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GSIS eyes more benefits for members
Government workers can look forward to a Living Benefit program that the Government Service Insurance System is studying and is hoping to complete by April this year, following a significant increase in the GSIS Fund which posted last year a 33 percent increase in revenue that it now intends to plow back as benefits to its members......»»
Metrobank Makes Achieving Your Home Goals Easier With Its Free Appraisal Fee Promo!
This February, Metrobank is again making it easier for Filipinos to achieve their dream home as it brings back its free appraisal fee promo – giving clients up to PHP 5,500 in savings on their home loan. From February 1 to March 29, 2024, qualified clients who will submit a complete home loan application to […].....»»
Tropa complete Last 8 cast
TNT caught the last bus to the PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals with RR Pogoy finally back on board......»»
IN PHOTOS: Balik Cebu 2024
Summary: The Balik Cebu 2024 event, hosted at the Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu, has been a prominent part of the Sinulog festival for 22 years. In collaboration with the Cebu City Government, Mactan International Airport Association, and other tourism stakeholders, it aims to welcome back balikbayans (returning Filipinos) for the grand Sinulog festival. The Balik Cebu Dinner Show offers balikbayans the complete Sinulog experience, featuring Filipino cuisine, performances by Cebuano artists, the Sinulog Mardi Gras, the presentation of Miss Cebu winners and her court, Tribu Basakanaon, and a band performance. Tickets priced at P500 can be purchased at the Balik Cebu Turista Desk by presenting a passport or proof of residence outside the Philippines. Balikbayans can also buy up to three additional tickets for non-balikbayans accompanying them. The event will take place at Ayala Center Cebu on January 18 at 6 PM. (SPONSORED CONTENT).....»»
LIVE UPDATES: Mapua vs San Beda, NCAA Season 99 finals Game 3 – December 17
Mapua looks to rectify its NCAA finals Game 2 errors and finish its 32-year title drought after a week's rest, while San Beda aims to complete its bounce-back and cop its 23rd men's basketball title.....»»
Gomera scores twin kill in Dumaguete
Mcleen Gomera foiled doubles partner Kenzo Brodeth in a furious back-and-forth duel in the decider for a 2-6, 6-3, 12-10 victory and the boys’ 16-and-under singles crown and complete a two-title romp in the Gov. Manuel Sagarbarria National Junior Tennis Championships at the Praxevilla courts in Dumaguete City over the weekend......»»
Gomera, Mercado rule PPS Dumaguete netfest
Mcleen Gomera foiled doubles partner Kenzo Brodeth in a furious back-and-forth duel in the decider, hacking out a tough 2-6, 6-3, 12-10 victory to claim the boys’ 16-and-under singles crown and complete a two-title romp......»»
Goal: End terror
The United Nations, thus far, has fared dismally in fulfilling its role in the Israel-Hamas conflict that has been playing out for over two weeks. Instead of giving clarity to the situation by making an unequivocal stand against the reign of terror, the UN has turned into an accomplice of the Hamas terrorists in the unprecedented brutality that was wreaked on 7 October when more than 1,400 mostly civilians were massacred. The UN has repeatedly called for a humanitarian pause, which is coopting to the wishes of the terror group. More than 200 people were taken hostage by the extremists who rampaged through the peaceful communities. Relatives of the Hamas hostages and their supporters called on the UN the other day to do its part in bringing back their family members and rendering justice. One by one, members of the hostages’ families stood on a podium in front of the United Nations, pleading to world leaders for help rescuing their children, parents, brothers, and sisters who had nothing to do with the raging war. “We have not heard anything from anybody. Do your work. Give us signs of life. Give a sign of hope. We’re waiting for that. We’re not getting anything, I’m sorry,” said Orna Neutra, the mother of a hostage. In the plaza across the street, a solidarity rally displayed the horrors of war, putting up the names and photos of the missing hostages and setting shoes next to each poster. “These are the little shoes of 4-year-old girls that danced and walked in the kibbutz and now are held hostage in Gaza,” American resident Shany Granot-Lubaton said. “We just want people to understand how real it is for us. These are our family. These are our friends. This is what it looks like. These are real people.” The UN response led by Russia and China — which received support from the UN leadership — was appalling, calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to deliver “desperately needed food, water, medicine and fuel,” which Israeli officials said would benefit the besieged terrorists. Russia and China on Wednesday vetoed the US-authored draft resolution condemning the terror attacks by Hamas on Israel. Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan said that had these nations endured a similar massacre, they would have acted with much greater force. “In Israel, we are fighting for our very survival. If any of your countries endured a similar massacre, I am certain that you would act with much greater force than Israel,” he said. “There would be no question in your mind that such a barbaric slaughter requires a broad military operation against the terrorists who committed such inhumane atrocities to eradicate their terrorist capabilities, to make sure that such atrocities can never happen again,” he said. The draft resolution condemned the attack by Hamas on Israel and called for the release of the hostages and compliance with international humanitarian law. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for universal condemnation of Hamas’s terrorism and the immediate release of hostages. “I implore every member here, use your voice, use your influence, use your leverage to secure their unconditional and immediate release,” Blinken said. Ten countries on the UN Security Council backed the resolution, while Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates voted against it, and two other nations abstained. Russia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya, said his country won’t support the US resolution, adding that they see no point in it as the document has no demand for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between the parties to the conflict. As a victim of similar atrocities inflicted by terrorists in Marawi City, Filipinos know a quick resolution is essential to end the crisis, which for Israel is the complete elimination of Hamas. The post Goal: End terror appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
China to send youngest-ever crew to space station
