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Sarah Geronimo meets with Fil-Am producers in LA
Sarah Geronimo has made two historic feats just weeks apart this month, but the talented singer-actress revealed that she still had hesitations and apprehensions......»»
Liam Cunningham and Benedict Wong are the duo to watch in Netflix’s ‘3 Body Problem’
Benedict Wong and Liam Cunningham form a dynamic duo in “3 Body Problem,” Netflix’s mega-budget sci-fi saga that starts streaming today......»»
Celebrities share past struggles, tips on how to build confidence
Gabbi Garcia, Benedict Cua, Arshie Larga and girl group KAIA are sharing their experiences of finding confidence and shining in their moment, regardless of life’s unexpected surprises......»»
Ombudsman ordersDA Asec dismissed
The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the dismissal from the service of Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary Kristine Evangelista in connection with a dubious deal with an onion supplier that led to a spike in the price of the commodity last year. The Ombudsman found Evangelista and John Gabriel Benedict Trinidad III, vice president for operations of Food Terminal Inc., guilty of conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service. They were dismissed for grave misconduct and negligence of duty, respectively. Moreover, the Ombudsman found probable cause to indict Evangelista, Trinidad, and several others for breach of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019) and for “falsification by private individuals and use of falsified documents (Article 172 of the Revised Penal Code).” The criminal and administrative charges against DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban, chief accountant officer-in-charge Lolita Jamela, administrative officer V Eunice Biblanias, and budget division head Juanita Lualhati were dropped due to lack of probable cause and insufficiency of evidence. Likewise, the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal of both criminal and administrative charges against FTI president Robert Tan, who will stand as a witness for the prosecution. Back in August, the Ombudsman placed Evangelista, Trinidad, and several others, except for Panganiban and Tan, under preventive suspension in connection with the onion supply shortage in the country’s markets, price manipulation, and the dubious procurement of onions by FTI from Bonena Multi-Purpose Cooperative. Ombudsman records showed the DA entered into a memorandum of agreement with FTI for the Food Mobilization or Kadiwa Food Hub project. FTI, on the other hand, entered into a letter of agreement with Bonena for the delivery of 8,845 bags (approximately 28 kilograms/bag) of onions as part of the Kadiwa Food Hub. They were accused of violating RA 3019 and the Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 9184) due to the lack of parameters in the selection of a cooperative that would supply and deliver the onions; the questionable advance payment of 50 percent of the contract price; non-compliance of the MoA; partial implementation of the contract; and doubtful deliveries by Bonena.” The country experienced an agricultural shortage, primarily in onions, which soared to as high as P500 to P700 per kilo during the last quarter of 2022. The post Ombudsman ordersDA Asec dismissed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Agri officials dismissed by Ombudsman for graft, misconduct
The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the dismissal from service of Department of Agriculture assistant secretary Kristine Evangelista in relation to a dubious deal with an onion supplier that led to a spike in the commodity last year. The Ombudsman found Evangelista and John Gabriel Benedict Trinidad III, vice president for operations of Food Terminal Incorporated, guilty of conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and dismissed for grave misconduct and negligence of duty, respectively. Moreover, the Ombudsman found probable cause to indict Evangelista, Trinidad and several others for breaching the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019), and for "falsification by private individuals and use of falsified documents (Article 172 of the Revised Penal Code)." The criminal and administrative charges against DA senior undersecretary Domingo Panganiban, chief accountant officer-in-charge Lolita Jamela, administrative officer V Eunice Biblanias and budget division head Juanita Lualhati, however, were dropped due to lack of probable cause and insufficiency of evidence. Likewise, the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal of both criminal and administrative charges against FTI president Robert Tan to stand as a witness of the prosecution. Back in August, the Ombudsman placed Evangelista, Trinidad and several others, except for Panganiban and Tan, under preventive suspension in connection with the onion supply shortage in the Philippine markets, price manipulation and the dubious procurement of onions by FTI from Bonena Multi-Purpose Cooperative. The Ombudsman’s records showed that the DA entered into a memorandum of agreement with FTI for the Food Mobilization or Kadiwa Food Hub project. FTI, on the other hand, entered into a letter of agreement with Bonena for the delivery of 8,845 bags (approximately 28 kilograms/bag) of onions as part of the said Kadiwa Food Hub. They were accused of violating RA 3019 and the Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 9184) due to the lack of parameters in the selection of a cooperative that will supply and deliver the onions; questionable advance payment of 50 percent of the contract price; non-compliance of the MoA; partial implementation of the contract; and doubtful deliveries by Bonena. During the last quarter of 2022, the country experienced an agricultural shortage, primarily in onions, the prices of which soared to as high as P500 to P700 per kilo. Citing the evidence, Ombudsman Samuel Martires said “it seems like the prices of onions were manipulated.” “It seems like there was no bidding. We obtained CCTV footage from FTI showing what looks like a single person bringing three envelopes to the senior vice president,” he said. The post Agri officials dismissed by Ombudsman for graft, misconduct appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
