We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Acciona advocates water conservation
Acciona, a global sustainable infrastructure company, recently launched its water conservation campaign to raise awareness among young children and empower them to become stewards of the vital resource......»»
2nd concert nina Sharon, Gabby ‘kanselado’, KC may tampo pa sa ina?
HINDI matutuloy ang ikalawang concert sana ni Megastar Sharon Cuneta at aktor na si Gabby Concepcion. Ito ang ikinumpirma ni Sharon matapos makapanayam ng ilang entertainment press matapos ang kanyang performance para sa “Sheroes” campaign ng isang insurance company noong March 12. Ibinunyag pa nga ng batikang singer na mas maganda pa sana ang second.....»»
Musk tours site of Hamas attack with Israeli PM
Tech tycoon Elon Musk visited the site of a Hamas attack in southern Israel Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the two discussed artificial intelligence with defence chiefs, officials said. Musk and Netanyahu held a brief interview on the billionaire's online platform X, formerly Twitter, following their tour of Kfar Aza, one of the kibbutzim -- communal farms -- in southern Israel attacked by the Palestinian militant group on October 7. "We have to demilitarise Gaza after the destruction of Hamas," Netanyahu said, calling for a campaign to "deradicalise" the Palestinian territory. "Then we also have to rebuild Gaza, and I hope to have our Arab friends help in that context." Netanyahu told Musk he hoped to resume US-mediated normalisation talks with Saudi Arabia after Hamas's defeat and "expand the circle of peace beyond anything imaginable". None of the prime minister's public statements addressed charges of rampant anti-Semitism on Musk's social media outlet. Earlier in the day, Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi said Israel had reached an understanding in principle on the use of Starlink satellites, operated by Musk's company SpaceX, in Israel and the Gaza Strip "with the approval of the Israeli Ministry of Communications". Musk and Netanyahu also "held an extended meeting on the security aspects of artificial intelligence," a statement from the Israeli prime minister's office said. "Senior security establishment officials in the fields of artificial intelligence and cyber participated in the meeting." The American tycoon was also set to meet with President Isaac Herzog during his visit to Israel. Herzog would address "the need to act to combat rising anti-Semitism online", the office of Israel's figurehead president said Sunday. Musk has come under fire over what critics say is a proliferation of hate speech on X since his takeover of the social media site in October 2022. He has also been accused by the White House of "abhorrent promotion" of anti-Semitism after endorsing a conspiracy theory seen as accusing Jews of trying to weaken white majorities. Herzog's office said the meeting would be joined by "representatives of families of hostages held by Hamas, who will speak about the horrors of the Hamas terror attack on October 7, and of the ongoing pain and uncertainty for those held captive". Israel bombarded the Gaza strip for weeks and launched a ground assault in response to the attacks, before a four-day ceasefire took effect on November 24. In September, Netanyahu urged Musk "to stop not only anti-Semitism, or rolling it back as best you can, but any collective hatred" on X. Musk, the world's richest person, said while his platform could not stop all hate speech before it was posted, he was "generally against attacking any group, no matter who it is". X Corp is currently suing nonprofit Media Matters on the grounds that it has driven away advertisers by portraying the site as rife with anti-Semitic content. Musk has also threatened to file suit against the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish advocacy group, over its claims that problematic and racist speech has soared on the site since he completed his $44-billion takeover......»»
Israeli president tells Musk he has ‘huge role’ in anti-Semitism
Israel's president told Elon Musk on Monday that the tech mogul has "a huge role to play" to combat anti-Semitism, which his social media platform is accused of spreading. The meeting came after the world's richest person visited a kibbutz community devastated in attacks by Hamas militants on October 7, and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and defence officials. Musk has been criticised over what critics say is a proliferation of hate speech on X, formerly Twitter, since his takeover of the social media site in October 2022. He has been accused by the White House of "abhorrent promotion" of anti-Semitism after endorsing a conspiracy theory seen as accusing Jews of trying to weaken white majorities. Israel's figurehead President Isaac Herzog told him: "Unfortunately, we are inundated by anti-Semitism, which is Jew hatred. "You have a huge role to play," he said. "And I think we need to fight it together because on the platforms which you lead, unfortunately, there's a harbouring of a lot of... anti-Semitism." Musk did not mention anti-Semitism in his video remarks released by Herzog's office, but said Hamas militants "have been fed propaganda since they were children". "It's remarkable what humans are capable of if they're fed falsehoods, from when they are children; they will think that the murder of innocent people is a good thing." On October 7 Hamas militants broke through Gaza's militarised border into southern Israel to kill around 1,200 people and seize about 240 hostages, according to Israeli officials, in the worst-ever attack since the nation's founding. Vowing to destroy Hamas in response, Israel has carried out a relentless bombardment of targets in Gaza, alongside a ground invasion, that the Hamas government says has killed almost 15,000. A temporary truce has been in effect since Friday. Talk of satellites Earlier Monday, Netanyahu and Musk discussed "security aspects of artificial intelligence" with senior defence officials, the Prime Minister's Office said. Musk and Netanyahu held a conversation on X following their tour of Kfar Aza, one of the communities attacked by Hamas. "We have to demilitarise Gaza after the destruction of Hamas," Netanyahu said, calling for a campaign to "deradicalise" the Palestinian territory. "Then we also have to rebuild Gaza, and I hope to have our Arab friends help in that context." Netanyahu told Musk he hoped to resume United States-mediated normalisation talks with Saudi Arabia after Hamas's defeat and "expand the circle of peace beyond anything imaginable". The war stalled progress towards a Saudi-Israel normalisation deal, and in early November Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler denounced the conduct of Israeli forces fighting Hamas in Gaza. Israel's Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi said his country had reached an understanding in principle on the use of Starlink satellites, operated by Musk's company SpaceX, in Israel and the Gaza Strip "with the approval of the Israeli Ministry of Communications". Starlink is a network of satellites in low Earth orbit that can provide internet to remote locations, or areas that have had normal communications infrastructure disabled. In September, Netanyahu urged Musk "to stop not only anti-Semitism, or rolling it back as best you can, but any collective hatred" on X. Musk said at the time that while his platform could not stop all hate speech before it was posted, he was "generally against attacking any group, no matter who it is". X Corp is currently suing nonprofit Media Matters on the grounds that it has driven away advertisers by portraying the site as rife with anti-Semitic content. Musk has also threatened to file suit against the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish advocacy group, over its claims that problematic and racist speech has soared on the site since he completed his $44-billion takeover......»»
