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How Entrepreneurs Can Leverage on Youtube
YouTube has always emerged as a prominent tool for visionaries seeking to amplify their brand presence and let their thoughts be heard. While being threatened by short-form video social media platform TikTok, Youtube still offers a unique space for entrepreneurs to connect with a vast, diverse audience. From thought leadership to the humanization of brand […].....»»
Steps gaining exporter status under RCEP outlined
Exporters wishing to avail themselves of preferential tariffs under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership can apply with the Bureau of Customs to become an approved exporter, according to a customs official. Gina German, head of the Preferential Rate Unit of the BoC Port of Manila, is encouraging Filipino exporters to start leveraging the RCEP’s benefits, foremost of which is being allowed to source materials and products from the 14 other member parties of the mega free trade agreement at lower duty rates. Study and comply German also urged companies to study and comply with the RCEP’s rules of origin (ROO), a requirement to get preferential tariff treatment under the world’s biggest trade deal. Essentially, the ROO can be regarded as a passport for products, a way to determine the country of origin of a product and establish its eligibility for preferential tariff treatment. It can help businesses reduce costs and boost their competitiveness within the regional market. Under RCEP, originating goods are those falling under three categories: wholly obtained in the RCEP party or member state of the agreement; those produced in a party exclusively from originating materials from one or more of the parties; and those produced in a party using non-originating materials, provided the good satisfies the applicable requirements set out in Annex 3A (Product-Specific Rules). Documentary requirements German said applicants seeking “approved exporter” status under RCEP should submit the following documentary requirements: • Duly accomplished application form • BoC’s Certificate of Registration • Product Evaluation Report or PER, if applicable Meanwhile, traders applying for approved exporter status, should submit a producer’s declaration indicating the originating status of the good for which the trader will be completing a declaration of origin and stating the producer’s readiness to cooperate in verification. “If you are a trader, you need to know who produces the good or you still have a declaration that it is originating in the Philippines so that you will be ready during the retro verification or verification of the importing country,” said German during her talk last month at a Department of Trade and Industry webinar. In addition applicants have to submit a list of the authorized signatories of the DO and their respective specimen signatures. The application form should be submitted in both hard copy and electronic Portable Document Format to the deputy commissioner of the Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group through the Customer Care Center or CCC. The Export Coordination Division or ECD will then evaluate the application based on the following criteria: Exporter is a legitimate exporter who must have been transacting with the BOC for at least one year prior to the date of application Exporter must have been exporting products to at least one RCEP party for at least one year • Exporter must have good compliance measured by risk management of the BOC • Exporter must have a sound bookkeeping and recordkeeping system • Exporter must have responsible officers or persons authorized to sign the DO, who must have sufficient knowledge, competence in ROO application • Exporter must be willing to be subjected to regular monitoring and inspection to determine correctness of its declaration with respect to the goods exported. Written authorization After evaluation the ECD will grant the status of approved exporter to the successful applicants by issuing a written authorization with its corresponding authorization code within 14 working days. From there, the BOC will input the details of the approved exporter in its Approved Exporter Database for circulation among the RCEP parties. RCEP came into effect officially for the Philippines on June 2, 2023 after the Senate finally ratified the agreement in February this year. The Philippines was the last country to ratify RCEP, a free trade pact among the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations — Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam — and the five ASEAN FTA partners Australia, China, Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand. The post Steps gaining exporter status under RCEP outlined appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meta quarterly profit jumps but it sees volatility in ad market
Meta on Wednesday reported that its quarterly profit more than doubled from last year's figure as it looks ahead at a volatile ad market and lawsuits accusing it of profiting from "children's pain." "Meta earnings looked pretty good," said independent tech analyst Rob Enderle. "They have clearly cut back on the bleeding surrounding their metaverse efforts and the company appears to be on a more even keel right now." The tech giant said it made a profit of $11.6 billion as ad revenue climbed 23 percent to $34 billion when compared to the same period a year earlier. "We had a good quarter for our community and business," said Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg. The number of people using Facebook monthly rose slightly to 3.05 billion in a year-over-year comparison while monthly active users of Meta's "family" of apps was 3.96 billion a 7 percent increase from the same quarter in 2022, the company reported. Meta said it had trimmed costs, with layoffs and other belt-tightening measures started last year providing "greater efficiency." Meta had suffered a rough 2022 amid a souring economic climate and Apple's data privacy changes, which allowed users to block ad targeting, the pillar of Meta's business. Meta's vow of austerity on spending brought an unprecedented round of cost-cutting that saw the company lay off tens of thousands of workers since last November. Meta shares, which closed the formal trading day down, fell more than three percent further in after-hours trades to $289.50. Chief financial officer Susan Li said during an earnings call that Meta is seeing "volatility" in an ad market that started to soften when the conflict between Israel and Hamas began. "It's hard for us to attribute demand softness directly to any specific geopolitical event," Li said. "We have seen broader demand softness follow other regional conflicts in the past, such as in the Ukraine war, so this is something that we're continuing to monitor." Lawsuit peril Analyst Enderle maintained that Meta is at risk from lawsuits poised to damage its image and its wallet. Dozens of US states this week accused Meta of profiting "from children's pain," damaging their mental health and misleading people about the safety of its platforms. "In seeking to maximize its financial gains, Meta has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its Social Media Platforms," argued a joint lawsuit filed in federal court in California. The states accused Meta of exploiting young users by creating a business model designed to maximize time they spend on the platform despite harm to their health. In total more than 40 states are suing Meta, though some opted to file in local courts rather than join in the federal case. Meta said the states were singling it out unfairly instead of working with social media companies to develop universal standards for the whole industry. "This landmark lawsuit could herald a seismic shift in how social media platforms approach product features and user engagement," said Insider Intelligence principal analyst Jeremy Goldman. "That said, even as tech stocks face uncertainty, Meta's consistent performance cements its leadership in the digital realm." Meanwhile, the European Union is seeking details on measures Meta has taken to stop the spread of "illegal content and disinformation" in light of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The AI race The tech giant is putting artificial intelligence into digital assistants and smart glasses as it seeks to gain lost ground in the AI race. "I'm proud of the work our teams have done to advance AI and mixed reality with the launch of Quest 3, Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, and our AI studio," Zuckerberg said in the earnings release. The second-generation Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses made in a partnership with EssilorLuxottica have a starting price of $299. "Smart glasses are the ideal form factor for you to let AI assistants see what you're seeing and hear what you're hearing," Zuckerberg said. Meta has taken a more cautious approach than its rivals Microsoft, OpenAI, and Google to push out AI products, prioritizing small steps and making its in-house models available to developers and researchers. "The majority of the world's population will have their first experience of generative artificial intelligence with us," Meta chief technology officer Andrew "Boz" Bosworth told AFP in a recent interview. Meta recently unveiled AI-infused chatbots with personalities, along with tools for creating images or written content using spoken prompts. The post Meta quarterly profit jumps but it sees volatility in ad market appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hundreds dead in Israel-Gaza war as Hezbollah launches attacks