6 police in Navotas teen slay surrender
The six dismissed police officers implicated in the death of 17-year-old Jerhode “Jemboy” Baltazar in a case of mistaken identity have voluntarily surrendered to the authorities in Quezon province, Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group chief Maj. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr. said yesterday. Caramat said that six dismissed cops namely Executive Master Sgt. Roberto Dioso, Cpl. Edmard Blanco, Pat. Benedict Mangada, and Staff Sgts. Gerry Maliban, Antonio Bugayong, Jr., and Nikko Esquillon, all formerly assigned to the Navotas City police station, voluntarily surrendered around 5 p.m. Wednesday at CIDG Quezon Provincial Field Unit, Camp Guillermo Nakar, Lucena City, Quezon. Caramat said the suspects who voluntarily surrendered themselves in CIDG Quezon PFU are now undergoing the booking process and documentation for proper disposition as all accused are not entitled to bail. The Navotas City Regional Trial Court has ordered the arrest of six dismissed police officers implicated in the death of Baltazar in a case of mistaken identity last August In an order dated 3 October and made public Wednesday, RTC Branch 286 Judge Pedro Dabu Jr. said the court found probable cause to issue a warrant of arrest against Executive Master Sgt. Roberto Dioso, Cpl. Edmard Blanco, Pat. Benedict Mangada, and Staff Sgts. Gerry Maliban, Antonio Bugayong Jr. and Nikko Esquillon. “Considering that the accused stand charged with murder, they are not entitled to bail as a matter of course,” the order added. Navotas City prosecutors filed the murder complaint against the suspects on 15 September. The National Capital Region Police Office earlier approved the Philippine National Police-Internal Affairs Service’s recommendation to dismiss the respondents from the service over the killing of Baltazar. On 2 August, the police officers launched a pursuit operation against a murder suspect when they chanced upon Baltazar, who was then onboard a boat. They then commanded Baltazar and his companion to surrender. However, the victim jumped into the river, prompting law enforcers to fire resulting in his death. The police officers later admitted that Baltazar was not the suspect they were looking for but a certain Reynaldo Bolivar. The post 6 police in Navotas teen slay surrender appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
6 cops in teenage slay ordered arrested
The Regional Trial Court of Navotas City has ordered the arrest of six policemen charged with a non-bailable case of murder for the killing of teenager Jerhode “Jemboy” Baltazar last 2 August. The order was issued last Tuesday, 3 Oct. by Judge Pedro T. Dabu Jr. of RTC Branch 286. Ordered arrested were PSSg. Gerry S. Maliban, PSSg. Antonio B. Bugayong Jr., PEMS. Roberto D. Balais Jr., PSSg. Nikko PInes C. Esquillon, PCpl. Edmar Jade S. Blanco and Pat. Benedict D. Mangada — all members of the Navotas City police station. Judge Dabu in his order said “the Court finds probable cause to issue a warrant of arrest against all the above-named accused to place them under the custody of the law in order not to frustrate the ends of justice.” “Considering that the accused stand charged with murder, they are not entitled to bail as a matter of course,” the judge also said. The Department of Justice filed the murder charges before the RTC last Monday, 2 October. Record showed that Baltazar was fishing when he was shot dead last 2 August in Barangay NBBS Kaunlaran in Navotas City. In fending off responsibilities, the policemen claimed that they were conducting follow-up operations against robbers when they mistook the victim as one of the suspects. The post 6 cops in teenage slay ordered arrested appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
6 cops in Jemboy’s death ordered arrested
A Navotas court orders the arrest of six cops involved in the killing of 17-year-old Jerhode “Jemboy” Baltazar. Those ordered arrested by virtue of a warrant issued by Navotas City Regional Trial Court Branch 286 were Police Executive Master Sergeant Roberto Balais Jr., Police Staff Sergeant Gerry Maliban, Police Staff Sergeant Antonio Bugayong, Police Staff Sergeant Nikko Esquilon, Police Corporal Edmark Jake Blanco, and Patrolman Benedict Mangada. No bail is recommended as the six suspects are facing murder charges. Baltazar died on 2 August 2023 when he was mistakenly killed in a police operation in Barangay North Bay Boulevard South Kaunlaran. The post 6 cops in Jemboy’s death ordered arrested appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Winford Café’s winning flavors
