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The crucial role of watershed management
Watersheds provide a range of ecosystem services and support plants, animals, and humans. Despite its crucial significance, watersheds face multiple threats, such as rapidly increasing population, disruption of hydrologic conditions, and biodiversity loss. Because of its importance, the sustainability and stability of the watersheds are at serious risk in the absence of appropriate interventions. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources through the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau, with co-sponsorship from the Asia Pacific Association of Forestry Research Institutions held a Congress on Sustainable and Climate Resilient Watershed Management through ecosystem-based approaches in the Asia-Pacific Region in Muntinlupa City. This was the reason why the DENR-ERDB organized the congress to cover the dearth of information on how to sustain and develop climate-resilient watersheds. The event featured more than 50 oral and poster presentations on innovative solutions that merge sustainable practices with climate resilience based on the experiences of delegates from different countries like the Philippines, Bangladesh, Fiji, Nepal, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. In her message, ERDB Director Maria Lourdes G. Ferrer emphasized the need to address critical issues on watersheds, forge partnerships, and work collectively to attain a more sustainable and resilient future. She called the participants to engage in fruitful collaborations to exchange valuable information. To help achieve its objectives, the congress has four themes: Climate resilience and sustainable watershed management; Rehabilitation and restoration of degraded watersheds; Nature-based approach in watershed management; and Policies, legislations, and institutional arrangements. The three-day event revolved around watershed management. Six plenary speakers who are experts on various topics on watershed management shared informative talks and experiences in the field. Dr. Rex Victor Cruz of the University of the Philippines talked about climate resilience and sustainable watershed management while Dr. Shanker Kumar Sinnakaudan of the Universiti Teknologi MARA Pulao Pinang shared the rehabilitation and restoration of degraded watershed in the context of Malaysia. A plenary talk was also given by the former ERDB Assistant Director and former Director of the River Basin Control, Dr. Antonio M. Dano which focused on the policies, legislations, and institutional arrangements that are critical to watershed management. Two talks centered on experiences and best practices in terms of watershed management in the Philippines. Forester Percival Cardona of the DENR-Forest Management Bureau shared insights on the Enhanced National Greening Program, one of the initiatives that is substantial in sustaining watershed management in the Philippines. DENR Region 10 Executive Director Henry Adornado discussed the strategies and best practices for sustainable watershed management for the Cagayan de Oro River Basin. The congress ended with a tour of the Upper Marikina watershed in Rizal province. The post The crucial role of watershed management appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tourist Assistance Call Center unveiled
To provide assistance to tourists experiencing hassles while staying in the country, the Department of Tourism on Monday launched its first-ever centralized and multi-platform Tourist Assistance Call Center in Makati City. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco herself made the first call to ensure that the project is up and running to provide help to foreign and local tourists. According to Frasco, the project is also in line with the Marcos administration’s thrust to revitalize the tourism industry as an engine for economic growth and fulfill one of the objectives of the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023 to 2028 to enhance the overall tourist experience in the Philippines. She said the Tourist Assistance Call Center shall serve as the hotline and one-stop shop for local and foreign tourists, made available to provide tourism- and travel-related information and extend assistance if any to untoward incidents that may occur during the tourist visit. “This is a first for the Department of Tourism where we have consolidated the modes of assistance that can be given to tourists from the national government agencies and regional offices that will then coordinate with our local government units," Frasco said. One of the strategic approaches of the National Tourism Development Plan approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is on the aspect of convenience. The convenience of travelers must be the central focus of our efforts and programs,” she added, noting that the goal is not just to lure more tourists but to also gain repeat customers. At the said launch, Secretary Frasco emphasized the importance of the project, as the first professional nationwide online and telecommunication assistance center established by the DOT. It can be recalled that many tourists, especially from other countries, are experiencing several misfortunes and exploitation by some Filipinos taking advantage of their stay here, such as overpriced transportation fares and food prices and even theft incidents that are usually posted online, smearing the reputation of the country as a premiere tourist destination in Southeast Asia. The post Tourist Assistance Call Center unveiled appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Japan helps reduce litter