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday warned of a "long and difficult" war, as fighting with Hamas left hundreds dead on both sides after a surprise attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group. The conflict's bloodiest escalation in decades saw Hamas carry out a massive rocket barrage and ground, air and sea offensive Saturday that Israel's army said had killed more than 200 Israelis and wounded 1,000, while soldiers and civilians were taken hostage. Gaza officials said intense Israeli air strikes on the coastal enclave had brought the Palestinian death toll to at least 256, with nearly 1,788 wounded. As fighting raged Sunday, Lebanon's powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah movement said it had fired "large numbers of artillery shells and guided missiles" at Israeli positions in a contested border areas "in solidarity" with Hamas. Israel's army had earlier said it fired artillery on southern Lebanon in response to a shot from the area without identifying the attackers. "We are embarking on a long and difficult war that was forced on us by a murderous Hamas attack," Netanyahu said on X, formerly Twitter, early Sunday. "The first stage is ending at this time by the destruction of the vast majority of the enemy forces that infiltrated our territory," he added, pledging no "respite" until victory. Overnight Israel battered the Gaza Strip with air strikes as rockets from the blockaded Palestinians territory rained on Israel. Sunday morning gun still battles raged between Israeli forces and hundreds of Hamas fighters in multiple locations, including at the Sderot police station across the border from Gaza. Police and Israeli army special forces "neutralized 10 armed terrorists" who were holed up inside the station, a police statement said. The bloody air, sea and land attack launched Saturday by Hamas came half a century after the outbreak of the 1973 Arab-Israeli war, taking Israel and the world by surprise. As the UN Security Council called an emergency meeting for Sunday, President Joe Biden voiced "rock solid and unwavering" support for the US ally and warned "against any other party hostile to Israel seeking advantage in this situation". - Hostages and 'so many bodies' - The Israeli army said overnight its forces were still engaged in gun battles in a string of Israel locations, in an operation labelled "Swords of Iron", as reservists were being called up. Hamas earlier released images of several Israelis taken captive, and another army spokesman, Daniel Hagari, confirmed that soldiers and civilians had been kidnapped. "I can't give figures about them at the moment," he said late Saturday, adding there was also a "severe hostage situation" in the Negev desert communities of Beeri and Ofakim east of Gaza. According to Ynet Israeli news website "dozens of Israeli captives, including numerous women, children and elders, are believed to have been taken into the Gaza Strip". The fighting prompted Israel to cut off Gaza's electricity, fuel and goods supplies, Netanyahu said. The Islamist group started the multi-pronged attack around 6:30 am (0330 GMT) on Saturday with thousands of rockets aimed as far as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, some bypassing the Iron Dome defense system and hitting buildings. Hamas fighters -- traveling in ground vehicles, motorized paragliders and boats -- breached Gaza's security barrier and attacked nearby Israeli towns and military posts, opening fire on residents and passersby. "Send help, please!" one Israeli woman sheltering with her two-year-old child pleaded as militants outside opened fire and tried to break into their safe room, Israeli media reported. Bodies were strewn on the streets of the Israeli town of Sderot near Gaza and inside cars, the windscreens shattered by a hail of bullets. "I saw many bodies, of terrorists and civilians," one man told AFP, standing beside covered corpses on a road near Gevim Kibbutz in southern Israel. "So many bodies, so many bodies." AFP journalists witnessed Palestinian armed men gather around a burning Israeli tank, and others driving a seized Israeli military Humvee vehicle back into Gaza, where they were met by cheering crowds. - 'Gates of hell' - Israeli army Major General Ghasan Alyan warned Hamas had "opened the gates of hell". An AFP journalist in Gaza saw clouds of dust from the remains of bombed residential towers which Gaza's interior ministry said contained 100 apartments. Israel's military said it had warned residents to evacuate before targeting the multi-story buildings used by Hamas. The escalation follows months of rising violence, mostly in the occupied West Bank, and tensions around Gaza's border and at contested holy sites in Jerusalem. Before Saturday, at least 247 Palestinians, 32 Israelis and two foreigners had been killed this year, including combatants and civilians, according to Israeli and Palestinian officials. Hamas labeled its attack "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" and called on "resistance fighters in the West Bank" as well as in "Arab and Islamic nations" to join the battle. Its armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, claimed to have fired more than 5,000 rockets, while Hecht said Israel had counted more than 3,000 incoming rockets. Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh said the group was on the "verge of a great victory", vowing to press ahead with "the battle to liberate our land and our prisoners languishing in occupation prisons must be completed". - 'Dangerous precipice' - Air raid sirens wailed across southern and central Israel, as well as in Jerusalem on Saturday, and there were major disruptions at Tel Aviv airport where many carriers canceled flights. Israel said schools would remain closed on Sunday which marks the start of the week. Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007, leading to Israel's crippling blockade of the impoverished enclave of 2.3 million people. Israel and Hamas have since fought several wars. The last major military exchange, in May, killed 34 Palestinians and one Israeli. Violence also erupted across the West Bank, including annexed east Jerusalem, with five Palestinians killed and 120 wounded in clashes with Israeli forces and settlers, Palestinian medical services said. Countries around the world condemned the wave of attacks by Hamas, which Israel, the United States and European Union consider a terrorist group. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "terrorism in its most despicable form". But Hamas drew support from other foes of Israel, with Iran's supreme leader declaring he was "proud". UN Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland warned of "a dangerous precipice" and called on all sides to "pull back from the brink". (Rosie Scammell with Adel Zaanoun in Gaza) az-rsc-jd/hkb © Agence France-Presse The post Hundreds dead in Israel-Gaza war as Hezbollah launches attacks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sustainability reporting rules undergoing revamp