Situated in the vibrant capital city, Winford Resort & Casino Manila is known for entertainment and gaming. Now it is set to make a name as a dining destination. Winford Café, on the second floor, is the hotel’s first in-house coffee shop and casual diner. From Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 12 midnight, the cafe is set to redefine the coffee and culinary ambiance in Manila. In attendance during the grand opening were president and chief operating officer Jeff Evora, Hotel Operations director James Olivar, Food & Beverage manager Edmond de Jesus and Chef de Partie Fatima Libre. Winford Café is the ideal venue for a quick sip, light bite and full meal situated just outside the casino. [caption id="attachment_189644" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Seafood Pasta Negra.[/caption] “Nakuha ko itong concept na’to dahil sa panahon ngayon. Kailangan Instagrammable, maganda sa mata, maganda sa pang-amoy at masarap (I got this idea from the current times. It has to be Instagrammable, pleasing to the eyes, nice-smelling and delicious),” Libre shared to DAILY TRIBUNE. “Pagdating ng 9 o’clock, 50 percent po tayo (Come 9 p.m., everything’s 50 percent off),” Libre added. The cafe’s interior is a combination of modern and contemporary design with a seating capacity of 20. With a variety of dishes, coffee connoisseurs and diners can enjoy a gastronomic journey for breakfast, a leisurely brunch or decadent dinner. On the menu are sandwiches (Winford’s Triple Decker, Ham and Cheese Croque Monsieur with Fries, Grilled Cheese with Fries, French Toast with Honey and Butter), Signature Pasta (Seafood Pasta Negra, Alfredo, Pesto with Chicken, Mac & Cheese and Tuyo Pasta), All-Day Breakfast (Tenderloin Steak with Kimchi Fried Rice, English, Eggs Benedict, Corned Beef, Porksilog Adobo and Tapsilog with Pickled Onion and Fried Chicken and Waffles). The cafe also offers Ice Blended (Triple Dark Chocolate, Butter Cookies and Cream, Coffee Latte, and Caramel), Iced (Iced Cafe, Iced Spanish Bombon and Black Cold Brew), Specialty (Coffee Coretto and Irish Coffee) and delectable desserts and pastries to satisfy your sweet craving. The cafe can also customize cakes for special occasions. Whether you prefer Hot (Spanish Latte, Cappucino, Cafe Latte, Flat White, Macchiato, Americano, and Espresso Lungo or Tea English Breakfast), Green Tea and Chamomile the baristas will deliver the perfect cup of coffee or tea. “We assured that every day the food is fresh and brand new. A variety of comfort food is prepared fresh daily in our kitchen. Our best seller is seafood pasta negra and for the coffee, it’s the Iced Spanish Bombon,” Libre said. To enjoy a cup of coffee and tea and a delicious meal, Winford Cafe at Winford Resort & Casino Manila is a venue worth exploring. The post Winford Café’s winning flavors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CCP National Theatre Live debuts plays of Benedict Cumberbatch, Emilia Clarke, Ian McKellen, Phoebe Waller-Bridge
The Cultural Center of the Philippines is partnering with National Theatre Live to screen some of the best of British theater in the Philippines......»»
Teodoro gets CA nod
The Commission on Appointments on Wednesday approved the ad interim appointment of Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. as secretary of the Department of National Defense. Prior to his confirmation, the 12-member House contingent of the powerful CA spared Teodoro from questioning as a “courtesy” to the Defense chief who previously worked as Tarlac's 1st district representative. “The 12-member House of Representatives contingent will no longer ask questions regarding the nominee being a former member of Congress for three consecutive terms in the 11th, 12th, and 13th Congress,” said Camarines Sur 2nd District Rep. LRay Villafuerte, the majority leader of the CA. Villafuerte added that the House contingent “has no doubt regarding the fitness and integrity of the nominee”. He appealed to their counterpart, the Senate to accord the same courtesy to Teodoro. From the 12-member Senate contingent, only Senator Risa Hontiveros asked questions to Teodoro. Hontiveros questioned Teodoro about his plans for the DND, now under his watch for the second time. He held the same position under the administration of then-President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at the age of 43, the youngest ever appointee to the agency. Responding to the lawmaker’s query, Teodoro admitted that there has been a “shift in the evolution” from his first stint in the DND. He noted that he is now focusing on “straddling the balance between maintaining internal security and with an emphasis definitely given what is happening to the outside environment.” “We are strengthening our defense posture. We are gradually enhancing the capabilities of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines),” he said. The Defense chief said he is also working on “leveraging” the country’s alliance with other nations to strengthen the country’s capability to protect itself from external threats. By doing so, he noted that he would try to introduce “management solutions to managerial problems, and not military solutions to managerial problems.” “That is the transformation that we are trying to make. We are also deeply restrategizing what we intend to do at least in the next five years in order not only to make the defense department more responsive to the outside and internal environments but also to make more efficient our use of resources, and to use information technology to the highest extent possible,” he added. Teodoro also underscored the importance of strengthening the country’s capability to respond to external strength and not just rely on diplomacy. “[T]he intensity of the need to focus on protecting our sovereignty, our sovereign rights, in the exclusive economic zone and other jurisdictions of the country become more paramount now, as the whole world is in a raise for resources,” he said. “We could not afford to be laidback here. We should be cognizant of it because we can and principally use diplomacy, however, if diplomacy is not backed up by a strong spinal cord, then we will just be stymied by a greater force,” he added. He made the remarks amid the increasing tension between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea. China claims the vast South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea. On 12 July 2016, the Philippines won its arbitral case against China in the Permanent Court of Arbitration – a landmark decision that China continues to reject. Teodoro said the Defense Department wishes the concentrate on not only guarding the islands of the archipelago and its internal waters but also on securing “peaceful, unimpeded, and unobstructed exploitation, and exploration of our sovereign rights over the 200 nautical mile EEZ of the republic and in all areas of the Philippines, to secure our baselines.” Last June, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced Teodoro’s appointment as the new DND secretary, replacing Carlito Galvez Jr. who led the agency for five months. Aside from Teodoro, the CA also approved the promotion of 11 generals and senior officers of the AFP. Jose Jesus Luntok, Ramon Flores, Dennis Pacis, Nasser Lidasan, Benedict Balaba, Steve Crespillo, Arvin Lagamon, Ivan Papera, Lloyd Cabacuñgan, and Fernando Ventura secured CA’s approval for their rank of Brigadier General. Peter Jempsun de Guzman’s rank of Commodore was also approved. The post Teodoro gets CA nod appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP-IAS recommends dismissal of 8 Navotas cops over Jemboy’s slay
The Philippine National Police on Friday said its Internal Affairs Service has recommended the dismissal of eight police officers in connection with the “unjust killing” of 17-year-old Jerhode “Jemboy” Baltazar Navotas City last month. In a television interview, PNP-IAS Inspector General Alfegar Triambulo said they have submitted to the National Capital Region Police Office the recommendation for dismissal from the service of Executive Master Sgt. Roberto Balais Jr.; Staff Sergeants Antonio Bugayong Jr., Gerry Maliban and Nikko Pines Esquillon; Cpl. Edmard Jake Blanco; and Pat. Benedict Mangada. Triambulo said team leaders Captains Mark Joseph Carpio and Luisito Dela Cruz were also included in the recommendation for dismissal for serious grave neglect of duty. Carpio and Luisito “did not personally supervise” their team during the police operation which led to the case of mistaken identity. “The IAS recommendation for those involved in the death of the minor Jemboy is dismissal from the service. These six admitted that they really fired their guns and according to the witness, were directly aimed at Jemboy so this is the reason why the minor died because he was hit by a bullet),” Triambulo said in Filipino. These police officers will have benefits forfeited upon dismissal. Also, their eligibility would be revoked, and would be perpetually disqualified from holding any other government posts. ### The post PNP-IAS recommends dismissal of 8 Navotas cops over Jemboy’s slay appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
3 Popes: JP2, Benedict, Francis
Author’s Note. My perspective in this article is as a Catholic. Readers are warned that the Catholic Church is as human as it is divine. The human frailty and errors among Popes and Cardinals should not scandalize the faithful into leaving the Church, join the growing non-Catholic sects, led by the Born Again movement, and deepen the crisis. Rather, we should pray for the human Church to have the grace to reform itself. Note also that the term “Conservative” and “Liberal” are used as generic terms and do not necessarily apply to certain individuals. There is a vast rainbow of theological positions among Popes and Cardinals. St. Pope John Paul II or “JP2” (1978-2005) was a staunch Liberal. When Vatican journalists exposed the “Vatican mafia,” dominated by Conservatives, who embezzled Vatican Bank funds on a massive scale, JP2 shrewdly chose Conservative Cardinal Ratzinger (future Pope Benedict XVI) to contain his fellow Conservatives. Ratzinger partly succeeded, for which he was labeled the “German Shepherd,” but the Conservatives had been too big and powerful in the last few centuries to be easily extinguished totally. When JP2’s Parkinson’s disease worsened, Ratzinger advised him to resign. Instead, JP2 formed a commission to handle the Vatican mafia problem. The commission also gave him the same advice — resign. So it was a dead-end in the effort to weed out the mafia. When Ratzinger became Pope Benedict XVI (2005-2013), he still could not control his fellow Conservatives, especially the powerful Roman Curia, the central government of the Catholic Church. The corrupt Cardinals were the modern-day Pharisees who were causing a Church crisis, which was prophesied by Our Lady of Fatima. Benedict was forced to resign because he was helpless in handling the Vatican Bank scandals and the growing pedophile epidemic, two raging Church issues. In the latter, there were growing cases of pedophile prelates, from priests to cardinals, who were simply transferred to other dioceses to cover up their crimes, where they continued their evil ways. Thus, the pedophile epidemic spread even more. The cases were swept under the rug, until a massive avalanche of court cases, especially in Europe and America, was bleeding the Vatican coffers dry. Pope Benedict, before resigning, wanted the next Pope to solve the problems that he failed to solve. He chose Cardinal Bergoglio (future Pope Francis). But Bergoglio was a staunch Liberal and Benedict a staunch Conservative. Their theological perspectives were like oil and water. In spite of this, in despair, Benedict campaigned for Bergoglio, who became Pope Francis (2013-present). Benedict knew Bergoglio would easily win because he was a close runner-up in the last Papal conclave (election) where he was elected Pope. In spite of their differences, Benedict and the future Francis became intimate friends as they forged a strategy to contain the growing Church crisis. The movie “Two Popes” accurately featured the drama of their violent debates and gentle friendship. When the Liberal Bergoglio became Pope Francis, he was the first Jesuit Pope of history. The Jesuits have been the