Economic Affairs Minister Nihei Daisuke of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines joined the culmination event of the Healthy Oceans and Clean Cities Initiative on 15 September. The event highlighted the achievements, experiences, and lessons learned of the partner cities and communities in localizing the Philippines NPOA-ML into City Plans of Action for Marine Litter. The activity also featured the emerging approaches explored by partner cities, such as customized integration of digitization and digital transformation in plastic waste diversion and Extended Producer Responsibility readiness of local government units. A regional initiative by UN-Habitat in the Philippines and the Government of Japan, HOCCI addresses the growing concern over marine plastic pollution that endangers the environment, marine ecosystems, and public health. While the Philippines has among the highest trash collection rates in Southeast Asia, it remains the world’s third-largest source of marine litter. With UN-Habitat Philippines’ lead, the Government of Japan funded 3 million USD for this project and the project ran for three and a half years, from April 2020 to September 2023, and was piloted in the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Calapan, Davao, Legazpi, Manila and Ormoc. The project primarily provided support for improved governance structures and capacities for the localization of the National Plan of Action for Marine Litter and the vertical integration of the marine plastic litter response. The project also assisted the cities in improving technology and systems for marine plastic litter reduction. In his speech, Minister Nihei expressed his hopes that the gains and lessons learned from the implementation of HOCCI will inspire synergies and deepen partnerships at the community, national, and international levels to work hand in hand in reducing marine litter. The post Japan helps reduce litter appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Why is the South China Sea a flashpoint for Asia?
Competing claims to the South China Sea and its hundreds of reefs and islands have for decades been a source of tension in the region. The latest spat erupted on 5 August when Chinese coast guard vessels blocked and fired a water cannon at a Philippine resupply mission to a remote outpost in the disputed waters. Such incidents have fueled fears of a potential miscalculation or accident igniting a military conflict that could draw in the United States. AFP looks at the territorial disputes in the sea and what's been done to resolve them. Where is the South China Sea? The South China Sea covers more than three million square kilometers (1.16 million square miles), ringed by southern China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Borneo island and mainland Southeast Asia. Most of its hundreds of small islands, islets and rocks were originally uninhabited. The Paracel and Spratly chains contain the biggest islands. Scarborough Shoal is a small outcrop in the east. Why does it matter? The sea is the main maritime link between the Pacific and Indian oceans, giving it enormous trade and military value. Its shipping lanes connect East Asia with Europe and the Middle East, with trillions of dollars in ship-borne trade passing through the sea annually. Huge unexploited oil and gas deposits are believed to lie under the seabed, though estimates vary greatly. The sea is also home to some of the world's biggest coral reefs and, with marine life being depleted close to coasts, it is important as a source of fish to feed growing populations. Who claims what? China and Taiwan both claim nearly all of the sea, while Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei each have overlapping stakes to parts of it. Beijing's argument is based largely on Chinese maps dating back to the 1940s. It originally used an 11-dash line to demarcate its claims, but it was reduced to nine dashes under former leader Mao Zedong. The expansive claim approaches the coasts of other countries. The Paracel Islands are claimed by China, Taiwan and Vietnam, though Beijing has held all of them since a conflict with South Vietnam in 1974. China has also controlled Scarborough Shoal -- a rich fishing ground 230 kilometers (140 miles) off the Philippine island of Luzon -- since seizing it from the Philippines in 2012 following a tense standoff, and it holds at least seven of the Spratly Islands. Vietnam controls 21 rocks and reefs in the Spratlys, while the Philippines has outposts on nine reefs and islands in the archipelago. Taiwan holds the largest feature in the Spratlys, Itu Aba, while Malaysia controls five others. How do they assert their claims? For years, rival claimants have been building up the tiny reefs and islets to bolster their claims to ownership. China's land reclamation program has been particularly aggressive. In the past decade, it has ripped up thousands of hectares of reef in the archipelago to create militarized islands, with runways, ports and radar systems. China also deploys hundreds of coast guard and other vessels in key parts of the sea, often more than a thousand kilometers from the Chinese mainland, to guard particular features such as Scarborough and perform other security duties. Has there been military conflict? There have been two armed conflicts between China and Vietnam in the sea that killed more than 130 Vietnamese troops. Beijing gained control of the Paracel Islands in 1974 after clashes with the South Vietnamese Navy. The other major conflict occurred when Vietnam and China fought a naval battle on Johnson Reef in the Spratlys in 1988. Relations between China and the Philippines have been frayed by disputes over the waters, but incidents on the open sea have so far not resulted in military conflict. What are diplomats doing? The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China adopted a non-binding "declaration of conduct" in 2002 to discourage hostile acts. All sides agreed not to use threats or force to assert claims. But negotiations since then to turn it into a legally binding "code of conduct" have failed. Manila will host another round of talks this week. In 2013, the Philippines filed an international arbitration case against China. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in Manila's favor, declaring China's "nine-dash-line" has no legal basis. Beijing refused to take part in the proceedings and has ignored the judgment. The post Why is the South China Sea a flashpoint for Asia? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM Prime, partners hold symposium on wetland conservation
As the world celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023, SM Prime Holdings Inc. joined the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands Inc. in hosting the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium on 29 May 2023 at the MAAX Building in the Mall of Asia Complex. [caption id="attachment_170633" align="aligncenter" width="1131"] SM Prime AVP and head of Marketing, PR and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo.[/caption] Under the theme "Build Back Biodiversity: Wetland Centers and Nature-Based Architecture," the hybrid symposium featured presentations centered on fostering knowledge and awareness about wetland conservation and innovative design approaches. SCPW president Architect Celestino Ulep opened the symposium by sharing his optimism on how collaboration and embracing nature-based architecture can pave the way toward creating a future where wetlands thrive and biodiversity flourishes. Notable experts in the field also graced the event, including Chris Rostron, global manager of Wetland Link International, and Alex Hughes of Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in London, UK. Ulep introducing the concept of nature-based architecture, highlighting the importance of prioritizing sustainability and harmony in design by creating structures that seamlessly integrate with the natural environment. Meanwhile, Architect Aaron Lecciones, SCPW special projects officer, made a detailed visual presentation on the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park design team's experience. He highlighted the challenges and triumphs of designing a wetland park, to serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and architects. Stakeholder partners Rida Reyes Castillo of SM Prime, Dr. Arvin Diesmos of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Laudemir Salac of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region 3 and Architect Gleo Raymundo of United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary also attended the event. "It is an honor and privilege on the part of SM to partner with the SCPW and UAPSA in realizing its common goal of protecting ecosystems, particularly wetlands, by inspiring the youth to engage and take action on the socio-civic and economic issues in their communities by finding workable solutions towards building a sustainable future," SM Prime AVP and head of Marketing, PR and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo said. Castillo further emphasized that environmental protection and nature conservation are integral pillars of SM Prime's sustainability campaign, along with cultivating the younger generation’s devotion to building a sustainable future. The symposium concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the rules and guidelines of the design competition, followed by an open forum and exchange of ideas among participants. The symposium also marked the beginning of the 4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition, which aims to create a platform for talented students in the field of construction and design to showcase their skills and ingenuity and encourages them to address environmental challenges through sustainable solutions. The post SM Prime, partners hold symposium on wetland conservation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl elected co-chair of world forum on carbon issues
The Philippines was elected co-chair of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s Inclusive Forum on Carbon Mitigation Approaches, an initiative to assess the impacts of national mitigation interventions on global greenhouse gas emissions. The Philippines’ Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje will sit as co-chair, along with Switzerland’s Martin Baur and Chile’s Maria Jose Garcia. Serving as co-chair presents new opportunities to further strengthen international cooperation on climate action between developing and developed nations. The announcement was made during the first IFCMA Steering Group Meeting on 13 June 2023. “The Philippines welcomes the OECD’s invitation to be part of the IFCMA, and election as co-chair. Under IFCMA, the Philippines will work to ensure that this will serve as a more focused venue for interaction among and cooperation between countries toward practicable and pragmatic partnerships to fast-track