The Securities and Exchange Commission or SEC is seeking the public’s comments and suggestions to improve the sustainability reporting of companies that will be required in the revised Sustainability Reporting or SR Guidelines for publicly listed companies or PLCs. The goal is to ensure that the measure aligns with the interests of consumers and supports the development of a sustainable economy. SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino pointed out that the move is part of the Commission’s efforts to “be at the forefront of promoting good corporate governance and international best practices.” “The SEC considers it imperative to keep SR regulations responsive to the latest global developments. The further development of the SR framework in the country contributes to the creation of a green and blue economy, as well as the establishment of sustainable communities,” he added. Guideline gets revised The SEC issued the draft Memorandum Circular on the Revised SR Guidelines on 4 October. It will be up for public comment until 16 October. Primarily, it the upgraded rules aim to update current rules on sustainability reporting provided under SEC Memorandum Circular 4, series of 2019 or MC 4. According to the updated guidelines, PLCs will be required to submit sustainability reports in two formats — the SR Narrative and the Sustainability Report or SuRe Form. The companies must also provide a written report using the format specified in MC 4. This report should be submitted alongside the company’s yearly report. Meanwhile, PLCs will be required to submit their duly answered SuRe Form through the SEC Electronic Filing and Submission Tool. Its template comprises three major sections, namely Sustainability and Climate-related Opportunities and Risks Exposures; Cross-Industry Standard Metrics; and Industry-Specific Metrics. Separate guidelines for ISM, which largely considered the existing Philippine Standard Industrial Classification, will be released later. In 2019, the SEC made sustainability reporting mandatory for PLCs through MC 4. The post Sustainability reporting rules undergoing revamp appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PEZA anticipates more Chinese investments in PH
Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso O. Panga said more Chinese companies are choosing the Philippines as their next investment destination for their operations, at the completion of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo last 19 September. “With our robust economic performance and aggressive investment strategy, we are bullish in attracting more Chinese investments to the country especially in our ecozones, which can provide the best business ecosystem for our investors,” said Panga. During the Philippine Investment Forum in China, Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime A. FlorCruz highlighted that Chinese investors have expressed positive and increased interest in locating in the Philippines. He reported that the state visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. secured over $22 billion in strategic investment commitments. FlorCruz also stated that “In the past 6 months since I took this role as Ambassador, I have met many Chinese executives actively seeking investment opportunities across numerous industries in the Philippines. Many are now poised to invest in the Philippines.” After the forum, two big Chinese companies met with Philippine officials to discuss business opportunities. One company, a leading global provider of smart devices, seeks to expand its presence in the Philippines, especially in the area of consumer electronics. Another company, one of the five largest power generation groups in China, aims to bring in renewable energy projects to the country. PEZA seeks to attract investments from high-tech industries and emerging technologies in industrial manufacturing transport, technology media and telecommunications, health and life sciences, agro-processing, renewable energy development and green ores. To date, a total of 164 Chinese companies/projects are registered at PEZA, generating P25.822 billion investments (as of May 2023) and creating 16,221 direct jobs (as of March 2023). On the sidelines of the CAEXPO, Panga represented the Philippines during the Roundtable Meeting on Investment Cooperation with the theme: “China-ASEAN Cooperation in Green Low-Carbon and Digital Economy”. He noted, “The China-ASEAN Cooperation in Green Low-Carbon and Digital Economy represents a vital step toward sustainable development, environmental conservation and economic growth, not just for the participating nations but for the entire world.” The PEZA Chief also laid out some of the initiatives of PEZA and the national government to contribute to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals. These projects include the integration of SDGs to the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 and PEZA’s participation in the Global Reporting Initiative. PEZA is strengthening its ecozone development initiatives as part of the medium-term strategies under the PDP 2023-2028. Panga explained that on top of the conventional ecozones, PEZA is venturing into new frontiers in ecozone development to cater to new industries and to promote emerging global eco-industrial park models in the Philippines. “We intend to transform our ecozones and our registered export enterprises to be more sustainable, resilient and innovative and thereby make them competitive in the local and global value chain,” he said. So far, PEZA manages 422 economic zones nationwide which host 4,352 locator companies engaged in various industries including export manufacturing and IT-BPO. Considered as one of the largest expositions in China, the CAEXPO is an international economic and trade event co-sponsored by the central governments of China and the ASEAN countries. It is one of the key projects that form part of the Philippine-China Development Plan and is a major promotional platform that supports the country’s ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement. PEZA is the lone investment promotion agency partner of the Department of Trade and Industry export promotion arm Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions for the CAEXPO participation. Following this event, PEZA joined the Special Envoy to China for the Philippine Investors’ Roadshow in Beijing, China on 26-30 September 2023. The post PEZA anticipates more Chinese investments in PH appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Filipino-Indian billionaire sought relief from DOJ
Filipino-Indian billionaire Rajiv Chandiramani has asked the Department of Justice to junk the complaint against him for multiple counts of falsification of public documents filed by his estranged brother for being “baseless, contrived, and manufactured.” Rajiv, in his 25-page counter-affidavit filed through his counsel, denied committing any falsification in order to take control of the more than P1 billion worth of properties left behind by their father Prem Chandiraman following his death in 2011. He claimed that the falsification complaint was merely resurrected by his brother to pressure him to give in to the latter’s demands for more money after their initial compromise agreement in 2022. “By re-filing the complaint for falsification of documents as against Rajiv, Amith has violated his waiver and quitclaim. In the regime of law and order, repudiation of an agreement validly entered into cannot be made without any ground or reason in law or in fact for such repudiation,” Rajiv said. Contrary to his brother’s claim, Rajiv recounted that because of his business ethics, he was able to establish a good business reputation in the business community, particularly in the Filipino-Indian community. Rajiv is the owner of Rheana’s Trading Inc., which is one of the leading domestic companies engaged in the business of buying, selling, distributing, and importing electronic products and accessories. While his older brother, according to Rajiv, got hooked on illegal drugs and was confined in several drug rehabilitation facilities. Rajiv said his brother, in 2020, was released from a drug facility and then stayed in Dubai. A year after, Rajiv claimed there were several defamatory messages against him that were being circulated among relatives, friends, and colleagues, particularly, that he had allegedly falsified several sale documents. With this, Rajiv conducted his own personal investigation and was convinced that these defamatory messages originated from Amith. “It eventually became apparent that Amith started these malicious rumors as he wanted additional monies from Rajiv and their mother,” Rajiv said. Rajiv initially sought redress before the courts by filing a complaint for damages with an injunction against Amith to