Basilan welcomes more troops for polls
LAMITAN CITY — The Armed Forces of the Philippines has added a fresh company of soldiers coming from Bulacan to serve election duties in the forthcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections slated on 30 October 2023. 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Alvin V. Luzon on Monday welcomed the soldiers coming from the 18th Scout Ranger (Makamandag) Company coming from Bulacan upon their arrival at the Lamitan City Port in Basilan province. Top military officials joined Luzon in welcoming the soldiers which arrived on board a Philippine Navy ship 298 that docked at the local port about 7:30 a.m. on Monday. During a welcome program, Luzon outlined his guidance to the soldiers and informed them that they were in the province to render “election duties” and also serve as part of the security forces of the 101st IB internal security campaign in Basilan. The post Basilan welcomes more troops for polls appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meralco shines with int’l awards
The Manila Electric Company, or Meralco, the country’s largest distribution utility has emerged as a beacon of excellence on the global stage as it bagged multiple accolades at the recently concluded 2023 International Business Awards. At the prestigious awards ceremony held in Rome, Italy, on 13 October, Meralco was feted with a total of eight Stevies — four Gold and four Bronze awards, for its transformative programs centered on sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Embedding sustainability Recognizing the company’s dedication to embedding sustainability at the core of its strategy and operations, Meralco was the sole recipient of the Gold Stevie under the “Sustainability Leadership Award in Asia, Australia and New Zealand” category. Also taking home Gold Stevies were Meralco first vice president and chief sustainability officer Raymond B. Ravelo and Meralco vice president and chief corporate social responsibility officer Jeffrey O. Tarayao, who were named “Sustainability Hero of the Year in Asia, Australia and New Zealand” and “Thought Leader of the Year,” respectively. Ravelo was cited for his leadership of Meralco’s sustainability agenda. Tarayao, who is also president of One Meralco Foundation, was recognized for combining thought leadership with practical solutions. Compelling video Another Gold Stevie was awarded to “Meralco’s Spectrum on Solar Rooftop Installations: The Gift that Keeps on Giving,” a three-minute compelling video on sustainability and the environment underscoring the myriad benefits of investing in solar power. OMF’s community development endeavors also basked in the international spotlight after it earned for the company three Bronze Stevies for its corporate social responsibility initiatives. These were the community energization project “Electrification for Development: Improving the Lives of LastMile Filipinos” that highlighted the transformative power of electricity in unserved and underserved communities across the archipelago; the “One for Trees: Empowering People and Communities to Nurture Our Forest, a practical approach to addressing climate change; and the “Powering-Up Communities During the Pandemic” proactive communications campaign that braved the challenges of community electrification during the global crisis. Completing Meralco’s haul this year was the Bronze Stevie for #Mbrace, the company’s diversity and inclusion program advancing gender balance and inclusivity within the workplace. Also known as “the International Stevies,” the prestigious International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards honoring achievements and positive contributions of companies and working professionals worldwide. Since its launch in 2002, the Stevie has become one of the most coveted prizes globally. The post Meralco shines with int’l awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Joy gift
Over the past two decades, Sodexo Benefits and Rewards Services has enabled rewarding experiences for over 4,000 corporate clients and their employees in the Philippines. This year, the company brings an extra sparkle to gift-giving with its first Christmas campaign carrying their new brand, Pluxee. Pluxee, a Sodexo company, ushers in the holiday season with a range of promotions to make it easier for corporate clients to upgrade their rewards and recognition efforts, and open up a world of opportunities for their recipients. Dubbed as “Magical ConneXions, the campaign aims to bring more joy to employees, partners, and consumers with a focus on convenient, relevant digital gifting solutions. “As Sodexo Benefits and Rewards Services transitions to Pluxee, clients can count on our heritage of expertise and global perspective on innovation to elevate employee experience and engagement. The wordplay of X in Magical ConneXions represents the importance of our relationships with clients, merchants and consumers in everything that we do,” said marketing director Sharon K. Velasco. The post Joy gift appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Trial of disgraced crypto star Bankman-Fried begins
The trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, former CEO of one of cryptocurrency's biggest exchanges, began Tuesday with a jury set to determine if he committed massive fraud by stealing billions of dollars from clients. The 31-year-old -- once one of the most respected figures in crypto -- now faces decades in prison and could see his name stand alongside Bernie Madoff and Elizabeth Holmes as the era's most prominent fraudsters. The first day of the trial was devoted to jury selection for a case that is set to last about six weeks. Bankman-Fried faces seven counts including wire fraud, securities and commodities fraud, and money laundering. He risks more than 100 years behind bars if he is found guilty on all charges. Bankman-Fried entered the courtroom alone -- without being escorted by security guards -- uncuffed, and took his place alongside his lawyers, an AFP journalist observed. Dressed in a dark suit and striped tie, his