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Caregiver ni Robert Alejandro ‘sinimot’ ang kanyang P3M life savings
NAGBIGAY babala ang former TV host-graphic artist na si Robert Alejandro ukol sa kanyang caregiver na walang awang nilimas ang kanyang life saving na nagkakahalaga ng P3 milyon. Ang malungkot na balita ay ibinandera mismo ni Alejandro sa kanyang social media account. “BABALA SA PUBLIKO: Protektahan po natin ang ating mga mahal sa buhay,” panimula.....»»
Al Tengco’s gamble
In this gambling republic, Alejandro Tengco, Chairman of gaming regulator Philippine Amusement & Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), isn’t afraid to roll the dice and place bets......»»
Peru’s divisive ex-president Fujimori freed after 16 years in prison for human rights abuses
The release of Alberto Fujimori leaves two former Peruvian presidents in prison: Alejandro Toledo, under investigation for corruption, and Pedro Castillo, who illegally tried to dissolve Congress in 2022.....»»
18 migrants killed in Mexico bus crash
A bus carrying migrants overturned in southern Mexico on Friday, leaving at least 18 passengers dead and 27 injured, authorities said -- the latest fatal road crash involving US-bound migrants. The dead, three of them minors, were from Venezuela and Haiti, according to a statement from the prosecutor's office in Oaxaca state. The accident happened at around dawn on a highway linking Oaxaca and the neighboring state of Puebla, it said. The injured were taken to hospital for treatment, it added. Images released by state authorities showed the wreckage of the bus lying on its side on a highway winding through hills. Thousands of migrants from different countries have been traveling across Mexico in buses, overcrowded trailers and atop freight trains in an attempt to reach the US-Mexican border. They run the risk of fatal accidents, kidnapping by criminal groups and extortion by corrupt officials. More than 8,200 migrants have died or disappeared in the Americas since 2014, most of them while trying to reach the United States via Mexico, according to the International Organization for Migration. The US-Mexican border is the "world's deadliest migration land route," with 686 deaths and disappearances in 2022, the IOM said last month. On Sunday, at least 10 Cuban migrants were killed and 25 injured when a cargo truck carrying them overturned in the southern state of Chiapas. In early August, at least 18 people died and 23 were injured after a bus carrying local passengers and migrants from countries such as India, the Dominican Republic and some African nations plunged into a ravine in the state of Nayarit. And in December 2021, 56 mostly Central American migrants were killed and dozens injured when a people smugglers' truck carrying around 160 people overturned in Chiapas. The Mexican government has admitted to being overwhelmed by the number of migrants crossing its territory, the vast majority of whom are from Central America, Venezuela, Cuba and Haiti. Mexican authorities said they detained more than 189,000 migrants last month, while the US border patrol has reported 1.8 million apprehensions between October 2022 and August 2023. Senior US and Mexican officials pledged Thursday to redouble their efforts to tackle irregular migration through measures such as modernizing border security, increasing legal avenues and addressing the root causes. The two countries were committed to expanding "safe, orderly and lawful pathways for migrants" but with "strict consequences" for those who enter the United States illegally, US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said after talks in Mexico City. The post 18 migrants killed in Mexico bus crash appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden administration to build more Mexico border wall
The Biden administration quietly announced plans on Thursday to add to the border wall with Mexico -- extending construction of the barrier that was a signature policy of Donald Trump. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a notice in the US Federal Register there was "an acute and immediate need to construct physical barriers and roads in the vicinity of the border of the United States in order to prevent unlawful entries." The new section of wall will be built in the "high illegal entry" Rio Grande Valley Sector of the US-Mexico border, Mayorkas said, where there have been more than 245,000 illegal entrants this fiscal year. President Joe Biden announced in a proclamation on the day he took office in January 2021 that no more taxpayer funds would be allocated to build a border wall. "Building a massive wall that spans the entire southern border is not a serious policy solution," Biden said. Mayorkas said the funding for the "additional physical barriers" would come from an appropriation made by Congress for that purpose in 2019, when Trump was still in office. The Department of Homeland Security said some two dozen federal laws such as the Clean Air Act and Endangered Species Act would need to be waived to allow for the extension of the border wall. Illegal immigration has become a major political issue for Biden, with opposition Republicans accusing him of lax border policies. Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, said the Biden administration move showed "I was right when I built 560 miles... of brand new, beautiful border wall." "Will Joe Biden apologize (sic) to me and America for taking so long to get moving, and allowing our country to be flooded with 15 million illegals immigrants, from places unknown," Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform. The post Biden administration to build more Mexico border wall appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The joy of eating
There is almost always a restaurant opening in the metropolis — either to excite the taste buds or simply elevate the Filipino dining experience. Yes, from Filipino dishes to American-Italian fare and specialty steakhouse, there will always be something for everyone to discover, relish and enjoy. LOCAVORE AT ESTANCIA MALL A cozy, contemporary space ensconced inside the Estancia Mall in Pasig City, Locavore is given true Filipino touches with its warm woods, rattan chairs, rustic pendant lights and an expansive glass window that provides an exceptional view of the surrounding environs. [caption id="attachment_192645" align="aligncenter" width="771"] OLIVE Garden’s Herb Roasted Chicken.