prevent and dissuade him from continuously spreading malicious allegations against him. He also filed a criminal complaint for cyber libel against Amith. Meanwhile, Amith, in July 2022, filed a criminal complaint for falsification of public documents against Rajiv and their mother and several other respondents before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Makati City. He alleged that Rajiv conspired with their mother to falsify the signature of their deceased father as appearing on several sale documents. In order to end their rift and upon persuasion of family members, Rajiv said he agreed to a compromise with Amith, which led to the mutual withdrawal of the cases that were filed against each other at that time. The agreement also provides a waiver and quitclaim covering any and all potential claims or rights against each other arising from, or in connection with the cases, as well as the estate of their late father. Rajiv, as part of the consideration for the compromise agreement, bound himself to pay Amith the total amount of P150 million by way of support. Rajiv said he has been complying with his contractual undertakings in providing Amith with monthly support of Php600,000, including giving financial assistance for Amith to put up his own electronics trading business. But was surprised to learn that Amith violated their agreement by resurrecting the falsification complaint against him. Amith in his complaint, claimed that Rajiv, their mother Pushpa Chandiramani, and several others connived in depriving him of his inheritance from their father Prem, amounting to billions of pesos in the form of real estate properties and business interests. Among the properties that he claimed were illegally taken from him by Rajiv and his cohorts was a prime 1,559 square-meter lot in Cubao, Quezon City with Transfer Certificate of Title No.46459. But the camp of Rajiv maintained that the compromise agreement entered into by him and Amith is a valid and enforceable contract; thus, the latter is barred from filing a falsification of public documents complaint. “The act of Amith in re-filing or reviving the Complaint for Falsification of Documents with the NBI is a violation of the compromise agreement, and his desistance, waiver, and quitclaim undertakings,” Rajiv said. He disclosed that he has filed a formal complaint for specific performance and damages seeking to compel Amith to comply with the provisions of the compromise agreement and the waiver and quitclaim. Presently, the complaint is pending with the Regional Trial Court of Makati City, Branch 145. The post Filipino-Indian billionaire sought relief from DOJ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Helmut Lang and Ralph Lauren kick off New York Fashion Week
Amid sweltering heat and jitters over the Hollywood strike, New York kicked off its Spring-Summer 2024 Fashion Week on Friday, with heavyweights Ralph Lauren and Helmut Lang returning to the industry's flagship event with fresh ideas. American luxury brand Coach unveiled its collection of sensual translucent dresses at the New York Public Library in Manhattan on Thursday, but the event was briefly disrupted by animal rights activists. As Vogue editor Anna Wintour and Jennifer Lopez watched the show, two female protesters from the animal rights group PETA -- one covered in body paint that mimicked animal flaying and another holding a poster that read "Coach: Leather Kills" -- joined the models on the runway before security led them away. At another unofficial kick-off event on Wednesday, featuring Naomi Campbell, Doja Cat, Naomi Osaka and Gigi Hadid, the iconic lingerie label Victoria's Secret teased a film meant to showcase the brand's new and more inclusive identity after it was criticized for designing garments that objectify women. The film, entitled "The Victoria's Secret World Tour," to be released on Amazon Prime at the end of September, highlights the work of creators and artists from Lagos, London, Bogota, and Tokyo. Yellow taxi This year, New York Fashion Week will feature young talents and emerging brands, along with heavyweights such as Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Altuzarra, Gabriela Hearst, Carolina Herrera, Tory Burch, and Luar. The city will then pass the baton to London, Milan, and Paris. "New York has always been a cornerstone of Fashion Week," said Steven Kolb, CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. "It really underscores how strong it is, in terms of presenting creative thinking." Under the humid heat of the New York summer, the six-day marathon kicked off Friday afternoon in Manhattan's Lower East Side with a show by Helmut Lang, who rose to fame in the 1990s and 2000s, thanks to the minimalist aesthetic of the Austrian artist. Helmut Lang, the designer, left fashion in 2005 but Helmut Lang, the brand, lives on, bought by Prada and then by the Japanese group Fast Retailing, which owns Uniqlo. The brand now returns to the runways of the Big Apple with a collection concocted by its new artistic director, Peter Do, widely considered a fashion prodigy. The show had nostalgic undertones, a bow to the 1990s when it became the first fashion brand to advertise on New York yellow taxi signs. Fewer red carpets Another brand to make its return on Friday, albeit in Brooklyn where many of the fashion shows have migrated, was Ralph Lauren, the legendary brand that defined American elegance and embodied preppy US style with an annual turnover of more than $6 billion. The brand, whose founder was born in the Bronx, has not held a show in New York since 2019. This fashion season is marked by the double strike of Hollywood screenwriters and actors seeking better compensation, which has reduced the number of red carpet previews to a minimum, thus depriving brands of a chance to dress stars and promote themselves in the process. "Certainly, the red carpet is a way to speak to the audience," said Kolb, adding that fashion shows were no less important. The "content that they create for social channels will contribute to a very loud, very visible Fashion Week," he added. The post Helmut Lang and Ralph Lauren kick off New York Fashion Week appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
China, U.S. form trade dispute panel
United States Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Tuesday reassured Chinese officials in Beijing that her country is not seeking to decouple its economy from China’s. “We seek to maintain our $700 billion commercial relationship with China, and we hope that that relationship can provide stability for the overall relationship,” Raimondo told Premier Li Qiang. Raimondo also told Li that Washington wants to “work with you as two global powers to do what is right for all of humanity.” Earlier on Tuesday, Raimondo met China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng. “Managing that relationship responsibly is critical to both of our nations and indeed to the whole world,” she said during a part of the meeting open to journalists. She stressed the US would “never compromise in protecting our national security,” but added that Washington did not seek “to hold China’s economy back.” The secretary’s meeting with her Chinese counterpart on Monday resulted in a deal to set up a working group to iron out trade disputes of their countries. China commerce minister Wang Wentao and Raimondo also agreed to set up an “export control enforcement information exchange” — described as a platform to “reduce misunderstanding of US national security policies.” The information exchange will convene for the first time at Beijing’s Ministry of Commerce on Tuesday, Washington said. The developments met Washington’s goal of ensuring open communication lines with Beijing. However, China’s “serious concerns” over US trade curbs on Chinese businesses remain. Beijing is referring to the “US Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, its semiconductor policies, restrictions of two-way investment, discriminatory subsidies, and sanctions on Chinese enterprises.” Washington defends the policies as necessary to “de-risk” its supply chains. But Wang warned they “run counter to market rules and the principle of fair competition, and will only harm the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains.” Healthy competition Raimondo is one of a number of senior US officials to visit China in recent months — part of an effort by Washington to improve its working relationship with its largest strategic rival. Relations between the two countries have plummeted to some of their lowest levels in decades, with US trade curbs near the top of the list of disagreements. This month, Biden issued an executive order aimed at restricting certain US investments in sensitive high-tech areas in China — a move Beijing blasted as being “anti-globalization.” The long-anticipated rules, expected to be implemented next year, target sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen sought to reassure Chinese officials about the expected curbs during a visit to Beijing last month. And Raimondo on Monday told Chinese officials that while there was “no room to compromise or negotiate” on US national security, “the vast majority of our trade and investment relationship does not involve national security concerns.” “We seek healthy competition with China. A growing Chinese economy that plays by the rules is in both of our interests,” she said. WITH AFP The post China, U.S. form trade dispute panel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Courting disaster (2)