epitome of radical reforms ever since the days of the Counter Reformation (1517), a response to Luther’s Reformation, the largest splinter of the Church ever. The Jesuits led the era of counter-reforms to restore the Church. Upon ascending to St. Peter’s chair, the Liberal Pope Francis quickly suppressed the Conservatives in a deadly Blitzkrieg, especially in the Roman Curia, within six short months, shocking the Vatican media. Francis did it quickly but not totally, and he paid a dear price for it. The Conservatives exacted deep vengeance that led to the accusations of Papal “heresy” and “blasphemy’.” An eye for an eye. This was the “apostasy” (civil war) that Our Lady of Fatima also prophesied. That Satan works within the Vatican to cause havoc is a theological fact and a matter of history. Some Church historians point out that the Inquisition was the prime example of the work of the devil, where thousands were randomly beheaded without trial. Do not fret about the Church crisis. God is on top of that situation. We need only to pray for everyone, on both sides of the civil war, and God will take care of everything in His time in His way. Avoid joining the theological debates which tend to confuse. It is better to remain neutral in such complex theological issues. Let the Conservatives and Liberals fight it out. Faith has two aspects — the intellectual and the spiritual, the mind and the heart. On the mind level, it is easy to be confused (dogma, canon law, etc.). You have to prove or disprove. But on the heart level, everything becomes crystal clear, because it is simply a matter of faith. “Praise to you, Oh Father, for what you have hidden from the wise, you have revealed to little children” Luke 10:21. The post 3 Popes: JP2, Benedict, Francis appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Emma Stone stars in sex-mad Frankenstein-like tale at Venice
With Emma Stone as a sex-mad reanimated corpse in "Poor Things" and Wes Anderson presenting his take on Roald Dahl, the Venice Film Festival was taken on some wild rides on Friday. "Poor Things" was set to premiere on the Lido without its star to light up the red carpet, due to the ongoing Hollywood strike barring actors from publicity work. Rumors at the festival suggest the horror-comedy, in which Stone plays a woman brought back from the dead by a mad scientist, could be an early awards frontrunner. Its Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos has established himself as one of the most imaginative and daring filmmakers of his generation. His previous film "The Favourite", also starring Stone, won the Jury Prize in Venice in 2018 and best actress for Olivia Colman, paving the way to her Oscar triumph. "Poor Things" is among 23 movies competing for the top prize, the Golden Lion, to be awarded on September 9 by a jury including directors Damien Chazelle, Jane Campion and last year's winner Laura Poitras. Anderson's Dahl Meanwhile, another indie darling, Wes Anderson, was feted in Venice with a lifetime achievement award. He presented "The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar", a 40-minute film based on a short story by beloved children's author Roald Dahl. It is one of four Dahl adaptations the whimsical director has made for Netflix featuring Benedict Cumberbatch, Ben Kingsley, Dev Patel and Ralph Fiennes. As always, there is a meticulous, chocolate-box feel to Anderson's film. "It's more like a little theatrical presentation that we found a way to film," Anderson told reporters. The director, who previously adapted Dahl's "Fantastic Mr Fox", said he was strongly against moves to alter the author's books for "sensitivity" reasons. Asked about recent revisions to Dahl's books to remove character descriptions like "fat" and "crazy", Anderson said: "No one who is not an author should be modifying someone's book." He added: "I understand the motivation for it, but I'm in the school where, when the piece is finished... the audience participates in it, we know it, so when it's done, it's done." Strikes and waivers Also premiering on Friday was "The Promised Land" starring Mads Mikkelsen, described by The Hollywood Reporter as a "gripping historical epic" about a low-born soldier seeking to better himself. Mikkelsen was able to attend the festival for the Danish film, but Venice has lost out on several star appearances due to the actor and writer strike in Hollywood, which is primarily over pay and the potential threat of AI. Some independent films have been given a waiver, including Michael Mann's "Ferrari" which premiered on Thursday, allowing lead actor Adam Driver to attend. But others such as Stone and Bradley Cooper (for his Leonard Bernstein biopic "Maestro") are not coming, costing the studios valuable PR shots of their stars arriving by gondola and working the red carpet. Still to come in Venice are new movies by Sofia Coppola ("Priscilla" about Elvis Presley's wife) and David Fincher ("The Killer" starring Michael Fassbender and Tilda Swinton). There are also out-of-competition premieres for controversial directors Woody Allen ("Coup de Chance") and Roman Polanski ("The Palace"). The post Emma Stone stars in sex-mad Frankenstein-like tale at Venice appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Banta ni Angelica Jones sa tatay ng anak: ‘Kung may masamang mangyari sa kanya, ikaw ang una kong ipakukulong’
FOLLOW-UP ito sa nasulat namin dito sa BANDERA tungkol kay Angelica Jones at sa anak niyang si Angelo Timothy Benedict Alday na hindi kinilala ng kanyang ama. Sa part 2 ng panayam ni Morly Alinio sa YouTube channel nitong “Morly Alinio, Ito ang Tondo” kay Angelica ay nabanggit nitong plano na niyang kasuhan ang ama The post Banta ni Angelica Jones sa tatay ng anak: ‘Kung may masamang mangyari sa kanya, ikaw ang una kong ipakukulong’ appeared first on Bandera......»»