usually long curly hair was cut short, reportedly by a fellow inmate at the Brooklyn jail where he is being detained. "You have the right to testify in your defense in this case. The decision is up to you," US District Judge Lewis Kaplan told Bankman Fried. In just a few years, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate turned his FTX platform into the world's second-biggest crypto exchange, making him a tech world billionaire wunderkind. FTX became a global name through a marketing campaign that included celebrity partnerships with stars such as supermodel Gisele Bundchen and basketball legend Stephen Curry, and buying the naming rights for the home arena of the Miami Heat basketball club. Bankman-Fried also stepped in as a kind of savior of the industry when other crypto companies faced difficulties, with FTX swooping in to offer a financial lifeline. At the height of his career, Bankman-Fried was thought to be worth $26 billion as he attracted droves of small investors to invest in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. But his steep rise was matched by his ignominious downfall, which saw him escorted last year by police from his luxury apartment in the Bahamas and extradited to face charges in the United States. 'Gambling at own casino' His empire began to crumble last November when a news report pointed to unhealthy ties between the FTX platform and Alameda Research, Bankman-Fried's personally owned-trading company. The revelations kept growing and major investors pulled their money out of FTX, sinking it swiftly into bankruptcy. Once the dust had settled, some $8.7 billion in client funds was still unaccounted for and Bankman-Fried was accused of using FTX deposits to buy luxury real estate or donate more than $100 million to US politicians through Alameda. "He was gambling in his own casino and it created conflicts of interest," Michael Lewis, an author who followed Bankman-Fried closely during the period, told CBS. Everything "unravels because the depositors at FTX want their money back and it's not all there," the author of "Liar's Poker" and other titles added. The climax of the trial is expected to be when his former friends and colleagues take the stand, including Carlonie Ellison, his one-time romantic partner and Alameda executive, and Gary Wang, his closest associate. Ellison and Wang have also been indicted in the case and agreed to cooperate with US authorities, which may prove Bankman-Fried's undoing. After his spectacular arrest in the Bahamas, Bankman-Fried was initially held under house arrest but was ordered behind bars in August over alleged attempts at witness intimidation. According to prosecutors, while holed up at his parents' home in California, Bankman-Fried spoke regularly to journalists and passed documents to The New York Times in an effort to influence the testimony of Ellison. The post Trial of disgraced crypto star Bankman-Fried begins appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Trump business empire under threat as New York fraud trial opens
A combative Donald Trump appeared in a New York court on Monday to face civil fraud charges, denouncing the case as a "sham" intended to torpedo his campaign to retake the White House. The fraud trial, one of several legal battles against the 77-year-old Trump, could potentially see the former president barred from doing business in New York state. "This has to do with election interference, plain and simple," Trump said as he arrived for the opening day of what could be a three-month trial. "What we have here is an attempt to hurt me in an election." New York Judge Arthur Engoron has already ruled that Trump and his sons Eric and Don Jr committed fraud by inflating the value of the real estate and financial assets of the Trump Organization for years. New York Attorney General Letitia James is now seeking $250 million in penalties and the removal of Trump and his sons from management of the family empire. "Justice will prevail," James told reporters before delivering opening arguments. "No matter how powerful you are, no matter how much money you think you may have, no one is above the law," she said. Trump, arriving in court, denounced the case as a "scam" and a "witchhunt." "It's a sham," he said. "My financial statements are phenomenal." Trump is scheduled to appear before a federal judge in Washington on March 4, 2024 on charges of trying to overthrow the results of the 2020 presidential election won by Democrat Joe Biden. Trump will then be back in New York state court, this time on charges of paying hush money to a porn star, and later in a Florida federal court, where he is accused of mishandling classified documents after leaving office. Finally, he will also have to answer to state charges in Georgia, where prosecutors say Trump illegally tried to get the southern state's 2020 election results changed in his favor. 'Major blow' In the New York case, Engoron ruled that Trump, his two eldest sons and other Trump Organization executives lied to tax collectors, lenders and insurers for years in a scheme that exaggerated the value of their properties by $812 million to $2.2 billion between 2014 and 2021. The judge revoked the business licenses that allowed the Trump Organization to operate some of its New York properties. Actually enforcing such penalties would be "a major blow to Donald Trump's ability to do business in the state of New York going forward," Will Thomas, a professor of business law at the University of Michigan, told AFP. Trump -- who made his reputation and fortune as a real estate mogul in the 1980s -- could eventually lose control over many of his company's flagship properties, such as his 5th Avenue Trump Tower in Manhattan. According to James, a Democrat, Trump's own apartment in that building is among the spaces that were fraudulently overvalued -- it was listed as three times bigger than its true size. Another Manhattan building, at 40 Wall Street, was overvalued between $200-$300 million in financial disclosures, James alleges. Trump's luxury Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida -- the site of the classified documents drama -- and several other Trump Organization golf clubs also appear in James's complaint. Trump has repeatedly dismissed the New York civil allegations, calling James, who is Black, "racist," and labeling Engoron "deranged." There are likely to be dozens of witnesses called to testify at the trial, including Trump himself and three of his children, Eric, Don Jr and his oldest daughter Ivanka. Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen -- now an outspoken critic of the former president -- and officials from Trump-linked financial institutions are also expected to appear. The post Trump business empire under threat as New York fraud trial opens appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden jumps into auto strike bandwagon