“The judiciary,” once intoned Alexander Hamilton, “has no influence over either the sword or the purse; no direction either of the strength or of the wealth of society; and can take no active resolution whatever. It may truly be said to have neither force nor will, but merely judgment.” Thus, is the Judiciary said to be the “weakest” of the Three Great Branches of Government under the Constitution, as it, to paraphrase Hamilton, holds neither the purse (controlled by Congress) nor the sword (under the command of the Chief Executive)? Someone once joked that in the case, however, of then-Chief Justice Enrique Fernando, he holds the umbrella for Imelda Marcos, but that is something those born after the 1980s will not get. This is why the framers of our Constitution, in their infinite wisdom (and I use the phrase advisedly) had deemed it fit to elevate what had hitherto been merely ruling case law into a constitutional injunction. Section 3 of Article VIII reads: “The Judiciary shall enjoy fiscal autonomy. Appropriations for the Judiciary may not be reduced by the legislature below the amount appropriated for the previous year and, after approval, shall be automatically and regularly released.” Looks good. But in practice, it reduces judicial independence to a chimera. While the budget of the courts may not be reduced from that of the previous year, if a nasty Legislature wants to starve out a nonconformist Judiciary, it may simply opt to maintain its budget at the same level year after year after year. After a few years, with inflation, the courts will be reduced to tatters. And this happens every year, with the high officials of the Supreme Court practically reduced to bringing a begging bowl to Congress when budget deliberations come up in the agenda. This year, around P14 billion was arbitrarily lopped off the proposed budget for the Judicial branch. Now, the court administration is asking that some P6.7 billion be restored if only to upgrade the salaries of court personnel, the hazard pay for judges (who lately have been at the receiving end of gun barrels from disgruntled litigants) and costs for their security in the form of judicial marshals, the creation of more courts to serve a burgeoning caseload, and for the Judicial Integrity Board (who keeps erring judges in line). Methinks this is not too much to ask for, and as a lawyer and therefore an officer of the court, it pains me to see the Supreme Court looking like the poorer relations of Congress begging for alms. This is especially since Congress has notoriously been seen to have granted unto itself huge allocations for its members per district, the combined value of which is far and away higher than what the High Tribunal is asking for. The importance of a strong, independent Judiciary cannot be overestimated in a constitutional government such as ours. Aside from adjudicating private rights amongst competing parties, it is the final bulwark against governmental abuse. As former President Jose P. Laurel, when he was a Supreme Court magistrate, so emphatically articulated in the landmark case of Angara v. Electoral Commission, “(i)n cases of conflict, the judicial department is the only constitutional organ which can be called upon to determine the proper allocation of powers between the several departments of the government.” That is why I wish to make this call to our lawmakers to be not niggardly with the monetary allocation to our courts. It will not serve the ends of good governance well to be penny-wise and pound-foolish with the nation’s coffers. By the same token, kudos to Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Senate President Miguel Zubiri and neophyte Senator Raffy Tulfo, who have all filed bills seeking to strengthen the Judiciary’s fiscal autonomy. For to neglect the courts would necessarily be courting disaster. The post Courting disaster (2) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
China vows ‘forceful’ response over Taiwan VP’s US visit
China on Sunday vowed "resolute and forceful measures" over a weekend trip by Taiwan Vice President William Lai to the United States it said it was closely monitoring. Lai -- the frontrunner in Taiwan's presidential elections next year -- is officially making only transit stops in the United States en route to and from Paraguay, where he will attend the inauguration of president-elect Santiago Pena. Taiwan is claimed by China, which has vowed to take the island democracy one day -- by force, if necessary -- and ramped up political and military pressure. "China is closely following the development of the situation and will take resolute and forceful measures to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity," an unnamed spokesperson for the foreign ministry said in a statement published online. Lai has been far more outspoken about independence than Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, to whom Beijing is already hostile as she refuses to accept its view that Taiwan is a part of China. The Harvard-educated doctor-turned-politician has previously described himself as a "pragmatic Taiwan independence worker", and reiterated this week when speaking with a local television channel that Taiwan was "not part of the People's Republic of China (PRC)". "The Republic of China and PRC are not subordinate to each other," he said, using Taiwan's official name. On landing in New York on Sunday, Lai said on Twitter, now rebranded as X: "Happy to arrive at the Big Apple, icon of liberty, democracy and opportunities," adding that he was greeted at the airport by representatives of the American Institute in Taiwan, the United States's de facto embassy for the island. "Looking forward to seeing friends and attending transit programs in New York," he wrote. Lai is expected to continue to Paraguay, then stop in San Francisco on his way back. - Airspace incursions - In the week leading up to Lai's departure, incursions by the Chinese military around Taiwan's waters and airspace -- which have been happening near-daily in the past year -- were larger than usual. On Wednesday, the defense ministry said 33 Chinese warplanes and six vessels had been detected around the island in a 24-hour window. "China is firmly opposed to any form of official exchanges between the US and Taiwan, is resolutely opposed to separatists seeking 'Taiwan independence' entering the US under any name and for any reason, and firmly opposed to any form of official contact between the US government and the Taiwanese side," China's foreign ministry spokesperson said. "China expresses strong dissatisfaction with and strongly condemns the US insistence on arranging William Lai's 'transit' to the US," the spokesperson added, labeling Lai a "downright troublemaker". ehl-je/cwl © Agence France-Presse The post China vows ‘forceful’ response over Taiwan VP’s US visit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
How to nurse a cold naturally
