the Sundance Film Festival, represents Heattech. Modeling for the AirSense line-up is entrepreneur Gio Visitacion, owner of the Good Cup Coffee Company and 2020 Philippine Brewers Cup champion. Southeast Asian Games Medalist and Guinness World Record holder Kaizen Dela Serna for UV Protection products. Award-winning singer and actress, popstar royalty Sarah Geronimo for Bra Tops. Coffee experience Uniqlo Coffee, on the second floor of its Flagship Store, brings Filipinos the brand’s cafe-style offerings that first opened in 2021 at the renewed Uniqlo Global Flagship Store in Ginza (Tokyo, Japan). Highlighting the brand’s commitment to being one with the community, the coffee drinks will be made with locally sourced, high quality coffee beans from Mt. Apo. It will feature goods and pastries that mix Filipino and Japanese flavors. As part of its commitment to sustainability, Uniqlo is also set to bring to Manila its Re.Uniqlo Studio, where customers will get to enjoy repair services on their pre-loved Uniqlo items, bringing new life to their favorite LifeWear pieces. Lastly, Uniqlo refreshes its UTme! line-up, collaborating with local artists from all over the country to bring customers unique designs they can customize on t-shirts and tote bags. The artists include Gianne Encarnacion and Ross Du of Metro Manila, Johanna Velasco and Myka Arnado of Cebu, and Kajo Baldisimo of Davao. Muralist Glendford Lumbao also joins in to contribute a piece to be displayed at the new experience areas on the second floor of the Flagship Store. From 13 to 31 October, customers can expect freebies and promos exclusive to the flagship store. Visit www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/. The post Global apparel retailer marks 5th year in Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sarno ready to pull off surprise?
Weightlifter Vanessa Sarno, gold medalist in the 2020 Asian Championships and the reigning, defending SEA Games champion, will go for broke in the women’s 76kg today at the 19th Asian Games here......»»
Gov’t confident as IMSA audit starts
The International Maritime Organization, or IMO, started its Member State Audit Scheme or IMSAS from 2 to 9 October 2023, to scrutinize the Philippines’ implementation and enforcement of treaty instruments. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has guaranteed that the country has fully complied with international maritime conventions. A statement of the Department of Transportation, the mother agency of the Maritime Industry Authority that is preparing for this year’s IMSAS, said Bautista ensured that the Philippines had upheld maritime safety and protection of the marine environment by adhering to international rules and regulations. “I affirm our commitment to ensure the safety of life and property at sea and prevention of maritime pollution through full and effective implementation and enforcement of all laws, regulations, and recommendations, in adherence to our international responsibilities and obligations,” Bautista told IMO auditors during the kick-off of the IMSAS audit. Adhering to global norms Bautista said that through the audit, which assists member-states in improving their capacity for implementing international conventions, the Philippines promotes uniformity and effectiveness in the implementation of IMO instruments. “Having these mechanisms, we were able to champion our legislative agenda and ensure the continuous advancement of maritime interest in the country,” Bautista said. According to the Marina, the audit, conducted by three experienced IMO auditors, is conducted in accordance with the Memorandum of Cooperation signed between the Philippines and the IMO. This cooperation encompasses a series of vital IMO instruments, including SOLAS 1974, SOLAS PROT 1988, MARPOL 73/78, MARPOL PROTOCOL 1997, STCW 1978, LOAD LINES 1966, LOAD LINE PROT 1988, TONNAGE 1969, and COLREG 1972. IMSAS primary focus lies in assessing several key areas — Compliance with Audit Standards: Evaluating the extent to which the Philippines adheres to audit standards and the overall strategy; Legislation Enactment: Reviewing the enactment of legislation related to safety and environmental aspects associated with ratified IMO instruments; Administration and Implementation: Scrutinizing the administration, implementation, and enforcement of applicable laws and legislation; and Performance Evaluation: Assessing the performance concerning the implementation and enforcement of ratified IMO instruments in the roles of flag, port and coastal State. Originally, the IMSAS was set for 2020 to 2021, but since a state of emergency was still in effect due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was rescheduled to 2022 to 2023. To prepare for the audit, Marina and the IMSAS Technical Working Group, and other concerned maritime stakeholders conducted gap analysis scoping exercises, inter-agency meetings, mock audits, and capacity-building activities in preparation for this year’s audit. The post Gov’t confident as IMSA audit starts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Vingegaard wins second successive Tour de France