higher impact and cost-effective climate change mitigation actions,” Borje said. The Philippines is the only middle-income nation among Asia-Pacific countries in the Steering Group (which includes Japan and Singapore) and to be elected co-chair. Earlier in February, the Philippines participated in the IFCMA inaugural meeting in Paris, France. IFCMA aims to assess national carbon mitigation approaches’ impact on global emissions, a project that will run from 2023 to 2025. Borje was joined by Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and representatives from the Philippine Embassy in Paris, France. During the meeting, the Philippines underscored that the development of a collective and inclusive strategy on global carbon emission reduction efforts is crucial, in response to the needed “deep, rapid and sustained emissions reduction” emphasized by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Also aimed at enhancing international cooperation, the IFCMA will develop a global, comprehensive and systematic stocktake of countries’ policies, programs and projects on climate change mitigation, to undergo impact assessment on national and global emissions. The Philippines is one of the IFCMA’s Project Associates and a pilot country candidate expected to provide data on climate change mitigation-related policies, programs and projects. In turn, it will benefit and learn from a range of carbon mitigation approaches from various countries in different regions. The post Phl elected co-chair of world forum on carbon issues appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz joins global beat plastic efforts
On 5 June, the United Nations’ or UN World Environment Day, the Aboitiz Group demonstrates its commitment to global sustainability efforts by highlighting its groundbreaking innovations in the fight against plastic pollution. With this year’s theme of #BeatPlasticPollution, the Aboitiz Group supports effective action and a transition towards a circular economy to address global environmental challenges. The Group hews close to the UN Environment Program or UNEP’s vision of a shift to a circular economy, in which the inflow of plastics into the ocean can decrease by more than 80 percent by 2040, greenhouse gas emissions are reduced by 25 percent, and in the process even generate 700,000 job opportunities. The Group aims to accelerate progress and inspire others to take bold steps in combating plastic pollution. At the heart of the Aboitiz Group’s operations lies the OneNewAboitiz Sustainability Synergy, guiding the Group toward innovative practices and technologies. The Aboitiz Group’s sustainability achievements work towards a worldwide sustainable development agenda, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs. By pushing the boundaries of innovation, the Aboitiz Group tackles pollution challenges with effective solutions. Through these dedicated initiatives and actions, the Aboitiz Group demonstrates its unwavering commitment to sustainable development and actively contributes to the attainment of several SDGs. These include SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The Group’s efforts specifically focus on promoting responsible consumption and production, taking action against climate change, safeguarding marine ecosystems, and preserving terrestrial biodiversity. Reimagine seaweed As the Group undergoes its Great Transformation to become the Philippines’ first Techglomerate, it is taking an innovative approach to #BeatPlasticPollution, reimagining the world in terms of possibilities and opportunities. With growing interest in using seaweed as an alternative to single-use plastic, leaders within the Aboitiz Group are working on the Reimagine Seaweed initiative, set to transform the seaweed industry of the Philippines. The initiative is holistically designed to create a sustainable and profitable seaweed industry that provides livelihoods to farmers, promotes biodiversity, reduces plastic pollution, and mitigates the effects of climate change. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization, the Philippines is the fourth-largest producer of seaweed globally, supporting 1.4 million seaweed farmers. Under Reimagine Seaweed’s three-pronged strategy, seaweed farmers are taught better farming techniques and are introduced to green technology that will expand their product range to potentially include bioplastics, protein powder, cosmetics, and health supplements. Within the next five years, the Aboitiz Group and the Reimagine Seaweed team are looking to reduce single-use plastics in the region through the production of biodegradable and compostable packaging made from seaweed. This game-changing initiative is making progress towards improving the lives of seaweed farmers, bringing world-class green technology to the local industry, and eliminating single-use plastics in Asia and beyond. By leveraging a renewed entrepreneurial mindset and the latest technologies, the Aboitiz Group tackles global challenges with innovative approaches that advance the business and communities they serve. On the road to ending plastic toxicity, they are also opening up an ocean of opportunity with Reimagine Seaweed. Plastic Neutrality Republic Cement, a CRH-Aboitiz company, pioneered the use of alternative fuels through co-processing in the Philippines. The process involves the reuse and recovery of thermal and mineral properties of qualified waste materials as alternative fuels, allowing Republic Cement to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact. The