When the season of rain comes, there is one health challenge we all accept as a realistic outcome — the common cold and with it, the cough. Here is a list of natural remedies you might consider in order to feel just a little bit better. 1. Hydration. In order to speed up detoxification, you need to increase your water intake. Water keeps the blood flowing more efficiently, so drink up! Normally, a state of illness can turn the body acidic, so you may want to consider taking alkaline water. But if you are taking any kind of medication, drink it with acidic or neutral pH water (for better absorption). Take 10-15 glasses daily. 2. Vitamin C. Go for vitamin C IV drip if you do not like swallowing pills. Or buy the effervescent tablets and drink up on this immune-boosting vitamin. Orally, you may take anywhere from 1,000-5,000 mg of vitamin C after a meal. It is best to take vitamins with meals for longer absorption. Intravenous drips can range from 5,000 to 10,000 mg under the supervision of a doctor. 3. Hot soup. There is nothing like old-fashioned chicken soup. Yes, it does hit the spot. Go for organic or free-range chicken if your budget permits. 4. Ginger tea. This soothing tea can be brewed at home. You can boil it for five minutes or grate the fresh ginger and mix it with boiling water. Make sure you remove the fiber as it can tickle the throat and cause you to cough. If you feel chilly, the best way to warm up the body is with a cup of hot ginger tea. No sugar added. [caption id="attachment_166633" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ginger Tea[/caption] 5.Honey. This is high in anti-bacterial properties. One teaspoon of wild, raw honey is calming for the throat. If you are looking for powerful immune-boosting honey, try Manuka Honey. Its anti-bacterial capacity is based on its MGO or methylglyoxal. [caption id="attachment_166632" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Honey[/caption] Note: The higher the MGO rating, the stronger its anti-bacterial properties. Guide: 250-700 MGO is best. Look for the UMF stamp which states it is a Unique Manuka Factor as certified by New Zealand authority. 6. Humidifier. This releases steam. It may alleviate congestion, symptoms of allergies/ rhinitis/sinusitis. It will increase the humidity in the air. It may help loosen mucus and alleviate a dry, unproductive cough. 7. Supplements. A) Echinacea. This herb may shorten the duration of the common cold and reduce symptoms of sore throat and cough. It helps boost the immune system. B) Quercetin. This compound comes from onions. It may reduce inflammation, ease allergies and lower blood pressure. Health experts believe it has powerful anti-cancer, anti-heart disease properties. (Recommendation: Not to be taken longer than 12 weeks.) 8. Herb power. Basil, Rosemary, Thyme, Garlic, Horseradish, Ginger, Red Clover, Lemongrass and Licorice Root. These come in capsule form or tea. Go to a health food store. Note: Check with your doctor for any drug interactions if you are on medication. 9. Essential Oils. The essence of plants is in their essential oils. Just one drop goes a long way towards the relief you are seeking. Doterra is a widely renowned brand respected for its high-quality essential oils. Tri-Ease blend, a powerful combination of lemon and peppermint, was designed to deliver relief from a cold or chronic rhinitis. Other powerful blends include the immune-boosting On Guard with frankincense. For free lifestyle consultation, contact Espie Pasigan at 0939-1228780. 10. Movement. Don’t keep still for too long. Your lymphatic system needs to do its job. The lymph can only move through the body every time you are active. So, move! Affirmation: “I invoke perfect healing and optimum health.” Love and light! The post How to nurse a cold naturally appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Must-do’s before buying a condo
Many urban-dwelling young professionals, commonly referred to as “yuppies,” often ponder their readiness for property ownership. This is particularly common among those who prioritize home ownership and prefer living close to their workplaces, leading to a noticeable surge in online searches for condominiums. However, moving into a new home is a significant milestone in adulthood that calls for thorough mental, financial and emotional preparedness. [caption id="attachment_163897" align="aligncenter" width="5333"] UNIT Studio at Sierra Valley Gardens.[/caption] Karen Cesario, chief integration officer of Robinsons Land Corporation Residences, said that the process of finding one’s first home can be “daunting,” emphasizing the importance of minimizing the “risk of regrets.” Aspiring homeowners should keep these things in mind as they work toward their goal: 1. Set a moving-out date. The process of moving out can be challenging and time-consuming. Thus, it is essential to set a date for the move while considering tasks like cleaning, packing and obtaining necessary permits. Buyers eyeing the newly launched fourth building of Sierra Valley Gardens in Cainta, Rizal, have until the targeted turnover date in 2028 to plan their move. This allows them to develop skills like cooking, laundry and budgeting before the transition. 2. Emotionally prepare your family. Transitioning away from the family home requires emotionally preparing one’s family, considering the tight-knit bonds you have made through the years. It is essential to allocate enough time for open discussions and explanations about the decision, providing reassurance to the family that the individual will continue to visit and invite them to the new home. 3. Build a budget. Budgeting is essential for successful independent living, ensuring that homeowners do not exceed their income and can manage daily and monthly expenses effectively. Sierra Valley Gardens offers flexible payment schemes, including monthly amortizations, to provide ease for millennials. Moreover, RLC Residences is offering a five percent launch discount for the new fourth building, enabling future homeowners to purchase their dream home. 4. Develop eating habits. Living with family often provides the convenience of prepared food. However, when moving out, individuals must learn to plan meals, explore recipes and shop for groceries and essentials. Sierra Valley Gardens, situated within a “destination estate”, offers convenient access to an upcoming mall and various retail stores and restaurants. Its direct access to Ortigas Ave. Extension also ensures easy movement outside the estate when needed. 5. Keep an administration and maintenance directory. Keep a directory of emergency service providers like hospitals and police stations. Moreover, condominium residents should keep a directory of administration and maintenance offices. Taking the big leap Moving out is one big leap that one must take. It signifies a transition into independence, adulthood and the pursuit of personal growth. However, this journey is not without its challenges. “This is why we have been extremely thoughtful in designing Sierra Valley Gardens such that it caters to modern needs and aspirations — from installing upgraded smart home facilities, a work from home nook in our units, to providing abundant green spaces and a multitude of amenities for young professionals to enjoy,” Cesario said. Sierra Valley Gardens, an 18-hectare mixed-use development by the RLC Residences, offers a spacious residential area that cultivates a “thriving and independent community.” It caters to young professionals, start-up families and investors seeking a place to establish their lives and form lasting relationships. With a wide range of amenities and a dedicated residential district, Sierra Valley Gardens provides the perfect setting for personal growth and new adventures. The post Must-do’s before buying a condo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US actor Kevin Spacey cleared of UK sex offenses
Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey was acquitted on Wednesday in Britain of nine alleged sex offenses, in the latest court victory for the Oscar winner who was one of the first huge stars felled by the #MeToo movement. The star of "American Beauty" and drama series "House of Cards", who turned 64 on Wednesday, was acquitted by majority verdicts in London following a trial lasting several weeks. "I'm enormously grateful to the jury for having taken the time to examine all of the evidence and all of the facts carefully before they reached their decision and I am humbled by the outcome today," he told reporters outside court. It comes less than a year after a New York court dismissed a $40 million sexual misconduct civil lawsuit brought against him, and follows charges of indecent and sexual assault being dropped in Massachusetts in 2019. Spacey's once-stellar career has been halted by the various allegations of sexual offences, which first emerged in 2017 and which he has always denied. The actor told Germany's Die Zeit that he expected to mount a comeback following the acquittal. "I know that there are people right now who are ready to hire me the moment I am cleared of these charges in London," he told the German national weekly. "The second that happens, they're ready to move forward." Madness The jury in London, which began considering the charges on Monday, cleared Spacey of all nine counts that he faced, after more than 12 hours of deliberations. The alleged offences included seven counts of sexual assault, one count of causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent, and one count of causing a person to engage in penetrative sexual activity without consent. They were said to have occurred in 2005 and 2008 in London, and in 2013 in Gloucestershire, western England. Jurors heard evidence from the four alleged victims, who cannot be named for legal reasons. British rock star Elton John was also among those to testify, as a witness for Spacey. The prosecution claimed he was a "sexual bully" who revelled in making others feel uncomfortable, including by aggressively grabbing men's crotches. One of victims, a former aspiring actor, said he woke up to find Spacey performing a sex act on him, suggesting the actor "drugged" him. He was accused of grabbing another man's crotch "so hard" while driving to a fundraising event, that the car nearly came off the road. Spacey, whose full name is Kevin Spacey Fowler, called the claims "madness" and a "stab in the back". He had been on unconditional bail since first being charged in Britain last year, and on Wednesday walked out of the south London court a free man. The Crown Prosecution Service said it had charged him following "a thorough investigation" by London's Metropolitan Police. "It is the role of the jury to consider the charges and we respect the decision of the court," a spokesman added. Career success Spacey enjoyed a highly successful decades-spanning career with roles such as a middle-aged father lusting after a teen in "American Beauty," a serial killer in "Se7en" and the villain in "Superman Returns". He worked as artistic director at London's Old Vic Theatre between 2004 and 2015. In 2017 he was one of the first stars caught up in the global #MeToo movement as he was accused of sexual assault by multiple young men. He was dropped from the final season of the political drama "House of Cards" and other projects. A New York court dismissed a $40 million civil sexual misconduct lawsuit brought against him in October last year. The complainant, actor Anthony Rapp, alleged the star had assaulted him when he was 14. He brought the civil case after being told it was too late to bring a criminal charge but failed to convince the jury in that case. In 2019, charges of indecent and sexual assault were dropped against Spacey in Massachusetts. The post US actor Kevin Spacey cleared of UK sex offenses appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pag-IBIG Fund posts P21-B record profit
Shelter financing agency Pag-IBIG Fund netted a record high income of P20.61 billion in the first half, according to the agency’s top executives. From January to June, Pag-IBIG Fund’s gross income reached P35.03 billion, while net income amounted to P20.61 billion. Compared to the same period last year, gross income grew by 12 percent or P3.80 billion, while net income increased 11 percent or P2.05 billion, driven mainly by earnings from its housing and short-term (cash) loans and investment portfolios. “I am happy to report that Pag-IBIG Fund’s performance this year remains strong,” Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development said. “Our P20.61-billion net income during the first half of the year is the highest for any January to June period in our history. Our performance shows how excellently we are managing the funds that our members have saved with us. With our strong fiscal standing, we remain in a strong position to finance more homes under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino or 4PH Program, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. under the Bagong Pilipinas Campaign to help more Filipinos have better and more dignified lives,” Acuzar added. P873B in assets He added that as of June, the agency’s total assets had reached P873.15 billion, a 6 percent or P45.75 billion growth from the yearend 2022 level of P827.40 billion. Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive officer Marilene Acosta, meanwhile, emphasized that the increase in net income will redound to the benefit of its members. She noted that under its charter, Pag-IBIG Fund is mandated to return at least 70 percent of its annual net income to its members in the form of dividends and returns, which are credited to their savings. “Pag-IBIG Fund is owned wholly by its members — the Filipino workers. That is why as administrators of the fund, it is our responsibility to manage their contributions wisely and excellently. With our second half projections on our loan releases, collections and performing loans ratio high, we are optimistic that we can maintain our financial performance and provide Filipino workers the best returns on their savings, as well as the means to acquire their own homes through our affordable home financing,” Acosta said. The post Pag-IBIG Fund posts P21-B record profit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pag-IBIG Fund posts record high P20.61-B income in H1 2023
Pag-IBIG Fund netted a record high income of P20.61 billion in the first half of 2023, the agency’s top executives announced on Thursday, 20 July. From January to June, Pag-IBIG Fund’s gross income reached P35.03 billion, while net income amounted to P20.61 billion. Compared to the same period last year, gross income grew by 12 percent or P3.80 billion while net income increased 11 percent or P2.05 billion, driven mainly by earnings from its housing and short-term (cash) loans, and investment portfolios. “I am happy to report that Pag-IBIG Fund’s performance this year remains strong. Our P20.61 billion net income during the first half of the year is the highest for any January to June period in our history. Our performance shows how excellently we are managing the funds that our members have saved with us. With our strong fiscal standing, we remain in a strong position to finance more homes under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino or 4PH Program, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr under the Bagong Pilipinas Campaign to help more Filipinos have better and more dignified lives,” said Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), who serves as chairperson of the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees. He also added that as of June, the agency’s total assets have already reached P873.15 billion, a 6% or P45.75 billion growth from the yearend 2022 level of P827.40 billion. Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta, meanwhile, emphasized that the increase in net income shall be redound to the benefit of its members. She noted that under its charter, Pag-IBIG Fund is mandated to return at least 70 percent of its annual net income to its members in the form of dividends and returns, which are credited to their savings. “Pag-IBIG Fund is owned wholly by its members - the Filipino workers. That is why as administrators of the Fund, it is our responsibility to manage their contributions wisely and excellently. With our second-half projections on our loan releases, collections, and performing loans ratio high, we are optimistic that we can maintain our financial performance and provide Filipino workers the best returns on their savings as well as the means to acquire their own homes through our affordable home financing," Acosta said. The post Pag-IBIG Fund posts record high P20.61-B income in H1 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Federalism shift not happening under BBM’