[/caption] Opened last May, Locavore at Estancia Mall is the seventh branch of the restaurant, which catapulted to prominence in the culinary arena in 2014 after it opened its first branch at Brixton Barrio Kapitolyo, also in Pasig City. It then opened at Forbestown in Taguig City, Valero Street in Makati City, S’Maison in Pasay City, Eastwood Mall in Quezon City and SM City Bacoor. With the talented chef Mikel Zaguirre and his team at the helm, Locavore takes the homey heartwarming flavors of Filipino cooking gives a more sophisticated interpretation. And with the newly opened branch comes an expanded menu and new dishes exclusively in the Estancia outlet. For starters, have the crisp BBM or Bagnet, Buro and Mustasa — a platter filled with thinly sliced, crispy pork bagnet chips that you wrap in mustasa leaves (Samgyup style) seasoned with burong (pickled) hipon and burong mangga with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). Follow it up with Bistek Pintxos, toasted bread decked with bistek-style beef tenderloin, grilled quesong puti, truffle aioli and red onions. [caption id="attachment_192646" align="aligncenter" width="525"] OLIVE Garden’s Purple White Cocktail.[/caption] “The new dishes are presented on slate plates because they are mostly bar chows,” says Alejandro Pahan Jr., operations manager. “That’s our new concept. We were thinking of madaling kainin (easy to eat) and something fun. Because samgyup is trending, we came up with pintxos.” The resto also has Bulalo Pintxos, roasted bone marrow with pickled labanos and pares jam; Yakitori Platter, grilled skewered chicken wings, chicken thigh meat, gizzard and liver served with annatto aioli, tocino butter, miso butter and spiced suka; Bagnet Chips, housemade bagnet chips served with spiced vinegar; and Inasalitos, inasal chicken with salsa, labuyo aioli served in lumpia taco shell. All these dishes are paired with seven new signature cocktail drinks, crafted by its in-house mixologist. Pahan says the new refreshing drinks heavily relies on the food being served at the restaurant. They complement the taste of the meals. Locavore serves alcohol and spirits. The drinks include Hardin, a hybrid between gin tonic and Tom Collins, with tonic water and botanicals and floral notes like blue pea and elderflower (which has a similar taste notes of lychee), garnished with rosemary and black pepper; Kinilig, a combo of Disaronno amaretto, honey, lemon juice and rum, with rice paper art design on top; Diwata, a blend of Bombay Sapphire gin with Giffard Lychee liqueur, sugar syrup and lemon juice, dressed with basil sprig and forget me not flower; and Antibayotiko, a whiskey-based mix of bourbon, ginger liqueur, honey and lemon juice. Locavore at Estancia Mall has a seating capacity of 120 people and targets bar goers in the area. It’s open until 1 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. The rest of the week, it follows the mall hours. OLIVE GARDEN AT THE VERVE A visit to the newly opened third branch of Olive Garden at The Verve in BGC, Taguig City, is a journey of discovery into a world of delicious and affordable pasta, bread, salad, chicken and pizza sensibilities. The menu is broad and touches base with all the departments of classic Italian-American fare. Upon arrival, diners are swiftly delivered a basket of freshly baked breadsticks, which are widely popular in all 900 Olive Garden stores all over the world, including the Philippines. They are buttery, a bit garlicky, moist and chewy. The unlimited breadsticks, including the never-ending soups and salads, come free with every order of an entrée. What a treat! [caption id="attachment_192647" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LOCAVORE’S BBM (Bagnet, Buro, Mustasa).[/caption] The refreshing salad is a merry mix of healthy greens, tomatoes and olives with a light house dressing, while the soup selection includes Pasta E Fagioli, Zuppa Toscana, Minestrone and Chicken & Gnocchi. Olive Garden first opened at the Mall of Asia on 12 September 2022 and at Glorietta 3 in Makati City on 9 January 2023. “It is, more or less, the same menu that we have for our first branch in MOA and also the same menu all over the United States,” Rechele Tiongson, chief operating officer of The Bistro Group, the company responsible for bringing in Olive Garden which was founded in 1982 in Orlando, Florida. “We never changed anything aside from modifying some of the portions that would fit the Filipino market, but the taste and flavor are the same. We use the finest ingredients like imported cheeses.” She adds: “Just to be clear, we did not reduce the portions but we introduce the smaller ones like solo version for those will smaller appetites. The big portions remain the same.” Browsing the menu uncovers more inviting dishes, such as the signature item, Tour of Italy (a huge platter of everything good — Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna Classico and Fettucino Alfredo pasta), Amazing Alfredos (made from scratch using imported cheeses, not just heavy cream) and an Italian classic, Shrimp Scampi. Just recently, four new dishes were introduced — Mediterranean Chicken, Chicken Tuscany, Roasted Herb Chicken and Italian Braised Short Ribs, all served with a choice of mashed potato or steamed rice. “We are happy with the response of the public to Olive Garden,” shares Tiongson. “It was extremely unexpected when we first opened in MOA. We were busy for the next six months of the restaurant. The queue was really long. People had to wait for 30 to 45 minutes, which we felt bad for our customers, but that was how they responded to the first opening of Olive Garden in the Philippines.” Olive Garden’s vibe is casual, light and bright yet it is warm and comforting with olive green accents. The design of the interiors is an allusion to the Italian countryside through earth tones and natural textures. It can accommodate 150 people. Olive Garden at The Verve in BGC is open from Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. [caption id="attachment_192648" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LOCAVORE’S Sizzling Sinigang.[/caption] ASTON’S SPECIALITIES AT ARCOVIA Tron Ng, Astons business development executive based in Singapore, flew to Manila last, 22 September, in time for the opening of the third branch of Astons Specialities, a Singapore-based restaurant chain renowned for serving affordable steaks and Western cuisine, at Arcovia City in Pasig City. Astons is a casual steakhouse which first opened in the Philippines last year on the 4/F of Mega Atrium in SM Megamall. The second branch was at Trinoma Mall in Quezon City early this year. Silver Lush Food Corporation brought in the Singapore brand to satisfy the cravings of steak lovers and those who enjoy more seafood, chicken, sausages, burgers and pasta dishes. “This is our third outlet in the Philippines in a span of 16 months,” says Ng. “We have been around since 2005 when it was founded by Aston Soon. We started as a very small coffeeshop in Singapore. Eventually, we managed to draw a lot of attention because we offer quality food at affordable prices.” He adds: “Within a year, we opened our own restaurant and we continue to grow and expand. We have introduced many different brands under Astons and we have over 40 restaurants only in Singapore alone.” [caption id="attachment_192649" align="aligncenter" width="525"] OLIVE Garden Pasta Twirl. (From left) Zachary Reams of Darden Int’l Learning and Development partner; Marc Buencamino, Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation operations director; RC Tiongson, The Bistro Group chief operating officer; Lourdes Reyes, FBDC chief financial officer; and Lisa Ronquillo-Along, The Bistro Group chief marketing officer.