Tiangong is the crown jewel of Beijing's space program, which has also landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon and made China the third country to put humans in orbit. The station is constantly crewed by teams of three astronauts, who are rotated out every six months. The Shenzhou-17 module carrying the trio to the station is scheduled to blast off at 11:14 a.m. (0314 GMT) Thursday from the Jiuquan launch site in China's arid northwest. "It is the crew of astronauts with the youngest average age since the launch of the space station construction mission," Beijing's State Council Information Office said in a statement. The all-male trio will be led by Tang Hongbo, who is on his first return mission to the Tiangong space station. "Throughout the past two years, I have often dreamt of going back to space," Tang said at a press conference on Wednesday. "The space station is our other home that takes us away from Earth and into the universe," he added. Accompanying him will be Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin, both in their thirties and each making maiden space voyages. The crew has an average age of 38, compared to 42 for the crew of Shenzhou-16 when it launched. "According to the plan, the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft will conduct autonomous rendezvous and docking procedures after entering orbit," Lin Xiqiang, spokesperson for China's space program, said during a Wednesday morning press briefing. It will dock with the station's core module "about six-and-a-half hours" after first initiating the procedure, he added. 'Space dream' Plans for China's "space dream" have been put into overdrive under President Xi Jinping. The world's second-largest economy has pumped billions of dollars into its military-run space program in an effort to catch up with the United States and Russia. In June, the return capsule of the Shenzhou-15 spaceship touched down at a landing site in the northern Inner Mongolia region, with state media hailing the mission as a "complete success". That month also saw the launch of the Shenzhou-16 capsule, which carried the first Chinese civilian -- Beihang University professor Gui Haichao -- into orbit. That crew will return to Earth on October 31 after completing a handover, officials said Wednesday. Beijing also aims to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030 and plans to build a base on the lunar surface. Spokesperson Lin reiterated that aim Wednesday, saying that the "goal of landing Chinese people on the moon by 2030 will be realized as scheduled". Lunar plans The country's lunar plans were dealt a setback in 2017 when the powerful Long March-5 Y2 rocket failed to launch on a mission to put communication satellites into orbit. That forced the postponement of the Chang'e-5 launch, originally scheduled to collect Moon samples in the second half of 2017. Another robot, the Chang'e-4, landed on the far side of the Moon in January 2019 -- a historic first. Chang'e-5 eventually landed on the Moon in 2020, raising a Chinese flag on the lunar surface and returning to Earth with the first lunar samples in four decades. The final module of the T-shaped Tiangong -- which means "heavenly palace" -- successfully docked with the core structure last year. The station carries several pieces of cutting-edge scientific equipment, according to state news agency Xinhua, including "the world's first space-based cold atomic clock system". The Tiangong is expected to remain in low Earth orbit at between 400 and 450 kilometers (250 and 280 miles) above the planet for at least 10 years. China will send its youngest-ever crew of astronauts to the Tiangong space station this week, officials said Wednesday, as Beijing pursues plans for a manned mission to the Moon by the end of the decade. Tiangong is the crown jewel of Beijing's space program, which has also landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon and made China the third country to put humans in orbit. The station is constantly crewed by teams of three astronauts, who are rotated out every six months. The Shenzhou-17 module carrying the trio to the station is scheduled to blast off at 11:14 am (0314 GMT) Thursday from the Jiuquan launch site in China's arid northwest. "It is the crew of astronauts with the youngest average age since the launch of the space station construction mission," Beijing's State Council Information Office said in a statement. The all-male trio will be led by Tang Hongbo, who is on his first return mission to the Tiangong space station. "Throughout the past two years, I have often dreamt of going back to space," Tang said at a press conference on Wednesday. "The space station is our other home that takes us away from Earth and into the universe," he added. Accompanying him will be Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin, both in their thirties and each making maiden space voyages. The crew has an average age of 38, compared to 42 for the crew of Shenzhou-16 when it launched. "According to the plan, the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft will conduct autonomous rendezvous and docking procedures after entering orbit," Lin Xiqiang, spokesperson for China's space program, said during a Wednesday morning press briefing. It will dock with the station's core module "about six-and-a-half hours" after first initiating the procedure, he added. 'Space dream' Plans for China's "space dream" have been put into overdrive under President Xi Jinping. The world's second-largest economy has pumped billions of dollars into its military-run space program in an effort to catch up with the United States and Russia. In June, the return capsule of the Shenzhou-15 spaceship touched down at a landing site in the northern Inner Mongolia region, with state media hailing the mission as a "complete success". That month also saw the launch of the Shenzhou-16 capsule, which carried the first Chinese civilian -- Beihang University professor Gui Haichao -- into orbit. That crew will return to Earth on October 31 after completing a handover, officials said Wednesday. Beijing also aims to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030 and plans to build a base on the lunar surface. Spokesperson Lin reiterated that aim Wednesday, saying that the "goal of landing Chinese people on the moon by 2030 will be realized as scheduled". Lunar plans The country's lunar plans were dealt a setback in 2017 when the powerful Long March-5 Y2 rocket failed to launch on a mission to put communication satellites into orbit. That forced the postponement of the Chang'e-5 launch, originally scheduled to collect Moon samples in the second half of 2017. Another robot, the Chang'e-4, landed on the far side of the Moon in January 2019 -- a historic first. Chang'e-5 eventually landed on the Moon in 2020, raising a Chinese flag on the lunar surface and returning to Earth the first lunar samples in four decades. The final module of the T-shaped Tiangong -- which means "heavenly palace" -- successfully docked with the core structure last year. The station carries several pieces of cutting-edge scientific equipment, according to state news agency Xinhua, including "the world's first space-based cold atomic clock system". The Tiangong is expected to remain in low Earth orbit at between 400 and 450 kilometers (250 and 280 miles) above the planet for at least 10 years. The post China to send youngest-ever crew to space station appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The Kid LAROI, Jungkook, Central Cee team up on ‘Too Much’
After a series of Internet-breaking teasers, The Kid LAROI has unveiled his new single and music video “Too Much,” featuring Jung Kook and Central Cee. The track is out via Columbia Records and Sony Music Entertainment. Uniting these stars for the very first time, the powerhouse collaboration heralds the arrival of The Kid LAROI’s full-length album, The First Time, dropping in November. “Too Much” intertwines three styles, countries and cultures, with The Kid LAROI from Australia, Jung Kook out of South Korea and Central Cee repping the UK. The track’s head-nodding bounce and glowing keys accent the back-and-forth between this trio, culminating in an instantly catchy chorus. Directed by Ramez Silyan, the visual depicts the three on various covers of a “Too Much” magazine. Highly stylized performance vignettes come complete with elite choreography Prior to the song’s arrival, Billboard had already noted the union of “three of the biggest male artists in the new class of 2020s breakout stars,” while UPROXX proclaimed, “The Kid LAROI is going global.” The post The Kid LAROI, Jungkook, Central Cee team up on ‘Too Much’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A place for good cocktails, great conversations