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to a ranking official of his party, believes the country’s form of government would not be changed from presidential to federal during his term. Nevertheless, Mr. Marcos has been pushing for federalism in talks that are expected to take a long time to come to fruition, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas secretary-general Thompson Lantion said. Lantion, a retired police general, made the statement when he guested in Straight Talk, Daily Tribune’s digital show, on Tuesday. “Our plan is long-range looking forward and it doesn’t mean that during the watch of President BBM, federalism will be done. Ours is a continuous training, recruitment, and explaining to the people how we would benefit from federalism,” Lantion said. “He (Marcos) told me that federalism, as a concept of governance for the country, would take a long while before it is absorbed. So we just continue explaining to the people the importance of federalism,” he said. Lantion admitted that changing the form of government, or even attempting to do so, would be very expensive. There had been efforts to shift to a federal form of government, most recently in 2018, when then President Rodrigo Duterte created a consultative committee to review the 1987 Constitution, including shifting from a presidential to a federal form of government. The committee’s draft, however, was not approved by Congress. Last year, Senator Robin Padilla filed a resolution seeking a review of the economic provisions of the Constitution that he said were stumbling blocks to inclusive economic growth. He raised the need to consider either a federal or parliamentary form of government. The post ‘Federalism shift not happening under BBM’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bobby and Angelu reunite on the small screen
Wacks and Peach shippers are in for a treat. The popular tandem of Bobby Andrews and Angelu de Leon, who gained fame in the 90's GMA youth-oriented show T.G.I.S., will reunite for a “Magpakailanman” episode titled When Love Returns, to tell the story of Kulas Vilasoto and Bang Vales. It will air on 8 July 2023, Saturday. The '90s was an era before “shipping” portmanteaus. It was an era before the word “shipping” had been coined, in fact, but Peach and Wacks have endured, and even found younger fans, thanks to YouTube. In recent years and various reunion show appearances, De Leon and Andrews revealed that while there had been some form of a “maybe” where they nearly, almost dated but never formally did, De Leon thinks it might be key to why their friendship and the “loveteam” still resonates. The post Bobby and Angelu reunite on the small screen appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Controversial MIF already with the Office of the President
The controversial measure seeking to create a Maharlika Investment Fund was already transmitted to the Office of the President, Malacañang confirmed on Wednesday. The Palace made the confirmation through Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil after the office of Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said on Tuesday that House Speaker Martin Romualdez signed the final version of the MIF bill. Zubiri's office added that the MIF bill was transmitted to the OP yesterday through the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office. "Maharlika bill received yesterday by Office of the Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs," said Garafil in a Viber message to reporters on Wednesday. The bill now solely requires Marcos' endorsement and signature to be enacted as a law. However, Garafil said there is no announced date yet for Marcos to sign the Maharlika bill. To recall, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mentioned last month that he would "immediately sign" the bill once he received it. But the Chief Executive said he would still need to review the changes made in the Congress' approved version of the proposed sovereign fund, which he said should be independent of the government to become successful. In an interview following the 85th anniversary of the Securities and Exchange Commission last month, Marcos underscored that the MIF would be "independent" from the government once established through law. "Even I proposed to the House was to remove the president as part of the board, to remove Central Bank chairman, to remove the Department of Finance because it has to operate as an independent fund, well managed professionally," Marcos said. The MIF bill introduces a sovereign wealth fund that aims to invest in various assets such as foreign currencies, fixed-income instruments, domestic and international corporate bonds, commercial real estate, and infrastructure projects. This initiative is intended to boost economic development. The bill calls for the creation of the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC), which will serve as the exclusive entity responsible for mobilizing and utilizing the MIF for investment transactions, with the goal of generating optimal returns on investments (ROIs). According to the proposed legislation, the MIF will not utilize the funds of the Social Security System (SSS), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), or Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF). The post Controversial MIF already with the Office of the President appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Must-have items that make life easier
In a world where convenience and comfort play a crucial role, the latest technological advancements offer remarkable solutions to enhance our everyday lives. Here are some of the noteworthy inventions that are influencing the future, from transforming your morning coffee ritual to enabling your house with cutting-edge entertainment systems and addressing labor shortages. The Hibrew 4-in-1 Multiple Capsule Coffee Machine lets you say goodbye to pricey coffee trips and introduces you to a new routine in the comfort of your own home. This amazing appliance enables you to enjoy a high-quality cup of joe without going overboard. This adaptable machine satisfies every appetite and puts a great coffee experience at your fingertips, whether you want a traditional brew, a creamy latte or a rich espresso. But it’s not just about coffee. Reliable power sources are also vital for our everyday electronic devices. Consider the inconvenience of experiencing an unplanned power outage without access to Wi-Fi or a fan. The Tylex XP01 Portable Generator can help in this situation. This portable power source, often known as a “hugeass powerbank,” makes sure that all of your necessary digital devices continue to function even in dire circumstances. This game-changing device delivers peace of mind and unbroken connectivity when you need it most. The Samsung Neo QLED TV, the pinnacle of home theater necessities, raises the bar for entertaining. With its sophisticated Quantum Matrix Technology and Quantum Mini LEDs, you may lose yourself in a visual spectacle. This ground-breaking technology delivers true 8K resolution with artificial intelligence enhancements and unmatched precision in light control. Get ready for stunning images that immerse you in the action of your favorite movies and give you a cinematic experience right in the comfort of your own living room. In the meantime, a fascinating display in Tokyo features the most recent developments in kitchen technology. One of the outstanding inventions is a sushi arranger, which not only appeases foodies but also seeks to alleviate Japan’s labor shortages. These automated systems are made to make cooking simpler and more efficient, providing consistency and reliability that could transform the food industry. Even breakfast receives a technological boost as the tsunami of invention continues. A practical method for making delectable egg rolls and chicken rolls is provided by the Egg Roll Machine Home 40W Automatic Egg Roll Making Machine. Breakfast preparation is made simple and delightful with its small form and automated functions, serving the needs of individuals seeking a speedy and satisfying start to their day. Smart speakers are becoming more and more common in Filipino households, enabling users to listen to music while bathing or cooking. Multi-room audio features are now available on some smart speakers, allowing you to broadcast music across your house and manage playback from various locations. You may manage the music without getting up with the voice commands included in many multi-room audio systems. [caption id="attachment_151767" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF GOOGLE | SMART speaker[/caption] The convenience and security of smart locks, like those shown in K-dramas, are helping them become more popular throughout the nation. Smart door locks enable customers to remotely lock and unlock their doors, generate digital keys for visitors, and control family member access through a smartphone app. Embracing innovation becomes increasingly important as we move into the future. These astonishing goods and innovations provide a window into the potential that lies ahead. The post Must-have items that make life easier appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»