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Statement | For exposing NTF-ELCAC’s lies, Bicol journo red-tagged anew
Bulatlat condemns the latest red-tagging of Albay-based journalist Reynard Magtoto who wrote an in-depth report about the lies and deceptive activities of the National Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in the region. The post Statement | For exposing NTF-ELCAC’s lies, Bicol journo red-tagged anew appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
PH army’s new cyber defense group questioned over potential use for attacks
In 2018, several websites of progressive organizations and media outfits became victims of relentless DDoS attacks. A probe by Sweden-based Qurium Media Foundation revealed that the attacks came from the Philippine Army, including activities linked to the Chief of Staff for Intelligence of the Philippine Army. The post PH army’s new cyber defense group questioned over potential use for attacks appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
Serpent’s forked tongue
The terrorist organization Hamas, through more than two weeks of conflict, proved that deception is among its expertise, as it led many to believe that it is fighting for freedom and is not sowing mayhem. Its Charter, however, has the elimination of all Jews through a holy war or jihad as one of its objectives. Even after dominating the Palestinian Parliament, Hamas is classified as a terror organization by Canada, New Zealand, Israel, Egypt, Japan, the European Union, Australia, Jordan and the United States. A bit late, the country, nonetheless, seeks the designation of Hamas as a terrorist group under Philippine laws. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said the tagging of the terror group will be a priority agenda of the Anti-Terrorism Council after the savage 7 October surprise attack on Israel. The assault on peaceful civilian communities was not the first atrocity committed by the group. Israel Defense Forces, or IDF, data showed countless bloodletting attributed to Hamas. The group was responsible for the Haifa bus suicide bombing on 5 March 2003, which killed 17 people. On 12 June 2014, Hamas terrorists kidnapped and later murdered three Israeli teenagers, for which Operation Brother’s Keeper and Operation Protective Edge were launched. Since Hamas’ control of the Gaza Strip, it has used civilian facilities as training grounds for its terror campaign or as cover for its lairs. IDF discovered that Hamas converted a five-story building, originally meant to be used as a national library and provides offices for government services and housing, into a terror training facility. The building had a tunnel dug underneath it for underground warfare training. The IDF struck it following Hamas’ firing of several rockets at Israel. Other Hamas military infrastructure was put up near neighborhoods, including next to schools and mosques. IDF said Hamas solicits funds from international financiers supposedly to uplift the lives of Palestinians but misuses these to buy arms and other activities in support of their terror campaign. Such investments based on IDF investigations included over $120 million since 2014 in materials to build terror tunnels leading into Israel. The indiscriminate firing of rockets at Israel, Hamas, and its allies usually hits civilian facilities in Gaza, such as the cause of the deadly explosion at the Gaza hospital that killed scores of people. “Hamas operatives don’t aim at precise targets, they simply fire rockets and don’t care if it harms their people,” according to IDF. Hamas came to power through an election, which is now believed it merely exploited to rule the Gaza Strip through terror. In January 2006, after Israel disengaged from the Gaza Strip, removing all communities and military installations, Hamas took part in the Palestinian Parliamentary Elections and won a majority of 76 seats, making it the ruling power. After a failed attempt to merge with its rival political party, Fatah, which lost the initial elections against Hamas, violence between both parties escalated into a bloody fight. IDF said people were thrown off rooftops, and public executions occurred in the bitter political rivalry. Since March 2018, Hamas has instigated riots, which it paints as peaceful and widespread protests. “Infiltration attempts and the use of arson kites and firebombs have taken place during the riots. Since the Gaza Strip is half a mile away from Israeli communities, infiltration would endanger Israeli civilians,” the IDF said. Hamas intended to use Gaza civilians as human shields and covers for infiltration attempts and terror. IDF said the world should know the true character of Hamas to understand the constant terror inflicted on Israel and the poor state of the Gaza Strip under its helm. Let the world not fall to the temptation and seduction of evil. The post Serpent’s forked tongue appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Spotify, PPOPCON driving global appetite for P-pop
In the past five years, the P-Pop genre has experienced remarkable growth, captivating audiences with its impressive visual cues, coupled with infectious beats and compelling narratives. From PPOPCON captivating audiences two years in a row to Spotify driving an over 800-percent increase in daily P-Pop streams since 2018, the genre is fast becoming a global genre to watch. According to Blackstar Entertainment, producer of PPOPCON Manila 2023, and PPOPCON executive director Jon Pinto, “The success of PPOPCON 2023 and growth of the P-Pop community has been overwhelming, and together with Spotify, the future holds endless possibilities for P-Pop music for the rest of the year.” With more than 9,000 attendees at PPOPCON 2023, Spotify continues to see the appetite for more of the genre all year round. The especially curated P-Pop On The Rise playlist witnessed a 36-percent surge in streams, connecting artists with fans and enabling music discovery. [caption id="attachment_200891" align="aligncenter" width="306"] THE growth of the P-pop community has been overwhelming the past years, with fans from all ages. | Photographs courtesy of Spotify[/caption] Attendees to the event were also treated to exclusive Spotify online content and exciting on-ground activities that made them feel closer to their P-Pop idols. The phenomenal growth of P-Pop is a testament to the talent and dedication of Filipino artists. Leading the pack is SB19, whose powerful vocals and show-stopping performances have earned them over 2.7 million monthly streams on Spotify. Joining the ranks of top talents for 2023 are RADAR artists ALAMAT, BINI and RADAR alumni BGYO. Solo acts like FELIP, Josh Cullen and PABLO are also making waves. Emerging P-Pop artists KAIA, VXON and G22 add to the list of promising acts, leading to an impressive 250-percent increase in streams on Spotify since early this year. SB19’s track “GENTO” has now surpassed 46 million streams on Spotify. Other notable tracks gaining traction on the platform include G22’s BANG and “Maharani” by Alamat, and “Wild Tonight” by Josh Cullen. The post Spotify, PPOPCON driving global appetite for P-pop appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
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......»»