What could be better than to end a long and busy day or week with a great cocktail surrounded by people you vibe with? Panjee and Mike Singleton, the successful owners behind Banter and Jive, shared how operating a cocktail bar business can still be an enjoyable learning experience while navigating life together. “We like to drink together. That’s how we connect,” Panjee said, looking back on why they thought of setting up a cocktail bar business in the vibrant and buoyant streets of Poblacion. “We just wanted a place where we can sit down, talk to a bartender, have pretty good drinks and just hang out with each other.” Panjee decided to leave her corporate job to go full time into the business, while Mike still keeps his day job as a financial analyst. While they are relatively new to the business, it is not their first time to open a bar. In 2020, the couple ventured into the business, not knowing that the pandemic would go full-blown months later. However, it did not stop the Singletons from taking such risks: “We’ll try a second round. If it doesn’t work, then [we] will never get back to it,” Mike said, adding that they constantly reassured themselves whenever they felt bouts of hesitancy at the thought of trying again. Indeed, the second time’s the charm. As soon as the couple opened Banter & Jive, the dream was realized. [caption id="attachment_192197" align="aligncenter" width="875"] BANTER and Jive signature cocktail drinks.[/caption] Current bar scene With so many bars, pubs and nightclubs in Poblacion, one might say that the competition is fierce — but it’s the complete opposite. In retrospect, the couple agreed that the bar industry in Poblacion has been laidback despite the rise of established bars around the area.“The bar community is very strong. We’re very collaborative with each other, especially the cocktails. We don’t really treat each other as competition… It’s more of uplift[ing] the community together,” Mike said. “We all have a shared goal of increasing cocktail awareness,” he added. There is also a noticeably growing cocktail appreciation in the area. While there is nothing wrong with the classic shot of hard liquor — the oddly satisfying sensation of the burning aftertaste it delivers — new and old customers alike are becoming more adventurous and experimental with their drinks. “We keep on revamping our menu in such a way that people would really accept or like,” Panjee said, adding how they would cater to what their customers like in their menu, giving them a more profound and appreciative drinking experience. Undeniably, the country’s nightlife has always been one for the books — where a spontaneous trip to a bar with the people you cherish ends up being one of the most unforgettable moments in your life. Adding Filipinos’ innate hospitality and natural charm, the Poblacion nightlife perfectly captures the vision of being yourself while connecting with others. “As much work as we have to put into drinks, we also put in a lot of effort in making people feel welcome, especially in an intimate bar like ours. You could remember a really great drink but you will never forget the places where you really felt welcome, [where it] felt like a second home,” Panjee said. Taking a leap of faith Despite the lack of experience in operating a bar, it did not stop the couple from turning their passions into something bigger than themselves. With Banter & Jive opening early this year, the couple is onto something great as they are soft-opening a new bar next month in Poblacion. “Take the leap… It’s very scary. It’s still scary now, but take that risk. I think it’s also important for you to have a good support system when you do that — take the leap,” Panjee said, continuing that being surrounded by like-minded people who support you definitely takes the fear and hesitancy away. For aspiring entrepreneurs who want to operate their bar business, the couple agreed that now is the best time to materialize your dreams. “Not having experience isn’t a good enough reason for you not to do something. The only way to have experience is to actually experience it. There is no better time than now,” Panjee said. The post A place for good cocktails, great conversations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SB19, Francine Diaz, Ivana Alawi big winners at TikTok Awards Phl 2023
Phenomenal P-pop group SB19 and some of the country’s most popular actors and social media content creators were among the big winners at the “TikTok Awards Philippines 2023,” held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City on 30 September. SB19’s “Gento,” which topped local and foreign charts and has been covered by many K-pop groups and international dancers, won Song of the Year. [caption id="attachment_191701" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Francine Diaz | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/FRANCINE DIAZ[/caption] Dirty Linen and Fractured Actress Francine Diaz emerged as Celebrity Creator of the Year, besting nine other nominees including David Licauco, Barbie Forteza, Dennis Trillo, Yeng Constantino, Maris Racal, Jillian Ward, Yassi Pressman and Rayver Cruz. [caption id="attachment_191702" align="aligncenter" width="525"] IVANA ALAWI | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/IVANA ALAWI[/caption] Popular vlogger-turned-actress Ivana Alawi won “Shop Creator of the Year,” beating actresses Kiray Celis, Sherilyn Reyes-Tan, Iwa Moto, twins Joj and Jai Agpangan, and content creators Nicole Caluag, Akosi Dogie, Queenee Mercado, Momshie Odille and Michelle Ho of My Best Mommy Life. Meanwhile, Arshie Larga was hailed as “Tiktok Creator of the Year.” The popular pharmacist-TikToker, who is known for his informative yet entertaining content, looked back on his TikTok journey and thanked God, his family and his supporters for appreciating his work. In his acceptance speech, he urged his fellow content creators to be a force for good in society: “Let’s always use our platforms wisely and responsibly, and ‘yung clout natin gamitin sa tamang paraan, not just to entertain but to inspire.” The complete list of winners of the TikTok Awards Philippines 2023: TikTok Creator of the Year: Arshie Larga Dance Creator of the Year: Niana Guerrero Comedy Creator of the Year: Spencer Serafica Effect House Creator of the Year: Andie Rabino Popular Creator of the Year: Carlyn Ocampo Celebrity Creator of the Year: Francine Diaz Song of the Year: SB19’s “Gento” Popular TikTok Shop Creator: Ivana Alawi Popular TikTok Shop Brand Owner: Viy Cortez Rising Creator of the Year: Miss Deliciousness Livestreamer of the Year: Krizel Yuson Entertainment Creator of the Year: Jezreel Ely Breakthrough Entertainment Partner: ABS-CBN News Publisher of the Year: News5 Educator of the Year: Chinkee Tan Beauty Creator of the Year: Teree Daisuke Fashion Creator of the Year: Jeanette Ong Foodie Creator of the Year: Abi Marquez Gaming Creator of the Year: Archerperezz Sports Creator of the Year: Bianca Bustamante The post SB19, Francine Diaz, Ivana Alawi big winners at TikTok Awards Phl 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New mission: BuCor reform