The US auto workers union extended its strike against two of Detroit’s “Big Three” on Friday, and President Joe Biden signaled his intention to join the picket line in support of the workers or, some say, in aid of his reelection. At noon on Friday, 5,600 United Auto Workers union members joined the spectacular worker walkout from the previous week by leaving 38 US parts and distribution centers owned by General Motors and Stellantis. Although the UAW has portrayed its campaign as an effort to level the playing field economically for the working class, Friday’s events also highlighted the high political stakes, as Biden’s visit occurred only one day before a tour by Republican candidate Donald Trump was scheduled. UAW President Shawn Fain stated that the next action would affect 20 states and target Stellantis and General Motors facilities, with whom negotiations had broken down. In a conference, Fain stated, “We’re not going to wait around forever for fair contracts at the Big Three.” Fain said that because of advancements in the company’s negotiations, Ford will escape the most recent strike escalation. Biden was invited by Fain to join the picket line, telling him that the best way he could help was by strengthening their movement and demonstrating to the corporations that the public supports them. By dusk, the president had revealed his scheme on X, formerly known as Twitter. Tuesday, Biden said, “I’ll travel to Michigan to join the picket line and show my support for the UAW’s men and women as they struggle for a fair share of the value they helped create.” “It’s time for a win-win deal that keeps UAW jobs paying well and American auto manufacturing thriving.” Trump, too The trip will be the US president’s most recent to the heart of the car industry in America. Alongside GM CEO Mary Barra, Ford CEO Jim Farley, and other leaders, he has attended the 2022 Detroit Auto Show and significant project unveilings. In an effort to win over working-class voters, former president Trump had planned to visit Michigan the day before Biden’s trip. Fain claimed that by bringing back a cost-of-living factor that had been discontinued in 2009, Ford had enhanced earlier ideas. Additionally, the corporation provided a better profit-sharing program, the immediate promotion of temporary workers to full-time status, and the union’s right to go on strike in protest of plant closures. Fain asserted, “We’re not done at Ford,” adding that the business was “serious about reaching a deal.” With AFP The post Biden jumps into auto strike bandwagon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden’s son Hunter to plead not guilty to gun charges
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter will plead not guilty to charges of illegally buying a gun when he was using drugs, his lawyer said Tuesday. Hunter Biden, 53, was charged last week with two counts of making false statements when claiming on forms required for a 2018 gun purchase that he was not using drugs illegally at the time. On Tuesday, Hunter Biden's lawyer, Abbe David Lowell, asked the judge presiding over the case in the eastern state of Delaware to hold the first court appearance by video conference instead of requiring his client to attend in person. Hunter Biden currently lives in California. "Mr. Biden understands both the charges against him and his rights... and we believe the Court can be assured of that fact by conducting this initial appearance by video," Lowell said in the letter to US Magistrate Judge Christopher Burke. "Mr. Biden also will enter a plea of not guilty, and there is no reason why he cannot utter those two words by video conference," Lowell said. "Mr. Biden is not seeking any special treatment in making this request," he added. "He has attended and will attend any proceedings in which his physical appearance is required." Hunter Biden is also facing a third charge, based on the same statements, that he illegally possessed the gun during an 11-day period in October 2018. If convicted on all three felony charges, he could face 25 years in prison, though in practice the offenses are seldom punished by any jail time. The indictment came two days after Republicans in Congress opened an impeachment probe against Joe Biden, a Democrat, alleging that when the elder Biden was vice president he benefited financially from his son's foreign business dealings. They alleged, without offering hard evidence, that while vice president in 2015-2016, Biden intervened to protect an allegedly corrupt Ukrainian energy company, Burisma, where Hunter Biden sat on the board. The gun charges against Hunter Biden were filed by Justice Department special counsel David Weiss, who has been investigating him since 2018 over various allegations, mostly related to his overseas business deals. A plea deal between Hunter Biden and Weiss, covering the gun charge as well as alleged tax violations, collapsed two months ago. Hunter Biden is a Yale-trained lawyer and lobbyist-turned-artist, but his life has been marred by alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction and his indictment has cast a shadow over his father's campaign for reelection next year. The post Biden’s son Hunter to plead not guilty to gun charges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Can’t get it up?