BSKE 2023 still a go, says PNP
The Philippine National Police on Monday stressed that it is not seeing any postponement of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections scheduled on 30 October amid the reported 2,594 areas of concern. PNP chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. said that the PNP has recorded 246 “areas of grave concern” or under the red category while 1,248 villages are under the orange category and 1,100 are under the yellow category. “So far, we are not seeing any areas that may postpone the polls. All areas will be simultaneously doing or conducting the BSKE as scheduled. There are some areas that we think that needs additional troops like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” Acorda said. “We have to send additional forces there and our deputy chief for operations are also preparing in coordination with the other agencies. If some areas will be challenging, we will render the appropriate measures,” he added. Areas listed under the red category would be under the Commission on Elections’ control and the poll body has the authority to augment security forces in the said areas. “With regards to the preparations for the barangay elections to our assessment and after the presentation of all the regional directors and after their meeting with the different Regional Joint Security Control Center, provincial JSCCs and of course on the national level, it’s a go for all of us,” said Acorda. The PNP chief revealed that the 246 “areas of grave concern” for the BSKE are mostly from Bicol, Eastern visayas and BARMM. “In BARMM alone we have 151, in Region 8 we have 60 and in Region 5 we have 21 this list is fluid, it may change anytime depending on the political climate in the area and these are being constantly monitored through our coordination with the Comelec, Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Acorda. He also said that the PNP keeping a close watch on 38 potential PAGs and four active PAGs ahead of the BSKE this year. The election period for the BSKE started on 28 August and will end on 29 November 2023. During this period, the Comelec mandates the suspension of activities involving the carrying of firearms or other deadly weapons and the employment of security personnel or bodyguards by incumbent public officials, whether elected or appointed, as well as private individuals. The post BSKE 2023 still a go, says PNP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
VIVA LA VIRGEN!
By: Ferdie M. Brizo One of the largest religious activities as part of customary practice in the Bicol Region is the Peñafrancia Festival or the Feast of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, the Patroness of Bicol. The city of Naga is nearly overflowing with visitors from different parts of the country due to the devotees who […].....»»