Jonas Vingegaard won his second successive Tour de France on Sunday after Jordi Meeus claimed the final stage honors on the Champs-Elysees in Paris. Denmark's Vingegaard of the Jumbo-Visma team crossed the finish line after the 21-day race 7min 29sec ahead of Slovenia's Tadej Pogacar, the champion in 2020 and 2021. Pogacar's UAE teammate Adam Yates of Great Britain rounded out the top three podium. Vingegaard's winning margin was the largest since 2014 when Italian Vincenzo Nibali took the fabled champion's yellow jersey by 7min 39sec. "I enjoyed fighting for this win with 'Pogi' and Yates, but now I'm just looking forward to having a nice dinner here in Paris with my family," said the champion. "It was a long, hard race and one day ran into another but there's a feeling of being proud and happy. "Winning for the second time is amazing with all the Danish people here. I hope to come back to take a third win, at least try it." Despite finishing runner-up, Pogacar was happy to focus on the positives. "Considering everything it's been a great Tour, I have to be happy with that," Pogacar said after picking up his best young rider jersey for the fourth time. "We have two guys on the podium, and I won two stages and the white jersey. I love cycling," he said. The final stage was won by outsider Meeus of the Bora team, with Jasper Philipsen denied a fifth stage win on this Tour right at the line in a photo finish. "What a wonderful finish, it's been such a high level Tour," said the surprise stage winner. - Cracked - The world's greatest bike race provided tense drama with spectacular backdrops as Vingegaard and Pogacar remained separated by seconds until the Dane edged ahead with a sensational individual time trial last Tuesday. The following day, on a 28km climb to the ski resort of Courchevel, Pogacar cracked, shouting "I'm gone, I'm dead" before Vingegaard killed off the race with a sensational final climb. The event had been billed as a showdown between the defending champion Vingegaard and Pogacar, who has won the Tour twice and now come second twice. Tour director Christian Prudhomme used boxing terms to describe the struggle. "They went 15 rounds and then there was a punch in the gut, a knee on the floor and a knock out punch," he said Sunday. All time great Eddy Merckx told AFP the pair had delivered a thrilling show. "Pogacar is a more complete rider, but in the high mountains at least, Vingegaard remains the stronger," he said. "I don't know what happened to me. I took on too much this year and after two weeks I started to look as white as this shirt," said runner-up Pogacar, pointing to his best under-25 rider's white jersey. Pogacar started well enough, taking minor advantages in the Basque hills until Vingegaard attacked on the first mountain stage in the Pyrenees to take the overall leader's yellow jersey. And while Pogacar clawed back a few seconds here and there, the defending champion never relinquished the lead all the way to Paris. Runner-up in 2021, the softly-spoken Vingegaard was the only rider to challenge the Slovenian prodigy in the high mountains. In 2022, he went one step higher and won the title at altitude, and it proved to be the case again in 2023, but with a Tour of such poise and dominance his claim to be targeting a third straight title must be taken seriously. "The Tour de France is the greatest race in the world," beamed the 26-year-old. "There's something so special about it and I can tell you I'll be back again next year to try and win it again." dmc/dj © Agence France-Presse The post Vingegaard wins second successive Tour de France appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go throws support to grassroots sports development programs
Championing grassroots sports development initiatives in various local communities, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally witnessed the opening of the inter-barangay basketball league in Cortes, Bohol on Monday, July 17. The basketball league is in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission and the local government led by Mayor Lynn Iven Lim. Addressing the crowd gathered at the ampitheater, the chair of the Senate Committee on Sports underscored the significance of sports in promoting physical fitness and diverting the youth's attention away from illegal vices, including drug abuse. As an ardent supporter of grassroots sports development, Go recognized the pivotal role that athletics play in nurturing a healthier and more productive citizenry. “Sporting events, such as the basketball league in Cortes, not only provide an avenue for physical exercise but also encourage teamwork, discipline, and camaraderie among participants,” he said. Go emphasized the importance of promoting sports activities as a means to promote a drug-free community. He highlighted the prevalence of illegal drugs in various communities and expressed his commitment to combat this menace by promoting productive activities that inspire individuals, especially the youth, to stay away from harmful substances and become productive members of society. "Kaya ganun na lang po ang galit ni (dating) pangulong Duterte sa iligal na droga. Kapag pumasok po ang droga, papasok po ang kriminalidad, papasok po ang korapsyon. Mabibili po 'yan. 