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Brands to brews: Retail stores that opened their own cafés, restaurants
From clothing to coffee! Which of these branded coffee shops have you already tried?.....»»
Kris Aquino inilalakad sina Bimby, Josh na maging model ng damit
HABANG wala pang napag-uusapang trabaho para kay Bimby, inilalapit ni Kris Aquino ang dalawang anak sa kanyang longtime friend at celebrity stylist na si Patty Yap. Ang rekomendasyon ng Queen of All Media, gawing model sina Bimby at Josh sa clothing line ni Patty. Ang pahayag na ‘yan ni Kris ay kasunod ng anunsyo niya.....»»
Baguio chills further at 12.8°C
Baguio City locals and weekend visitors used thick clothing and blankets to parry off shivers after the highland vacation capital’s chill further dived early Sunday morning......»»
Second-hand clothes finally take off in Japan
A second-hand pop-up store in Tokyo by casual clothing giant Uniqlo was a first for the Japanese firm, but also a sign that a local aversion to used garments may finally be fading. Uniqlo is a major player in an industry blamed for immense carbon emissions and other pollutants like microplastics. It has ridden a.....»»
Zara replacement flops in Russia - survey
The Lebanese MAAG brand has reportedly seen poor sales since opening The Lebanese clothing brand MAAG, which replaced Zara after it ceased operations in Russia, has been labeled the disappointment of the year, RIA Novosti reported on Tuesday, citing the Union of Shopping Centers (STC). Dubai-based.....»»
‘No used clothing donation’ policy for Lapu fire victims
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu – The “no used clothing donation” policy is currently being enforced for victims of the Lapu-Lapu City fire who are staying in evacuation centers. This, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) officials, is consistent with the provision of Republic Act No. 4653, in order to prevent fire victims.....»»
France issues caution on Black Friday clothing deals
Title: French Government Urges Citizens to Shop Sustainably in Black Friday Sales Paris, France – In a bid to promote sustainability and responsible consumerism, the.....»»
Baguio chills at 14 °C
Residents and visitors in Baguio have been advised to wear warm but comfortable clothing after the city’s temperature dropped to 14 degrees Celsius yesterday morning......»»
Davao’s inflation rate slightly drops
The inflation rate in the Davao Region of the Philippines has slightly dropped from 5.4 percent in September to 5.2 percent in October, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Although still higher than the country's overall inflation rate of 4.9 percent, which decreased from 6.1 percent in September, the Davao Region's average inflation for January to October 2023 was 6.6 percent. The PSA attributes this slowdown to a reduced annual growth rate in food and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as alcoholic beverages and tobacco. Transport also experienced a decline in inflation rate. Fluctuations were observed in various indices, with personal care and miscellaneous goods seeing a slight increase, while furnishings and household maintenance witnessed a decrease in annual growth rates. Clothing and footwear, housing, and restaurants/accommodation services exhibited faster annual growth rates......»»
[PODCAST] Teach Me, Senpai, E6: Thrifting and vintage clothing with Season Pass
New is NOT always better.....»»
BoC, PCG stop robbery of seized fake products
Elements of combined operatives of the Bureau of Customs and Philippine Coast Guard stopped the theft of Customs-seized goods in a warehouse in Pasay City on Thursday night, resulting in the arrest of 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals. According to the BoC, the warehouse was previously sealed and padlocked during an operation against intellectual property rights infringing goods, specifically clothing apparel, footwear, and bags. BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service Director Verne Enciso said the operation was augmented by the CIIS-Manila International Container Port. “We received information from a well-placed asset that there was an ongoing theft in a Pasay warehouse we have previously sealed and padlocked. This warehouse had been subjected previously to a Letter of Authority,” he furthered. Upon receiving information, a team from the BOC’s Intellectual Property Rights Division immediately proceeded to 112 M. Acosta St., Barangay 77, Pasay City to interdict the illegal activities. During the operation, more or less 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals were caught breaking the BOC seal and were seen carrying the forfeited illicit goods from the upper floors down to the ground floor. A close truck van (L300) with plate number TNP 882 was also spotted being loaded with the forfeited goods. Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Juvymax Uy assured that all forfeited items were accounted for through a verification conducted on the spot. “The success of each operation, including seeing them through the legal proceedings, is crucial to the health of the Philippine industry. These operations show the seriousness of our work and send the right message to businesses that want to invest here,” he said. “It is not lost on us that what we do here has a direct impact on local businesses, local employment, and the attractiveness of the Philippines as an investment destination,” Uy added. The post BoC, PCG stop robbery of seized fake products appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Karma chameleon
Like chameleons, frogs are capable of camouflaging themselves to protect against predators. Their skin color naturally matches their surroundings, making them invisible or unnoticeable when danger lurks. One species of frog native to Southeast Asia, the Wallace’s flying frogs, are bright red with tiny white dots when juvenile. The adult ones are plain red and green. University of Vienna researcher Susanne Stueckler did an experiment in Vienna’s Schoenbrunn Zoo to determine if the frog’s colors could hide it from predators. Her team found that predators quickly attacked the older frogs with green and red skin, while the young with red and white spots were ignored. The unusual color pattern of juvenile flying frogs likely functions to masquerade them as animal droppings so predators misidentify them as inedible objects, according to the researchers. “To our knowledge, this is the first experimental exploration of a vertebrate masquerading as animal droppings,” they said. Meanwhile, a thief made like a chameleon to rob a shopping mall in Warsaw, Poland. The 22-year-old’s modus operandi seemed effective, as no one noticed he was still inside when the mall closed. When the place was empty, he headed for a bar, where he got some food and then grabbed items from a clothing store. The thief struck again on Thursday. After entering a clothing store, the man “put on a new outfit, then stood still in the window like a mannequin to fool security guards and surveillance cameras,” said Robert Szumiata, a spokesperson for the Warsaw police. After closing time, the man got down and managed to swipe some jewelry from a shop before mall guards apprehended him. A security camera was apparently trained on the suspect as he stood motionless in the window, and as soon as he moved, the guards were alerted, according to the Daily Mail. Szumiata said the mannequin-chameleon was charged with burglary and theft. with AFP The post Karma chameleon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Best friends in Bukidnon: A story of true friendship
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Friends are more than just people you hang out with and have fun with. They are those who will dream with you, work on that dream with you, and reach that dream with you. A proof of this are these best friends from Malaybalay, Bukidnon, Kirk Raymund Gomez and Hazel Ducto. Kirk recently shared the inspiring story of his best friend answering her calling to become a nun after years of praying for it. “We were best friend since childhood pa. Dream na talaga nya maging madre. After she graduated she pursued ang pagiging madre but after 4 years i think lumabas sya same company po kami. After 2 years in working naka pag decide napo sya na bumalik kasi calling talaga niya. Pero before sya bumalik ginawa talaga namin yung mga gustong gawin nya,” he said. Just last October 15, 2023, Gomez witnessed the clothing ceremony of his best friend. She is now called, Sister Mary Paul Elizabeth. Watch it here: The TikTok video, he uploaded showed Sr. Mary Paul Elizabeth singing and playing the guitar, which was such an emotional moment for him. “Nakakaiyak nga makita sya na masaya sya sa pinili nya,” he added. This is something we don’t usually get to see between best friends. This is also a beautiful reminder of how the bounds of friendship can go beyond our younger years. Do you have a story to share about your best friend? /bmjo READ MORE: Five reasons why true friends are the best.....»»
Introducing The Daily Guardian: Explore Adobes Innovative Wearable Tech for Dynamic Clothing Transformatio
Title: “Adobe Research Scientist Unveils Breakthrough Fashion Technology at Adobe Max Conference” Publication: The Daily Guardian Author: [Your Name] [City, State] – In a groundbreaking.....»»
Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations
In the vibrant tapestry of Filipino arts and heritage, few threads are as intricate and captivating as fashion. Much like traditions and customs, fashion as a form of artistic and cultural expression has played a pivotal role in shaping the Filipino identity and has evolved alongside the nation’s rich history. It is not just about clothes, it is the tales they share, the craftsmanship they embody, the heritage they preserve, and the patrimony they carry on through generations. The Museo ng Makati, housed in the old Presidencia, which served as the town hall until 1961 and has since been declared as an Important Cultural Property of our islands, proudly presented the Grand Dame of Filipino Fashion herself, Patis Tesoro. Entitled Kasuotang Filipino: Mga Likha ni Patis Tesoro, this exhibition was a testament to the enduring legacy of our people’s artistic expression. Although celebrated for its romantic allure, these also carry expressions of love for our country. The exhibit highlighted the enduring 50-year lifelong friendship between Patis and Mita Rufino, who loaned a part of her personal Tesoro-designed Filipiniana. Rufino’s impeccable taste in fashion mirrors her support for the finest designers and creators in the field, with Tesoro as a favorite due to their numerous collaborations. Maria Beatriz Pamintuan Tesoro, lovingly known as Patis, is the force behind this remarkable assemblage. Her journey began in Iloilo, where she drew inspiration from her mother’s dressmaking skills and honed her own dexterity in embroidery during her time at the Assumption Iloilo. [gallery columns="5" size="full" ids="194543,194542,194541,194540,194539"] Her pursuit of artistic excellence brought her to Marygrove College in Michigan, United States, where she studied Art Education. The visionary’s passion in everything Filipino deepened when she married the late Tito Tesoro, whose family owns the iconic Filipino handicrafts store Tesoros. Together with former Philippine First Lady Amelita “Ming” Ramos, Patis worked tirelessly to protect, preserve and promote the use of pineapple or piña fabric, collaborating closely with local farmers to bolster their production. Even today, she continues to champion Filipino textiles and embroidery traditions, while infusing bohemian styles and practical, everyday clothing into her creations. While Tesoro’s genius was on the spotlight, it was equally dedicated to the exquisite beauty and exceptional craftsmanship of Filipino weavers and artisans, burdareras and costureras. The creations on display were nothing short of breathtaking. The venue showcased 23 long gowns that spanned fashion influences from various regions of the archipelago, which offered glimpses into her sensibilities throughout her illustrious career. These reflected her vision of the elegant Filipino attires. [caption id="attachment_194537" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Fashion innovator Patis Tesoro, curator Albert Figueras and Filipino Heritage Festival Foundation Inc. president Mita Rufino. | PHOTOGRAPHS by Edu Jarque[/caption] Hand in hand, fashion designer Albert Figueras had contributed his private treasure trove of fabrics from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, offering visitors a valuable opportunity to acquaint themselves on native textiles and weaving traditions — a critical endeavor in an era dominated by fast fashion and synthetic fabrics. Figueras played a crucial role in curating the whole affair. In attendance were civic servants such as Makati City Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo and notable diplomats, business leaders, fashion afficionados, textile artists and modern trendsetters. The event was made possible by the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. spearheaded by its president, Mita Rufino. SM Makati manager Kathleen Anne Cruz and SM Retail president Cielo Monasterio generously supported the show. The exhibit also saw a romantic performance of a string of kundimans from the Choral Society of Makati, joined by the city’s 2018 champion and a member of the University of Makati Chorale Kristina Maniling. The post Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New mission: BuCor reform
Following his tenure as chief of staff in the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 2015, retired four-star General Gregorio Pio Catapang chose to settle in Pampanga. Here, he embraced a simpler life as a farmer, relishing in the delights of native chicken, fresh produce, and the serene natural surroundings. “I am an environmentalist, so I decided to stay in Arayat, Pampanga, to be a farmer upon my retirement in October 2015, and I prayed, ‘Lord, it has been mission accomplished, so give me a new mission,’” Catapang narrated. The former military chief, the AFP’s 45th from July 2014 to 2015, is not a stranger to close encounters with mortality. Throughout his extensive service in the Philippine Army, from graduating from the Philippine Military Academy in 1981, he has endured several clashes with enemies, even more than one could count with the fingers. He held major positions in the AFP as commander of the 2nd Infantry Division — the Army’s largest unit, 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, 703 Infantry Brigade, and 28th Infantry Brigade, among others. He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3, of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. His rise to prominence was not without hitches because he barely survived nine brushes with death. His strong faith in the Lord enabled him to be alive today. “The first incident that I encountered that almost ended my life was when I fell from the second floor of our house when I was just a kid; the second was when I was in the field where a provincial bus liner rammed the car I was