8 firms in Makati, 8 in Parañaque deliquents SSS contributors
The Social Security System on Friday announced that eight firms in Makati City and another eight in Parañaque City were cited as deliquents employers for failing to pay their employees' contributions. The citations came from SSS continued Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) campaign, running against employers who failed to remit monthly contributions of their employees. The Makati-JP Rizal branch has served Notice of Violations to eight deliquents employers in Barangay Tejeros, who incurred a total of P5.25 million delinquencies consisting of P2.86 million of unpaid contributions and P2.4 million of penalties which affects the social security coverage of 105 employees. The employers include two industrial suppliers, a bakery owner, real estate agent, a private hospital, pharmacy, photograph production and a chemical distributor. Among the eight delinquent employers cited for non-remittance of monthly contributions, one of the two industrial equipment suppliers topped the contribution delinquency of P2.41 million broken down into P1.58 million unpaid workers' contributions and over P832,000 penalties for it's 46 employees from April 2022 to August 2023. In Parañaque, the SSS Bicutan-Sun Valley NCR South Division has served notice of violations to eight delinquent employers in Sun Valley and Merville where a total of P1.70 million consisting of P717,000 unpaid contributions and P983,000 in penalties were incurred by the erring employers that include a whole-saler of food and beverages, manufacturer, seller in non-specialized stores, laundry services, food services activities, retail seller of construction materials, salon owner, and manufacturer of miscellaneous articles. Their delinquency has affected 82 employees. The Run After Contribution Evades (RACE) campaign is an activity conducted by SSS to ensure that employers are complying with their obligations as stipulated in Republic Act NO. 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018. The post 8 firms in Makati, 8 in Parañaque deliquents SSS contributors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Thousands of rice farmers treated to PhilRice field day
Thousands of farmers across the country had been feted in the traditional Lakbay Palay field festival, where all eight stations of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) opened their doors for farmers to personally view the progress and benefits of the latest palay seeds technologies done in the premier rice research institute of the country. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Leocadio Sebastian said the dry season Lakbay Palay is held every March or April and the wet season every September or October. Sebastian said the participants toured the 140 hectares of PhilRice field in Science City, Nueva Ecija. The farmers also had the chance to look into the available seeds and soil nutrients of the private sector exhibitors during the two-day festival from 27 to 28 September. Farmers learn PhilRice-developed technologies which include Palayamanan system, a rice-based farming system they can adopt to lessen the economic effects of El Nino, high yielding varieties and farm machinery, according to DA official. He added that about 10 public and private agencies and cooperatives also pledged their support to the “BIDA RiceBIS, Be the rice’s best” movement, which aims to increase farmers’ market opportunities. The regular Lakbay Palay, which started in 1992 as Farmers’ Field Day, was changed into Lakbay Palay in 2012 under the administration of PhilRice Executive Director Eufemio T. Rasco Jr. It held before October each year or the start of the planting season for the dry season crop. The 2023 Lakbay Palay wet season festival was simultaneously held in all eight stations of PhilRice with the biggest festival held at the PhilRice Central Experiment Station in Munoz, Nueva Ecija. The other stations that held simultaneous Lakbay Palay were Batac, Isabela, Los Banos, Bicol, Negros, Agusan and Midsayap. The farmers that attended on both days of the Lakbay Palay in Nueva Ecija were from Zambales, Bulacan, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Tarlac and Aurora provinces. The farmers were divided into 500 persons a day but the number was exceeded on the second day as many walk-ins showed up. PhilRice Executive Director Dr. John de Leon said farmers are welcome to visit the 140-hectare research and development farm and the new Crop Protection Division for any of their inquiries and concerns. PhilRice Deputy Executive Director for Development Dr. Karen Barroga urged the farmers to work in clusters so they could meet the required rice volumes of potential private sector partners for their produce. She cited the case of Negros Occidental farmer-cooperative who is now selling 500 bags a week to Merzci, a famous palalubong and fastfood chain in the region for its business and corporate social responsibility activities. This was made possible through the Rice BIS (Business Innovation System) of PhilRice, which links farmers to private sector buyers so they can enjoy better market prices for their produce. Another partnership was forged by PhilRice between the farmers of Zambales and Bicol who are now supplying the Kiwanis International for their feeding programs for poor communities, she said. Dr. Val Perdido, who represented Undersecretary Leocadio Sebastian for Rice Industry Development, exhorted the farmers to improve their yields using both new technologies and better farming practices so the country can meet its food sufficiency and nutritional goals and improve the farmers’ incomes. He said Nueva Ecija farmers have proven yields of six tons a hectare but most other areas produce four tons or less. He mentioned that the Department of Agriculture is giving production assistance to farmers (in fertilizers and biofertilizers) in addition to the certified seeds, training and machineries provided under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program. A farmer cooperative officer, Vincent Gonzales of St. Vincent Parish Multupurpose Cooperative in Dupax del Sur, Nueva Vizcaya narrated to the participants that their coop was founded in 1979 by a Belgian priest to help farmers– who borrow from loan sharks for their daily subsistence with a capital from 400 members of P4,000 has now grown to 5,600 members with a total material asset of P424 million. The coop is now able to support members through loans and social development activity, scholarship grants, medical assistance and food packs (for the disabled and the aged). It had received numerous awards including the Most Outstanding SIPAG award in 2022 from Senator Cynthia Villar. The post Thousands of rice farmers treated to PhilRice field day appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sikhs protest outside India consulates in Canada