Following his tenure as chief of staff in the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 2015, retired four-star General Gregorio Pio Catapang chose to settle in Pampanga. Here, he embraced a simpler life as a farmer, relishing in the delights of native chicken, fresh produce, and the serene natural surroundings. “I am an environmentalist, so I decided to stay in Arayat, Pampanga, to be a farmer upon my retirement in October 2015, and I prayed, ‘Lord, it has been mission accomplished, so give me a new mission,’” Catapang narrated. The former military chief, the AFP’s 45th from July 2014 to 2015, is not a stranger to close encounters with mortality. Throughout his extensive service in the Philippine Army, from graduating from the Philippine Military Academy in 1981, he has endured several clashes with enemies, even more than one could count with the fingers. He held major positions in the AFP as commander of the 2nd Infantry Division — the Army’s largest unit, 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, 703 Infantry Brigade, and 28th Infantry Brigade, among others. He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3, of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. His rise to prominence was not without hitches because he barely survived nine brushes with death. His strong faith in the Lord enabled him to be alive today. “The first incident that I encountered that almost ended my life was when I fell from the second floor of our house when I was just a kid; the second was when I was in the field where a provincial bus liner rammed the car I was in,” Catapang said. He was airlifted from Basa Airbase to V. Luna General Hospital and eventually transferred to Quezon City Medical City as he continued to bleed due to his severe injuries. “The doctor told me not to sleep because I might turn into a coma. So I fight on as the doctors continue to treat me,” he added. While still recovering, with his facial wounds still not yet fully healed, he was called by his commander to report back to work. “Nakangiwi pa ako dahil sa sugat (I was still grimacing in pain), but as a soldier, I followed the order, and that was then I realized that he was teaching me how to become chief of staff,” Catapang said, adding that as a good soldier, he had to endure the pain. He recalled that a chopper ride in the mountains of Cagayan also nearly took his life as it flew at 1,000 feet and traveled 18 knots. “The chopper is already old. I just have to make the sign of the cross as the chopper made a low-altitude flight due to poor visibility. We plunged downward, and I thought it was the end for me. But thankfully, the chopper normalized, and we safely landed,” he said. While in a restaurant in Angeles, Pampanga, Catapang said he was informed that NPA (New People’s Army) rebels would ambush him. “We ate at a chicken restaurant in Angeles and received information that I would be ambushed on returning to our camp. It was retaliation for the death of eight commanders of the NPA after movement patterns were detected based on information from barangay chairpersons,” he said. He cannot forget, too, that during the Pinatubo eruption in 1991, the roof of the building they were occupying collapsed due to the accumulated volcanic ash. Catapang, named after two generals — Gregorio del Pilar and Pio del Pilar — led his soldiers in helping the indigenous peoples in the area, giving them food, clothing, and other necessities. “The natives very loved us because of that,” he added. He said he is thankful to have emerged victorious and alive from the all-out war against Muslim secessionists in Mindanao. It almost ended his life, but he survived with solid faith in the Lord. Throughout his life, he consistently believed that prayers are always answered, particularly when reciting the rosary. Proof was when he fervently prayed to the Lord to allow him to marry his first girlfriend, and his request was granted. He married Maria Lourdes and has three children. Catapang’s early life lacked the excitement it later encompassed. He was a typical teenager. He attended high school at the Claret School of Quezon City. Shortly after graduating from PMA, he pursued graduate courses at the University of the Philippines. He is the second of four children of Gregorio Catapang Sr., a lawyer for the Securities and Exchange Commission, and Lourdes Punzalan, an accountant at the Department of Finance, from whom he learned the value of public service. As a military officer, Catapang rallied the troops to strictly adhere to the AFP’s slogan of “Kawal DISIPLINADO, bawal ABUSADO, dapat ASINTADO” — three key words that spell out the Do’s and DON’T’s to become proficient in fire and maneuver and avoid collateral damage; be respectful of human rights, adhere to international humanitarian law and the rule of law, and the rules of engagement. Catapang moved on with his career and retirement life, carrying an excellent performance standard, exemplary leadership and a keen vision. Answered post-retirement prayer After retiring from active military service spanning 34 years, he received a divine blessing through a new mission. Following seven years of working as a farmer, he experienced a life-altering moment on the evening of October 19, 2021. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla gave him an offer to lead the Bureau of Corrections. Unaware of the challenges that awaited him within the BuCor, especially at the New Bilibid Prison, he accepted the offer. It was only later that he discovered the appalling issues of corruption among the prison staff and the dire condition of the overcrowded facilities. Under the guidance of Secretary Remulla, Catapang’s mission to reform the BuCor is yielding positive results. They are actively organizing culminating activities to release eligible individuals who have been deprived of their liberty. To alleviate the overcrowding in the jail facilities, the BuCor is actively organizing and implementing various reforms. The main goal is to transfer all persons deprived of liberty from the maximum security compound of the NBP to new facilities outside of Metro Manila. Catapang is confident plans will come to fruition, as they have already presented their long-term reform plan to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approval. “At present, the reformation of BuCor is in full swing. I am confident we will accomplish and make things happen,” he said. The NBP, he said, is undergoing a significant transformation. The plan is to shut down the NBP in Muntinlupa and repurpose the area into a new business district similar to Bonifacio Global City in the southern part of Metro Manila. Explaining the reason behind the decision, he said high-end residential communities surround the current location of the NBP in Muntinlupa. To align with the surrounding environment, the intention is to close down the NBP and relocate all inmates to regional jail facilities nationwide. Catapang shared plans to dedicate eight hectares of land within the NBP to improve the living conditions of the settlers and provide them with opportunities for reintegration into society. “We will build condominium units for the settlers at the NBP, complete with amenities like a swimming pool, multipurpose facilities, and the like. Repair of residential houses is no longer possible, including power lines, so we decided to allocate the lands for them,” he added. The government will optimally use the land area by developing it into a business and government center, aligning with the DoJ’s plan. To support the food security initiatives of the President, he said they have already started the cultivation of approximately 10 hectares of land at the Iwahig Penal Colony. The aim is to grow rice and high-yield crops, contributing to the government’s long-term food security plans. “Hopefully, this will be done also to other penal farms of BuCor because we have ample lands for cultivation,” Catapang said. For the BuCor Director General who refused to be defined by limitations and setbacks, the relentless spirit and passion for reforms radiate triumphs against the most formidable odds. The post New mission: BuCor reform appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Use of father’s surname, the child’s decision