[/caption] Aside from the Philippines, Aston Specialities can also be found in Myanmar and Malaysia. It was also recognized by the AsiaOne’s People Choice Awards and Asian Enterprise Brand Awards for its service and offerings. “I believe Astons will do well in the Philippines because the locals lean more on western food,” Ng says. Of course, the piece de resistance of Astons revolves around its steaks and meat, as it should be. The different cuts of meat from prime sirloin and New York strip to prime ribeye steak do not disappoint. Each has wonderful marbling with the juiciness of the meat, coating your tongue with every bite. The perfect grill marks immediately excite one’s appetite and invite you to dig in with your own side dishes — potatoes (baked, mashed, wedges or fries), Mexican nachos (chicken or beef) or Mac & Cheese. Other items on the menu are also a treat, such as Surf & Turf and Chargrilled Salmon Fillet, Grilled Porkchops and Honey Bourbon Ribs. Cocktail drinks are also aplenty — Piña Colada, Tequila Sunrise, Daiquiri, Orange Margarita and Sangria, to name some. With its industrial chandelier, brick accents and dark wood touches, the place takes on the air of an upscale roadhouse, but softened by the muted walls and expansive glass windows. Astons Specialities at Arcovia City is open daily, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. All told, a trip to any of these newly opened restaurants guarantees a truly gratifying dining experience. The post The joy of eating appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AboitizPower names new CFO
Aboitiz Power Corp. is set to welcome Juan Alejandro Aboitiz as its new chief financial officer starting next month......»»
It’s imperative to rise in the Life Sciences and Global Innovation Index
Increasing and improving the quality of life sciences innovation in the country is mission-critical if we want our people to thrive and achieve a successful way of life. However, the life sciences, which include pharmaceuticals and medical technologies, is a complex sector heavily dependent on large capital due to the intensity of the research needed and the cost of development. The entire process, from research to commercialization, could take more than a decade, if not decades. Moreover, manufacturers are exposed to high risks, such as if field trials do not yield favorable results or if a product fails to meet regulatory standards. How then can we boost innovation outputs in this high risk and capital intensive sector? This was the question hanging over everyone’s head at the Asian Regional Conference in Support of Accelerated Life Sciences Innovation which IPOPHL and the World Intellectual Property Organization held earlier this September. In the Philippines, what we want is to sustain the momentum as patenting in life sciences has been growing over the years. Our data show that patent filings in the pharmaceutical sector have been growing by over 4 percent annually since 2020. Success in boosting life sciences innovation, as shown by the experiences of various countries, depends on robust incentives for research and development, a strong and balanced patent system and an effective rule of law. Another important factor is the establishment of trust among crucial players in the life sciences value chain, allowing them to collaborate and co-create. In fact, it was collaboration that paved the way for the world’s new and brave story of survival and recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. In his opening remarks, Alejandro Campaña, senior director at WIPO’s IP for Innovators Department, highlighted collaboration as making possible the development and launch of vaccines in one and a half years, a far cry from the average 10 to 15 years. This was supported by WIPO’s patent applications data in which almost a quarter named more than one inventor as the patent holder. Rising in the GII In the Philippines, collaboration takes center stage in our innovation efforts with the creation of the National Innovation Council, created by the Philippine Innovation Act of 2019. The 25-member NIC, which IPOPHL is a member of, aims to transform Philippine innovation with more and better quality outputs. It also aims to elevate the country’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index from 59th to the top third of economies. The 16th edition of WIPO’s GII will be released on Wednesday, 27 September, during a hybrid event from 13:30 to 15:30 p.m. CEST (Geneva time). Centered on a very timely theme, “Innovation in the face of uncertainty,” the report will be discussed in greater detail in a panel discussion which will also talk about the way forward for global innovation. Aside from driving innovation in an imperative sector like the life sciences, the Philippines has been relentless in making the country’s overall innovation ecosystem more vibrant and productive. Our efforts must be reflected and justified in this next GII report where we hope to see the Philippines rise up and soar. The post It’s imperative to rise in the Life Sciences and Global Innovation Index appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New VMMC wing seen
The Veterans Memorial Medical Center will soon have more patient rooms with the start of construction for the Magiting Veterans Wing through a P60-million grant from two licensees of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. The construction of the new wing was initiated by the Philippine Military Academy Magiting Class of 1970 with funding support from Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. and Newport World Resorts Foundation Inc. The two foundations, representing Solaire Resort and Newport World Resorts, respectively, each released P30 million with PAGCOR’s approval. Officials said that the project will be carried out in two phases — the first will be sponsored by BCFI and covers civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, masonry works and roof deck waterproofing while the second phase will be funded by NWRFI and consists of works, fixtures and devices. The Magiting Wing will have a total floor area of 1,379.84 square meters and will house 12 new private rooms inclusive of four suites, a nurse station, lounge area, hallway, storage, access ramp and connecting bridge to the main hospital building. PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said the agency approved the grant from the casino foundations because of the project’s noble objective. “PAGCOR recognizes the patriotism and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who dedicated their youth, vigor, strength and even lives for our country. By supporting this noble project, we show our gratitude to our modern-day heroes and their families,” Tengco said. He added that all integrated resort casino licensees in the country are required to put up a foundation to fund Corporate Social Responsibility programs on education infrastructure, health facilities, environmental preservation and cultural heritage restoration. Two percent of the licensees’ gross gaming revenues from non-junket tables automatically go to such foundations. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, who graced the ceremonial concrete pouring for the project, expressed gratitude to the project supporters. “We will provide the necessary maintenance and other operating expenditures to see to it that your donations will not go to waste,” said Teodoro, adding that other plans to improve the welfare of Filipino veterans include decentralizing the VMMC’s services and the upskilling of hospital personnel so that doctors and specialists can focus more on caring for patients. “No soldier ever retires. They are always a part of the system. They provide guidance and support to our active personnel hence their job as a soldier is never done,” Teodoro said. Aside from BCFI and NWRFI, other major sponsors of the Magiting Veterans Wing project are DMCI, San Miguel Corporation and some retired military personnel. The post New VMMC wing seen appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P75-M PAGCOR mess: CIDG launches manhunt vs. suspect
The Philippine National Police - Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) has launched a nationwide manhunt for the primary suspect in the P75-million controversy in the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) after he and four others were able to elude arrest during a recent raid in their lair in Loac, Pangasinan. The PNP-CIDG director, Major General Romeo Caramat, identified the primary suspect as Jewel Castro. He and certain Ethan Eleazar, Norbert Escalante, Enrico San Miguel, and Rebecca Ferolina managed to escape even before the operatives swooped down a secluded illegal online sabong operation in Loac. Castro and his cohorts in PAGCOR are the subject of a top-to-bottom investigation ordered by PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco in connection with the missing P75-million cash performance bond exposed by an investor and officer of a corporation, an erstwhile franchisee of the disbanded e-sabong operation. The raid conducted by CIDG coincided with the lodging of a graft complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman by one Joaquin Sy, against a former and two top officials of PAGCOR and three private individuals headed by Jewel Castro. Sy, who is the treasurer and the chairman of the board of Kamura Highlands Gaming and Holdings Inc., in his complaint said that on 4 April 2022, he personally posted cash for the performance bond at PAGCOR's office in Malate, Manila on behalf of their corporation. He provided two manager’s checks payable to PAGCOR and drawn against his personal bank accounts. In return, PAGCOR issued official receipts and other documents proving the posting of a bond by the corporation. Under PAGCOR’s guidelines, only a corporation can apply to be a franchisee of e-sabong operation. Sy, however, said that when then-president Rodrigo Duterte disbanded the e-sabong on May 2022, he requested PAGCOR in writing of the intention of his corporation to withdraw the cash performance bond but to no avail. He added that later on, he was told by PAGCOR's Assistant Vice President for Finance Lolita Gonzales that a P75-million Land Bank check was already issued to one Jewel Castro sometime in July 2022. Meanwhile, in a press statement, the newly-appointed PAGCOR chair said, “We have launched an internal investigation and we are trying to re-create the sequence of events since the department allegedly involved, the E-Sabong Department, has already been disbanded.” Tengco hinted that the release of a check in the name of an individual not to the corporation that posted it, could not be possible without the connivance of personnel within PAGCOR. “We will bring the perpetrators to justice if indeed there was any anomaly,” he stressed. On the other hand, a confidant of Castro in his clandestine e-sabong operation who refused to be identified said that Castro expressed his intention to cooperate with PAGCOR’s ongoing investigation but fears for his safety, considering the persons and the amount of money involved in the anomaly. Castro is considered the key figure to unlock the mystery of the missing P75-million cash performance bond. The post P75-M PAGCOR mess: CIDG launches manhunt vs. suspect appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Up to 2M reservists eyed once ROTC becomes mandatory
There could be about two million reservists who will be able to augment the reserve force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines every year if the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps becomes mandatory again. This was bared by Major General Joel Alejandro Nacnac, Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservists and Retiree Affairs of the AFP, over the weekend during the opening of the National Reservists Week. “Every year, if ROTC becomes mandatory, we expect an additional two million students from all of the universities,” Nacnac told the reporters in an interview. He said projected servicemen from ROTC will be classified as a “standby reserve”—which is mobilized only in times of national emergency or war. The AFP reserve force is currently at 1.2 million as of June 2023, which is composed of over 71,000 “ready reservists,” more than 15,000 affiliated units from other organizations and institutions, and 1.1 million standby reservists—with most of them from the Philippine Army. The ready reservists are called at “any time to add to the regular forces.” The National Reservist Week is the AFP’s annual activity of the “purposely to widen the Reserve Force manpower build-up and for the existing reservists to be accounted.” The event also provides reservists an update on the current AFP policies and directives with regard to the Reserve Force Development Programs as well as establish a robust operational Reserve force by way of checking their individual readiness in order to provide support to the Regular Force to fulfill its mandate. The bill requiring ROTC for students enrolled in at least two years of an undergraduate degree is pending in the Senate plenary. On the other hand, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa the government may allot P4.2 billion for free uniforms yearly if the proposed mandatory ROTC program becomes law. “If it will materialize, every year we’re going to budget P4.2B for uniforms alone for cadets,” he said in a recent hearing on the budget of the Department of Science and Technology and its attached agencies. Dela Rosa also made a recommendation that ROTC uniforms should be locally sourced. The Philippine Textile Research Institute welcomed the senator’s suggestion. The post Up to 2M reservists eyed once ROTC becomes mandatory appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR changing for better, says solons