Indian flags were burned and pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were trampled on at protest rallies by Canadian Sikhs outside Indian diplomatic missions in Canada on Monday. “The Indians, they are terrorists, they killed our brother in Vancouver, so that’s why we are protesting here,” Harpar Gosal of Toronto said outside of the Indian consulate in Toronto, referring to the murder in June of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar. “We are not safe back home in Punjab, we are not safe in Canada,” another protesting Canadian Sikh, Joe Hotha, said. Several hundred people gathered in Toronto as well as in Ottawa and Vancouver to denounce Modi’s government. The protests were stirred by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau statements before parliament that New Delhi was possibly involved in the assassination of the Sikh leader, triggering a major diplomatic crisis between the two nations. Nijjar, who was wanted in India for alleged terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder, was shot dead by two masked assailants. The Indian government called the Canadian accusations “absurd” and vehemently denied them. It also advised its nationals not to travel to certain Canadian regions “given the increase in anti-Indian activities” and temporarily stopped processing visa applications in Canada. Jagmett Singh, the leader of the left-wing New Democratic Party and a Trudeau ally, said Trudeau's announcement confirms suspicions that India was interfering in the democratic rights of Canadians. Canada must also put an end to intelligence sharing with New Delhi, Sikh officials said. Since 2018, the two countries have established cooperation on counter-terrorism activities which commits them to financial, judicial and police cooperation, an agreement eyed warily by 770,000 Canadian Sikhs today. WITH AFP The post Sikhs protest outside India consulates in Canada appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
U.S. backs probe on Sikh’s slay
An American official has supported a call by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for India to cooperate in the investigation of a Sikh leader’s assassination in Vancouver in June. “We want to see accountability. And it’s important that the investigation run its course and lead to that result,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters in New York, where he was taking part in the United Nations General Assembly. “We would hope that our Indian friends would cooperate with that investigation as well,” Blinken said, referring to Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, who was wanted in India for alleged terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder, was shot dead by two masked assailants. Blinken’s statement came four days after Trudeau linked Indian intelligence agents to the murder of the activist campaigning for the creation of a Sikh homeland called Khalistan. New Delhi insisted it had nothing to do with the killing, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had “completely rejected” the accusation when earlier raised privately by Trudeau. Following Trudeau’s bombshell, Sikh leaders in Canada demanded justice for Nijjar’s killing. “We want a full investigation that brings to justice the people involved in this assassination, including those who pulled the trigger and the ones who plotted this assassination,” Harkirt Singh Dhadda, a lawyer and prominent member of the Sikh community in the Toronto area, said. Nijjar’s son also demanded the arrest of his father’s killers. “Hopefully, you can take this a step further and get specific individuals,” Balraj Singh Nijjar told reporters. Jaskaran Sandhu, co-founder of Baaz News, a website for the Sikh community, warned that “if the government doesn’t take a strong stance and send a strong message, all it declares to the world is that it’s open season on our citizens.” Jagmett Singh, the leader of the left-wing New Democratic Party and a Trudeau ally said Trudeau’s announcement confirms suspicions that India was interfering in the democratic rights of Canadians. Canada must also put an end to intelligence sharing with New Delhi, Sikh officials said. Since 2018, the two countries have established cooperation on counter-terrorism activities which commits them to financial, judicial and police cooperation — an agreement eyed warily by 770,000 Canadian Sikhs today. WITH AFP The post U.S. backs probe on Sikh’s slay appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz group leads coastal protection bid
The Aboitiz Foundation, Aboitiz Land, and the Communities Organized for Resource Allocation, or CORA, Foundation signed a memorandum of agreement on 13 September to further reinforce their commitment to protecting coastal ecosystems to ensure a cleaner, more sustainable future. The signatories include Aboitiz Foundation president and COO Maribeth Marasigan, Aboitiz Land senior AVP of Legal and Corporate Affairs Atty. Misch Sta. Ana, and Cora Foundation founder and executive director Antoinette Taus. The partnership’s core objective is to unify the strengths and resources of Aboitiz Land, Aboitiz Foundation and Cora Foundation in implementing the “Coastal Clean Up 2.0” in Calubcub II, San Juan, Batangas, the host community of Aboitiz Land’s Seafront Residences. Ramping up ecology protection The Coastal Clean Up 2.0 includes the implementation of capacity development initiatives, as well as the information, education, and communication activities, focused on environmental protection. These efforts target not only the local host communities but also the other