Sun Life wins prestigious industry awards in Singapore
Sun Life Philippines cemented its position as one of the region’s best life insurance brands after it achieved a double win in two industry recognition programs held recently in Singapore. In the Asia Trusted Life Agents and Advisers Awards (ATLAA) held last 26 July at PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay, Sun Life Philippines CEO & Country Head Benedict Sison was honored with the Executive Champion of the Year Award for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the industry. “I am humbled to be recognized by my peers, who are not only experts in the field but are also passionate advocates of our industry’s purpose,” Sison said, as he accepted the award. “I share this honor with our clients, advisors, and employees. It will always be my privilege to champion our company, our industry, and, most especially, our purpose.” Also recognized as finalists in ATLAA were Sun Life of Canada (Philippines) Inc. in the Life Insurance Company of the Year category and Phoenix Palm Branch Manager Jayvee Badile in the Insurance Agency Leader of the Year category. Meanwhile, Sun Life Grepa Financial Inc. (SLGFI), Sun Life’s bancassurance arm, was recognized in the Insurance Asia Awards held last 27 July at the Marina Bay Sands. For the second year in a row, the company was bestowed the MSME Insurance Initiative of the Year Award for Sun Life Grepa Healthcare, its holistic group insurance ecosystem which covers wellness, protection, and recovery. The award was accepted by SLGFI Vice President for Group Business Peter Miranda and SLGFI Head of Group Sales and Strategies Justine Daguman. “SLGFI considers itself not just a provider but a partner to Filipino entrepreneurs, as they pursue their goals for their businesses and their people. Sun Life Grepa Healthcare is a testament to this vision,” Miranda said. “We are grateful to be recognized in the Insurance Asia Awards once again. We look forward to continuously enhancing this program so we can help more micro, small, and medium enterprises.” These recognitions emphasize Sun Life’s commitment to helping Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. “In every business that we have and every initiative we launch, we strive to bring our clients the best that we can offer,” Sison said. “We couldn’t have won these prestigious awards without the inspiration and support they give. And as a way of thanking them, we can only promise that we will always be here to help them build a brighter future.” The post Sun Life wins prestigious industry awards in Singapore appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ombudsman suspends 3 DA, 2 FTI officials
Ombudsman Samuel Martires yesterday placed three officials of the Department of Agriculture and two executives of Food Terminal Inc. under preventive suspension in connection with the onion supply shortage in the country. In a three-page order dated 1 August, Martires suspended DA Assistant Secretary Kristine Evangelista, administrative officer Eunice Biblanias, DA officer-in-charge chief accountant Lolita Jamela, FTI vice president for operations John Gabriel Benedict Trinidad III, and FTI budget division head Juanita Lualhati. They were suspended without pay for the duration of the proceedings against them. The DA and FTI officials were charged with grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service over the onion supply shortage, price manipulation, and the allegedly dubious procurement of onions by FTI from Bonena Multi-Purpose Cooperative. The complaint included DA senior undersecretary Domingo Panganiban and FTI president Robert Tan among the respondents. They, however, were not suspended. Based on the records obtained by the Ombudsman, the DA, through Panganiban, entered into a memorandum of agreement with FTI for the Food Mobilization or Kadiwa Food Hub project. FTI, on the other hand, signed a letter of agreement with Bonena for the delivery of 8,845 bags (approximately 28 kilos/bag) of onions as part of the Kadiwa Food Hub. The respondents are accused of breaching the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019) and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 9184) for the lack of parameters in the selection of the cooperative that would supply and deliver the onions; for the questionable advance payment of 50 percent of the contract price; the non-compliance of the MoA; the partial implementation of the contract, and doubtful deliveries by Bonena. “In view of the foregoing, it appears that the evidence of guilt of respondents Evangelista, Biblanias, Jamela, Trinidad III and Lualhati is strong, and the charges against them involve Grave Misconduct and Gross Neglect of Duty which may warrant their removal from the service,” the Ombudsman said. They were then placed under preventive suspension as they could influence potential witnesses and prejudice the case should they remain in office, the Ombudsman said. Last year, the country experienced an agricultural shortage, primarily of onions, the price of which soared to as high as P500 to P700 per kilo during the last quarter of 2022. The post Ombudsman suspends 3 DA, 2 FTI officials appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ombudsman suspends 5 officials over onion shortage