GoRocky, a pioneering men’s health startup, is proud to announce the successful completion of its pre-seed funding campaign. This funding marks a significant milestone for GoRocky, reinforcing its commitment to revolutionizing men’s health in the Philippines. The round was led by key investors including reputable investors and tech leaders from Germany and the Philippines, Buko Ventures, IdeaSpace Investments, Pulse 63, and Kaya Founders. GoRocky is on a mission to address stigmatized chronic conditions like erectile dysfunction by offering discreet, affordable, and accessible health treatments. The company’s innovative approach combines online assessments, doctor prescriptions, and medicine deliveries to empower men to take control of their health. Patients can simply fill out an anonymous four-minute questionnaire, and a licensed doctor reviews their responses before prescribing the necessary medication, which is then discreetly delivered to their doorstep at an affordable price. The Philippines is home to a staggering number of men silently suffering from various stigmatized health conditions. Approximately 14 million men in the country experience erectile dysfunction, 16 million grapple with hair loss, and another 15 million struggle with skincare issues. Due to the pervasive stigma surrounding these conditions, most men opt to suffer in silence rather than seeking treatment. GoRocky aims to change this narrative by creating a culture shift in how men approach their health. “Many men suffer in silence from stigmatized conditions. They often avoid the issue, do not talk to their closest ones and would not dare to talk to a doctor in person. We try to help men cross that bridge. GoRocky’s mission is to break the silence surrounding men’s health issues and make discreet, effective treatments readily accessible to all,” said Kiyanusch Braun, CEO and co-founder of GoRocky. The post Can’t get it up? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden’s son Hunter indicted on gun charges
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter was indicted Thursday for illegally buying a gun when he was using drugs, casting a new shadow over his father's campaign for reelection next year. Hunter Biden, 53, was charged with two counts of making false statements when claiming on forms required for the 2018 gun purchase that he was not using drugs illegally at the time. A third charge said that, based on the false statements, he illegally possessed the gun during an 11-day period in October that year. If convicted on all three felony charges, Biden could in theory face 25 years in prison, though in practice they are seldom punished by any jail time. In attesting that he was not an unlawful user of drugs when he bought the Colt Cobra revolver, Biden "knew that statement was false," the Justice Department said. The indictment came two days after Republicans in Congress opened an impeachment probe against Democrat Joe Biden, alleging that when he was vice president he benefitted financially from his son's foreign business dealings. The legal troubles of Hunter Biden present a target for political rivals of his father, who is bidding for a second term in the White House. Hunter is a Yale-trained lawyer and lobbyist-turned-artist, but his life has been marred by alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction. Without offering any evidence, Republicans have accused Biden's Justice Department of protecting his son and have accused Weiss, a Republican appointee, of going easy on Hunter. Representative James Comer, a Republican from Kentucky who will be leading the impeachment inquiry, welcomed the filing of the gun charges, calling it a "very small start." "Mountains of evidence reveals that Hunter Biden likely committed several felonies and Americans expect the Justice Department to apply the law equally," Comer said. Twice-impeached former president Donald Trump reacted on his Truth Social platform. "This, the gun charge, is the only crime that Hunter Biden committed that does not implicate Crooked Joe Biden," he said. - Plea deal collapsed - But a leading Democrat, Keisha Lance Bottoms, ex-mayor of Atlanta and a former senior adviser to Joe Biden, questioned why Hunter had been charged. "Can anyone tell me how many people have been federally indicted for purchasing a gun while dealing with substance abuse issues?" Bottoms said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "I don't know the answer, but in my over 29 years as an attorney, I have never heard of it." The gun charges were filed by Justice Department special counsel David Weiss, who has been investigating Hunter Biden since 2018 over various allegations, mostly related to his overseas business deals. Two months ago a plea deal between Biden and Weiss, covering the gun charge as well as alleged tax violations, went sour. Biden agreed to plead guilty in federal court in Delaware to two minor tax charges. In exchange he was offered probation, as he had already paid what he owed the government along with penalties. Weiss agreed to suspend the felony gun charge if Biden completed "pretrial diversion," which often involves counseling or rehabilitation. But in a dramatic July 26 hearing, the deal collapsed over whether Biden would have been immune from any other charges also investigated by Weiss, including possible crimes related to his business dealings in Ukraine, China and elsewhere. The judge mentioned the possibility that Biden could be charged as having acted as a lobbyist for foreign governments without registering with the Justice Department. Three weeks later, after the deal collapsed, Weiss dropped the tax charges and said an indictment on the gun charge would come by the end of September. As the 2024 election race swings into gear, Republicans in the House of Representatives on Tuesday formally opened an impeachment inquiry against President Biden. They alleged, without offering hard evidence, that while vice president in 2015-2016, Biden intervened to protect an allegedly corrupt Ukrainian energy company, Burisma, where Hunter Biden sat on the board. Republicans allege Joe Biden and his family reaped large sums for helping Burisma. The post Biden’s son Hunter indicted on gun charges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Welcoming students with learning-conducive classrooms