firm uses residual plastic waste, including rejected plastic bottles, styrofoam, tarps, single-use plastic containers and utensils, sachets, shopping packages, and other soft plastics, as alternative fuels. In August 2022, Republic Cement achieved a significant milestone in becoming plastic-neutral. Through its resource recovery group, ecoloop, the company collected and co-processed an equivalent volume of residual plastic waste used in the packaging and transporting of its cement products. By integrating plastic waste into the cement manufacturing process, Republic Cement successfully offset its plastic packaging footprint for 2020 to 2022, equivalent to co-processing over 890 dump trucks filled with plastic waste. Republic Cement also supports numerous manufacturers to reach their plastic neutrality goals and be more responsible corporate citizens and stewards of the environment. Upcycled plastic City Savings Bank, the thrift bank subsidiary of the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines or UnionBank, partnered with Envirotech Waste Recycling, Inc. or Envirotech to upcycle plastic waste into classroom essentials: school chairs. In support of the Department of Education Matatag agenda to supplement basic education facilities and services, CitySavings donated 50 plastic chairs made of upcycled waste plastic to Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Central Elementary School in Davao City and Tunasan National High School in Muntinlupa City. Likewise, the construction arm of the Group, Aboitiz Construction, has been implementing its policy against single-use plastics across all projects and facilities since last year. The implementation resulted in a 14.60% reduction of plastic wastes from 2022 to 2023. Also, this initiative is anchored in the firm’s compliance to ISO 14001: 2015 (Environmental Management System) and to its future plan of standardizing materials recovery facilities on all sites. The post Aboitiz joins global beat plastic efforts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group joins global efforts to 'BeatPlasticPollution
On June 5, the United Nations’ (UN) World Environment Day, the Aboitiz Group proudly demonstrates its commitment to global sustainability efforts by highlighting its groundbreaking innovations in the fight against plastic pollution. With this year’s theme of #BeatPlasticPollution, the Aboitiz Group supports effective action and a transition towards a circular economy to address global environmental challenges. According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), by shifting to a circular economy, the inflow of plastics into the ocean can decrease by more than 80 percent by 2040, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent, and even generate 700,000 job opportunities. The Group aims to accelerate progress and inspire others to take bold steps in combating plastic pollution. At the heart of the Aboitiz Group’s operations lies the OneNewAboitiz Sustainability Synergy, guiding the Group toward innovative practices and technologies. The Aboitiz Group's sustainability achievements work towards the worldwide sustainable development agenda, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By pushing the boundaries of innovation, the Aboitiz Group tackles pollution challenges with effective solutions. Through these dedicated initiatives and actions, the Aboitiz Group demonstrates its unwavering commitment to sustainable development and actively contributes to the attainment of several SDGs. These include SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The Group's efforts specifically focus on promoting responsible consumption and production, taking action against climate change, safeguarding marine ecosystems, and preserving terrestrial biodiversity. Reimagine Seaweed As the Group undergoes its Great Transformation to become the Philippines’ first Techglomerate, it is taking an innovative approach to #BeatPlasticPollution, reimagining the world in terms of possibilities and opportunities. With the growing interest in using seaweed as an alternative to single-use plastic, leaders within the Aboitiz Group are working on the Reimagine Seaweed initiative, set to transform the seaweed industry of the Philippines. The initiative is holistically designed to create a sustainable and profitable seaweed industry that provides livelihoods to farmers, promotes biodiversity, reduces plastic pollution, and mitigates the effects of climate change. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), the Philippines is the fourth-largest producer of seaweed globally, supporting 1.4 million seaweed farmers. Under Reimagine Seaweed’s three-pronged strategy, seaweed farmers are taught better farming techniques and are introduced to green technology that will expand their product range to potentially include bioplastics, protein powder, cosmetics, and health supplements. Within the next five years, the Aboitiz Group and the Reimagine Seaweed team aim to reduce single-use plastics in the region through the production of biodegradable and compostable packaging made from seaweed. This game-changing initiative is making progress towards improving the lives of seaweed farmers, bringing world-class green technology to the local industry, and eliminating single-use plastics in Asia and beyond. By leveraging a renewed entrepreneurial mindset and the latest technologies, the Aboitiz Group tackles global challenges with innovative approaches that advance the business and communities they serve. On the road