Ombudsman Samuel Martires has placed three officials of the Department of Agriculture and two from Food Terminal Incorporated under preventive suspension in connection with the onion supply shortage in the Philippine markets. In a three-page order dated 1 August, Martires ordered the suspension of DA assistant secretary Kristine Evangelista, administrative officer Eunice Biblanias, DA officer-in-charge chief accountant Lolita Jamela, FTI vice president for operations John Gabriel Benedict Trinidad III and budget division head Juanita Lualhati without pay for the duration of the proceedings until the same is terminated. The DA and FTI officials were charged with grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service over the onion supply shortage, price manipulation and dubious procurement of onions by FTI from Bonena Multi-Purpose Cooperative. The complaint filed before the Ombudsman includes DA senior undersecretary Domingo Panganiban and FTI president Robert Tan among the respondents. However, they were excluded from the preventive suspension. Based on the records obtained by the Ombudsman, the DA, through Panganiban, entered into a memorandum of agreement with FTI for the Food Mobilization or Kadiwa Food Hub project. FTI, on the other hand, entered into a letter of agreement with Bonena for the delivery of 8,845 bags (approximately 28 kilograms/bag) of onions as part of the said Kadiwa Food Hub. The respondents are accused of breaching the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019) and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 9184) due to the lack of parameters in the selection of the cooperative that will supply and deliver the onions, the questionable advance payment of 50 percent of the contract price, non-compliance with the MoA, partial implementation of the contract and doubtful deliveries by Bonena. "In view of the foregoing, it appears that the evidence of guilt of respondents Evangelista, Biblanias, Jamela, Trinidad III, and Lualhati is strong, and the charges against them involve Grave Misconduct and Gross Neglect of Duty which may warrant their removal from the service," the Ombudsman said. They were placed under preventive suspension as they could influence potential witnesses and may prejudice the case filed against them should they remain to stay in their respective offices, the Ombudsman explained. In January this year, Martires said the Ombudsman would allow the Department of Justice to investigate the soaring prices of red and white onions once the department proved that a private sector entity or entities was behind the persistent hike in the commodity prices. He had previously said the DoJ would only enter the picture should the Ombudsman fail to prove that DA officials are involved and there is a conspiracy between its officials and the private sector. The country experienced an onion shortage in the last quarter of 2022, prompting prices to soar as high as P500 to P700 per kilo. The post Ombudsman suspends 5 officials over onion shortage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Twists, turns and thrills: Astounding premieres mark ABS-CBN, TV5’s new collab
The respective premiere episodes of ABS-CBN and TV5’s new collaborative serials ‘Pira-Pirasong Paraiso’ and ‘Nag-aapoy na Damdamin’ are so fast-paced and thrilling that it makes us wonder if the creative teams of each narrative wouldn’t run out of credible twists and turns to sustain the viewers’ interest for an entire season of airing (a season on Philippine TV is 13 weeks). [caption id="attachment_160519" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The cast and crew of ‘Pira-Pirasong Paraiso.’PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF PAULINE PASCUAL FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE[/caption] [caption id="attachment_160520" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LEAD stars of ‘Pira-Pirasong Paraiso’ and ‘Nag-aapoy na Damdamin.’[/caption] We were among the media guys invited to the special screening of both shows at Trinoma mall’s Cinema 7 last 15 July. We were astounded by both premiere episodes. In ‘Pira-Pirasong Paraiso’, young stars Loisa Andalio, Elisse Joson and Marcus Paterson play a team of akyat-bahay thieves secretly run by a cop (Epi Quizon) who is their foster father. Beth (Andalio) acts as the lookout who pretends she isn’t part of the team. Paterson is appropriately nicknamed “Kano” for his Caucasian looks, and he is typically nervous with every heist they pull off. Andalio’s character assumes many names so they can do various money-earning crimes. In one of those, she pretends to be Baby, the long-lost sister of a rich woman named Diana (Charlie Dizon). Comebacking actor Sunshine Dizon (not a blood kin of Charlie) plays their more considerate foster mother who at one point pretends to hate them so they would all run away from her cunning husband who seems determined to wreck their young lives. Other characters introduced in the maiden episode are those of Ronnie Alonte and Raul Argel as rookie cops who clash with Quizon’s older cop. Art Acuña portrays the understanding husband of Diana in her search for her long-lost sisters. Not introduced yet is the character portrayed by Snooky Serna, who will play a special role. The journalist character of young star Alexa Ilacad revealed at the media huddle has yet to be introduced, too, along with that of her real-life boyfriend KD Estrada who plays her suitor and and whom she would cajole into joining her in pursuing the story of Diana’s lost sisters. Actor Joseph Marco, who is listed in press releases as a cast member, did not appear in the kick-off episode. Pira-pirasong Paraiso is jointly directed by Raymond Ocampo and Rodel Lindayag. Extreme hatred, vengeance Meanwhile, extreme hatred and vengeance are the engrossing themes of Nag-aapoy na Damdamin.’They are fierce and fiery emotions a doctor and a lawyer have for each other due to the death of