stakeholders, too. “With the enduring support of Aboitiz Foundation and CORA Foundation, we are excited to embark on the Coastal Clean Up 2.0 initiative at Seafront Residences. Our strides are bolstered by the expertise of CORA, an organization celebrated for efforts in coastal conservation,” Sta. Ana said. CORA Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to forging sustainable initiatives aimed at addressing pressing global issues including hunger, poverty, inequality and climate change. With a core emphasis on volunteerism, community involvement, and inclusiveness, CORA’s initiatives prioritize the empowerment of marginalized groups, educational institutions, women, and the younger generation. “Nothing can be done without partnerships and collaborations. So to us at CORA, we really feel that this journey is meant to be, and we hope that through this coastal cleanup, it will create the spark or the ripple effect towards so much more,” Taus, a movie artist, said. Meanwhile, Aboitiz Foundation president and COO Maribeth Marasigan emphasized the importance of caring for the environment and how our present actions have a direct impact on our future. The Aboitiz Foundation has been in partnership with the CORA Foundation since 2018, jointly driving the Clean Seas Pilipinas initiative, which focuses on sustainable waste management solutions. The post Aboitiz group leads coastal protection bid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ERRAMON Aboitiz: Renaissance man
The Aboitiz family is a big player in Philippine business for over a century. With businesses covering a wide range of industries, including power, banking, food, and infrastructure, the clan’s Aboitiz Group has been creating jobs and opportunities for Filipinos. Founded by Paulino Aboitiz, son of a Spanish farmer who migrated to the Philippines in the late 1800s, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc., or AEV, has grown from being an abaca-trading and general-merchandise business to a conglomerate with interests in power, banking, food, property, biofuel and construction. The group is undergoing its Great Transformation to establish itself as the Philippines’ pioneering techglomerate. This innovative growth strategy, powered by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers the entire group to advance businesses and uplift communities. Among the driving forces propelling the Group’s business revolution is Erramon “Montxu” Aboitiz. Montxu previously served as the president and chief executive at Aboitiz Equity Ventures for 10 years from 2009 to 2019. He also briefly held the role of CEO at Aboitiz Power Corp. in 2018. Presently, he serves as a director at AEV and Endeavor Philippines and as chairman of the Board of Directors at Union Bank of the Philippines. Likewise, he serves as a board observer of the Aboitiz & Company. The Asian Institute of Management named Montxu as the new chairman of its Board of Trustees, effective from 1 September 2023. Montxu joined a respected group of successful business leaders who are dedicated to advancing the progress and welfare of Asia and its inhabitants. He was the 7th chairman of AIM, taking over from Peter Garrucho who held the position since 2017. Montxu graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, USA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting and Finance. In 2011, he was awarded the Management Man of the Year by the Management Association of the Philippines and recognized as the Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young. Seven years after that, AIM awarded Montxu with an honorary doctorate in management. Social responsibility runs in Aboitiz blood The Aboitiz Foundation, the social responsibility arm of the Aboitiz Group, donated $10 million to AIM in 2019 — known as the Aboitiz 100th Anniversary Commitment Fund. The fund aims to bridge the local and regional gap in data science and innovation. As a result of this generous donation, AIM’s Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship is now able to provide top-notch education and research opportunities in data science, with a focus on practical applications. This is made possible by collaborating with data science professionals and leaders from around the world. Recently, Montxu was elected chairperson of the AIM board of trustees. He is widely recognized for his strong commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy. Regarding the endowment to AIM, Montxu said it targeted assisting AIM in its efforts “to expand its curriculum and facilities towards the direction of a bold future, and the skills and education it will require.” Through his leadership in the Aboitiz Group and the Aboitiz Foundation, he has spearheaded numerous projects that have made a positive impact on local communities. As chairman of the Aboitiz Foundation, Montxu has played a key role in shaping its initiatives. The foundation focuses on three key areas which are education, enterprise development, and environmental conservation. “As businessmen, there is no doubt we seek profits and a return on our capital. But as Filipinos, we are equally guided by a sense of purpose to find meaningful ways of contributing to our communities across the country. This symbiotic relationship of profit and contributing to society is our secret sauce to true sustainability, allowing the Aboitiz Group to drive change for a better world by advancing business and communities,” Montxu added. The foundation implemented various programs and scholarships to improve access to quality education, foster entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities, and promote sustainability. Aboitiz Foundation has been heavily involved in rehabilitating and improving schools in underprivileged areas. They have renovated classrooms, libraries and other facilities, providing students with better learning environments. The foundation has also donated learning materials and equipment to enhance the educational experience of students. Aboitiz Foundation supports community-based programs that aim to uplift marginalized communities. These programs focus on various aspects such as health, nutrition, livelihood, and disaster resilience. The foundation works closely with local organizations and stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions and empower communities to become self-sufficient. Aboitiz Foundation places significant emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability. They have initiated projects to protect and restore ecosystems, promote renewable energy, and reduce carbon footprint. The foundation actively supports reforestation efforts, marine conservation, and waste management initiatives. The foundation also has a strong focus on disaster response and preparedness. They have been at the forefront of providing immediate relief and support during natural disasters, such as typhoons, earthquakes and floods. The foundation also works towards building resilient communities by conducting disaster risk reduction and management training programs. Montxu Aboitiz encourages and supports employee volunteerism within the Aboitiz Group. The company promotes a culture of giving back by providing employees with opportunities to engage in community service and volunteer activities. This not only benefits the communities they serve but also fosters a sense of social responsibility among the employees. It also collaborates with various non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to maximize the impact of their social responsibility initiatives. They work together to address complex social issues and implement sustainable solutions that create lasting change. Aligned with the United Nations Global Compact, AEV drives policies, advocacies, and initiatives to make a lasting impact. The post ERRAMON Aboitiz: Renaissance man appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Short selling eyed as market driver
The Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, seeks to create a regulatory environment that will pave the way for executing short selling to boost local trading activities. Short selling is a practice of betting on the decline of a stock’s price to make a profit. It allows an investor to sell a security that he does not own, consummated by the delivery of a borrowed security, with a commitment to return the borrowed security or its equivalent on a determined or determinable future date. In Asia, short selling is allowed in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, among others. Thus, the SEC is targeting the adoption or non-adoption of existing practices in other markets to advance short selling in the country. Likewise, the SEC is also considering requiring the submission of a regular report on all short selling and securities borrowing and lending activities and their compliance with current rules and policies, to better guide the Commission on policies on short selling moving forward. “We are pushing to align the short selling environment with the major Asian markets, which has the potential to promote liquidity, stabilize the market, protect investors, and further unlock the value of shares of Philippine corporations,” SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino said in a press statement on Monday. Innovator, regulator in one “We will balance our role as regulator and market innovator, imposing the necessary restrictions and safeguards while ensuring that they will not stifle investors and trading participants from fully taking advantage of this trading strategy,” he added. The SEC has paved the way for short selling in the country by issuing the relevant rules as early as 2018 when it approved the Philippine Stock Exchange Guidelines on Short Selling Transactions. It has since worked together with the PSE and market participants to ensure that they are ready for the implementation of the guidelines. The SEC has already approved guidelines that will facilitate the conduct of short selling in the local market. The post Short selling eyed as market driver appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
LTO to boost partnership with PNP to catch online scammers
Land Transportation Office chief, Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II, on Sunday, said they would strengthen their partnership with the Philippine National Police in running after online scammers who are deceiving the public. Mendoza said the LTO would meet with the PNP, especially its Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) office, to further enhance the measures that will eradicate the illegal activities of these online scammers. “We will enhance our partnership with the PNP-ACG to catch these scammers who are proliferating online. Talamak online itong mga grupo na nag-aalok ng tulong para mapadali umano ang pakikipag-transaksyon sa LTO gaya ng pagkuha ng student permit, lisensya o pag-renew ng sasakyan. Sa huli, nangloloko lamang sila at pineperahan lamang ang publiko,” Mendoza said. Mendoza also warned online scammers that the LTO would not stop until they are put to justice. “Hindi titigil ang LTO at iba pang ahensya ng gobyerno hangga’t hindi nahuhuli ang mga gaya ninyo na nananamantala lamang ng kapwa. We are determined to put you behind bars,” Mendoza stressed. Mendoza’s warning came after the LTO-Bicol reminded the public to be vigilant against online scammers who are asking for huge amounts of money supposedly in exchange for services. In some cases, the victim will just find out that the licenses provided by these scammers were fake, the LTO Bicol said. It noted that most of these scammers on Facebook were offering their illicit service through buy-and-sell groups. LTO-Bicol further urged netizens to report these groups, such as the ASP Manila, so the public would no longer fall victim to these illegal transactions. Mendoza, meanwhile, also encouraged netizens to be part of this fight against online scammers. “More than anyone else, kailangan ng mga awtoridad ang tulong ng publiko upang masawata natin itong mga scammers na ito na ginagamit at sinasamantala ang teknolohiya upang makapang-loko ng tao,” Mendoza said. “Huwag kayong magdalawang-isip na ireport sa LTO o sa pulisya kung may impormasyon kayong alam tungkol sa mga grupong ito,” he added. The post LTO to boost partnership with PNP to catch online scammers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat
The Catholic Church will play a more significant role in the anti-insurgency effort through a recalibrated National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, or NTF-ELCAC, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said yesterday. The task force will now have the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs as a member. “We welcome the CBCP through its Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs to the NTF-ELCAC Executive Committee and we look forward to working with them in pursuing peace and development in all parts of the country, especially in conflict-affected areas,” Año said. The task force indicated an openness to suggestions from the Church in adopting “moral and ethical approaches in addressing the communist insurgency,” as cited by CBCP president and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David in a recent statement. “We are opening the door of NTF-ELCAC to the Church because it has an important role to play in ending violence and terrorism in the country,” Año said. “For more than 50 years, we have lived with the scourge of the communist armed conflict. With peace now in sight, the Church has an important role to play in ensuring peace and development in the long term,” he added. With the CBCP in the NTF-ELCAC, Año believes that concerns raised by the Church or by cause-oriented groups supported by them could be immediately addressed. “Because of this development, the Church will have more opportunity to relay its concerns, since its mandate is to act as a liaison of the CBCP to the government,” he said, citing the attendance of Fr. Jerome Secillano at the NTF-ELCAC executive committee meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang on Friday. Año reiterated that the task force’s main mandate is to formulate “whole-of-nation” policies to end armed conflict in the country. “CBCP’s membership in the task force ensures a whole-of-nation’s participation because the religious sector is an important component of the nation,” he said. Intervention in influenced areas Año sees the CBCP making significant contributions to the development of areas previously under the influence of the New People’s Army, as well as facilitating social inclusivity in the pursuit of peace. “Given that we are now on the road to total victory, it’s necessary that we recalibrate the way we do things and the entry of the CBCP to the NTF-ELCAC is one of the changes we have implemented under the Marcos administration,” he said. More rebels rejoin society NTF-ELCAC also expressed optimism the government can sustain its peace-building effort to encourage more rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society. At a forum on Saturday, NTF-ELCAC director Alexander Umpar said that in 2023, a total of 959 villages cleared of the insurgency were included in the Barangay Development Program or BDP, an initiative that aims to bring sustainable development programs to conflict-prone and conflict-affected communities. Under the BDP, each village recipient receives a package of programs, activities, and projects worth a maximum of P20 million. BDP beneficiaries in 2021 and 2022 numbered 822 and 1,406, respectively, he said. Umpar said the NTF-ELCAC is confident that by 2028, it would have attained its goal of achieving lasting peace and development in areas that are vulnerable to armed conflict. “‘By 2028, it is about sustaining the momentum of NTF-ELCAC gains with regard to the dismantling of guerrilla fronts, the reintegration of former rebels, and most of all, building resiliency for our communities under the ambit of good governance toward unity, peace and development,” he said. The government, he said, has dismantled 69 of 89 guerrilla fronts since the creation of the task force in 2018. One of the 20 remaining guerrilla fronts, he said, is active while 19 others had weakened. “‘When we say strategic victory, this (because) of the 19 weakened guerrilla fronts and only one is left to be confronted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said. “There are still concerns about the armed groups but they are no longer able to initiate an armed struggle or to topple our government. So, that’s the strategic victory,” Umpar said. On the other hand, NTF-ELCAC director Jose Descallar urged rebels to give up and join the government in its goal of transforming the country into a “new Philippines.” He said the military could shift its focus to “external threats,” once the government is able to address the local insurgency. Meanwhile, Director Emmanuel Santos of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity said the conduct of localized peace engagements has been proven to be the “most effective” approach in addressing the communist insurgency. “We’re localizing the engagement so we will be closer to the people to make them feel that the government is really here,” Santos said. He added, however, that there should be “clear directions” to ensure the full reintegration of FRs into mainstream society. The post NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NTF-ELCAC to sustain peace-building efforts
The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict over the weekend expressed optimism that the government would be able to sustain its peace-building efforts to encourage more rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society. At the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, NTF-ELCAC director Alexander Umpar said that in 2023, a total of 959 villages cleared of insurgency threats were included in the Barangay Development Program (BDP), an initiative that aims to bring sustainable development programs to conflict-prone and conflict-affected communities. Under the BDP, each village recipient will receive a package of programs, activities, and projects (PAPs) worth a maximum total of P20 million. BDP beneficiaries in 2021 and 2022 were pegged at 822 and 1,406, respectively, he said. Umpar said the NTF-ELCAC is bullish that by 2028, it would attain its goal of achieving lasting peace and development in areas that are vulnerable to armed conflicts. “By 2028, it is about sustaining the momentum of NTF-ELCAC gains with regards to the dismantling of these guerilla fronts, the reintegration of our FRs, and most of all, building resiliency for our communities under the ambit of good governance towards the unity, peace, and