to ending plastic toxicity, they are also opening up an ocean of opportunity with Reimagine Seaweed. Plastic Neutrality Republic Cement, a CRH-Aboitiz company, pioneered the use of alternative fuels through co-processing in the Philippines. The process involves the reuse and recovery of thermal and mineral properties of qualified waste materials as alternative fuels, allowing Republic Cement to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact. The firm uses residual plastic waste, including rejected plastic bottles, styrofoam, tarps, single-use plastic containers and utensils, sachets, shopping packages, and other soft plastics, as alternative fuels. In August 2022, Republic Cement achieved a significant milestone in becoming plastic-neutral. Through its resource recovery group, ecoloop, the company collected and co-processed an equivalent volume of residual plastic waste used in the packaging and transporting of its cement products. By integrating plastic waste into the cement manufacturing process, Republic Cement successfully offset its plastic packaging footprint for 2020 to 2022, equivalent to co-processing over 890 dump trucks filled with plastic waste. Republic Cement also supports numerous manufacturers to reach their plastic neutrality goals and be more responsible corporate citizens and stewards of the environment. Upcycled Plastic City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift bank subsidiary of the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank), partnered with Envirotech Waste Recycling, Inc. (Envirotech) to upcycle plastic waste into classroom essentials: school chairs. In support of the Department of Education (DepEd) Matatag agenda to supplement basic education facilities and services, CitySavings donated 50 plastic chairs made of upcycled waste plastic to Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Central Elementary School in Davao City and Tunasan National High School in Muntinlupa City. Furthermore, the construction arm of the Group, Aboitiz Construction, has been implementing its policy against single-use plastics across all projects and facilities since last year. The implementation resulted in a 14.60% reduction in plastic waste from 2022 to 2023. This initiative is anchored to the firm’s commitment and compliance with ISO 14001: 2015 (Environmental Management System). This year, as part of its continual improvement plan, Aboitiz Construction will be improving its standard MRF (Materials Recovery Facility) across its project sites to improve waste segregation and disposal. The post Aboitiz Group joins global efforts to #BeatPlasticPollution appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Asia must harness global leader role
CEBU — Economic officials should come up with a coordinated effort to limit the systemic risks that may arise from the current economic situation as Asia is expected to contribute almost 70 percent of the growth in 2023, a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas official said. On the sidelines of the 2023 BSP-IMF Conference on Financial Stability here, BSP Senior Assistant Governor Johnny Noe Ravalo said the world is currently saddled with economic problems. These problems include high-interest rates, high inflation, and dealing with new difficulties like the effects of the US banking crisis and the potential for a global recession. The BSP official stated that at this time, regulators must keep an eye out for systemic concerns, figure out how to address them and consider the consequences of how the authorities would interfere in the future. He compared the systemic risk to superspreaders during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, where a person unknowingly spreads the virus. Ravalo said this “systemic risk superspreader” occurred during the global financial crisis of 2007–2008, the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997, the European Debt Crisis of 2011, and the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Preventing a contagion The regulators’ move to provide liquidity to a struggling bank is not primarily intended to preserve that bank, Ravalo noted, but rather to prevent contagion due to the ongoing banking troubles in the US. “You don’t want a perception of risk magnifying and everybody sort of panic. When the authorities injected liquidity into their respective financial system (it has) nothing to do with monetary policy or inflation. That has everything to do with making sure that the economic engines are running,” Ravalo said. These problems include high-interest rates, high inflation, and dealing with new difficulties like the effects of the US banking crisis and the potential for a global recession. Ravalo emphasized that due to the diverse challenges faced by Asia and the varying approaches taken by different authorities, there should be room for flexibility in determining the appropriate measures to be implemented. “So, we will stir the pot and see where it takes us,” he said. The post Asia must harness global leader role appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sibika Hubs to advance civic education in Phl