The misdeeds or oversights of parents cannot and should not disgrace their children. It is for this basic precept that Philippine laws have granted non-marital children (formerly called “illegitimate” children) a myriad of rights akin to — if not totally similar — those of marital children (formerly called “legitimate” children). Notably, their appellation has been changed to a more appropriate description of their parents’ civil status at the time of their birth rather than the birth’s supposed “legitimacy.” Non-marital children are now permitted to carry their father’s surname upon compliance with requirements set by law and related regulations. While Article 176 of the Family Code of the Philippines provides non-marital children’s successional rights, Republic Act 9255, which took effect in 2004, boosted these rights by allowing them to use their father’s surname if their filiation has been recognized by the latter in accordance with some preconditions. The Philippine Statistics Authority or PSA, consequently, revised the implementing rules of RA 9255 in 2016 to better effectuate the wisdom of the law, especially considering the ruling of the Supreme Court in the case of Grace M. Grande v Patricio T. Antonio (G.R. No. 206248, 18 February 2014), which states that neither the father nor the mother is granted the right to dictate the surname of their non-marital children. Instead, the law gives non-marital children the right to decide whether or not they will use their father’s surname. Just recently, PSA issued Memorandum Circular No. 2023-14, which further revised the implementing rules, providing that prevailing rules shall have retroactive effect for all births occurring within or outside the Philippines where a Filipino is concerned. The Office of the Civil Registrar General also amended the same implementing rules through Administrative Order No. 1, series of 2023, so that existing laws and regulations about the use of non-marital children of the surname of their father shall apply to those born during the effectivity of the Family Code of the Philippines or from 3 August 1988 with (a) unregistered births and (b) registered births, where non-marital children use the surname of their mother. Considering these changes, should non-marital children prefer to use the surname of their father, there must exist an express acknowledgment by the latter of the former through any of the following: (a) affidavit of admission of paternity found at the back of the child’s certificate of live birth; (b) affidavit of acknowledgment; or (c) private handwritten instrument signed by the father with his express recognition of the child as his for the rest of his life. These documents shall be filed before the local civil registry where the birth is registered or, in case of unregistered births, where the child is born. Absent the express acknowledgment from the father, the non-martial child cannot use the father’s surname. How, then, is an admission of paternity filed? The father, mother, or non-marital child of legal age may file the affidavit of admission of paternity or affidavit of acknowledgement. In the case of a private handwritten instrument, the same should be personally filed by the father. If the father is deceased, the private handwritten instrument may be filed by the non-marital child, who is of legal age, or the non-marital child’s mother. Should the local civil registry find the requirements complete and without issue after review, the non-marital child’s new surname shall be annotated on the existing certificate of live birth; it shall not be supplied on the portion intended for the last name. The above rules do not include the assignment of a middle name for a non-marital child. An additional Supplemental Report should be filed to supply the child’s middle name on the certificate of live birth. It must be remembered, however, that the non-marital children’s use of the surname of their father does not necessarily make them marital children in legal contemplation — it plainly permits them to publicly use such surname, e.g., in their identity documents like passport, school and employment records, and other documents. There is a separate process for the conversion of a child’s status from non-marital to marital called legitimation. *** For more of Dean Nilo Divina’s legal tidbits, please visit www.divinalaw.com. For comments and questions, please send an email to cabdo@divinalaw.com. The post Use of father’s surname, the child’s decision appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Talk shows coming back after Hollywood writers’ strike ends
Late-night talk shows, a mainstay of the US TV schedule, will be back on the air within a week, hosts said Wednesday, after leaders of the Writers Guild of America called off a paralyzing strike. The densely written shows -- fronted by Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Myers and John Oliver -- have been a glaring absence since writers downed pens in May over demands for better pay and guarantees against the threat from artificial intelligence. "Flash! Their mission complete, the founding members of Strike Force 5 will return to their network television shows this Monday 10/2, and one of them to premium cable on 10/1," the @StrikeForceFive handle wrote on social media. The name refers to a podcast the five hosts have put on while they have been off the air. The bulk of film and television production across the United States has been at a standstill since scribes walked out in early May, being joined by actors in July, all seeking a better deal and assurances their jobs won't be lost to artificial intelligence. But a breakthrough was announced Sunday between the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, the umbrella body representing studios and streamers. WGA leaders voted Tuesday to accept the deal and put it to 11,500 members for ratification next week, while calling off the strike from 12.01 am Wednesday. Details of the deal released by the WGA showed a sizable pay bump for writers, as well as a bonus structure for those working on hit shows. It also limits the role of AI-generated material -- a key sticking point for both sides, who were wary of hemming themselves in, in a rapidly-evolving landscape that is upending the world of work. Writers, who got their first glimpse of the deal on Tuesday said they were pleased with the outcome. "I'm so happy about the gains that we made," Leila Cohan, who wrote on hit series "Bridgerton," told AFP. "I'm so proud that we really went for it. Things got very challenging for many members, and we won." Actors' strike still unresolved Even with the WGA strike almost in the rear-view mirror, Hollywood will remain a long way from normal service, with actors -- represented by the SAG-AFTRA union -- still refusing to work. A resolution to that stoppage is expected to take several more weeks at minimum. Some of SAG-AFTRA's demands go further than those of the WGA. And with hundreds of film and television shoots backed up, it could still then take months for Hollywood to clear the logistical logjam and get fully back to work. The post Talk shows coming back after Hollywood writers’ strike ends appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Keeping it together