'Yan po ang kinatatakutan natin dito, kapag bumalik po ang iligal na droga, hindi na po magiging safe maglakad ang mga anak natin," said Go. “Kaya isa rin po sa pamamaraan na ine-engganyo ko po ang kabataan to get into sports, stay away from drugs. Ilayo po natin ang mga kabataan sa droga through sports. Get into sports, stay away from drugs,” he added. The event was also attended by Congressman Edgardo Chatto, Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, Tagbiliran City Mayor Jane Yap, Dauis Vice Mayor Miriam Sumaylo, and Cortes Councilor Ira Lim, among others. "Senator, maraming salamat sa iyong panahon, alam ko kung gaano ka ka-busy.... On behalf ng mga mamamayan dito sa Cortes, maraming salamat mula sa aming puso sa lahat ng iyong tulong sa amin dito.... Ang game changer natin na makapagbigay ng maayos na pag-unlad, especially sa ating mga kababayan, andito ang biggest regional hospital at… ang tumulong sa pagpasa ng batas para maisakatuparan ito ay si Senator Bong Go," Mayor Lim said. Mayor Lim likewise thanked Go for the projects he supported in Cortes as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, including the acquisition of a multipurpose vehicle, the construction of a multipurpose building, and the improvement of the municipal public park and hall grounds. Go also underscored the importance of creating opportunities for young athletes, including scholarships, training programs, incentives and continuing investments in local sports facilities. It can be recalled that in 2021, Go visited Bataan and participated in the presentation and signing of the Deed of Donation for the land where the Philippine Sports Training Center (PSTC) was proposed to be constructed in Bagac. The creation of the PSTC aims to promote sports in the country and achieve excellence in international sports competitions. Meanwhile, Go authored and co-sponsored the measure that became Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in 2020. NAS is a government-run educational institution that offers quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. Go also filed Senate Bill No. 423 or the proposed Philippine National Games (PNG) Act of 2022. The measure aims to institutionalize “a truly comprehensive national grassroots sports program, which will harness the vast potential of the citizenry in discovering and developing champion athletes who could excel in international sports competition, thus giving the country pride and international goodwill and addressing the long-standing problems of Philippine sports in general.” “As chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am one with President (Ferdinand) Marcos Jr. in highlighting the importance of sports in nation-building. I reiterate my firm commitment to always look after the welfare of our athletes and to push for long-term and grassroots sports development,” Go previously said. It can also be recalled that Go played a crucial role in pushing for additional funding for sports development in the country. He effectively advocated for a boost in the 2023 budget of the PSC, specifically designating an extra one billion pesos to aid athletes, both at the international level and in grassroots initiatives. On the same day, Go visited several infrastructure projects he supported the funding of as vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, including the ongoing construction of Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-specialty Medical Complex in Cortes, and the Cortes Municipal Park and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management building, both in Cortes town. He also led a distribution activity for athletes, coaches, and barangay workers in Cortes town. After Cortes, Go went to Tagbilaran City to inspect the city’s Super Health Center and the Malasakit Center at Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital. Lastly, the senator attended the 73rd Commencement Exercise of Bohol Institute of Technology International College System. The post Bong Go throws support to grassroots sports development programs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kuya Bong appeals for Covid-19 allowance release
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has called upon the Department of Health and the Department of Budget and Management to expedite the release of Covid-19 allowances for healthcare workers who have been at the forefront of the battle against the ongoing pandemic and other health threats. Recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of healthcare workers, Senator Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, said in an interview after his visit to Quezon City on Monday the urgent need to provide them with their well-deserved benefits in accordance with the law. Go also underscored that even if the State of Public Health Emergency due to Covid-19 is eventually lifted, the government must ensure that allowances due to healthcare workers are provided to them since the budget has been allocated