Consumer product and diversified science company 3M Philippines recently partnered with public schools to prepare for the School Year 2023 — 2024 opening. With a new period of on-site classes on the horizon, there was no better time for 3M Philippines to launch their back-to-school campaign Malinis, Maaliwalas, at Masiglang Pagbabalik Eskwela, which was conducted as part of the Department of Education's annual Brigada Eskwela program. For this school year, 3M Philippines aspired to create a welcoming environment for incoming students of Cubao Elementary School in Quezon City and Cayetano Arellano High School in the City of Manila. Vivian Faustino, country sales leader for 3M Philippines Consumer Business Group, spoke about the company's goals for this latest initiative. Faustino states, "3M supports Brigada Eskwela and the bayanihan spirit of all the education stakeholders in preparing and providing a clean learning environment for students and teachers in public schools." Indeed, the uniquely Filipino bayanihan spirit prevailed as volunteers from 3M Philippines and Global Service Center spent time cleaning and decorating the schools with teachers, students, and their parents. Some household brands of 3M that sponsored the event are Scotch-Brite, Post-it, and Scotch. With the help of Scotch-Brite Scouring, Bathroom, and Floor Care products, the school facilities were made neat for teachers and students. To beautify the classrooms, 3M Philippines also provided stationery and school supplies from its brands Scotch and Post-it. John Butch P. Locara, principal of Cayetano Arellano High School, expressed his appreciation for the superior quality of 3M’s products. “Dito sa aming paaralan, subok na namin ang mahusay na kalidad ng Scotch tapes. Ginagamit ko ‘yan sa aking trabaho sa opisina,” he said. “Kami ay naniniwala na sa pagbabayanihan ng bawat isa ay maihahanda natin ang paaralan na malinis at maayos para sa ating mga mag-aaral.” Eloisa C. Tamon, principal of Cubao Elementary School, was likewise grateful for 3M’s partnership. “Salamat 3M Philippines sa pagpili sa amin bilang benepisyaryo para sa Brigada Eskwela,” she said. “Nakasisiguro kami na gamit ang mga produkto ng 3M ay malilinis natin ng mahusay at mapapaganda ang bawat classroom at paligid ng paaralan.” The post Welcoming students with learning-conducive classrooms appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Former Starbucks CEO Schultz steps down from board
Starbucks said Wednesday its former chief executive Howard Schultz will step down from the coffee chain's board of directors "as part of a planned transition." Schultz, who ended his third stint as CEO in March, helped transform the brand from a small coffee shop into an international chain over the decades. "I look forward to supporting this next generation of leaders to steward Starbucks into the future as a customer, supporter, and advocate in my role as chairman emeritus," the longtime Starbucks leader said in a statement. In 2017, Schultz stepped aside as chief executive after his second tenure, handing the reins to Kevin Johnson. He later announced his retirement from the company and weighed a run for US president. When Johnson left in 2022 after five years at the helm, Schultz returned as interim CEO, before Laxman Narasimhan took over the position in March this year. In the company's statement on Wednesday, it also announced that Wei Zhang, most recently a senior advisor to Alibaba Group, has been elected to the board of directors effective 1 October. Starbucks has in recent times come under fire over its confrontational approach to unionization, with Schultz defending against allegations it had violated US labor laws in countering the campaign. In a hearing convened by progressive Senator Bernie Sanders earlier this year, Schultz said he was unaware of instances where workers were fired or relocated to other stores because of union activity. Today, the Seattle-based corporation has more than 36,000 stores in 86 markets globally, according to the company. The post Former Starbucks CEO Schultz steps down from board appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Elon Musk’s X sues over having to post moderation policies
Elon Musk's X Corp. on Friday sued the state of California over a law requiring social media companies to publicly post their policies regarding hate speech, disinformation, harassment, and extremism. The parent company of X, formerly known as Twitter, argued in a federal suit that the law referred to as AB 587 violates its free speech rights. "The true intent of AB 587 is to pressure social media platforms to eliminate certain constitutionally-protected content viewed by the State as problematic," the suit contended. "The state is compelling social media companies to take public positions on controversial and politically charged issues." The suit railed against the law, which requires social media companies to publicly post policies regarding hate speech, disinformation, harassment, and extremism on their platforms, and report data on their enforcement of the policies. "California will not stand by as social media is weaponized to spread hate and disinformation that threaten our communities and foundational values as a country," California Governor Gavin Newsom said when he signed the bill into law a year ago. "Californians deserve to know how these platforms are impacting our public discourse, and this action brings much-needed transparency and accountability to the policies that shape the social media content we consume every day." Musk early this week said he is considering suing the Anti-Defamation League, a leading anti-hate group, arguing that its accusations of anti-Semitism have led X to lose revenue. Musk accused the US-based Jewish organization of making unfounded complaints against him and X that have scared away advertisers. "Advertisers avoid controversy, so all that is needed for ADL to crush our US & European ad revenue is to