It’s no longer unusual, nowadays, for a family to have one or both parents working in another country, or for grown children to relocate abroad for work or start their own family. Single parenting is also quite common, right along there with blended families and LGBTQ unions with kids. Yet even when families are together in one place — one home, compound, neighborhood or city — it takes a lot to stay “together,” literally and figuratively. Perhaps sensing the threats to what is recognized as society’s basic foundation, our government in 1992 decided to declare the last week of September as Family Week, as mandated by Proclamation 60 signed by then President Fidel V. Ramos. Ramos wanted the week to emphasize the importance of the family as “the foundation of the nation” and “as a basic autonomous social institution,” as well as recognize “the sanctity of family life,” as stated in the Constitution of the Philippines. The world may transform in many ways, but the need for family will never change. “No matter how much life changes and the concept of family evolves, it may continue to benefit human health and wellness by offering a sense of belonging and support,” it aptly states in an article on Better Help, which also enumerates the factors affecting family life as “advancements in technology, changing cultural norms, new priorities and advanced forms of communication fueled by the internet.” The sense of belonging one gains from being part of a family — whether it is in a traditional setup, adoptive or “chosen,” a new kind of family defined in these modern times — has a profound impact on one’s well-being. With government providing the impetus for today’s families to connect or reconnect during the annual Family Week, it is up to each one of us to take steps to keep ours together in these fast-paced, nomadic, dysfunctional times. In the local setting, we already see so many signs of the changing dynamics among families. We could wade through studies to figure out all the issues affecting our core foundation, but we believe one may truly gain more understanding by examining our own experiences. Here, we share the views of people in our sphere, in answer to our query: What do you consider as the biggest challenge for your family in these trying times? Gigie Arcilla, Editor-in-chief Dealing with young adult children presents the challenge of establishing boundaries as they seek independence and transition into adulthood. Striking a balance between support and autonomy, as well as providing guidance while allowing room for growth, can be difficult, especially for a single parent. [caption id="attachment_187927" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] STEPHANIE Mayo (fifth, clockwise) with her family. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Stephanie Mayo[/caption] Stephanie Mayo, Film critic and writer I have senior-citizen parents, and my siblings and I are now at the age when our health naturally starts to decline. Even if someone has health insurance, no one can deny how debilitating and expensive getting sick is. Without health, quality of life is decreased. You also cannot work (no work, no pay for freelancers such as myself) if you are sick. Gratefully, none of us in the family are currently seriously ill. It’s just that given that these trying times are also marked by corruption, medical gaslighting, new diseases and viruses and climate change, health problems have become even more threatening. [caption id="attachment_187926" align="aligncenter" width="993"] PAULINE Songco (fifth from left) and dad Arnold, mom Dhen, grandmother Linda and sister Patricia. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Pauline Songco[/caption] Pauline Songco, Editor and writer I would say our biggest challenge is finding time to be together. I am always never at home. If I am, I would just be there for a few hours to sleep. I would get up, then go to work again. I find myself having less and less free time than before. My sister is busy with work, and so is my father. My mom is left alone at home with my cats. But, she goes to the gym to occupy herself and to see her friends. Yet, I’m thankful for what we have right now for these are the same things that we used to pray for before. [caption id="attachment_187924" align="aligncenter" width="641"] PAULINE Pascual (first from left) and dad Roy, mom Jocelyn and sister Prizcia. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Pauline Pascual[/caption] Pauline Joyce Pascual, Lifestyle writer Our family became even closer during the pandemic, and now that things are almost back to normal, it is the family bonding that we used to that we find the most challenging. My sister is studying and getting ready for her time at college while my parents are back in business and I am now working outside of our province. I miss the good old days even though we still saw each other every week. [caption id="attachment_187925" align="aligncenter" width="638"] RAPHAEL, Rachael, Joylen and Ruben Ramos. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Raphael Ramos[/caption] Raphael Ramos, STEM student at De La Salle Araneta The desire to act in spite of the potential consequences for everyone else. The family members’ immaturity leads to a more serious issue and may stunt each person’s development. [caption id="attachment_187922" align="aligncenter" width="2246"] GEL, Dino, Tei and Maui Datu. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Dino Datu[/caption] Dino Datu, Chef, journalist and entrepreneur The biggest challenge in families today is creating quality family time. Everyone is so busy and there are so many distractions. While working and school work are necessities, we need to create time to just sit together for regular meals and chat without our electronic devices. Even on rare occasions that everyone is together, dining out, for example, people look at their phones every few seconds. That’s what I think is a big difference between today’s families and those from a few decades back. We often see “perfect” families on social media. Sadly, it seems like that’s the only place it exists. Teresa Laurente, Business Consultant For me, it has to be family, healthcare, children’s education and social media effect on young people. Pamela Palacio, Statistician III, Provincial Government of Bataan Disrespect to God and parents. Negative effect of social media. [caption id="attachment_187920" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] YVETTE Chua-Carrion (fourth from left) beside her husband, businessman Melon. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESYOF Yvette Chua-Carrion[/caption] Yvette Chua-Carrion, Educator and breakthrough life coach In these financially trying times — the budget for groceries, how to have savings for emergencies (which we hope won’t happen), and high gas prices. [caption id="attachment_187919" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] (FROM left) Riley, husband Noel, Tiffany and Ashley. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Tiffany Cuna[/caption] Tiffany Sison Cuna, Former beauty queen turned entrepreneur Disciplining and inculcating values in our children knowing how the Internet plays a vital role in their lives — it could either influence them positively or negatively. [caption id="attachment_187923" align="aligncenter" width="1170"] JIA Bote and dad Milton. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Jia Bote[/caption] Jia Bote, Student at the University of Santo Tomas With my father working away from home, the biggest challenge is having more time together as a family. When I was younger, I thought I had all the time in the world to spend time with my family. However, as I grow older, my responsibilities increase, and I have less free time than I used to. I remember spending the peak of the pandemic away from our father, and we could only talk through the phone for months. It was challenging for me not to see my father physically, especially when I go through difficult moments because I believe that we need more of our parents’ wisdom and guidance as we grow older. With the pandemic and the natural course of life, it feels like I have less time and opportunity to be with my father who is also growing old day by day. [caption id="attachment_187921" align="aligncenter" width="1242"] ALEX and Jet Capina (fourth and fifth from left) with their children. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY of Jet Capina[/caption] Jet Capina, retired bank vice president Our challenge is how to make the family complete on weekends. My children have their own gimmicks. Before every Sunday we were together attending church service but after the pandemic each of them esp Paolo is out of the house to be with his gf. I don’t think it’s good to write about it. Our challenge is how to make the family complete on weekends. My children are all good and well behaved but having grown up, the elder ones now and then have their own gimmicks. I am happy that my husband, who often plays golf, is with me always. The post Keeping it together appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Better welfare and support for the ‘kuya ng kalsada‘
Move It, a homegrown motorcycle taxi company powered by Grab, recently launched a comprehensive rider-partner welfare and engagement program at the “Move It Tropang Malupet“ event held at the PICC Forum, which welcomed thousands of rider-partners as well as aspiring applicants eager to join Move It’s growing communities of “kuya ng kalsada.” Dedicated to enhancing the economic well-being of local motorcycle taxi service providers, the expanded “Tropang Malupet” welfare program encompasses optimized earning opportunities, economic assistance, aid and relief initiatives and community engagement. Move It continues to find ways to improve the lives of its rider-partners and their loved ones and help them achieve upward socioeconomic mobility. With Grab's support, Move It strives toward being the safer, more reliable and most affordable motorcycle taxi that Filipinos can always depend on. [caption id="attachment_185482" align="aligncenter" width="1004"] Move It general manager Wayne Jacinto introducing the expanded ‘Tropang Malupet‘ program.[/caption] In his remarks, Move It general manager Wayne Jacinto highlighted the impact of the upgraded Move It app to the experience of passengers and the earnings potential of rider-partners. The new Back-to-Back Booking feature on the app allows rider-partners to accept a new booking even as they accomplish an ongoing one, boosting their productivity on the platform. With the BTB Booking feature, tech upgrades and growing consumer demand, the earnings potential of rider-partners has doubled versus last year. To guarantee that rider-partners are able to achieve optimum earnings on the platform, Move It offers the lowest commission rate in the industry, complemented by income-boosting initiatives. Among these is Ka-Move It Rewards, an incentive scheme designed to reward rider-partners who successfully complete missions such as achieving specific booking targets, maintaining high passenger ratings and fulfilling minimum online hour requirements. Through Move It Parcel Delivery, on the other hand, rider-partners can accept parcel-delivery orders during non-peak hours for motorcycle hailing. The company‘s dedication to its rider-partners goes beyond offering livelihood opportunities. Recognizing the challenges they encounter on the road, it has introduced the Move It Malasakit Social Welfare Program, which extends financial assistance to rider-partners in need of emergency top-ups or those who experience accidents while online, complementing the existing insurance coverage allocated for Move It rider-partners. Move It Malasakit also covers aid and relief for rider-partners during calamities and national emergencies. Powered by leading superapp Grab, Move It is now also able to extend Grab's microfinancing programs to its rider-partners, providing an essential financial lifeline for them. And rider-partners are now eligible to apply for educational support through GrabScholar, a comprehensive educational support program comprising bursary support, BPO career acceleration opportunities and even full-ride college scholarships. Move It rider-partners have also been given full access to GrabAcademy, an online learning feature embedded in the driver app. GrabAcademy contains online classes on road safety, computer basics and passenger handling. Move It consistently organizes forums and town halls with its rider-partners to facilitate discussions on upcoming features and to promptly address situations faced by the community. In addition to these activities, the company also offers supplementary programs tailored to the interests of its rider-partners. For instance, an exciting announcement made at the event was the launch of Ka-Move It Liga — an inter-community basketball league with a grand prize of P300,000 and various consolation prizes totaling more than P500,000 in value. This initiative is set to bring rider-partners together in a spirit of competition and unity. The post Better welfare and support for the ‘kuya ng kalsada‘ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Grateful Tzu Chi beneficiary: ‘It’s time to give back‘
The Tzu Chi Eye Center had an unexpected visitor recently. Romulo Manongdo dropped by to bring sweet treats for his surgeon, Dr. Bernardita Navarro, and the rest of the medical team. But the best gift he brought was the story of how his life was transformed after undergoing surgery at the eye center. Last year, Manongdo had to undergo cataract surgery in both eyes. Estranged from his children and abandoned by his live-in partner, Manongdo wandered the streets looking for hospitals willing to treat his eyes. Manongdo did not have the money for checkup or surgery. His blurry vision had cost him his job at a construction company. At night, he slept in bus terminals and sidewalks. One day, he missed a piece of rebar jutting out from a concrete road and tripped. He sustained wounds in his left toe and elbow from the incident. [caption id="attachment_185498" align="aligncenter" width="525"] He may have tripped a few times, but Romulo Manongdo has found his footing again, thanks to complete strangers who, in his darkest time, treated him like family.[/caption] When Manongdo finally found the Tzu Chi Eye Center, his wounds were infected and he hobbled. The medical team treated his wounds and found out he also had diabetes. He was given medicines, and Tzu Chi arranged for his stay at a transient house in Banawe, Quezon City, with Dr. Navarro bringing him food, medicines and hygiene kits. Throughout all this, Manongdo talked very little, looking tired and defeated. In the following days, one of the Eye Center nurses regularly visited him to check and dress his wounds and monitor his blood sugar level. One year after regaining clear eyesight, Manongdo stands tall again. He now works as a foreman for a construction company. He may have tripped a few times, but Manongdo has found his footing again thanks to complete strangers who, in his darkest time, treated him like family. Manongdo told his surgeon that he had heeded her advice: He searched for his children after he recovered and was able to receive their forgiveness. Now he is supporting his youngest daughter’s education, he proudly added. Manongdo has adopted a Tzu Chi coin bank, with a promise to return to the center to turn over his donations. “It’s time to give back,” he said. The post Grateful Tzu Chi beneficiary: ‘It’s time to give back‘ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Back to its roots: On its 65th year, SM provides shoes to Filipino schoolkids