in,” Catapang said. He was airlifted from Basa Airbase to V. Luna General Hospital and eventually transferred to Quezon City Medical City as he continued to bleed due to his severe injuries. “The doctor told me not to sleep because I might turn into a coma. So I fight on as the doctors continue to treat me,” he added. While still recovering, with his facial wounds still not yet fully healed, he was called by his commander to report back to work. “Nakangiwi pa ako dahil sa sugat (I was still grimacing in pain), but as a soldier, I followed the order, and that was then I realized that he was teaching me how to become chief of staff,” Catapang said, adding that as a good soldier, he had to endure the pain. He recalled that a chopper ride in the mountains of Cagayan also nearly took his life as it flew at 1,000 feet and traveled 18 knots. “The chopper is already old. I just have to make the sign of the cross as the chopper made a low-altitude flight due to poor visibility. We plunged downward, and I thought it was the end for me. But thankfully, the chopper normalized, and we safely landed,” he said. While in a restaurant in Angeles, Pampanga, Catapang said he was informed that NPA (New People’s Army) rebels would ambush him. “We ate at a chicken restaurant in Angeles and received information that I would be ambushed on returning to our camp. It was retaliation for the death of eight commanders of the NPA after movement patterns were detected based on information from barangay chairpersons,” he said. He cannot forget, too, that during the Pinatubo eruption in 1991, the roof of the building they were occupying collapsed due to the accumulated volcanic ash. Catapang, named after two generals — Gregorio del Pilar and Pio del Pilar — led his soldiers in helping the indigenous peoples in the area, giving them food, clothing, and other necessities. “The natives very loved us because of that,” he added. He said he is thankful to have emerged victorious and alive from the all-out war against Muslim secessionists in Mindanao. It almost ended his life, but he survived with solid faith in the Lord. Throughout his life, he consistently believed that prayers are always answered, particularly when reciting the rosary. Proof was when he fervently prayed to the Lord to allow him to marry his first girlfriend, and his request was granted. He married Maria Lourdes and has three children. Catapang’s early life lacked the excitement it later encompassed. He was a typical teenager. He attended high school at the Claret School of Quezon City. Shortly after graduating from PMA, he pursued graduate courses at the University of the Philippines. He is the second of four children of Gregorio Catapang Sr., a lawyer for the Securities and Exchange Commission, and Lourdes Punzalan, an accountant at the Department of Finance, from whom he learned the value of public service. As a military officer, Catapang rallied the troops to strictly adhere to the AFP’s slogan of “Kawal DISIPLINADO, bawal ABUSADO, dapat ASINTADO” — three key words that spell out the Do’s and DON’T’s to become proficient in fire and maneuver and avoid collateral damage; be respectful of human rights, adhere to international humanitarian law and the rule of law, and the rules of engagement. Catapang moved on with his career and retirement life, carrying an excellent performance standard, exemplary leadership and a keen vision. Answered post-retirement prayer After retiring from active military service spanning 34 years, he received a divine blessing through a new mission. Following seven years of working as a farmer, he experienced a life-altering moment on the evening of October 19, 2021. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla gave him an offer to lead the Bureau of Corrections. Unaware of the challenges that awaited him within the BuCor, especially at the New Bilibid Prison, he accepted the offer. It was only later that he discovered the appalling issues of corruption among the prison staff and the dire condition of the overcrowded facilities. Under the guidance of Secretary Remulla, Catapang’s mission to reform the BuCor is yielding positive results. They are actively organizing culminating activities to release eligible individuals who have been deprived of their liberty. To alleviate the overcrowding in the jail facilities, the BuCor is actively organizing and implementing various reforms. The main goal is to transfer all persons deprived of liberty from the maximum security compound of the NBP to new facilities outside of Metro Manila. Catapang is confident plans will come to fruition, as they have already presented their long-term reform plan to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approval. “At present, the reformation of BuCor is in full swing. I am confident we will accomplish and make things happen,” he said. The NBP, he said, is undergoing a significant transformation. The plan is to shut down the NBP in Muntinlupa and repurpose the area into a new business district similar to Bonifacio Global City in the southern part of Metro Manila. Explaining the reason behind the decision, he said high-end residential communities surround the current location of the NBP in Muntinlupa. To align with the surrounding environment, the intention is to close down the NBP and relocate all inmates to regional jail facilities nationwide. Catapang shared plans to dedicate eight hectares of land within the NBP to improve the living conditions of the settlers and provide them with opportunities for reintegration into society. “We will build condominium units for the settlers at the NBP, complete with amenities like a swimming pool, multipurpose facilities, and the like. Repair of residential houses is no longer possible, including power lines, so we decided to allocate the lands for them,” he added. The government will optimally use the land area by developing it into a business and government center, aligning with the DoJ’s plan. To support the food security initiatives of the President, he said they have already started the cultivation of approximately 10 hectares of land at the Iwahig Penal Colony. The aim is to grow rice and high-yield crops, contributing to the government’s long-term food security plans. “Hopefully, this will be done also to other penal farms of BuCor because we have ample lands for cultivation,” Catapang said. For the BuCor Director General who refused to be defined by limitations and setbacks, the relentless spirit and passion for reforms radiate triumphs against the most formidable odds. The post New mission: BuCor reform appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Vietnam economy grows 5.3% in third quarter