in this year’s appropriations. To recall, former President Rodrigo Duterte announced on 8 March 2020, a state of public health emergency in response to the Covid-19 outbreak. The declaration requires mandatory reporting, quarantine measures and disease control prevention efforts. According to DoH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed his intention to lift the state of public health emergency related to Covid-19. Herbosa said they are awaiting a formal order regarding this decision. GM If the declaration is revoked, it will also mean the discontinuation of the special allowance provided to healthcare workers who are taking care of Covid-19 patients. Go, for his part, expressed reservations on the lifting of the state of public emergency since the threat of Covid-19 still exists. He, however, stated that he leaves it to the health officials and experts to determine the best way forward towards pandemic recovery. Meanwhile, Go maintained his plans to champion another round of salary increase for government workers. With a deep understanding of the invaluable contributions made by public servants across various sectors, the lawmaker believes it is imperative to continuously improve their working conditions and ensure fair compensation. The post Kuya Bong appeals for Covid-19 allowance release appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Philippine Army: Venturing into the cyber domain
The Information Age started at the beginning of the 21st century, and the world evolved to an easier way to connect and communicate with people all over the globe. Information is being used in different ways to gain knowledge and to adapt to the era of globalization. As globalization makes its mark, cyberspace is being used as a platform to protect the interests of each state. The Philippine Army is embracing these changes to keep pace with modernization. The path began in 2012 when the AFP embraced cyberspace as a functional domain of operation and acknowledged cyberspace as an essential tool to counter threats to the rapid growth of technology. In 2016, the Philippine Army created the Cyber Management Branch to facilitate the cyberspace operations of the Army. After a few years of adjustment, the Army formed it’s Cyber Battalion (Provisional) on 16 October 2020. Given the challenging tasks, the Cyber Battalion serves as the vanguard of the Army in cyberspace through proactive cybersecurity operations and by providing preventive, detective, responsive, and predictive control measures, interventions, and implementations to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of Army critical assets, processes and services to provide adequate support to Army operations. The unit’s mission is to prevent security breaches, minimize the risks with the rapid growth of modern technology, and adapt to technological modernization. Today, for the Cyber Battalion’s initiatives and efforts to accomplish its tasks, the Digital Innovations Community presents The Outstanding Cybersecurity Initiative 2023 Award in recognition of the unit’s robustness and effectiveness in cybersecurity measures, proactive threat detection and response, adherence to best practices and industry standards, and impact on preventing security breaches or mitigating risks. The Army also lauded the recognition given to its officers as they steer the unit to greater heights. The same body presents the Cybersecurity Champion Award to this writer for educating and empowering individuals in cybersecurity. Lt. Col. Francel Margareth Taborlupa is the recipient of the Tech Evangelist of the Year Award for spreading awareness and knowledge on technology. As the Philippine Army ventures into the cyber domain, the cyber workforce will be a fundamental unit for securing the agency’s data, constantly improving and adapting to advance technology, and addressing the challenges in cyberspace. Hence, the Philippine Army remains committed to serving the people and securing the land physically and in cyberspace. (With Col. Xerxes Trinidad, Philippine Army spokesperson) The post Philippine Army: Venturing into the cyber domain appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Dad movies’ to watch with the family
Planning to just stick to your couch and stream movies on Father’s Day? No problem. Here are my top seven picks of ‘dad movies’ to stream right now. Have your dad join you, or the entire family, for a Father’s Day marathon and bond with laughter and tears! ‘FIELD OF DREAMS’ (1989) Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) is a dad to Karin. He’s also a famer suddenly swept into a controversy when he decides to build a baseball diamond on his land — just because a mysterious voice whispered it into his ear. This popular and absorbing fantasy-drama has already become a cult classic for its themes of chasing one’s dreams and, of course, family. Rent on iTunes ‘LIAR LIAR’ (1997) One of the best comedy fantasies in the ‘90s, Liar Liar is surely going to be a big hit to your home-viewing with your dad. Sure, you may have seen this already, but so what? Carrey plays an attorney who is not only dishonest, he often breaks his promises to his poor son, Max (Justin Cooper). When Max wishes his dad would stop lying for 24 hours, it’s a riot! Rent on iTunes [caption id="attachment_146055" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF universal pictures | JIM Carrey as Fletcher Reede in ‘Liar Liar.’