To enhance civic education in the Philippines, the Youth Leadership for Democracy formally launched its Sibika Hubs program in high schools nationwide at the Civic Education Summit 2023 on 28 April. YouthLed, a joint project by The Asia Foundation and the United States Agency for International Development, introduced its new hubs as a centralized resource, network and community center on civic education and engagement established in high school communities. “We envision these Sibika Hubs to deepen civic education in the country, transcending the usual civic education in the classrooms. Through these hubs, we are bridging social and academic approaches in civic education,” Marion Joseph Villar, YouthLed program officer for Civic Education, said. YouthLed is partnering with schools to establish a Sibika Hub, uniquely positioning the school to implement civic education and engagement initiatives that are localized and community-based. The hubs will also serve as centers for civic education resources that are digestible and inclusive for all youth sectors. YouthLed believes this approach will open opportunities for various stakeholders to come together and meaningfully participate in democratic governance in the long run. YouthLed has piloted the Sibika Hubs program in two schools: the First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities Colleges in Tanauan, Batangas, and the University of the Philippines Visayas campus in Miag-ao, Iloilo. Both schools have begun implementing civic education activities, engaging students within their campus and those from nearby educational institutions. On 25 April, FAITH Colleges held its Project Citizen Showcase, where Grade 12 Humanities students presented public policy proposals solving issues such as lack of disaster preparedness and improper waste disposal. Project Citizen is another YouthLed civic education initiative, first implemented by the Philippine Center for Civic Education and Democracy, that introduces students to a public policy approach to solving community problems. [caption id="attachment_132473" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FAITH COLLEGES | YouthLed’s pilot Sibika Hubs established in FAITH Colleges[/caption] UP Visayas, on the other hand, formally launched its Sibika Hub last February as part of a university-wide civic education program championed by UPV Chancellor Dr. Clement Camposano. [caption id="attachment_132472" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UP VISAYAS | UP Visayas implement civic education activities that engage high school students within their academic community.[/caption] At the Civic Education Summit last week, YouthLed showcased its various civic education initiatives such as the Sibika Hubs. It also invited schools to establish a hub in their campus, highlighting its potential to become a platform for youth participation and nation-building. “Through our civic education initiatives, we hope to provide platforms and opportunities for you to maximize and reach your full potential as responsible and active citizens,” Villar said. For schools and universities interested in establishing a Sibika Hub in their campus, email YouthLed at youthledph@asiafoundation.org. The post Sibika Hubs to advance civic education in Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Malaysia, your good neighbor
Editor’s note: The ambassador has the refreshing modesty of Mr. Fix It, the proverbial heart of a statesman, and an outstanding track record, the last being his visionary representation of Malaysia in Italy. The newly minted head of mission shares his overtures in improving Malaysia’s kindred ties with the Philippines and communal aspirations for the region, with the same bounded optimism that inspired Kuala Lumpur’s winning deeds in the development of the Bangsamoro. While Malaysia’s foreign-policy approaches may have differed over the years due to changing domestic and external factors, the basic principles have continued since independence. Asean remains the cornerstone of Malaysia’s foreign policy; the establishment of the Asean community in 2015 has significantly elevated the country’s approach and engagement regionally. Malaysia has shared to countries like the Philippines its experience and knowledge through various foreign-policy mechanisms, including the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program, and linkages such as the Langkawi International Dialogue and bilateral humanitarian assistance. The country advocates the “Prosper thy neighbor” policy to enhance economic relations and cooperation with its adjacent countries through Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-the Philippines East Asean Growth Area, Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle and other entities. The predominantly Muslim country and the Philippines have been friendly nations since the establishment of the diplomatic relations in 1959. Bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and the Philippines covers education; culture, arts and heritage; communication; defense; health; youth and sports; trade; agriculture; labor, and security. Malaysia’s last high-level visit was when Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met with President Marcos in March this year. Malaysia regards the Philippines as a very important trading partner, the 15th-largest globally and 5th-largest among Asean countries, with total bilateral trade reaching almost $8 billion. Our close and long-existing relations provide a strong foundation for a more active and meaningful economic cooperation in the future that would bring tremendous benefits to our people. Two practical and viable areas that would benefit from closer cooperation are the halal industry and digital economy. In 2022, total trade between the two countries increased by 27.3 percent to $9.42 billion, compared to $7.85 billion in 2021. Malaysia’s exports to the Philippines increased by 24.6 percent to $6.41 billion. Main exports include electrical products, petroleum, palm oil and ancillary agricultural products. Malaysia remains a major global leader in the halal economy, sustaining its top position in the Global lslamic Economic Indicators for the 9th consecutive year. It has exported $13.51 billion to the world in 2022, up by 63.8 percent from the previous year. Major exports of halal products include food and beverages, ingredients, cosmetics and healthcare. Thus, with the Philippine government encouraging more halal business expansion and investment to serve 12 million Muslims, as well as non-Muslims, here, it is definitely one of the areas where Malaysians and Filipinos can collaborate. Acquiring quality education through world-class institutions is essential, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. Malaysia is home to more than 200 universities and colleges with 10 international university branch campuses. Malaysian universities are not only ranked top in Asia; it is also progressing in international world rankings, providing a conducive academic environment with affordable international exposure and global career gateways. The country also takes pride in being one of the global pioneers in Islamic banking. Leveraging on existing capacities and expertise, Malaysia is offering tertiary education in Islamic banking and finance through International Center for Education in Islamic Finance. INCEIF has been collaborating with government institutions, such as the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program, in providing training on Islamic banking products like Islamic securities, unit trust funds, stock broking and financial derivatives. Since Philippines and Malaysia have so many common denominators, Filipinos would feel at home studying in Malaysia. In tourism, last year we saw 80,046 Filipino tourists coming to Malaysia and 46,805 Malaysians coming to the Philippines. We have high hopes that the numbers will increase this year, looking forward to working together with the Philippine government on this front. Asean remains the cornerstone of Malaysia’s foreign policy and the establishment of the Asean community in 2015 has significantly elevated the country’s approach and engagement at the regional level, the nation’s well-being founded on the strong and friendly relations with other countries and its commitment to the multilateral system. The country’s record in peacekeeping under the UN is a testimony of its dedication in carrying out the mandate of the international community in advancing global peace and security. The post Malaysia, your good neighbor appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Asia rebalance 2.0
As the complex of the US foreign policy changes, China could try to sway away from its unenviable approaches that discourage its neighbors from trusting it fully. The post Asia rebalance 2.0 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mastercard study: Digital habits rising in Southeast Asia as new normal approaches
COVID-19 has driven momentum towards the digital economy in Southeast Asia by necessitating rapid adoption of ecommerce, home deliveries, and digital and contactless payments, according to the latest Mastercard Impact Studies™......»»
Kaspersky Shares Cybersecurity Tips for a Peaceful Getaway during the holy week
As the holiday season approaches, the urge to unwind and kick back is natural. And it’s all too common for people to let their guard down completely when connecting to the Internet too– but shouldn’t. Recently, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group shared its findings on identity theft cases in the country. Between November […].....»»
Unlock business success at Franchise Asia Philippines Expo
The Franchise Asia Philippines Expo 2024 is set to hold a series of dynamic seminars designed to empower entrepreneurs, investors and business enthusiasts with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the ever-evolving world of franchising. Slated from April 12 to 14 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, these seminars offer invaluable insights into key aspects of franchising and business growth......»»
Trending tickers: Trump Media, Tesla, Bitcoin and DS Smith
Former US president Donald Trump’s media firm, Trump Media & Technology Group, had a successful stock market debut in New York, with shares soaring past.....»»
88% of Pinoys oppose Cha-cha – Pulse Asia
Public opinion on Charter change, which last year was roughly divided among Filipinos, is now largely skewed toward those opposed to changing the country’s Constitution, a survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed......»»
Boracay, Palawan named among ‘Best Islands in Asia-Pacific’
Two island destinations in the Philippines were included in the 10 “Best Islands in Asia-Pacific” by a foreign travel magazine......»»
Gilas women off to great start in FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup
The Gilas Pilipinas women had a strong start in the 2024 FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup after coming up unscathed in the first day of the competition Wednesday at the Singapore Sports Hub......»»
Most Filipinos reject Charter change, lifting foreign ownership restrictions
An overwhelming majority of Filipinos oppose changing the 1987 Constitution at this time, according to a new Pulse Asia Survey, with results showing Filipinos in all regions and all socio-economic classes did not support the lifting of foreign ownership restrictions in key industries......»»