Vietnam's economy grew 5.3 percent on-year in the third quarter, official data showed Friday, though experts warned it was on course to miss an ambitious year-end target. Loan interest rate reductions, an extension of tax payments and increased public investment had a positive impact, the General Statistics Office said. But analysts warn it will be an uphill battle for the clothing, shoes and electronics manufacturing hub to reach a year-end target of 6.5 percent expansion for 2023. "Vietnam would only reach a year-end economic growth of between 4.5 percent and 4.7 percent, much lower than the government's set target," Rong Viet Stocks Company chief economist Tran Thi Ha My told AFP. "Growth for the fourth quarter is expected to be at around six percent... largely thanks to improved industrial production and exports." According to GSO, a slump in demand hit the country's exports. One of Vietnam's largest shoemakers for brands such as Nike, Adidas and Reebok announced in August it would cut jobs for the third time this year. Vietnam earned nearly $260 billion in the first nine months from exports. The communist state has long been a success story among Asian economies and in 2022, its economy grew eight percent. The Asian Development Bank predicts 5.8 percent growth for Vietnam's year-end figure, "mainly due to weak external demand". "Weak external environment, including from a subdued recovery in the People's Republic of China, has hampered export-led manufacturing, thus shrinking industrial production in Vietnam," the bank’s Vietnam country director Shantanu Chakraborty said this week. "The economy remains resilient, and recovery is expected to pick up in the near term, driven by strong domestic consumption, which is supported by moderate inflation, an acceleration of public investment and improved trade activities." The GSO reported that 776,000 more laborers in Vietnam have found jobs since the beginning of the year, compared with the same period last year. Average monthly income was around $288, nearly seven percent higher, GSO said. The post Vietnam economy grows 5.3% in third quarter appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DOST promotes sustainable use of natural resources
In celebration of Philippine Bamboo month, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute’s “Kawayarn: The Bamboo Textiles PH Launch” was held last 21 September at The Manila Hotel. It showcased a variety of all things bamboo, including clothing, footwear, bags, accessories and many more. The project’s promise of developing bamboo toward an innovative, creative, circular and inclusive textile economy will promote bamboo as a developing environmental resource in the production of more sustainable and quality textiles. This is a significant initiative that holds the potential to bring about various positive impacts for the Philippines. The Philippines is naturally rich in bamboo resources, making it a good source of textile fiber. And with the advancement of science and technology, bamboo textile fibers will be more accessible and available, opening up new possibilities in strengthening the country’s textile industry. Senator Cynthia Villar stated in her speech during the event that bamboo contains 35 percent fiber compared to other sources of fiber that only contains two percent. This offers a unique opportunity to leverage the sustainable in versatile material for a textile production, if consistently executed well and self-reliance be prioritized, benefiting not only the environment, but the local economy as well — especially local farmers. Senator Loren Legarda stressed in her keynote address that self-reliance is very much necessary in this project. “Much of our bamboo supplies are still imported from other countries,” she added. She added that policy makers must make sure that any external sources are from industries with ethical and environmental practices. DOST-PTRI aims to locate more bamboo textile innovation hubs all over the Philippines in collaboration with local communities, state universities and colleges. So far, the department already has three existing bamboo textile fiber innovation hubs located in Maragondon (Cavite), Naguilian (La Union) and Cauayan (Isabela) and will establish at least three more in 2024 — one each for Abra, Bukidnon and Pangasinan, which will capture and capacitate farmers and weavers to have additional and alternative livelihood. The post DOST promotes sustainable use of natural resources appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’