development,” he said. Umpar added that the government has dismantled 69 of 89 guerilla fronts since the creation of the task force in 2018. One of the 20 remaining guerilla fronts, he said, is active while 19 others are already weakened. “‘When we say strategic victory, this is the 19 weakened guerilla fronts and only one is left to be confronted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines),” he said. “There are still concerns about the armed groups but they are no longer able to initiate an armed struggle or topple down our government. So, ‘yun ‘yung (that’s the) strategic victory,” Umpar said. On the other hand, NTF-ELCAC director Jose Descallar urged rebels to give up and join the government in its goal of transforming the country into a “new Philippines.” He said the military could shift its focus on “external threats,” once the government is able to address local insurgency. Meanwhile, Director Emmanuel Santos Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity said the conduct of localized peace engagements has been proven to be the “most effective” approach in addressing communist insurgency. “We're localizing the engagement so we will be closer to the people to make them feel that the government is really here,” Santos said. However, he added that there should be “clear directions” to ensure the full reintegration of former rebels (FRs) into mainstream society. The post NTF-ELCAC to sustain peace-building efforts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More than 1,800 typhoon-affected individuals in Bicol receive cash aid from DSWD
The Department of Social Welfare and Development on Thursday reported, through its Field Office 5 (Bicol Region), provided financial assistance to some 1,899 disaster-hit individuals in the region through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. The AICS beneficiaries were residents of the provinces of Masbate and Camarines Sur who were adversely affected by Typhoons Egay and Falcon in July, according to Donna Osial, the AICS Head of the DSWD Bicol Region. Each individual received P4,000 in cash aid, with a total disbursement of P7.4 million during the payout activities held from 24 to 25 August. “The 1,838 beneficiaries were from Masbate province and 61 from Camarines Sur province consisting of farmers, fishermen, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and marginalized workers,” Osial said. The AICS serves as a social safety net or stop-gap measure to support the recovery of individuals and families suffering from unexpected life events or crises like disasters. The post More than 1,800 typhoon-affected individuals in Bicol receive cash aid from DSWD appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
KWF lauds ‘Pinoy-speaking’ agencies
The Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino on Wednesday honored government agencies and local government units that use Filipino language as medium of communication in delivering public service. At least 24 government agencies and local government units were given recognition by the commission for using the country’s national language in this year’s Seal of Excellence in Public Service. This year’s awardees include Department of Agriculture; Department of Science and Technology-PCIEERD; Department of Education-Bureau of Learning Division; DepEd SDO Ligao; MTRCB; Amang Rodriguez Medical Center; NCDA; Pasig City local government; Bulacan provincial government; Municipality of Pililla, Rizal; Barangay Hagdang Bato, Mandaluyong City; Barangay Lower Bicutan, Taguig City; Department of the Interior and Local Government; Department of Labor and Employment-BWSC; Santa Rosa City Government; Municipality of Marilao, Bulacan; Barangay San Isidro, Iriga City; Department of Environment and Natural Resources; Rizal Medical Center; Pasay City government; DepEd-Region V (Bicol Region); DepEd SDO Iriga; MMDA and Quirino Memorial Medical Center. “The Seal of Excellence is given to government agencies that have trained and reached standard proficiency in the use of the Filipino language in their office in transactions, communications, documents, advertisements, and other activities — either written or orally — in various offices of the government agencies,” KWF president Arthur Casanova said. He added that the event is held annually in response to the Executive Order 335 signed by the late President Corazon Aquino mandating the use of Filipino language in official transactions, communications, and correspondence in every agency of the government. “All government agencies should use the Filipino language so that we can raise the level of our national language,” said Casanova, adding that the national language is the symbol of being Filipinos. The post KWF lauds ‘Pinoy-speaking’ agencies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bicolanos get Mayon-related assistance
The Department of Social Welfare and Development field office in the Bicol Region has released the fifth wave of food packs to the local government units in aid of those affected by the recent activities of Mayon Volcano. A total of 33,000 family food packs have been distributed to the different LGUs in the region. Each box of FFP consisted of six kilograms of rice, four cans of tuna, four tins of corned beef, two canned sardines, five sachets of coffee, and another five sachets of cereal drink. The DSWD office also facilitated the distribution of the 300 metric tons of rice — equivalent to 10,000 sacks of milled rice — donated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries of Japan. The donated rice has already been allocated to the respective evacuation centers of the affected LGUs as an augmentation to the food supply for the families and communities affected by the continuous volcanic activities. More than P212.3 million worth of relief items, including financial aid through the Emergency Cash Transfer and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation programs have been provided to the affected families and individuals. The DSWD assured the Bicolanos that it will continue to closely coordinate with the different LGUs so that it can provide needed relief assistance. The post Bicolanos get Mayon-related assistance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»