A sea change in the gaming industry is coming as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. or PAGCOR, transitions into a “purely regulatory” body. Senator Win Gatchalian said PAGCOR’s move will effectively prevent a “conflict of interest” within the agency’s dual functions as a regulator and operator. “Its decision to transition to becoming a purely regulatory body is commendable, representing a significant stride towards improving the governance of the gaming industry,” Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ways and Mens, told reporters. Senator Grace Poe cited the PAGCOR’s move as a “step in the right direction” as it cannot “wear two hats at a time” at the same time. “It gives the agency a conflicting role that has raised misgivings about its capability to effectively regulate the gaming industry,” she said. Poe stressed the need to regulate the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators and other unauthorized gambling operations, which have brought social ills to the country and deprived the government of earnings. Benefits of improved regulation “If PAGCOR can effectively regulate the gaming industry and weed out unscrupulous activities, then it could even generate better revenues to help fund more government projects,” she added. PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer, Alejandro Tengco, said the move is part of the agency’s goal to “level the playing field and ensure future growth and viability for all gaming industry players.” “We have started preparing for this transition in earnest, and we are starting where it matters most — within PAGCOR itself,” he said in his remarks during the opening of the IAG Academy Summit at the Hilton Manila last 13 September. Tengco said the transitioning process is expected to be completed by 2025. Gatchalian said he believes that the separation of PAGCOR’s regulatory and commercial functions “will not only attract more private sector investments but also elevate the country’s stature as a premier gaming destination in the region.” “Consequently, this is poised to significantly boost government revenues derived from the gaming industry,” he added. Gatchalian wants PAGCOR to impose stiffer penalties against illegalities perpetrated by the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators in the country. The post PAGCOR changing for better, says solons appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR taps DAP amid reorganization
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, or PAGCOR, will let the Development Academy of the Philippines, or DAP, to facilitate its reorganization including coming up with a program for the privatization of its casinos. PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco said DAP’s technical assistance will allow the gaming agency to comply with the requirements of the Governance Commission for GOCCs, or GCG, in the implementation of its Compensation and Position Classification System or CPCS which is needed prior to privatization. “We thank the Development Academy of the Philippines for being a prime mover of competency building in government,” Tengco said. “We need their help to comply with the (documentary) requirements of the GCG and in our efforts to eventually implement the CPCS that our employees have been eagerly waiting for,” he said. MoA signed Tengco made the remarks after he and DAP president and CEO Engelbert Caronan Jr. signed the memorandum of agreement for PAGCOR’s reorganization at the New Coast Hotel in Manila last 12 September. PAGCOR vice president for Human Resource and Development Group Angelito Domingo and DAP vice president for Mindanao Dr. Mark Lemuel Garcia also signed the agreement. Tengco said he also wants to engage DAP in the facilitation and conduct of trainings for PAGCOR officers and employees to enhance their skills and competencies. Caronan for his part expressed gratitude to PAGCOR for believing in DAP’s capability to help implement organizational changes that would be beneficial to the state gaming firm’s workforce. “We would like to thank PAGCOR for their trust and confidence in this partnership; we are ready to provide the necessary technical services to make the agency GCG-compliant and help it carry out its reorganization efforts,” he said. The DAP is a government-owned and controlled corporation mandated to assist agencies and local government units in their development efforts by acting as a change catalyst and as capacity builder. It helps facilitate the shaping of new government policies, crafting development programs and modernizing the management structure of government agencies and private enterprises alike. The post PAGCOR taps DAP amid reorganization appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR taps Development Academy of the Philippines for reorganization push
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) today, 19 September, announced another major move towards the privatization of its casinos by partnering with the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) in facilitating its reorganization process. PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco said they tapped DAP’s technical assistance to comply with the requirements of the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) in the implementation of its Compensation and Position Classification System or CPCS which is needed prior to privatization. “We thank the Development Academy of the Philippines for being a prime mover of competency building in government,” Mr. Tengco said. “We need their help to comply with the (documentary) requirements of the GCG and in our efforts to eventually implement the CPCS that our employees have been eagerly waiting for,” he said. Tengco made the remarks after he and DAP president and CEO Atty. Engelbert Caronan Jr. signed the memorandum of agreement for PAGCOR’s reorganization at the New Coast Hotel in Manila last 12 September. PAGCOR Vice President for Human Resource and Development Group Angelito Domingo and DAP Vice President for Mindanao Dr. Mark Lemuel Garcia also signed the agreement. Tengco said he also wants to engage