Millions of children around the world walk barefoot, without access to decent footwear. William Blischke, an American Sociology professor at the California State University Dominguez Hills, said in a study that 14 percent of the earth’s inhabitants lack shoes or have inadequate footwear. In some developing countries, shoeless children cannot attend school because they may communicate and contract diseases from their foot sores. Hence, some international non-profit organizations say the lack of shoes is one of the most visible signs of poverty. In the Philippines, a 2023 report by the Department of Education acknowledged Filipino children’s lack of access to resources as among the most pressing issues in the basic education system. School shoes are an integral part of a student’s uniform even in public schools; the lack of shoes will leave children ill-equipped to complete their education. This is the challenge the SM Store intends to address through the Share Shoes campaign — to provide school shoes to poor Filipino students, in line with the celebration of SM’s 65th founding anniversary. With the help of its dedicated customers and partner-organizations, SM Store aims to donate more than 16,000 pairs of shoes to last-mile schools and communities in the country. With a minimum of P3,000 single-receipt-spend at any SM Store, a customer is entitled to donate a pair of shoes, originally retailing for P299, for only P65, and the customer will be considered a “Share Shoes Champion.” Dhinno S. Tiu, executive vice president of SM Store, explained the value and symbolism of shoes for both SM and its advocacy to support the community: “Shoes have been the core of our business for over 65 years. Thus, giving out thousands of shoes to Filipino children who need them the most through the generosity of our customers is a symbolic gesture of our commitment to continue to live the legacy of sharing and giving back to our partner communities.” SM Store hopes that these pairs of shoes would help children toward a better life. Through the simple act of giving shoes to underprivileged kids, they may be able to learn, play and flourish in school. By protecting their young feet, they can confidently step, walk, run and leap toward their individual goals and dreams. Customers may shop at their favorite SM Store from 1 September to 15 November 2023 to support a child in need. For only P65, help transform a life by being a “Share Shoes Champion.” The post Back to its roots: On its 65th year, SM provides shoes to Filipino schoolkids appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gauff defeats Sabalenka to win US Open crown
American teenager Coco Gauff came from behind to win the US Open on Saturday, clinching her first Grand Slam title with a battling win over Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus. Gauff, 19, produced a gutsy performance on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court to win 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 in 2hr 6min to complete a fairytale transformation in her season's fortunes. The sixth seed from Florida had gone into the final as the underdog against the hard-hitting second seed Sabalenka, who will become world number one in next week's rankings. But with both players making a slew of mistakes throughout an error-strewn final watched by a record crowd of 28,143 it was Gauff who held her nerve when it mattered to seal a deserved victory. The win completed a remarkable turnaround for Gauff, who was left distraught after a first round exit at Wimbledon in July. However she bounced back to win titles in Washington and Cincinnati and has now landed the biggest win of her career, after a shattering loss at the French Open last year. "It means so much to me," an elated Gauff said afterwards. "I feel like I'm a little bit in shock in this moment. "That French Open loss (last year) was a heartbreak for me. That makes this moment even sweeter than I could imagine." Gauff, the third American teenager to win the US Open after Tracy Austin and Serena Williams, also used her victory speech to thank those who doubted her talent. "Honestly thank you to the people who didn't believe in me," she joked. "To those who thought they were putting water on my fire, they were putting gas on my fire and I'm burning so bright right now." - First set struggle - Gauff was in trouble in the opening game, Sabalenka breaking her straight away with a rasping backhand that drew a roar of "Come On!" from the Belarusian. She held easily to take a 2-0 lead but Gauff then took advantage of a shaky service game from Sabalenka to break at 2-2 in the fourth. The Belarusian double-faulted twice to allow Gauff to get back on level terms. But that hard-won parity was surrendered in the next game as Sabalenka broke back to go 3-2 ahead. Sabalenka then wobbled on her own serve once more as Gauff eked out two break points in the sixth game. But Sabalenka got it back to deuce with an ace and then took a 4-2 lead with an emphatic smash. Gauff's problems on serve continued and Sabalenka broke for the third time to race 5-2 ahead, and she duly wrapped up the set by holding in the next game. Yet with the match threatening to become a rout, Gauff finally clicked into gear in the second set, making fewer unforced errors and ironing out the kinks in her serve. Instead it was Sabalenka who began to show signs of brittleness as the tension mounted. She double-faulted to hand Gauff the only break of the set and a 3-1 lead. Gauff fended off a break point in the next game to hold for 4-1 and went on to hold for the remainder of the set to level the match when Sabalenka smacked a forehand long. The momentum remained firmly with Gauff in the final set and she secured another crucial break in the opening game when she put away an underhit Sabalenka lob with a smash. Gauff then held easily for a 2-0 lead as Sabalenka struggled to regain any semblance of composure. She coughed up four unforced errors to gift Gauff a break and a 3-0 lead, and the American then held with ease to go 4-0 up. Sabalenka stopped the rot by holding serve in the fifth game, before taking a medical timeout to receive treatment on her left thigh. Gauff was in no mood to let her grip on the match slip though. Although Sabalenka held and broke Gauff to cut the lead to 4-2, Gauff hit back when Sabalenka double-faulted to present a break point. Gauff cashed in to break and grab a 5-2 lead and then swept to victory in the next game, holding to love with a backhand winner. rcw/mw © Agence France-Presse The post Gauff defeats Sabalenka to win US Open crown appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»