[/caption] ‘MRS. DOUBTFIRE’ (1993) This is one of the late Robin Williams’ most memorable classics. Divorced dad Daniel (Williams) is extremely bothered that he has limited access to his kids. So he dresses as an elderly British woman and applies as a nanny to his ex-wife Miranda (Sally Field) just to be with his kids every day. Both hilarious and touching, it never fails to engage you no matter how many times you’ve seen it. Stream on Disney+ ‘CINDERELLA MAN’ (2005) Inspired by the life story of world heavyweight boxing champion James J. Braddock, Ron Howard’s weeper Cinderella Man is set during the Great Depression. Braddock (Russell Crowe), a washed-up actor, struggles as a manual laborer to feed his family. With his morals and integrity intact, he is a father whose love for his family knows no bounds and gives them wisdom in the midst of adversity. Unforgettable. Stream on Disney+ ‘KING RICHARD’ (2021) This is the fact-based movie that earned Will Smith his Oscar Best Actor award after slapping Chris Rock on national TV. Whether you hate Smith or not, you’re gonna be stunned by his superior performance as the super-inspiring father and coach to celebrated tennis players Venus and Serena Williams. Stream on HBO Go ‘THREE MEN AND A BABY’ (1987 Directed by Leonard Nimoy, and based on a 1985 French script, it follows three New York City roommates Peter (Tom Selleck), Michael (Steve Guttenberg) and Jack (Ted Danson). All men are successful and satisfied with being single. But when a baby is abandoned in front of their apartment, they became instant dads. Funny and heartfelt. Stream on Disney+ ‘DADS’ (2020) This AppleTV+ original documentary explores modern fatherhood. The great thing about this docu is that it features all types of dads. We get testimonies from ordinary dads around the world and even famous comedians. Sweet, positive, oftentimes funny — and, yes, prepare to wipe a tear or two. Stream on AppleTV+ The post ‘Dad movies’ to watch with the family appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Target of the right, George Soros hands reins to son
As George Soros passes control of his philanthropic empire to his son, the legendary investor and democracy advocate remains subject to unrelenting and often anti-Semitic attacks from the right. Under the transition, Soros, 92, will hand the reins to his 37-year-old son Alexander Soros, according to a Wall Street Journal interview with both men. The shift comes as the elder Soros remains one of the far right's favorite targets. He has been baselessly blamed for propagating migrant crises in Europe and on the southern border of the United States, as well as for orchestrating mass protests against police brutality after the 2020 killing of George Floyd. Soros's army of haters has included right-wing politicians like Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, the media figure Tucker Carlson and Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk, who tweeted in May 2023 that Soros "wants to erode the very fabric of civilization" and "hates humanity." Soros is known for his financing of the Open Society Foundations, which has supported reforms to liberalize economies, establish governance norms, protect minorities and refugees, and promote freedom of expression. These endeavors followed some wildly successful investment decisions, as in 1992 when Soros bet against the British pound shortly before it was devalued. A leading British newspaper dubbed Soros "the man who broke the Bank of England" over a move that allowed him to pocket $1 billion. The episode won Soros' respect in the financial world, but he also became a much-feared figure among government finance ministers. Progressive causes Born in August 1930 in Budapest, Soros's Jewish family used false papers to pass as Christian during the Nazi occupation of Hungary in 1944 and 1945. "I learned at an early age how important it is what kind of political regime prevails," Soros said in 2019. After the establishment of communism in Hungary, Soros left for London in 1947, obtaining degrees from the London School of Economics before moving to New York in 1956. Soros launched his own speculative fund in 1970, a step in building his wealth to an estimated $6.7 billion, according to Forbes; the figure does not include the $18 billion Soros transferred to his foundations in 2017. He began steering some of his wealth to philanthropy in 1979, backing Black students in apartheid-era South Africa and political dissidents in Central Europe. His activities expanded considerably after the end of the Cold War. In the United States, for example, Soros has supported the progressive side on a host of hot-button issues, including criminal justice reform, same-sex marriage, and the decriminalization of marijuana. A father of five, Soros studied in London under his mentor Karl Popper, a