make unfounded accusations," Musk wrote in a long X thread that started with a clarification that he favors free speech but is "against anti-Semitism of any kind." In a 2016 report, the ADL said anti-Semitic attacks against journalists had exploded on Twitter, "thanks to the rhetoric in the 2016 presidential campaign." It accused the social network of failing to control its "trolling problem." Billionaire Musk has been accused of fueling anti-Semitic tropes, including attacks against Jewish philanthropist George Soros. According to the ADL and the Center for Countering Digital Hate, problematic and racist speech has sharply risen on X since Musk completed his $44 billion takeover in October. Since then, the Tesla boss has fired thousands of the platform's employees, cut content moderation, and reinstated former president Donald Trump's account. Last month, Musk sued the CCDH, accusing it of a smear campaign that damaged the social network's relationship with advertisers. The post Elon Musk’s X sues over having to post moderation policies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Musk threatens to sue anti-defamation group for falling revenue
Elon Musk, the owner of social media platform X, formerly Twitter, said he is considering suing a leading anti-defamation group, arguing that its accusations of anti-Semitism have led the company to lose revenue. Musk late Monday accused the US-based Jewish organization of making unfounded complaints against him and X that have scared away advertisers. "To clear our platform's name on the matter of anti-Semitism, it looks like we have no choice but to file a defamation lawsuit against the Anti-Defamation League... oh the irony!" Musk wrote on X on Monday. "Based on what we've heard from advertisers, ADL seems to be responsible for most of our revenue loss," he wrote, adding that the group "would potentially be on the hook for destroying half the value of the company, so roughly $22 billion." "Advertisers avoid controversy, so all that is needed for ADL to crush our US & European ad revenue is to make unfounded accusations," he wrote in a long thread that started with a clarification that he favors free speech but is "against anti-Semitism of any kind." The ADL declined to comment on Musk's legal threats but responded to the "BanTheADL" hashtag that has been trending on the website. Musk, who bought Twitter last year and rebranded it as X, has come under fire for liking posts with the hashtag. "It is profoundly disturbing that Elon Musk spent the weekend engaging with a highly toxic, anti-Semitic campaign on his platform," ADL chief executive Jonathan Greenblatt said in an email to AFP. "This behavior is not just alarming nor reckless, it is flat-out dangerous and deeply irresponsible." The hateful campaign started after the ADL participated in a civil rights march marking the 60th anniversary of Martin Luther King's "I have a dream" speech, according to the group. The ADL has for years accused the social media site of amplifying anti-Semitic hate speech and recently met with top executives at X. In a 2016 report, the group said anti-Semitic attacks against journalists had exploded on Twitter, "thanks to the rhetoric in the 2016 presidential campaign." It accused the social network of failing to control its "trolling problem." Billionaire Musk has also previously been accused of fueling anti-Semitic tropes, including attacks against Jewish philanthropist George Soros. According to the ADL and the Center for Countering Digital Hate, problematic and racist speech has sharply risen on X since Musk completed his $44 billion takeover in October. Since then, the Tesla boss has fired thousands of the platform's employees, cut content moderation, and reinstated former president Donald Trump's account. Last month, Musk sued the CCDH, accusing it of a smear campaign that damaged the social network's relationship with advertisers. The post Musk threatens to sue anti-defamation group for falling revenue appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digido and UnaCash bolster commitment to education
Bolstering its unwavering commitment to education and bayanihan (working together), Digido Finance Corp. or DFC, operator of award-winning consumer finance platform Digido and in-app and in-store installment solutions provider UnaCash, organized a dispatch of back-to-school essentials in support of the country’s annual “Brigada Eskwela” campaign. Held last 24 August 2023, the initiative saw DFC management and employees provide school supplies, including notebooks, writing and coloring materials, and a variety of other supplementary materials to 230 students of Malanday Elementary School in Marikina City, which was affected by recent typhoons. Company employees also demonstrated their premium on early education by contributing in-kind items. The undertaking seamlessly aligns with two pivotal Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations: “Quality Education” and “Reducing inequalities,” which encapsulate the essence of sustainable development through proactive measures. The Department of Education kicked off this year’s “Brigada Eskwela” earlier this month. “One’s education is directly correlated to one’s degree of participation in the financial ecosystem. We aim to make change through this initiative by removing immediate barriers to students focus on learning and upskilling,” Digido country manager Farit Shakirov said. “Endeavors such as Brigada Eskwela are an opportunity to invest in the bedrock of enduring education and, by extension, holistic maturation. The organization is more than pleased to offer its assistance for such initiatives to the best of our abilities,” added Aleksei Kosenko, president of UnaCash. The post Digido and UnaCash bolster commitment to education appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Salute to animal shelter heroes