American actor and producer Kevin Sorbo, who starred as the Greek demigod Hercules in the 1990s show Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, is angry about allegedly being “canceled” by Hollywood for his conservative views and Christian beliefs. In a controversial essay titled “Make Hollywood Manly Again” published on Fox News, the actor griped about how Hollywood and the media are supposedly putting traditional male roles in a negative light. “Fathers, in particular, have become the butt of every woke Hollywood jab, the bumbling, useless idiots who contribute nothing to their families or communities, but sacrifice themselves as objects of ridicule,” Sorbo wrote. Lamenting the rise of female-centric “girl boss” films in recent years, Sorbo complained that men are now portrayed as the “impotent sitcom father” and the “brutish he-man who only abuses his strength and makes a mockery of masculinity.” [caption id="attachment_189784" align="aligncenter" width="318"] Timothée Chalamet[/caption] The right-wing actor reserved particular venom for actors Timothée Chalamet and Billy Porter for their androgynous fashion sense. “Society today seriously misunderstands masculinity. On the one hand, we love to normalize androgynous, Billy Porter-type men who sport skirts and poofy dresses,” Sorbo wrote. As for Chalamet: “Let’s just say your grandfather wouldn’t have been caught dead dressed like Chalamet.” Chalamet has been acclaimed for redefining modern men’s fashion and style. His eclectic and atypical roles in films have been reflected in his unique and bold personal style on the red carpet. [caption id="attachment_189785" align="aligncenter" width="316"] Billy Porter[/caption] The Call Me By Your Name superstar was a head-turner at the premiere of his 2018 film Beautiful Boy with a statement tuxedo by Alexander McQueen in a graphic floral motif that gave a fresher and more youthful look to the standard male formal get-up. In 2022, the Oscar-nominated actor once again dominated fashion headlines when he wore a sleeveless and backless Haider Ackermann custom red halter-neck top at his red-carpet appearance for the romantic horror film Bones and All. Porter, a Tony, Grammy and Emmy award-winning actor, is likewise regarded as a fashion icon for flaunting genderless clothing in his public appearances. Exhibit A was his appearance at the 91st Academy Awards, where he wore a velvet tuxedo jacket paired with a ball gown. The post ‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Regulate them’: Hard-up Indonesia traders urge TikTok sales ban
As clothing seller Hendri Tanjung struggles to hawk his tunics to Indonesian buyers outside his market shop, he says customers are turning to cheaper versions on TikTok, pummeling his income. The 35-year-old sells his wares at Tanah Abang, Southeast Asia's largest textile market, where sellers are desperately calling out to passersby. The market in the capital Jakarta is less crowded than usual, with some outlets shuttered, as many of its thousands of merchants selling products made in factories or by tailors and weavers complain about the impact of TikTok's booming e-commerce arm on their business. "We want the government to close TikTok Shop, or at least regulate them. I feel bad for my employees," said Tanjung. Indonesians spent more money on the Chinese-owned app than anywhere else in the region over the past year, as TikTok Shop rapidly gained a substantial regional market share and millions of sellers since its 2021 launch. But government ministers in Southeast Asia's biggest economy have threatened to ban the app outright because of its impact on local sellers, including those at Tanah Abang who rely on offline buyers. Tanjung said a tunic he sells at 60,000 rupiah ($3.90), can be found for 40,000 rupiah on TikTok Shop, undercutting his business. "I don't know where they source their products to sell at such low prices. Ours are our own products and we cannot sell them at that price," he said. After a daily revenue drop of more than 80 percent from 30 million rupiah ($1,948) to five million ($324) in recent months, he was forced to lay off five of his 30 employees. Laws in the archipelago nation do not cover transactions through social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook or Instagram. But President Joko Widodo said new regulation on social media transactions could come as early as Tuesday. The draft regulation, expected to be presented soon after Widodo said Monday it was "being finalized in the trade ministry", will aim to curb what Jakarta says are monopolistic practices. Level playing field Experts say such regulation would create a level playing field for local businesses. "The key is to regulate social commerce to be on par with e-commerce and traditional offline retailers," said Nailul Huda, a researcher at the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance. "The government should enhance protection for local products by tightening regulations on imported goods and offering disincentives for imports." TikTok has criticized calls for a ban, saying it would harm Indonesian merchants and consumers. "Close to two million local businesses in Indonesia use TikTok to grow and thrive through social commerce," Anggini Setiawan, TikTok Indonesia's head of communications, told AFP earlier this month. Indonesia is TikTok's second-largest market, with 125 million users, according to company figures. It is owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance. The country represented 42 percent of TikTok's $4.4 billion regional gross merchandise value last year, according to Singapore-based consultancy Momentum Works. TikTok's chief executive Shou Zi Chew visited Jakarta in June, pledging to pour billions of dollars into Southeast Asia in the coming years. But the market sellers want TikTok's rise restricted. Atinah, a 21-year-old who sells clothing, said she could no longer hope for high weekend sales at her shop at Tanah Abang, which used to bring in around 10 million rupiah per day. "We are happy if the government can regulate TikTok Shop since now we can only make around three million rupiah on weekends," said Atinah, who like many Indonesians goes by one name. "Buyers always compare the prices here with what they see on TikTok Shop." The post ‘Regulate them’: Hard-up Indonesia traders urge TikTok sales ban appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»