champion of open society and fierce critic of totalitarianism. Intensifying criticisms As Soros broadened his support of politically progressive candidates and philanthropic endeavors in the 2010s, he was met with more virulent criticism, often tinged with anti-Semitism. In 2018, following attacks by the nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Soros shuttered the Budapest branch of the OSF and moved staff to Berlin. Later that year, Soros was named Person of the Year by the Financial Times, a recognition of his role as "the standard bearer of liberal democracy and open society." But the newspaper also alluded to the ugliness of Soros's legion of haters, noting, "There are so many anti-Semitic conspiracy theories targeting Mr. Soros that it is difficult to keep count." In terms of his record in finance, Soros has experienced setbacks in addition to glory. He lost money in the 1987 stock market crash and in the 1998 Russian currency crisis. He has also found himself in the crosshairs of the law. In 2002, Soros was convicted of insider trading in France for trades of Societe Generale, and in 2009 in Hungary, in a market manipulation case. Soros's funds have continued to speculate, with investments running the gamut from new technologies to housing to physical commodities. But Soros has also spoken of the need for strict regulation of markets. Soros has described his efforts as a kind of responsibility. "My success in the financial markets has given me a greater degree of independence than most other people," he wrote in 2011. "This obliges me to take stands on controversial issues when others cannot." The post Target of the right, George Soros hands reins to son appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘It’s why I keep playing’: Wawrinka rolls back years in French Open marathon
Former champion Stan Wawrinka shrugged off his 38 years to reach the French Open second round on Monday, winning a five-set marathon against Albert Ramos-Vinolas which stretched to four hours and 35 minutes, and said: "It's why I keep playing". Wawrinka, ranked 89 in the world, came through 7-6 (7/5), 6-4, 6-7 (2/7), 1-6, 6-4, and will next face Australia's world number 108 Thanasi Kokkinakis after winning a match at Roland Garros for the first time since 2020. Playing out on the semi-sunken Court 14 arena, the Swiss veteran fired 76 winners and committed 79 unforced errors in an all-out attacking performance which brought back memories of his 2015 title triumph in Paris. "It's one of the big reasons why I keep playing is to relive those emotions," said Wawrinka. "I think it was special today again to be here, a lot of support, a lot of fans here. It helped me a lot to stay in the match and to keep fighting for it. "I always try to make it special, try to have a connection with the people, with the fans, because as I say, it's one of the main reasons why I keep playing and I want to enjoy it as much as possible." With 14-time champion Rafael Nadal sidelined from the tournament for the first time since 2004 through injury, Wawrinka is one of only two champions in the draw -- the other is Novak Djokovic, the title winner in 2016 and 2021. "I won here many years ago, a long time ago. I was much younger and playing different tennis," said Wawrinka. "But it's always going to be special to be back here and always have that memory about 2015." Wawrinka, a three-time major winner, has been battling a series of knee injuries in recent years. The former world number three missed four successive majors after the 2021 Australian Open before returning to Paris last year. However, he was defeated in the first round at the French Open and then at Wimbledon, the US Open, and this year's Australian Open. Wawrinka and Kokkinakis, a player who has waged his own injury battles in recent years, have never met. "When he's healthy, like he's been this year, he's always a dangerous player," said Wawrinka. The post ‘It’s why I keep playing’: Wawrinka rolls back years in French Open marathon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Surfing haven that is Siargao
Surfing is what Siargao is all about. The water sport is a year-round activity at the island, with locals and expats trooping to Siargao to experience the water’s swells and waves. Surfing spots are easily accessible in Siargao, with Cloud 9 as its best. The famous surfing break, located in the municipality of General Luna, was dubbed by CNNGo (the travel site of CNN International) as one of the World’s Best Surfing Spots. Its prime waves happen from September to November. [caption id="attachment_135298" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LOCALS earn a living as surfing guides to tourists.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_135296" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CLOUD 9’s viewing deck.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_135294" align="aligncenter" width="525"] BASKING in the sun.