DAP in the facilitation and conduct of training for PAGCOR officers and employees to enhance their skills and competencies. Caronan, for his part, expressed gratitude to PAGCOR for believing in DAP’s capability to help implement organizational changes that would be beneficial to the state gaming firm’s workforce. “We would like to thank PAGCOR for their trust and confidence in this partnership; we are ready to provide the necessary technical services to make the agency GCG-compliant and help it carry out its reorganization efforts,” he said. The DAP is a government-owned and controlled corporation mandated to assist agencies and local government units in their development efforts by acting as a change catalyst and capacity builder. It helps facilitate the shaping of new government policies, crafting development programs, and modernizing the management structure of government agencies and private enterprises alike. The post PAGCOR taps Development Academy of the Philippines for reorganization push appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Rama, Hari’ gala is a cultural feast
Rama, Hari (Rama the King) returns to live stage, becoming one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year. Produced by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the ballet and musical had its gala at the rehabilitated Manila Metropolitan Theater on 15 September. Aside from the show itself, there were a lecture and a small tiangge (bazaar), affording the audience a fuller experience and a deeper appreciation of the ballet, as well as the source material, the Sanskrit epic Ramayana. Also an initiative in line with the recently signed Philippines-Indonesia Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Cooperation and the Philippines-India Cultural Exchange Program, the lecture, “Perspectives: Understanding Ramayana, The Great Epic of Asia,” was held in the early afternoon at the Metropolitan Theater Ballroom, tackling the impacts and different interpretations of Ramayana not only in India but also in Southeast Asia. Speakers were Agus Widjojo, ambassador of Indonesia to the Philippines; Shambu Kumaran, ambassador of India to the Philippines; and Dr. Marilyn Canta, retired professor from the University of the Philippines in Diliman. [caption id="attachment_185911" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Indian Ambassador Shambu Kumaran, Dr. Marilyn Canta, NCCA chairman Ino Manalo and Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo. | Photograph by Roel Hoang Manipon[/caption] The Hindu epic, said to date back as early as the mid-eighth century BCE, is a much beloved work and has many versions in Southeast Asia. Its influence is very much evident in Indonesia, where the epic has a version written in old Javanese, called the Kakawin Ramayana. The Prambanan, the ninth-century Hindu temple compound, has bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the epic, and the Ramayana Ballet is regularly performed up to this day. In the Philippines, the Meranaw people of Mindanao has a folk story derived from Ramayana, “Maharadia Lawana,” which was adapted into an hours-long, modern theatrical showcase for the Budayaw: The BIMP-EAGA Festival of Cultures in 2017. On the other hand, the tiangge, at the Hardin ng Ekspresyon, the west courtyard of the theater, had booths offering Indian food, spices and home decors. Fashion brand Plains & Prints also set up a corner featuring their latest collection featuring heritage sites in collaboration with photographer Mark Nicdao. On the other hand, the tiangge, at the Hardin ng Ekspresyon, the west courtyard of the theater, had booths offering Indian food, spices and home decors. Fashion brand Plains & Prints also set up a corner featuring their latest collection featuring heritage sites in collaboration with photographer Mark Nicdao. Audience members started arriving at six. The first-timers to the theater explored and took photographs of the different corners. Illustrious guests were led by National Artists Virgilio S. Almario, Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Ricky Lee and Agnes Locsin, as well as cultural agency heads, National Archives of the Philippines executive director and NCCA chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo, National Museum of the Philippines director Jeremy R. Barns and Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino chairman Arthur P. Casanova. Also in the audience were theater and cinema scholar Nicanor Tiongson, professor and researcher Galileo Zafra, actor and satirist Mae Paner, actor Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, talent manager Noel Ferrer, theater critic Amadis Maria Guerrero, Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo, chef Gelo Guison and designer Barge Ramos. Aika Robredo, the eldest daughter of former Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo, also enjoyed the show. [caption id="attachment_185913" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The wedding of Rama and Sita.[/caption] Her mother graced a rehearsal on 6 September, especially invited by Rama, Hari choreographer and director, National Artist Alice Reyes and composer, National Artist Ryan Cayabyab. On 7 September, Robredo enthused on Facebook: “Yesterday, we, together with some local artists from Naga, trooped to the Metropolitan Theater in Manila to watch their first full stage rehearsal and we were stunned. They were not in costumes yet and the stage design was not even mounted yet but the entire production left us breathless and speechless!! It is the best of Philippine Dance and Music.” She encouraged everyone not to miss “the only collaboration that features the masterful works of five National Artists.” Aside from Reyes and Cayabyab, the other National Artists involved in the production are the late Bienvenido Lumbera, who wrote the lyrics and libretto; Salvador Bernal, who designed the stage and costumes; and Rolando Tinio, who translated it to English. They were not yet declared National Artists when the production by Ballet Philippines premiered on 8 February 1980 at CCP’s Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo. The original staging featured Nonoy Froilan, Basil Valdez, Kuh Ledesma, Leo Valdez and Edna Vida. Rama, Hari was not restaged until 2012, starring Christian Bautista, Karylle Tatlonghari, Richardson Yadao and Katherine Trofeo. It won 14 Philstage Gawad Buhay awards. An adaptation was mounted in 1999, called Rama, Hari, Rama at Sita, The Musical, featuring Ariel Rivera and Lani Misalucha as performers, directed by Leo Rialp and choreographed by Locsin. The music was composed by Cayabyab and Danny Tan, and the lyrics written by Roy Iglesias and Dodjie Simon, based on Lumbera’s book. Rama, Hari was planned to be the closing production of Ballet Philippines’ 50th season in March 2020, but