their respective fathers. Tony Labrusca plays the lawyer Lucas, while JC De Vera plays the doctor Philip. The first episode of Nag-aapoy introduced the character of Jane Oneiza as Lucas’ devoted wife. Former action star Joko Diaz is also in the cast, along with Ria Atayde, Maila Gumila and Aya Fernandez. Nag-aapoy na Damdamin is jointly directed by FM Reyes and Benedict Migue. Both shows will premiere on 25 July and they are meant to take Pinoy viewers away from their afternoon naps, as they show at 3 p.m., Monday to Friday, on A2Z network, TV5 and all the streaming apps of ABS-CBN and TV5. The airing begins with Pira-pirasong Paraiso, followed immediately by Nag-aapoy na Damdamin. Well, serene narratives about life somewhere in this country would not be good enough to keep us awake in the afternoons of our lives. Also, serene stories can’t bring Philippine television to a paradise of high revenues. So, do watch the unnerving twin shows Pira-pirasong Paraiso and Nag-aapoy na Damdamin. They entertain, but don’t ever wish them to be the stories of your lives. The post Twists, turns and thrills: Astounding premieres mark ABS-CBN, TV5’s new collab appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
In my dreams
Couple Benedict and Marjorie have been living in the vicinity of Rajah Sulayman Park in Malate for 13 years now. With their four young children, the entire park is their living room, dining area and playground. An old pedicab covered with a hand-me-down tarpaulin serves as their bedroom cum storage area. At night, they all retire to their “bed,” a collapsed carton box in a tiny space inside the pedicab — like sardines in a can. Rain or shine, their precious pedicab is their security blanket against the external elements. For more than a decade, Benedict and Marjorie have been making ends meet with their measly earnings as a parking striker and attendant, respectively. Their combined daily minimum income of less than P400 is not enough to feed six and sustain the needs of two children who are already in kindergarten and two toddlers. Undaunted, the couple still looks forward to receiving government assistance despite having been denied Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps membership four times. In the thick of their hopes came the recent pronouncement by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that the 4Ps — a poverty alleviation initiative that provides cash assistance for the immediate needs of the poor — may be terminated if there is no need for it. Imagine how broken-hearted the 4.3-million households who were helped in 2022 by the 4Ps must be. It could be even more depressing for Benedict and Marjorie who continue to hold on to their hope of having their own house and small business so their children will not have to grow up in the streets, and ultimately may be snatched away from poverty. Launched in 2008, 4Ps provides conditional cash transfers designed to meet the health, nutrition, and educational needs of vulnerable families. On 17 April 2019, 4Ps was institutionalized under Republic Act 11310. Patterned after the conditional cash transfer schemes implemented in other developing countries, 4Ps provides cash grants to low-income households on the condition that they meet certain requirements, such as sending their children to school and going for healthcare check-ups. Among the countries that have implemented successful conditional cash transfer programs as part of their poverty reduction strategies are Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Peru and Indonesia. Undeniably, CCTs have shown promising results in reducing poverty and improving living conditions for the target population. By providing cash transfers, households have increased their income to meet basic needs, such as food, education and healthcare. I know many whose children are now college graduates and evidently broke the intergenerational cycle of poverty and improved the long-term prospects for individuals and communities. Innumerable women and children were provided financial resources and opportunities for empowerment. The program, however, did not target all the poorest of the poor. It is a known fact that cash transfers reached those that did not need them the most — like families of OFWs. Relatives, friends, neighbors and allies of local officials have been surprisingly part of the 4.2 million beneficiary list. Here lie the challenges, however. One, implementing and managing conditional cash transfer programs can be complex and resource-intensive to accurately identify eligible beneficiaries, track compliance with conditions, and distribute payments promptly. Two, imposing conditions on beneficiaries may not always be feasible or effective. Like Benedict and Marjorie, who were denied a 4th time because they have no marriage certificate to show. Another one this writer knows is someone with a disability who faced difficulties in complying with the requirements, thus missing out on the benefits. Three, sustaining these programs in the long term can be challenging, especially if funding sources are uncertain or subject to political changes. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of conditional cash transfers can vary depending on the specific design, implementation, and local context. Evaluating the impact and monitoring the outcomes of 4Ps is crucial to ensuring its success, before finally calling it off. There will never be a time to say that we no longer need it. Not until there is a slim divide between the rich and the poor. In my dreams. The post In my dreams appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»