[/caption] In 2019, Siargao is named by Conde Nast Traveler as the Best Island in the World. It was also included in the top five of CNT’s 2020 Best Islands in the World: Reader’s Choice Awards. Come 2021, TIME declared Siargao as one of the World’s Greatest Places. “Surfing, I believe, really attracted people to stay here. Part of the surfing lifestyle is mindfulness with nature. They have a spiritual connection with the waves. People are one with nature,” Filipino-French businessman Christophe Bariou told Daily Tribune. [caption id="attachment_135297" align="aligncenter" width="525"] MAGPUPUNGKO Rock Formation.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_135293" align="aligncenter" width="525"] MAGPUPUNGKO’s natural tidal pools are the best for cliff jumping.[/caption] Andi Eigenmann, now Siargao-based with her fiancé champion surfer Philmar Alipayo, was recently seen participating in Mayor Sol’s 1st Local Surfing Competition for Women. In 1996, Knight Rider and Baywatch actor David Hasselhoff visited Siargao to surf. Soon, international surfing competitions were held in the island. “You’re humbled by the sea. You rely totally on the natural elements when surfing. People connect and contribute. Surfers have a mindful attitude,” Bariou said. The post Surfing haven that is Siargao appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pita Limjaroenrat: Thailand’s opposition earth-shaker
Harvard graduate, corporate titan and unlikely pro-democracy champion, 42-year-old Pita Limjaroenrat has shocked the Thai establishment with a grassroots campaign pushing royal reform that has seen him emerge as a frontrunner to be the kingdom's next prime minister. His Move Forward Party (MFP) has captured the majority in an election that saw record turnout -- with 14.1 million people throwing their support behind him. Vowing Monday that he would be "the next prime minister of Thailand", Pita said in a triumphant victory speech that his party is now ready to form a government. "Today is a new day, and hopefully it is full of sunshine and hope," he said in English. Pita first appeared in Thailand's political scene as one of the fresh faces of the newly formed progressive Future Forward Party in 2018. It drew the third-largest share of voters in the following year's poll -- but after facing a barrage of legal challenges that critics say were politically motivated, Future Forward was dissolved and its leaders banned from politics. Reborn as the Move Forward Party, Pita has been a dynamic presence on the campaign trail -- capitalizing on his youth and energy to reach voters disillusioned and yearning for change after more than eight years of military-backed government. "We will together rewrite Thai political history," he told ecstatic supporters at MFP's last rally in Bangkok on Friday. The election is the first since major youth-led pro-democracy protests erupted across Bangkok in 2020 with demands to curb the power and spending of Thailand's king -- breaching a long-held taboo on questioning the monarchy. MFP is the only party promising to reform the kingdom's draconian lese majeste laws, known as "112" in Thailand after their section in the penal code. A hugely controversial and sensitive subject, it has long been held as an untouchable in Thai politics. Even opposition rivals Pheu Thai -- once Thailand's most popular party -- said they would leave the issue to parliament. But Pita has not shied from it, telling reporters late Sunday that "no matter what, we will push for royal lese majeste law reform". Harvard graduate In a Thai political scene more commonly populated by ageing wheeler-dealers, the charismatic father of one inspires rockstar levels of enthusiasm from his supporters. Educated in New Zealand and the United States, Pita studied at Harvard on an international scholarship, before going on to become an entrepreneur. However, following his father's death when he was 25, Pita returned home to run his family's heavily-in-debt business Agrifood, turning its fortunes around. He later became executive director of transport and delivery app Grab Thailand. In 2012 he married Thai TV actress Chutima Teepanat, and they have a seven-year-old daughter. The marriage broke down in 2019. His young daughter has featured prominently in the campaign with Pita bringing her on stage after speeches, much to the crowds' delight. Online, he has utilised a public "personal" account -- followed by almost one million users -- to share images of him and his daughter wearing matching t-shirts and eating ice cream together. But despite the success at the ballot box, there is no indication his path to prime minister will be straightforward. He must now cobble a coalition together to surpass government-appointed senators who elect Thailand's prime minister from among eligible candidates. The post Pita Limjaroenrat: Thailand’s opposition earth-shaker appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Couples named US vice captain for Ryder Cup