was canceled when lockdowns were imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic. When Reyes established her own dance company in 2022, the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, Rama, Hari became one of its cherished projects. [caption id="attachment_185909" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Energetic dancing by Alice Reyes Dance Philippines. | Photographs courtesy of Teddy Pelaez[/caption] Reyes put both dancers and singers on the same stage, interpreting scenes and emotions in both words and movements. The cast is led by Arman Ferrer as Rama with alternate Vien King and dancer versions Ronelson Yadao and Ejay Arisola. Sita is portrayed by singers Karylle Tatlonghari, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and neophyhte Nica Tupas and dancers Monica Gana and Katrene San Miguel. [caption id="attachment_185910" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Erl Sorilla as Lakshmana and Monica Gana as Sita. | Photograph courtesy of Teddy Pelaez[/caption] Singers Poppert Bernadas, Matthew San Jose and Jonel Mojica and dancers Richardson Yadao (also dancer for King Janaka) and Tim Cabrera take on the villain role, the demon king of Lanka, Ravana. Other performers are Audie Gemora (singer, King Dasaratha), Lester Reguindin and John Ababon (dancers, King Dasaratha); Miah Canton and Raflesia Bravo (singers, Kooni and Soorpanakha); Ma. Celina Dofitas and Sarah Alejandro (dancers, Soorpanakha); Michaella Carreon and Dofitas (dancers, Kooni); Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana (singers, Kaikeyi and the Golden Deer); Janine Arisola and Karla Santos (dancers, Kaikeyi); Erl Sorilla and Renzen Arboleda (dancers, Lakshmana and King Sagreeva); Paw Castillo and Jon Abella (singers, Hanuman and Lakshmana); and Dan Dayo and Ricmar Bayoneta (dancers, Hanuman); Alejandro and Krislynne Buri (Golden Deer); Dayo and James Galarpe (Bharata). Aside from ARDP and CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program, other performers come from Guang Ming College Artist Residency Program, Philippine High School for the Arts, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers. Music is performed by Orchestra of the Filipino Youth with Antonio Maria P. Cayabyab as conductor. After the two-night gala on 15 and 16 September at the Manila Metropolitan Theater, the production moves to the Samsung Performing Arts Theater of Circuit Makati in Makati City on 22 and 23 September. The post ‘Rama, Hari’ gala is a cultural feast appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR Photography Contest 2023 winners bared
The results of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s Photography Contest 2023 were revealed today, 13 September, with PAGCOR’s announcement of the 24 grand winners from among 5,400 entries nationwide. The 12 winners in the conventional photography category received P80,000 each in cash prizes, while the 12 winners in the mobile category took home P35,000 each – the biggest prizes so far in the history of PAGCOR’s photo contest. PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco, who graced the event, said the agency was overwhelmed by the huge turnout of participants for the competition, which made a comeback this year following a six-year hiatus. “We were overwhelmed by the significant number of participants who joined this photo competition. Because of this project’s success, we will make this photography competition an annual event,” Tengco said. “At dahil naging matagumpay ang photo contest na ito, we will refine this para maging isang kilalang photography competition organized by PAGCOR. Umasa din kayo na dadagdagan pa natin ang prizes sa mga susunod na taon,” he said. Tengco said this year’s contest, with the theme “Sa’n Tayo Next?”, showcased relatively unknown but beautiful destinations of the Philippines that hold huge potentials of becoming major tourist spots. “The winning photos showed just how beautiful the Philippines is. So, instead of going abroad, we encourage all Filipinos to explore the beauty of our country and help promote domestic tourism,” he added. There were three winners each from Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and Metro Manila in both categories. The non-winning grand finalists for the conventional category also received P25,000 while the mobile category grand finalists received P10,000. “The Golden View of Mt. Utopia”, captured by 32-year-old self-taught photographer Reymund Requina from Cebu City, bagged one of the grand prizes under the conventional category. “Sobrang blessing in disguise ng photography sa akin. Nung panahong walang wala ako, itong photography ang sumalba sa akin kaya sobra-sobra talaga ang pasasalamat ko rito,” Requina said. The other conventional category winners were Aljon P. Tugaoen (Over and Under the Rocks of Pangil); Gerardo S. Pacios, Jr. (Batok); Dionisis Q. Silva (Amazing Cave); Louie Lawrence B. Lacson (Side Trip Tayo sa Kabalin-An Pond); Jumelito S. Capilo (The Elusive View of Panimahawa); Alvin B. Cempron (Malitbog); Oliver M. Atienza (Kalinaw sa Malinao (Tranquility of Malinao)); Earl Ryan G. Janubas (Splendid Impasugong); Klienne M. Eco (Payapang Umaga); Macbeth T. Omega (A Filipino Masterpiece - The Maligcong Rice Terraces); and Christopher G. Andres (Celebrating Centuries of Cultivation). The 12 mobile category winners, meanwhile, were Nicko A. Melendres (The Mighty Casaroro Falls); John Rhoel V. Florentino (The Last of the Last Frontier); Celbert A. Palaganas (Remnants of the Golden Past); Rowell C. Clenuar (The Alicia Panoramic Park); Jack David C. Ponpon (Philippines meets the Pacific); Daryl P. Anahaw (Playground of the Gods); Anthony T. Into (Green Dots of Hope); Jessie James Jalon F. Esteban (The Next Chapter: Discovering New Frontiers of El Nido Beach); Sherbien M. Dacalanio (Warzone to Wow Zone); Alvin Mike M. Mahait (The Gentle Pawikan of Negros); Gerard Jonathan C. Laserna (Gentle Beast); and Ronald P. Portula (Tropical State of Mind). Mindanao regional screening judge and nature and commercial photographer Edwin Martinez commended PAGCOR for reviving the competition, which highlighted the country’s vast tourism potentials. “This is a very good project as it does not only help develop the talent of our photographers but, more importantly, promotes our tourism industry especially the places that are not so famous but can rival the other known spots in the country in terms of beauty,” he said. The other prominent photographers and artists who served as judges were Jijo de Guzman, Bobot Go, Lauren Malcampo, Wig Tysmans, Pepper Teehankee, Edwin Tuyay, Jo Avila, Jilson Tiu, Ernie Sarmiento, Wawi Navarozza, Sherwin Magsino and Noel Guevara. The post PAGCOR Photography Contest 2023 winners bared appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR warns vs fake online gaming sites