Woofy, one of the pet food brands of Aboitiz’s agribusiness and food group Pilmico and Gold Coin, has partnered with animal shelters to salute animal welfare heroes through “Project Hero.” This initiative aims to recognize different animal shelters across the country and encourage more pet owners to adopt from them. Animal shelter owners and their volunteers and employees often dedicate tireless efforts to providing a safe haven for animals in need, providing their daily food, medical needs and a loving refuge. [caption id="attachment_179241" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Woofy, a dog food brand of Aboitiz’s food and agribusiness unit, partners with animal shelters on ‘Project Hero.’ | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ABOITIZ[/caption] Woofy’s “Project Hero” will support animal shelters and those who will adopt animals, and showcase partner shelters’ inspiring stories and experiences, such as these two examples: Isay Halaba’s love for animals led her to volunteer for multiple organizations, eventually becoming a campaign officer for the Animal Kingdom Foundation. Halaba spent most of her childhood surrounded by animals like cats, dogs, pigs and hens. She developed a deep sense of love and appreciation for animals from a young age and eventually carried this passion as she got older. In 2017, she became an active supporter of AKF and even hosted its events where she learned more about AKF’s campaigns and advocacies. Hearing the importance of animal welfare encouraged her to become a full-time volunteer while working at a private company. Juggling both her passion and day job was difficult for Isay, but she chose the work she’s most passionate about — championing animal welfare. The post Salute to animal shelter heroes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Singapore ex-deputy PM Shanmugaratnam elected president
Singapore's former deputy prime minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam was elected president Friday, earning a landslide victory in the city-state's first contested vote for the largely ceremonial position in more than a decade. Singaporeans headed to the polls that were closely watched as an indication of support for the ruling party after a rare spate of scandals, but the longtime stalwart of the party won more than two-thirds of the vote over two rivals. "I believe that it's a vote of confidence in Singapore. It's a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans," the former finance minister said in a speech before the results were announced. "I'm humbled by this vote. It is not just a vote for me, it is a vote for Singapore's future." He won 70.4 percent of the vote to win a six-year term. His main rival Ng Kok Song, a former chief investment officer of Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC, which manages the country's foreign reserves, conceded after winning only 15.7 percent of the vote. "The result is clear," he told reporters, adding Shanmugaratnam "has indeed earned a mandate from the people of Singapore." Shanmugaratnam acknowledged the "changing and evolving" nature of Singapore, notably its diversity, and said he believes the election was seen as "another milestone in that process of evolution." There are stringent requirements for the position, which formally oversees the city's accumulated financial reserves and holds the power to veto certain measures and approve anti-graft probes. While the presidency is a non-partisan post under the constitution, political lines had already been drawn ahead of the election to replace incumbent Halimah Yacob, who ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017. 'Decisive margin' Shanmugaratnam was widely viewed as the favourite for the position and had resigned as a member of the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) and as a senior minister in the cabinet ahead of the election as all presidential candidates must be independent. The 66-year-old economist is perceived as having the government's backing and was questioned about his independence during the campaign. The city-state's government is run by the prime minister, currently Lee Hsien Loong of the PAP, which has ruled Singapore continuously since 1959. "Singaporeans have chosen Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam to be our next President by a decisive margin," Lee said in a statement. Observers said the vote would indicate the level of PAP support ahead of general elections due in 2025 or discontent after recent scandals that include a corruption probe into the transport minister and the resignations of two PAP legislators over an affair. "What we want is a prosperous Singapore," self-employed worker Patrick Low, 70, told AFP after casting his vote. Shifting sentiments Another candidate, former insurance executive Tan Kin Lian, 75, had gained the support of several opposition leaders but only picked up 13.88 percent of votes. "The presidential election is increasingly being treated as a general election," said Mustafa Izzuddin, a political analyst with consultancy Solaris Strategies Singapore. Voting is compulsory for Singapore's more than 2.7 million eligible citizens. As of 5:00 pm local time (0900 GMT), more than 2.3 million Singaporeans, or about 85 per cent of eligible voters, had cast ballots, according to the Elections Department. Long but orderly lines snaked from polling centres absent the raucous environment that can accompany elections in other countries, where supporters chant or distribute flyers to lobby for last-minute votes. Izzuddin said an increase in protest voting had been expected but Shanmugaratnam secured an overwhelming win despite what experts had said was shifting opinions about the ruling party. The PAP suffered its worst-ever election performance in 2020 but maintained its more than two-thirds majority. Singapore requires presidential candidates to have served either as a senior civil servant or the chief executive of a company with shareholder equity of at least 500 million Singaporean dollars ($370 million). Perhaps the president's most crucial function is to serve as a custodian of Singapore's financial reserves, which can only be drawn upon in exceptional circumstances, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the 2009 global financial crisis. The post Singapore ex-deputy PM Shanmugaratnam elected president appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»