Fred Couples was named a vice captain for this year's United States Ryder Cup team on Wednesday by captain Zach Johnson as the holders prepare to face Europe in Italy. The Americans will try to win on European soil for the first time since 1993 on 29 September to 1 October at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome. "Competing as a player in the Ryder Cup and serving as a vice captain for the US team top the list of the most fulfilling weeks of my career," Couples said. "Zach is an incredible leader and I look forward to helping him over the next five months and in Italy to bring home a victory." Couples, 63, played on five US Ryder Cup teams from 1989-1997 and served as a US vice captain in 2020 and 2012. "I know Freddie will do everything in his power to help our US team be successful in Italy," Johnson said. The 1992 Masters champion was captain of US Presidents Cup squads in 2009, 2011 and 2013 and as a Presidents Cup assistant captain in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2022. Couples joins former US Ryder Cup captains Steve Stricker, Davis Love III, and Jim Furyk as vice captains. The post Couples named US vice captain for Ryder Cup appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Trump found liable for sexually abusing writer
A New York jury found Donald Trump liable Tuesday for sexually abusing and defaming an American former magazine columnist and ordered the ex-president to pay her $5 million in damages. The nine jurors rejected E. Jean Carroll's accusation of rape but unanimously upheld her other complaints in the closely watched civil trial, following less than three hours of deliberations. It marks the first time Trump has faced legal consequences over a string of sexual assault allegations dating back decades -- and the former leader immediately rejected the verdict as a "disgrace." Carroll, 79, sued Trump last year, alleging that he raped her in the changing room of the luxury Bergdorf Goodman store on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue in 1996. The former columnist for Elle magazine also claimed that Trump defamed her when he called her "a complete con job" after she went public with the allegation in 2019. Trump, the 76-year-old frontrunner for the Republican nomination in next year's presidential election, called her case a "hoax" and "a lie." The jury determined that Carroll had proved sexual abuse -- effectively sexual contact without consent -- by a preponderance of the evidence and awarded her $2 million. The six men and three women on the jury also said Trump should pay Carroll nearly $3 million for defamation. Following the verdict, Carroll left the Manhattan federal court smiling but did not speak to reporters. "We're very happy," said her lawyer, Roberta Kaplan. Trump slammed the outcome on his social media platform Truth Social. "I have absolutely no idea who this woman is," he wrote, using all capital letters. "This verdict is a disgrace -- a continuation of the greatest witch hunt of all time." Trump's 2024 campaign team said in a statement that the case was a "political endeavor" intended to derail Trump's bid to regain the White House, and that he would appeal. Carroll told the two-week-long civil trial that the assault had left her feeling "ashamed" and unable to have romantic relationships. She said it took her more than 20 years to go public because she was "frightened" by Trump. Her lawyers called to the witness stand two other women who testified that Trump sexually assaulted them decades ago. Former businesswoman Jessica Leeds said that Trump groped her in the business class section of a flight in the United States in the 1970s. Journalist Natasha Stoynoff said Trump kissed her without her consent during an interview at his Mar-a-Lago estate in 2005. Around a dozen women accused Trump of sexual misconduct ahead of the 2016 election that sent him to the White House. He has denied all the allegations and has never been prosecuted over any of them. No criminal case can stem from Carroll's lawsuit. Trump did not testify during the proceedings, nor did his defense team call any witnesses. A video of a sworn deposition he gave in October was played to the jury. In it, Trump called Carroll "a liar" and "really sick person." His lawyers argued that Carroll invented the allegation "for money, for political reasons, and for status." She filed her lawsuit under a New York law that gave victims of sexual assault a one-year window to sue their alleged abusers decades after attacks may have occurred. The burden of proof in civil proceedings is lower than in criminal trial cases when prosecutors must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. The case was one of several legal challenges threatening to complicate Trump's bid to regain the presidency -- although the Republican's supporters have broadly stayed loyal to their champion up until now. Last month, Trump pleaded not guilty to criminal charges related to a hush-money payment made to a porn star just before the 2016 vote -- allegedly to cover up an affair. Trump is also being investigated over his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss in the southern state of Georgia, his alleged mishandling of classified documents taken from the White House and his involvement in the storming of the US Capitol by his supporters on January 6, 2021. The post Trump found liable for sexually abusing writer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»