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has warned against the proliferation of websites using the PAGCOR logo without permission to mislead the public that their activities are connected with licensed offshore gaming in the Philippines. PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said he is strongly advising the public to exercise caution when accessing such online gaming websites “because they may pose risks to your personal and financial information.” The PAGCOR chief added that they have endorsed the results of the investigation and monitoring of dubious websites to the Philippine National Police as well as to the Department of Information and Communication Technology and the National Bureau of Investigation for proper action. “So far, we have been able to shut down most of these illicit websites, but some of them are able to immediately create new ones so we really need the public’s cooperation and vigilance to help us weed out these scammers,” he said. Tengco said other steps being taken include continuing engagement with law enforcement agencies and electronic payment service providers to explore the possibility of blocking payments made to and from illegal gambling websites which he said has been proven effective in the US and Singapore. “In coordination with the NTC, we will also continue to follow up on illegal sites that have not been blocked or taken down,” he said. “Another option is to create a landing site to redirect bettors to a website that will warn them about illegal sites that they are accessing.” The post PAGCOR warns vs fake online gaming sites appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR delivers aid to flood-affected Marikina City residents
Amid days of incessant rains in Metro Manila due to the southwest monsoon (habagat), the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation recently delivered aid to flood-prone Marikina City. On 2 September 2023, the agency turned over to Marikina City’s Administrator Janeth Obispo 5,000 relief packs consisting of 3,000 food packs and 2,000 non-food packs. The food packs contained rice, canned goods, coffee and chocolate drinks, while the non-food packs included blankets, mosquito nets, bath towels, slippers and hygiene kits. The relief items were distributed to families from low-lying areas in the city that are easily submerged in flood water. According to PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco, the agency decided to send aid to Marikina residents after the city was recently submerged in flood due to the southwest monsoon enhanced by typhoons “Goring” and “Hanna.” “A few days ago, Marikina River’s water level reached 15.7 meters, prompting the city government to prepare for evacuation of residents. Because of this, I immediately ordered our Corporate Social Responsibility Group to deliver aid to affected families,” said Tengco. About a month ago, PAGCOR also delivered food and non-food packs to more than 31,000 families in various parts of Central and Northern Luzon who were affected by the onslaught of typhoons “Egay” and “Falcon.” The post PAGCOR delivers aid to flood-affected Marikina City residents appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘I’d never work in Hollywood’: Mexico star director Michel Franco
He has piled up awards and looks set for even greater acclaim with a moving new drama starring Jessica Chastain, but Michel Franco has no interest in being lured to Tinseltown. "Memory", which premiered at the Venice Film Festival on Friday, packs more moral conundrums into its 100 minutes than many directors manage in an entire career. Featuring Chastain as a recovering alcoholic who meets a dementia patient, played by Peter Sarsgaard, it tackles buried trauma, the weakness of memory, and the rights of disabled people to control their own lives. Franco wrote and produced "Memory", as he has all his films. Still just 44, he has covered a wide range of vital topics in his work, from a nightmarish military coup in "New Order" (which won the Grand Jury prize in Venice in 2020) to terminal illness in "Chronic" (best screenplay at Cannes in 2015), to teenage bullying in "After Lucia" (winner of the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes in 2012). The latter attracted renowned actor Tim Roth ("Pulp Fiction"), who has since appeared in two of Franco's films, "Chronic" and "Sundown". But despite now working with one of Hollywood's biggest stars in Chastain, Franco is determined not to follow fellow Mexican directors like Alfonso Cuaron, Guillermo del Toro, and Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu to Los Angeles. "Where I feel comfortable is in Mexico City. There are fewer rules," Franco told AFP in Venice. "What is very interesting about the United States are the actors. In Mexico, there are good actors, but the big leagues are in New York, in Los Angeles," he explains. "I would never work in Hollywood," he said. "I would never work for a studio where I don't have the final cut of my film." Nor is he a fan of streaming services, which he describes as "the enemies of cinemas". Insecurities, fears Speaking ahead of the premiere of "Memory", Franco told AFP he had to delve deep into his anxieties for the script. "One of my biggest fears is losing my mind. That's why I'm interested in exploring dementia," Franco told AFP. But he insists his films are not born from a desire to tackle a particular theme. "'Chronic' came out from seeing the nurse who cared for my grandmother, I had her right there in front of me every day." For "Memory", the initial spark was imagining someone being followed home from a high school reunion, which is how the main characters meet. "I didn't know why or who they were. But that was the first thing that occurred to me," Franco said. Parents often fail their children in Franco's films, but he says: "I try not to see them as villains because then it's uninteresting. "I am interested in broken people, who have not completely finished inventing themselves. People with insecurities, with fears, give me more confidence than those who think they have everything clear," he added. His scripts are brutally precise but never weighed down with explanatory dialogue, preferring to let performances and visual details do the work. "The more I can achieve without dialogue, the better. The rule is 'less is more'," he said. The post ‘I’d never work in Hollywood’: Mexico star director Michel Franco appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR chief welcomes raps over e-sabong cash bond
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. chairman Alejandro Tengco welcomed the charges filed against him and former PAGCOR board of directors over the alleged disappearance of a P75-million performance bond posted by the dissolved E-Sabong Licensing Department in July 2022......»»